Best & Worst Carnival Cruise Ships (Ranked By Reviews)

Carnival has one of the largest fleets of any ocean cruise line, with 29 ships ranging from the long-serving Carnival Sunshine to the newest vessel, Carnival Jubilee, not to mention the recent additions, Carnival Adventure and Carnival Encounter.

But newer doesn’t always mean better. In fact, once you see where some of the latest ships rank, you might be surprised.

So, I decided to rank every Carnival ship from best to worst based on recent guest reviews. It’s a great way to highlight what makes Carnival so popular and help you figure out which ship might be the right fit for your next cruise.

This list is fully up to date with 2025 review data, including feedback from the first half of the year for the newest additions. Let’s dive in.

An awe-inspiring gathering of Carnival cruise ships is showcased in the tranquil blue waters of the Bahamas, set against a vast sky with scattered clouds. The ships are arrayed in a semi-circle, presenting a stunning maritime formation in the gentle embrace of the open sea.

How I Gathered the Data

Before we dive into the rankings, here’s how I put them together. I haven’t sailed on every Carnival ship myself, so instead of just using my personal opinion, I gathered average reviews from Cruiseline.com, Cruise Critic, and TripAdvisor. These sites are reliable, and their numerous reviews prevent a few outliers from distorting the overall scores.

I averaged these ratings to rank the ships, using additional criteria to break any ties based on unique or appealing features. Keep in mind that the rankings range from ‘best’ to ‘worst’, but even the lowest-ranked ship scored a respectable 3.2 out of 5. So, while these rankings are based on passenger experiences and are indicative, they still carry a degree of subjectivity.

Now, let’s dive into what makes Carnival so well-loved and see which ships earn high praise and which ones don’t…

1. Carnival Breeze

The Carnival Breeze cruise ship sails through the waters near St. Thomas at twilight, its wake frothing in the sea. The ship's classic red and blue funnel stands out against the evening sky, which is a gradient of deep blues to soft purples, highlighting the vessel's grandeur and the tranquility of the Caribbean setting.

Carnival Breeze captures the spirit of what makes Carnival so popular—fun vibes, non-stop food and drink options, splashy water slides, and a crew that’s always up for making your cruise memorable.

But it also showcases the flip side: crowds, noise, and a party atmosphere that can get a little rowdy, especially with the unlimited drinks package in full swing.

Is it peaceful? Not exactly. Is it fun? Definitely. Will everyone love it? That depends.

Still, it’s the most popular ship in the fleet—so clearly, Carnival fans can’t get enough of it.

2. Carnival Pride

The Carnival Pride cruise ship journeys near Grand Cayman, its distinctive red and blue funnel a vibrant contrast against the bright blue sky. The ocean's deep blues surround the vessel, emphasizing its elegant white structure as it cruises the serene Caribbean Sea.

Carnival Pride might be one of the older ships in the fleet, but she’s aged gracefully. While the bold Renaissance-style decor gives her a slightly dated feel, there’s something endearing about her classic charm.

Being a smaller ship, she delivers all the Carnival fun without the overwhelming crowds and noise you’ll find on the bigger vessels.

Sure, some parts of the ship are a bit of a hike to reach, but her quirks only add to the personality that keeps guests coming back for more.

3. Carnival Miracle

The Carnival Miracle cruise ship sails in the open ocean, its blue and white exterior gleaming under the clear blue sky, with the ship's red funnel adding a pop of color to the serene marine scene.

Carnival Miracle stands out for her excellent passenger-to-space ratio, making her feel roomy and relaxed, even after receiving her Fun Ship upgrades a little later than others. If you’re after a laid-back cruise with a splash of Carnival fun, she’s a solid choice.

Some past guests weren’t thrilled with the West Coast itineraries, but now that she’s sailing from Texas and Florida to the Caribbean, and even offering some European cruises, that’s less of a concern.

She’s ideal if you’re after a balanced cruise: a bit of fun, a bit of downtime, and reliably good food.

4. Carnival Glory

The Carnival Glory cruise ship majestically sails across the blue ocean, its multiple decks adorned with colorful flags fluttering in the wind.

Carnival Glory has been a reliable favourite in the fleet for years, though her age is starting to show, reviews often mention areas looking a little tired.

Still, she continues to score well with guests, which says a lot about the overall experience onboard. With a fun WaterWorks park and a lively atmosphere, she’s far from boring.

You’ll find plenty of families and big groups aboard, but thanks to the ship’s layout, it rarely feels overcrowded.

5. Carnival Panorama

Aerial view of the Carnival Panorama cruise ship at dusk, its decks glowing with lights as it navigates the ocean, reflecting the last rays of the sunset on its journey.

Carnival Panorama is a crowd-pleaser in the best sense, designed to keep cruisers of all ages entertained, fed, and happy. From the action-packed activities and live shows to the wide range of dining options and Mexican Riviera itineraries, she ticks a lot of boxes.

The service gets particular praise, with many saying the crew go above and beyond, even by Carnival’s already friendly standards.

The only real downside? With so much happening, the deck areas can get a bit loud. That might explain why she’s slipped slightly in the 2025 rankings, despite still being a fan favourite.

6. Carnival Valor

Carnival Valor cruise ship sailing on the ocean, showcasing its distinctive blue and white exterior with a red funnel, against a bright blue sky with fluffy clouds.

