Dreaming of a Carnival cruise but wondering about the food situation? Setting sail on the open sea evokes visions of relaxation, adventure, and, of course, delicious meals. Carnival Cruise Line, known for its lively atmosphere and affordable fares, offers a diverse range of dining experiences for its passengers. But the burning question remains: Do Carnival cruises include food?
The simple answer is yes! A significant amount of delicious food is included in the base cruise fare. Carnival provides a variety of complimentary dining options that cater to diverse tastes and preferences. However, there are also specialty restaurants and other culinary experiences that come at an additional cost.
This article will detail the complimentary and extra-charge dining options available on Carnival cruises, helping you plan your perfect culinary cruise vacation. Whether you’re a seasoned cruiser or planning your first voyage, understanding the food options available will ensure you have a truly memorable and satisfying experience.
What’s Included: Complimentary Dining Delights
Carnival understands that a great vacation revolves around great food. That’s why they offer a wide array of included dining options that will keep you satisfied throughout your cruise. From elegant dining rooms to casual buffets and quick-service eateries, there’s something for everyone.
Main Dining Rooms: A Culinary Journey
The main dining rooms on Carnival ships offer a more formal and traditional dining experience. These elegant spaces are open for breakfast, lunch (on sea days), and dinner. For dinner, you typically have two options: assigned seating, where you’ll dine at the same table with the same companions each evening, or “Your Time Dining,” which allows you to choose your dining time and table size each night.
The menus in the main dining rooms change daily, offering a diverse selection of appetizers, entrees, and desserts. You can expect to find classic dishes like steak, seafood, pasta, and chicken, as well as international specialties. Carnival also caters to various dietary needs, offering vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options. Simply inform your server of any dietary restrictions, and they will be happy to assist you in selecting appropriate meals.
The atmosphere in the main dining rooms is generally more formal, especially on designated “elegant evenings” (formerly known as formal nights). On these nights, guests are encouraged to dress up in their finest attire. While dressing up isn’t mandatory, it adds to the overall ambiance of the evening.
Lido Marketplace: A Buffet Extravaganza
For a more casual and relaxed dining experience, head to the Lido Marketplace, Carnival’s expansive buffet. Located on the Lido Deck, this bustling eatery offers a seemingly endless array of choices. The Lido Marketplace is typically open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, as well as late-night snacks.
You’ll find various food stations offering everything from hot entrees and carving stations to a deli, salad bar, and international cuisine. The selection changes daily, so there’s always something new to try. The Lido Marketplace is perfect for those who want to sample a little bit of everything or prefer a more casual dining atmosphere. It’s also a great option for families with picky eaters, as there’s sure to be something to please everyone.
Quick Service Options: Fast, Casual, and Delicious
Carnival also offers a variety of quick-service options for those times when you’re craving a quick and casual bite. These eateries are typically located near the pool or on the Lido Deck and offer a variety of tasty treats.
Guy’s Burger Joint, a partnership with celebrity chef Guy Fieri, is a popular spot for juicy burgers and crispy fries. BlueIguana Cantina serves up delicious tacos and burritos with a variety of toppings and salsas. Pizza Pirate or Pizzeria del Capitano offers freshly made pizzas with a variety of toppings. The Deli provides sandwiches, wraps, and salads made to order. These options are usually open for extended hours, making them perfect for late-night cravings or a quick lunch by the pool.
Other Included Options: Hidden Gems and Late-Night Treats
Beyond the main dining rooms, buffet, and quick-service eateries, Carnival offers other complimentary dining options that are worth exploring. Room service is available for a limited menu, offering a selection of sandwiches, salads, and desserts. While there may be a small fee for late-night room service on some ships, basic options are typically included.
Swirls, located on the Lido Deck, offers complimentary soft-serve ice cream in a variety of flavors. It’s the perfect way to cool off on a hot day or satisfy your sweet tooth after dinner. Carnival also offers certain snacks and treats at specific times and locations throughout the ship, so be sure to check the daily schedule for details.
