Picking the right Carnival Cruise Line cabin type for your sailing is more than just a decision. The stateroom can define your entire cruise (and sleep) experience.
Here’s a detailed look at the different types of staterooms available on Carnival Cruise Line, helping you find the best cabin for your needs and budget.
Interior Staterooms on Carnival Cruises
Interior staterooms are the most affordable option for Carnival cruisers, making them a popular choice for budget-conscious travelers.
These rooms provide everything you need for a comfortable stay, including two twin beds that convert to a king, a private bathroom with a shower, three closets, a vanity desk, a TV, and a mini fridge (most).
With an average size of 185 sq. ft., these cabins offer a cozy space without feeling cramped. Many interior staterooms also feature “upper Pullmans”—bunk beds that fold down from the ceiling, perfect for families or groups of up to four.
| Did you know? Carnival’s Mardi Gras inside cabins are comparable in size to those found on Royal Caribbean or Norwegian ships but often feel roomier due to smart design and layout. |
Other Interior Staterooms on Carnival
- Upper/Lower Interior Staterooms: Ideal for two guests, such as friends or a parent and child, these rooms feature one twin bed and an upper pullman. This setup provides great value without compromising on comfort.
- Porthole Interior Cabins: Classified as interior rooms but offering two small porthole windows, these cabins give you a glimpse of the ocean while maintaining a lower price point, making them a unique choice for those wanting a bit more light.
- Interior Stateroom with Picture Window (Obstructed Views): These rooms have a large picture window that looks out onto a deck area. While the window doesn’t provide a direct ocean view, the natural light adds space to the room.
Ocean View Staterooms on Carnival Ships
Ocean view staterooms on Carnival are a step up from interior cabins. They feature a large picture window that provides scenic ocean views. These rooms are slightly larger, at 220 sq. ft., giving you extra room to relax and enjoy the view.
Ocean view cabins come with all the amenities of interior staterooms, and many also include a sofa that converts into a bed, making them an excellent choice for families with young children.
While newer ships like Carnival Jubilee, Carnival Celebration, and Mardi Gras have fewer ocean view rooms, older ships like Carnival Paradise still offer a larger selection of these staterooms, making them an excellent choice for those who enjoy natural light.
Special Ocean View Cabin Options:
- Scenic Ocean View Rooms: Located on the Lido Deck, these staterooms boast floor-to-ceiling windows for panoramic views from the front of the ship, offering a breathtaking experience every morning.
| Did you know? Carnival’s oceanview staterooms often feature larger windows than many other cruise lines, offering a brighter and more ocean view. |
Balcony Staterooms on Carnival Cruises
Balcony staterooms are a favorite among Carnival cruisers. They offer private outdoor space to enjoy fresh sea air and unobstructed ocean views.
Standard balcony cabins are about 185 sq. ft., with an additional 35 sq. ft. of balcony space, providing a great blend of indoor comfort and outdoor freedom.
Related: Carnival Venezia Stateroom Guide
They include all the amenities found in ocean view rooms and the added amenity of a private balcony.
Different Types of Balcony Staterooms
- Cove Balcony Staterooms: Located on Deck 2 of Dream-class and Vista-class ships, Cove Balconies provide a unique experience close to the waterline. These balconies are slightly larger (45 sq. ft) and offer increased privacy, perfect for those who enjoy a secluded setting.
- Aft Balcony Staterooms: Found at the back of the ship, these cabins feature larger balconies (52 sq. ft) with stunning views of the ship’s wake. This setup is ideal for guests who love a tranquil atmosphere with the soothing sounds of the ocean.
- Premium Vista Balcony Cabins: Positioned on the aft corners of the ship, these staterooms have wrap-around balconies (about 75 sq. ft) that provide panoramic views of both the side and back of the ship. They offer a unique perspective of the sea, ideal for photography enthusiasts.
- Extended Balcony Staterooms: These cabins are similar to standard balcony rooms but with more balcony space, located on higher decks. They are perfect for sunbathing or enjoying expansive ocean views.
Carnival Suites
Carnival suites offer the most spacious accommodations and exclusive benefits for those looking to cruise in style while accessing suite-only private areas.
Suites feature a king bed, a separate living area with a vanity desk and sofa bed, a walk-in closet, and a private bathroom with a shower and whirlpool tub.
Related: Think Twice About Booking These 11 Cabins
At around 275 sq. ft with balconies up to 65 sq. ft, these cabins provide ample space for relaxation and privacy. Suite guests enjoy VIP check-in, priority embarkation and debarkation, and other special perks.
