Our Complete Guide to the Best Carnival Cruise Ships for Kids

Carnival Cruise Line has long been known for its family-friendly cruises, offering fun and relaxed voyages for travelers of all ages. With a fleet of 29 ships and new vessels set to launch in 2027, 2028, and the first Ace-class ship in 2029, Carnival continues to expand its family offerings. The upcoming Ace-class ships, designed for nearly 8,000 passengers, are expected to feature even more child-friendly facilities.

From all-day youth programs to Dive-In Movies, SportSquare, and waterparks, Carnival ships are packed with activities for children and teens. This guide highlights the best ships for families so you can find the perfect match for your next vacation.

Best Ships for Thrill-Seeking Kids

Carnival Panorama, Vista, Horizon, Mardi Gras, Celebration, and Jubilee

Excel-class ships Mardi Gras, Celebration, and Jubilee, along with Vista-class ships Vista, Horizon, and Panorama, offer some of Carnival’s most exciting attractions. Alongside kids’ clubs like Camp Ocean, Circle C, and Club O2, these ships feature multiple pools, WaterWorks waterparks, IMAX theaters, ropes courses, SkyRide cycling tracks, and the Bolt Roller Coaster, the fastest at sea (extra fee applies).

Excel-class ships are 35 percent larger than the next-biggest vessels and include 26 dining venues, making them ideal for families with picky eaters.

Best for Fun Experiences

Carnival Vista, Horizon, and Panorama

Vista-class ships offer large waterparks, dedicated kids’ clubs, and upgraded activities such as the Twister Waterslide, ropes courses, basketball courts, and mini-golf. Families can also enjoy Build-A-Bear Workshop at Sea, Thrill Theater, and the Seuss-a-palooza parade.

Best for a Different Vibe

Carnival Venezia and Carnival Firenze

Originally part of Costa Cruises, these ships bring “Carnival Fun, Italian Style” with ornate designs and Italian-inspired menus. While the décor appeals to adults, kids still enjoy the same clubs and activities found on other Carnival ships, plus unique menu items like a pepperoni pizza burger at Guy’s Burger Joint.

Best for Family Accommodations

Vista Class and Excel Class

Family Harbor cabins, available on select Vista and Excel-class ships, sleep up to five guests and include access to a private lounge with snacks, games, and movies. Perks include priority check-in, one free group babysitting session, and complimentary kids’ meals at select specialty restaurants.

Best Kids’ Programs

Fleetwide Camp Ocean & Night Owls

Camp Ocean offers free, marine-themed activities for children ages 2 to 11, divided into age-specific groups. Activities range from scavenger hunts to cooking classes, and counselors can change diapers. For an extra fee, Night Owls provides evening care for children as young as 6 months until 1 a.m., allowing parents to enjoy the ship’s nightlife.

Best Teen Programs

All Carnival Ships

Circle C for ages 12 to 14 and Club O2 for ages 15 to 17 give teens dedicated lounges with games, movies, and dance parties. Some ships also offer teen-only shore excursions. Even Carnival’s oldest ship, Carnival Sunshine, includes all standard youth facilities.

In Short: Carnival offers family-friendly amenities across its fleet, with certain ships excelling in thrills, accommodations, or unique atmospheres. Whether traveling with toddlers, tweens, or teens, there is a Carnival ship ready to make your family vacation unforgettable.