Carnival Breeze Post-Dry Dock Tour [PHOTOS]

I recently toured Carnival Breeze for the day to view the ship’s updates after its recent dry dock in April. Although the Breeze was already one of the best ships in the fleet, the new updates and additions put this ship on par with Carnival’s crown jewel, Carnival Vista.

What’s New on Carnival Breeze?

Guy’s Pig & Anchor Bar-B-Que Smokehouse:

Perhaps the most exciting new venue on-board is the new Guy’s Pig & Anchor Bar-B-Que, yet another eatery sponsored by food celebrity Guy Fieri. The addition replaces Fat Jimmy’s Sea-Side BBQ, located on the outdoor lanai of Deck 5. And just like its partner restaurant Guy’s Burgers, it’s complimentary!

Alchemy Bar:

Although not a new venue to the Carnival brand, many cruisers were surprised that this popular watering hole wasn’t already found on Breeze. The concept for the craft cocktail bar was rolled out shortly after Breeze debuted, meaning it has only since been added to ships during their dry docks. Alchemy Bar replaces the Ocean Plaza Bar, found on Deck 5 midship. The best feature about this particular Alchemy Bar is that it has direct, open access to the RedFrog Pub next door.

View Carnival Breeze Deck Plans here.

Digital Pixels Gallery:

The featured technology update is to the Pixels gallery, which has gone digital. Now, rather than sorting through thousands of printed photos stacked on the walls, cruisers will find tablets as well as floor-to-ceiling touch screens that make it easy to instantly find photos. Alternatively, your photos are also now available through your stateroom TV or the Carnival HUB app. You can also choose the sizes and number of photos you’d like printed for purchase.

Pandora and Effy stores:

For those who love to shop ‘til you drop, Carnival Breeze now has two new stores: the popular jewelry chain Pandora famous for its charms and the fine jewelry store Effy. Be sure to check the Fun Times (or the Carnival HUB app) for discounts, sales, and raffles.

What’s Not New on Carnival Breeze, But Still Awesome

Amazing spa:

One of the best features of this ship is the Cloud 9 Spa, which – in addition to all the typical spa treatments available on cruise ships – also features two dry heat rooms and two steambaths. However, the cherry on top is the thalassotherapy pool, a jetted spa pool with salts and mineral water that are good for your skin. When you’re done, there’s a private relaxation room with cold water, teas, and prime ocean views.

Kids’ spaces:

Featuring a massive arcade and the unique Thrill Theater, Breeze reserves practically all of Deck 4 midship for the kids. Plus, on the lido deck you’ll find a WaterWorks park, ropes course, sports square, mini golf, and basketball/sports court to keep the younger ones busy.

Food options:

In addition to the new Guy’s Pig & Anchor Bar-B-Que Smokehouse, Carnival Breeze also offers Guy’s Burger Joint, BlueIguana Cantina, Mongolian Wok, Tandoor Indian, and of course the main buffet and main dining rooms – all free of charge. Specialty restaurants include Cucina del Capitano, Bonsai Sushi, and the Fahrenheit 555 Steakhouse. Lastly, the RedFrog Pub offers an exclusive à la carte “Pub Grub” menu.

Final Thoughts

Some people were shocked when Carnival announced that – upon the debut of the upcoming Carnival Horizon – they will be moving their (current) newest ship Carnival Vista to Galveston to replace Carnival Breeze, which will move to Port Canaveral. However, those who prefer to cruise out of Florida shouldn’t be disappointed; Carnival Breeze truly has all the best that Carnival has to offer in family-friendly activities, amenities, accommodations, food, and entertainment.

Carnival Breeze currently operates three 7-day cruise itineraries from Galveston, including two Western Caribbean itineraries – one to Montego Bay, Grand Cayman, and Cozumel and the other to Isla de Roatan, Belize City, and Cozumel – as well as one Bahamian itinerary to Key West, Freeport, and Nassau.