Age Policy
Carnival Cruise Line Minor & Age Policy
(For bookings created on or after February 1, 2025)
Carnival Cruise Line maintains specific age and minor travel requirements to ensure guest safety and compliance with international travel regulations. Guests must meet the minimum age requirements on embarkation day, and age verification will be conducted at the port. Guests who do not meet these requirements will be denied boarding without compensation.
Minimum Age to Travel Independently
Guests must be 21 years of age or older on embarkation day to travel without an accompanying adult.
Travel Requirements for Guests Under 21
Guests 20 years old and younger must travel with a relative or guardian aged 25 or older (legal guardianship is not required).
Guests 21 to 24 years old may travel with their minor children.
Minors may not be booked under TBA (To Be Assigned) stateroom offers; a stateroom number must be assigned at booking.
Stateroom Booking Guidelines for Minors
- Guests 14 Years Old and Younger
Must be booked in the same stateroom or a connecting stateroom with a relative or guardian aged 25 or older. - Guests 15 to 17 Years Old
May be booked up to three staterooms away from a relative or guardian aged 25 or older.
Reservations must be linked as “Travel With” and cross-referenced. - Guests 18 to 20 Years Old
May book a stateroom in any location without proximity restrictions.
Reservations must still be linked as “Travel With” a relative or guardian aged 25 or older and cross-referenced.
Specialty Stateroom Age Requirements
Terrazza Staterooms: Guests must be 12 years or older
Havana Staterooms & Suites: Guests must be 12 years or older
Minors Traveling Together or in Groups
Standard minor booking policies apply.
Group reservations of eight or more staterooms must be booked through Carnival’s Group Department.
A $100 USD damage deposit per minor is required.
Prepaid gratuities for each minor are due at final payment.
Traveling With a Minor – Required Documentation
When traveling with a minor without one or both parents or legal guardians, Carnival Cruise Line strongly recommends carrying a notarized letter of consent from the absent parent(s) or guardian(s).
If only one parent has legal custody, additional documentation may be required, including:
Court custody orders
Death certificates
Birth certificates listing a single parent
These documents help facilitate processing with the Department of Homeland Security.
Exceptions for Guests Aged 18–20 Traveling Without a Guardian (25+)
Guests aged 18 to 20 may travel independently under the following circumstances:
Legally Married Couples
Applies to all legally married couples, including same-gender marriages.
Acceptable documentation includes:
- Marriage license issued by a County Clerk
- Legal proof of civil union
- For newlyweds, a copy of the marriage application or certificate signed by the officiant
Failure to present documentation will result in denied boarding without compensation.
Qualified Military Personnel
Applies to U.S. Military personnel and Canadian National Defense personnel, including traveling companions in the same stateroom who are aged 18–20.
Proof of active service is required at embarkation.
Failure to provide documentation will result in denied boarding without compensation.
Dining Information
- Carnival Cruise Line offers flexible and convenient dining options designed to suit every travel style. At the time of booking, guests can select their preferred dining option for dinner. If the requested dining time is unavailable, guests may choose an alternate option and be placed on a waitlist for their preferred seating. Dining waitlists are typically cleared prior to sailing, and guests will receive confirmation by email. Groups traveling together who are waitlisted will be assigned the same dining time once availability opens.
- In addition to main dining rooms, bistro-style lunch and dinner options are available on the Lido Deck. Select ships including Spirit Class, Conquest Class, Carnival Splendor, and Dream Class vessels also feature a reservations-recommended steakhouse, available for a nominal additional fee of approximately $30 per person.
- All Carnival Cruise Line dining rooms are 100% smoke-free, enhancing comfort and air quality for all guests.
Breakfast & Lunch Dining
Carnival’s main dining rooms operate as open seating for breakfast and lunch, allowing guests to dine at their convenience during scheduled hours without assigned tables.
- Breakfast: Approximately 7:45 a.m. – 9:00 a.m.
- Lunch: Approximately 12:00 p.m. – 1:30 p.m.
Breakfast hours may vary by ship and itinerary; guests should consult their daily Fun Times schedule for exact times. Continental breakfast is available via in-stateroom dining until 10:00 a.m., and a limited breakfast menu is offered on deck.
Dinner Dining Options
Carnival Cruise Line provides both traditional and flexible dinner seating options:
- Early Dining: 6:00 p.m.
- Late Dining: 8:15 p.m.
Your Time Dining offers flexible, reservation-free dining between 5:45 p.m. and 9:30 p.m. Guests are seated on a first-come, first-served basis, with most parties accommodated within 20 minutes. If all tables are occupied, pagers are provided so guests may relax elsewhere onboard while waiting. Due to limited large-table availability, parties of more than 10 guests may be seated at multiple tables. Dining times are subject to change based on ship and itinerary.
Carnival Cruise Line also features a wide variety of additional dining venues, including:
- Casual dining eateries
- Specialty steakhouse dining (select ships only)
- 24-hour stateroom service
- Sushi bar
- European-style café
With so many dining choices available, Carnival Cruises ensures every guest can enjoy great food, flexible scheduling, and a relaxed onboard dining experience.
