5 Essential Tips for First-Time Carnival Cruisers.

If you're planning to take your first Carnival Cruise, it's natural to feel overwhelmed. But with a little planning and preparation, you can make sure that you get the most out of your experience. As a travel agent that specializes in helping families plan their first Carnival Cruise, we've compiled some tips and tricks that we've learned over the years to help make your first cruise a success.

1.Book early: Booking your Carnival Cruise early will not only ensure that you get the cabin of your choice, but it will give you time to plan and budget for all the activities and excursions you want to do on the cruise. Moreover, booking early gives you enough time to discuss your cruise plans with your family and friends and invite them on-board. Also, we have noticed that cruise prices are less expensive when book early and more expensive when book closer to the sailing date. You can also pay for your cruise in monthly installments if you book early.

2. Take advantage of onboard activities: Carnival Cruise ships offer a wide range of activities, from fun activities for kids like Circle C and Club 02, fun activities for you family like The Skyride, Bolt and waterworks. If you are a movie lover you will enjoy IMAX, thrill theater and carnival seaside theater. You can also have a parents night out at club but don't worry late night babysitting is available onboard. Make sure to check the schedule and plan ahead to ensure you don't miss out on any of the fun.

3. Plan your excursions ahead of time: Popular excursions such as ATV rides, dolphin, snorkeling, and shark excursions can sell out quickly, so it's best to plan ahead and book the excursions you want to do before your cruise. This will save you time and money and ensure that you don't miss out on any of the exciting experiences.

4. Pack smart: it's crucial to pack smart by bringing along essentials like sunscreen, motion sickness medication, and comfortable walking shoes. Don't forget to pack enough outfits for the duration of your sailing. For instance, a 5-day sailing will require at least 5 outfits, but if you prefer to change clothes twice a day, you should bring 10 outfits. Additionally, pack clothes for theme nights, such as the white party or 80s night and lastly, remember to pack elegant attire for formal night, which is typically one night on a 5-day sailing and two nights on a 7-day or longer sailing.

5. Enjoy the food: Carnival Cruises are known for their delicious food, so be sure to try as many different dining options as possible, including the specialty restaurants like the steakhouse and buffets. Also you want to try eateries like Blue Iguana Cantina, Guys Burger and Fries, Seafood Shack, Guys Pig and Anchor BBQ, Sea-day brunch, Mongolian Wok, and many more.

We hope these tips and tricks help make your first Carnival Cruise a memorable experience. If you have any questions please don't hesitate to reach out to us. We're here to help!