Carnival Cruise Line and Royal Caribbean are two of the most popular cruise lines in the world, offering a range of itineraries, ships, and onboard experiences. While both cruise lines have some similarities, there are also some key differences that set them apart. Here’s a detailed comparison of Carnival Cruise Line vs Royal Caribbean:
Ship Size and Fleet
Royal Caribbean has a larger fleet and tends to operate larger ships than Carnival Cruise Line. Royal Caribbean’s largest ships, such as the Symphony of the Seas and the Harmony of the Seas, can accommodate up to 6,680 passengers, while Carnival’s largest ships, such as the Carnival Panorama and the Carnival Mardi Gras, can accommodate up to 5,200 passengers. While larger ships can offer more amenities and entertainment options, they can also be more crowded and less intimate.
Itineraries
Both cruise lines offer a wide range of itineraries to various destinations around the world. However, Royal Caribbean offers more variety and longer cruises, with itineraries ranging from 3 to 18 nights. Royal Caribbean has a strong presence in the Caribbean, as well as in Europe, Alaska, and Asia. Carnival Cruise Line, on the other hand, offers more shorter cruises, with itineraries ranging from 2 to 7 nights, and has a strong presence in the Caribbean and Mexico.
Dining
Both cruise lines offer a range of dining options, including formal dining rooms, buffets, and specialty restaurants. Royal Caribbean has a reputation for having high-quality dining options, including celebrity chef partnerships and a variety of specialty restaurants, such as Jamie’s Italian and Wonderland. Carnival Cruise Line also offers a range of dining options, including the Guy’s Burger Joint, the BlueIguana Cantina, and the Steakhouse.
Entertainment
Both cruise lines offer a variety of entertainment options, including Broadway-style shows, live music, and comedy acts. However, Royal Caribbean is known for having larger and more elaborate entertainment venues, such as the AquaTheater and ice-skating rinks. Royal Caribbean also offers more active and adventurous entertainment options, such as rock climbing walls and zip lines. Carnival Cruise Line, on the other hand, is known for its lively and fun atmosphere, with entertainment options such as the Punchliner Comedy Club and the Playlist Productions shows.