Suite Options on Carnival:
- Grand Suite: Offering more space (345 sq. ft) and larger balconies (85 sq. ft), Grand Suites provide enhanced comfort and luxury, perfect for those seeking a more upscale cruising experience.
- Captain’s Suite: Located above the bridge, these suites offer a unique layout and slightly smaller balconies (52 sq. ft), providing a distinct view and an exclusive feel.
- Excel Suites (New Addition): Available on the latest Carnival ships like Mardi Gras and Carnival Celebration, Excel Suites feature upgraded amenities and access to exclusive areas like Loft 19 with a private pool and cabanas. The Excel Presidential Suites, the largest available, boast over 1,120 sq. ft of space and expansive balconies.
| Did you know? Carnival’s largest Excel Suite, the Excel Presidential Suite, is over 1,120 square feet. |
Unique View Options for Excel Suites:
- Excel Aft Suite: Positioned at the back of the ship these suites have wrap-around balconies that offer breathtaking views of the ocean and ship’s wake—perfect for enjoying sunsets.
- Excel Corner Suite: These suites provide panoramic views from large wrap-around balconies, offering nearly 180-degree vistas of the sea, ideal for those seeking an immersive experience.
Related: Is The Aft Excel Suite Worth the Price?
Family Harbor Staterooms on Carnival
Family Harbor Staterooms are specifically designed for families. They offer extra space and access to the exclusive Family Harbor Lounge, where guests can enjoy breakfast, snacks, games, and concierge services.
Available in multiple configurations—including interior, ocean view, and balcony—these rooms are tailored to provide comfort and convenience for families.
Havana Staterooms on Carnival
Havana Staterooms, available on Vista-class ships, provide Cuban-themed decor and exclusive daytime access to the Havana Pool area.
Related: Why Picking the Best Stateroom is Important
These rooms come in interior and balcony options. Havana Cabanas features private patios and direct access to the public lanai, perfect for guests looking for a private yet vibrant experience.
| Did you know? The Havana Retreat didn’t start until the launch of Carnival Vista in 2016; since then, it has been added to every Carnival new build, including the two Venezia-class ships acquired from Costa Cruises. |
Cloud 9 Spa Staterooms on Carnival
Cloud 9 Spa Staterooms offer a serene and wellness-focused cruise experience. Located near the ship’s spa facilities, these rooms have exclusive amenities like priority spa reservations, complimentary access to thermal suites, and discounts on spa treatments.
Related: The Pros and Cons of a Guarantee Stateroom
Available as interior, ocean view, balcony, and suite options, Cloud 9 Spa Staterooms are perfect for those who prioritize relaxation and rejuvenation on their cruise.
| Havana Staterooms | Cloud 9 Spa Staterooms |
|---|---|
| Private access to the Havana Bar and Pool area | Access to the Cloud 9 thermal suite |
| Vibrant and tropical ambiance | Relaxing atmosphere and soaps |
| Tropical pool*, bar, and lounge area | Various spa treatments, thermal suites |
Accessible or Scooter Friendly Cabins
Carnival Cruise Line ensures that all guests, including those with mobility challenges, have a comfortable and enjoyable experience. ADA Accessible staterooms are designed to accommodate wheelchairs, scooters, and other devices, offering a welcoming space for all guests.
Features of Accessible Staterooms:
- Amenities such as a refrigerator and 24-hour room service
- Wider entryways and spacious interiors
- Accessible bathrooms with roll-in showers, grab bars, and lowered sinks
- Lower closet rods and vanities
| Stateroom Type | Accommodates | Features |
|---|---|---|
| Interior Accessible | 2-5 guests (varies) | Wide entryway, accessible bathroom with roll-in shower |
| Ocean View Accessible | 2-5 guests (varies) | Wide entryway, accessible bathroom with roll-in shower, window with ocean view |
| Balcony Accessible | 2-5 guests (varies) | Wide entryway, accessible bathroom with roll-in shower, private balcony |
| Suite Accessible | 2-4 guests (varies) | Wide entryway, accessible bathroom with roll-in shower, spacious living area, priority check-in, dedicated concierge service |
When booking, inform your travel agent or vacation planner of your accessibility needs to ensure you choose the most suitable stateroom.
Final Thoughts
Picking the right stateroom can define your cruise. Just remember, the good staterooms are booked far in advance. If you want a room at a certain location or deck, consider booking the cruise sooner rather than later. The early bird gets the worm.