What Costs Extra: Specialty Dining Experiences
While Carnival offers a wide array of included dining options, they also have several specialty restaurants that provide a more upscale and unique culinary experience for an additional charge. These restaurants offer a variety of cuisines and atmospheres, allowing you to tailor your dining experience to your preferences.
Steakhouses: An Elegant Affair
Carnival’s steakhouses offer a sophisticated and elegant dining experience. These restaurants typically feature premium cuts of steak, fresh seafood, and an extensive wine list. The atmosphere is more formal, making it the perfect place for a special occasion or a romantic dinner. Examples include Fahrenheit 555 Steakhouse.
Italian Restaurants: A Taste of Italy
For those craving Italian cuisine, Carnival’s Italian restaurants offer a taste of authentic Italian flavors. These restaurants typically feature pasta dishes, pizzas, and other Italian specialties. The atmosphere is usually warm and inviting, making it a great place to enjoy a family meal. Examples include Cucina del Capitano.
Seafood Restaurants: Fresh Catches from the Sea
Seafood lovers will rejoice at Carnival’s seafood restaurants. These restaurants feature fresh catches from the sea, prepared in a variety of delicious ways. The atmosphere is typically relaxed and casual, making it a great place to enjoy a light lunch or a romantic dinner. Examples include Seafood Shack.
Asian Cuisine Restaurants: Exotic Flavors
Carnival’s Asian cuisine restaurants offer a variety of exotic flavors from across Asia. These restaurants typically feature sushi, stir-fries, and other Asian specialties. The atmosphere is usually vibrant and energetic, making it a great place to try something new. Examples include Bonsai Teppanyaki and Ji Ji Asian Kitchen.
Other Specialty Options: Unique Culinary Adventures
Carnival also offers other specialty dining options, such as the Chef’s Table, a unique multi-course dining experience hosted by the ship’s executive chef. This exclusive experience offers a behind-the-scenes look at the culinary operations of the ship and features a specially curated menu. You’ll also find coffee shops that offer specialty coffee drinks and pastries, as well as candy shops and other snack venues that offer for-fee treats.
Drinks: What’s Included and What’s Not
When it comes to beverages on Carnival cruises, certain drinks are included in the base fare, while others come at an additional cost.
Included Drinks: Staying Hydrated
The included drinks on Carnival cruises are primarily limited to water, basic coffee and tea (available in the buffet and dining rooms), and juice (during breakfast). Tap water is readily available throughout the ship, and filtered water may also be available in certain areas.
Drinks that Cost Extra: Quench Your Thirst
Drinks that cost extra on Carnival cruises include soda, specialty coffee drinks, alcoholic beverages, and bottled water. If you plan to consume a significant amount of these beverages, you may want to consider purchasing a drink package. Carnival’s “Cheers!” program offers unlimited alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages for a fixed daily price.
Dietary Restrictions and Allergies: Catering to Your Needs
Carnival is committed to accommodating passengers with dietary restrictions and allergies. If you have any special dietary needs, it’s important to inform Carnival in advance and speak with dining staff upon boarding the ship.
Carnival offers vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options on many of its menus. The main dining rooms typically have dedicated vegetarian items, and gluten-free bread and pasta are usually available upon request. If you have any allergies, be sure to inform your server, and they will take extra precautions to ensure your meal is prepared safely.
Tips for Maximizing Your Culinary Experience
To make the most of your culinary experience on a Carnival cruise, consider these tips:
- Explore all the complimentary options available.
- Read menus and plan your meals in advance.
- Consider specialty dining for a special occasion.
- Take advantage of room service for a relaxing treat.
- Read reviews and recommendations for specific ships and itineraries.
Conclusion: A Culinary Adventure Awaits
In conclusion, a significant amount of delicious food *is* included in the Carnival cruise fare. From the elegant main dining rooms and the diverse Lido Marketplace to the quick-service eateries and other complimentary options, there’s something to satisfy every palate. While specialty dining options come at an additional cost, they offer a more upscale and unique culinary experience.
Before setting sail, be sure to research the specific dining offerings available on your chosen ship and itinerary, as options may vary. With so many culinary delights awaiting, a Carnival cruise promises a vacation filled with flavor and unforgettable dining experiences. Bon appétit!
