Carnival

The Carnival line was founded in 1972. The Carnival group owns a large number of other cruise lines (Cunard, Holland America, Princess etc), however ships sailing directly under the Carnival brand have their own unique style and are marketed as "Fun Ships".

As with most lines, passengers come from all age groups and classes and will vary depending upon the ship's itinerary, however the "typical" Carnival passenger tends to be 30-55 wanting an "all-American" fun experience. There is usually a higher proporation of first-time cruisers than other lines.

Carnival ships are generally noisy places with the emphasis being on having fun. The dress code is very casual and ship interiors are loud and glitzy in true "Las Vegas" style.

In general, passengers are not allowed to take alcohol onboard. However, at embarkation, each guest (21 years or older) may take on board one bottle (750ml) of wine or champagne in their carry-on luggage. A $10 corkage fee per bottle applies to passengers own wine consumed in the main dining room ($14 in the steakhouse).

Also at embarkation, each passenger may take 12 small bottles/cans of non-alcoholic beverages on board in their carry-on luggage.

Any alcohol purchased in ports of call or in excess of the single bottle allowed at embarkation will be confiscated and stored for safekeeping until the end of the voyage.

Alcohol purchased in the ship's gift shop is retained in storage until the end of the voyage.

The minimum age for the purchase or consumption of alcohol in the bars, lounges and gift shops is 21. Picture identification will be required if a crew member is unsure whether a passenger is at least 21.