Fuel Surcharge Policy
- Carnival Cruise Line has eliminated its fuel surcharge for all voyages, providing guests with added value and transparent pricing. For reservations already within the final payment period, any previously applied fuel supplement will be refunded as a shipboard credit. For bookings outside the final payment window, the fuel surcharge will be removed automatically, and guests will receive an updated final payment amount reflecting the adjustment.
- To protect against extreme fluctuations in fuel costs, Carnival Cruise Line reserves the right to reinstate a fuel supplement of up to $9.00 per person, per day without prior notice if the price of light sweet crude oil, as published by the New York Mercantile Exchange (NYMEX), exceeds $70.00 per barrel. If implemented, the fuel supplement may be charged at the time of sailing, even if the cruise fare has already been paid in full.
- This policy ensures pricing flexibility while maintaining Carnival’s commitment to affordability and guest transparency.
Payments / Refunds
Deposits & Payments
Standard deposits vary by voyage length: $100-$150 per person for 1-5 nights; $250 for 6-9 nights; $400-$450 for 10-14 nights; and $400 for 15+ nights and specialty cruises (Alaska, Europe, Transatlantic, Panama Canal). Suites require 10% of the total fare or the standard flat deposit, whichever is greater. Reduced deposits are frequently offered under promotional rates (starting at $50 or $99). Final payment is due 76 days prior for short cruises (5 nights or less) and 91 days prior for long cruises (6 nights or more and specialty). While standard bookings have refundable deposits before final payment, promotional rates (like Early Saver) are immediately non-refundable and convert to Future Cruise Credit (FCC) minus a $50 per person admin change fee.
Cancellation & Refunds
Standard cancellation penalties depend on cruise duration and days prior to sailing.
Final Payment to 56 Days Prior to Sailing
- 5 Nights or Less: Standard Deposit Amount
- 6 Nights or More / Specialty: Standard Deposit Amount
55 to 30 Days Prior to Sailing
- 5 Nights or Less: Standard Deposit or 50% of Total Fare
- 6 Nights or More / Specialty: Standard Deposit or 50% of Total Fare
29 to 15 Days Prior to Sailing
- 5 Nights or Less: Standard Deposit or 75% of Total Fare
- 6 Nights or More / Specialty: Standard Deposit or 75% of Total Fare
14 Days or Less Prior to Sailing
- 5 Nights or Less: 100% of Total Fare (No Refund)
- 6 Nights or More / Specialty: 100% of Total Fare (No Refund)
Smoking Policy
Carnival Cruise Line is committed to providing a safe, comfortable, and enjoyable cruise experience for all guests and crew. Because smoking presents fire and safety risks at sea, Carnival enforces a strict smoking policy that limits smoking to designated areas only.
Where Smoking Is Allowed
Smoking is permitted only in clearly designated outdoor deck areas and in approved areas of the casino while actively playing. All smoking locations are clearly marked and vary by ship.
Where Smoking Is Prohibited
For the comfort and safety of all guests, smoking and vaping are strictly prohibited in the following areas:
- All staterooms and suites
- All private balconies
- Public indoor spaces, including lounges, bars, and dining venues
This policy applies to all smoking materials, including cigarettes, cigars, pipes, vaporizers, electronic cigarettes, and marijuana.
- Marijuana and Controlled Substances
Although marijuana may be legal in certain destinations, Carnival Cruise Line follows U.S. federal law, which strictly prohibits the possession or use of recreational or medicinal marijuana and other controlled substances onboard all ships.
- Policy Violations and Penalties
Guests who violate Carnival’s smoking policy will be subject to a $500 USD fine per offense, charged to their Sail & Sign® account. In serious cases, guests may be disembarked at their own expense, receive no refund for unused cruise days, and may be restricted from sailing with Carnival Cruise Line in the future.
- Casino Smoking Guidelines
Smoking is allowed only while seated and actively playing.
Smoking is not permitted at the casino bar.
Smoking is prohibited when the casino is closed.
Additional Important Information
Smoking areas are ship-specific and detailed in Carnival’s Cruise Ticket Contract.
In compliance with U.S. federal law, guests must be 21 years or older to purchase tobacco products on U.S.-based ships and itineraries.
Carnival’s smoking policy is designed to balance guest comfort with onboard safety, ensuring a pleasant cruise environment for everyone.
Travel Protection
The Carnival Vacation Protection Plan combines a cancellation fee waiver from Carnival with underwritten travel insurance (not available to New York residents). Sickness or weather cancellations receive a 100% cash refund, while cancellations for unlisted reasons receive a 75% Future Cruise Credit. Insurance benefits underwritten by United States Fire Insurance Company include trip interruption, accident/sickness medical ($20,000), evacuation ($50,000), and baggage protection ($1,500). The plan must be added between initial deposit and final payment, and is fully refundable up to 10:00 PM ET on the evening prior to departure.
Tipping Policy
Effective for departures on or after April 2, 2026, daily gratuities are automatically applied to accounts for guests aged 2 and older: $17.00 USD per guest, per day for standard staterooms, and $19.00 USD per guest, per day for suite accommodations. Gratuities can be prepaid online up to 11:59 PM ET on the evening prior to sailing. Tips are discretionary and can be adjusted up or down at the Guest Services desk at any point while on board prior to disembarkation. A mandatory 20% service charge is automatically added to all bar and beverage purchases, specialty dining, and spa treatments.
Dress Code
Daytime wear is casual and comfortable, featuring shorts, capris, t-shirts, and sundresses. For the evening, the standard dress code in the main dining room is “Cruise Casual.” Prohibited dinner attire includes cut-off jeans, men’s sleeveless shirts, t-shirts, gym or basketball shorts, athletic wear, baseball caps, flip-flops, and swimwear.
Formal Nights
- Carnival features “Cruise Elegant” evenings. For itineraries of 2 to 5 nights, there is one Cruise Elegant night; for itineraries of 6 nights or longer, there are two. Men are encouraged to wear dress slacks and collared shirts (suits, sport coats, or tuxedos are optional but welcome), and women wear elegant dresses, cocktail dresses, pantsuits, or skirts.
Excursions
- Enhance your cruise vacation by pre-booking your excursions (recommended for most savings and to guarantee availability) via the cruise line app or book while onboard. Space is limited and popular excursions sell out fast!
Why Carnival Cruise Line?
Exceptional Value for Money
Carnival Cruise Line consistently offers some of the most affordable cruise fares in the industry, making it ideal for families, first-time cruisers, and budget-conscious travelers looking for maximum fun at sea.
Fun-Focused Atmosphere
Carnival is famous for its energetic vibe, lively deck parties, themed events, comedy shows, and interactive entertainment—perfect for travelers who want a cruise that feels vibrant and social.
Family-Friendly Cruises
With award-winning kids’ and teens’ programs, water parks, family staterooms, and age-appropriate activities, Carnival is one of the best cruise lines for family vacations.
Wide Variety of Dining Options
From main dining rooms and 24-hour pizza to celebrity-chef restaurants and casual eateries, Carnival offers diverse dining choices that cater to every taste and schedule.
Short Getaways and Long Voyages
Carnival specializes in short cruises (3–5 days) as well as longer itineraries, making it ideal for weekend escapes, first-time cruisers, and extended vacations alike.
Extensive Homeport Options
With departure ports across the United States, Carnival makes cruising easy and accessible, reducing travel time and airfare costs for many guests.
Award-Winning Entertainment
Guests enjoy Broadway-style productions, live music, comedy clubs, deck parties, and nightlife that continues well into the evening.
Modern Fleet with Unique Ship Features
Carnival’s ships feature water parks, ropes courses, sports courts, spas, fitness centers, and innovative attractions designed for nonstop entertainment.
Flexible Dining and Gratuity Options
Carnival offers flexible dining times, casual dining alternatives, and prepaid gratuities, allowing guests to customize their cruise experience.
Trusted Brand with Decades of Experience
With millions of guests sailing annually, Carnival Cruise Line is a trusted and established cruise brand known for delivering fun, reliable vacations.
FAQ
What is included in a Carnival cruise fare?
Carnival cruise fares include accommodations, main dining room meals, casual dining options, onboard entertainment, youth programs, pools, and many activities. Specialty dining, beverages, shore excursions, and gratuities may cost extra.
Is Carnival Cruise Line good for families?
Yes. Carnival is one of the most family-friendly cruise lines, offering kids’ clubs, teen lounges, family staterooms, water parks, and activities for all age groups.
Are gratuities included on Carnival cruises?
Gratuities are not included in the base fare but are automatically applied daily. Guests may prepay gratuities before sailing or adjust them onboard.
Does Carnival offer flexible dining options?
Yes. Guests can choose assigned dining times or Carnival’s flexible “Your Time Dining,” allowing them to dine when it fits their schedule.
What is Carnival’s cancellation policy?
Cancellation penalties depend on the fare type and how close the cancellation is to sailing. Some promotions are non-refundable, while others allow Future Cruise Credits.
Is smoking allowed on Carnival ships?
Smoking is limited to designated outdoor areas and select casino areas while actively playing. Staterooms and balconies are strictly non-smoking.
Does Carnival offer travel protection?
Yes. Carnival Cruise Vacation Protection includes cancellation fee waivers, travel insurance benefits, and 24/7 emergency assistance services.
What is the minimum age to cruise with Carnival?
Guests must be at least 21 years old to sail independently. Minors must travel with an eligible relative or guardian, subject to Carnival’s age policies.
Are Carnival cruises good for first-time cruisers?
Absolutely. Carnival’s affordability, short itineraries, and fun atmosphere make it one of the best cruise lines for first-time cruisers.
Where does Carnival Cruise Line sail?
Carnival sails to popular destinations including the Caribbean, Bahamas, Mexico, Alaska, Hawaii, Europe, and more, with departures from numerous U.S. ports.