Carnival Valor sails from New Orleans with Caribbean itineraries that favour time ashore, many 5-day cruises include an extra port stop instead of a sea day, which is a big win if you love exploring.

On board, you’ll find the usual mix of Fun Ship features and friendly service, plus a few quirks, like the kids’ club being near the spa and adults-only Serenity area.

Still, she delivers a well-balanced cruise experience for all ages, and her high spot in the rankings shows just how much guests appreciate her.

7. Carnival Jubilee

The image presents the Carnival Jubilee cruise ship, a part of Carnival Cruise Line's fleet, as it sails through blue waters under a bright sky dotted with clouds. The ship's large structure, with multiple decks and a characteristic red and white funnel, stands out against the vast ocean. The vessel's name is prominently displayed on the hull, and it appears ready to offer a festive and fun-filled experience to its passengers.

As the newest ship in the fleet, Carnival Jubilee made a huge splash in 2024, topping the rankings, but in 2025, she’s slipped a few spots.

She’s part of the Excel Class trio alongside Mardi Gras and Carnival Celebration, and with her massive size comes a huge range of entertainment, dining options, and standout service that many guests still rave about.

However, the sheer volume of passengers is starting to take its toll; some reviews mention crowding, cutbacks to late-night dining, and unruly guest behaviour. It’s not Jubilee’s fault, but being one of the most high-profile ships means she’s under a bigger spotlight.

8. Carnival Vista

The majestic Carnival Vista cruise ship embarks on a voyage, captured with its signature red funnel against a backdrop of dramatic clouds and a glistening ocean, with distant islands on the horizon. — Carnival Vista

Carnival Vista arrived with plenty of hype, bringing fresh features to the fleet like the SkyRide, an IMAX cinema, and playful Dr. Seuss touches for kids. On paper, she’s impressive and in many ways, she delivers.

But reviews are a bit of a mixed bag. While the ship’s innovations are a hit, some guests have noted dips in service quality and food variety.

One thing’s for sure: you won’t be bored on Vista, but you might find yourself wishing the basics were just a bit better.

9. Carnival Spirit

Carnival Spirit, belonging to Carnival Cruise Line, is surrounded by the stunning blue waters of a tropical destination, with lush green islands dotting the seascape. The vibrant ship, with its distinctive red and blue funnel, stands out as a colorful focal point in this aerial shot capturing the beauty of ocean travel.

Carnival Spirit stands out for two big reasons: fantastic service and a wide range of destinations. Unlike many ships that stick to the Caribbean, she ventures further afield with cruises to Australia, Alaska, and Central America, depending on the season.

The atmosphere on board is relaxed, perfectly suited to her largely Australian guests.

Some areas of the ship do feel a bit dated, with bold design choices that aren’t to everyone’s taste, but if you can look past that, you’re in for a great time.

10. Carnival Horizon

The Carnival Horizon cruise ship glides through turquoise waters, its blue hull complementing the sunny sky dotted with fluffy white clouds above.

It’s a bit surprising to see Carnival Horizon ranked lower this year, but it’s a reminder that newer doesn’t always mean better.

The ship boasts impressive tech and plenty of modern features, but it launched just before the Excel Class, so it lacks some of the standout innovations that came soon after.

With over 4,000 passengers on board, it can feel a little crowded, and a few guests have noted the service isn’t quite up to Carnival’s usual standard. Bold and flashy, yes, but some say it’s missing a bit of heart.

11. Carnival Dream

The Carnival Dream cruise ship glides across the ocean at sunset, its blue hull and red-and-white funnel illuminated by the golden light, showcasing the grandeur of cruise vacations.

Carnival Dream may share a familiar layout and features with other Carnival ships, but it’s always had a more laid-back feel.

One of its standout features is the Lanai Promenade a wraparound deck that offers peaceful ocean views and a break from the buzz elsewhere on board.

Well looked after and offering a solid mix of Caribbean and Central American itineraries from Texas, Dream is a great choice if you’re after a slightly calmer Carnival experience.

12. Carnival Liberty

Carnival Liberty cruise ship sails near a mountainous coastline, its signature red, white, and blue funnel marking its presence against the natural landscape. The ocean is calm, reflecting the overcast sky, as the ship adds a touch of human innovation to the serene, natural setting.

Carnival Liberty sails from New Orleans and offers great value for families looking for a classic cruise experience. She may be a bit dated and missing the flashy features of newer ships, but that doesn’t stop her from being a fan favourite.

Instead of sky rides and roller coasters, it’s all about the traditional cruise fun, poolside movies, karaoke, comedy shows, and lively nightclubs that fill up fast.

She’s not exactly no-frills, but she’s definitely not flashy either, just a solid, affordable cruise that gets the job done.

13. Carnival Legend

The Carnival Legend cruise ship sails under a vast sky, fluffy clouds overhead, reflecting the golden sunlight on its journey across the endless blue ocean.

Carnival Legend delivers a similar experience to her sister ship, Carnival Spirit, with plenty of fun, a laid-back vibe, and decor that’s edging into tacky territory (but in a charming, Carnival kind of way).

She tends to avoid the worst of the queues and crowds, which adds to the relaxed feel on board.

With features like the Hasbro Game Show and Seuss at Sea, she’s a great pick for families who want some entertainment without needing all the latest bells and whistles.

14. Carnival Conquest

Carnival Cruise Line's Carnival Conquest is pictured docked in a bustling port with the clear turquoise sea stretching before it. The ship's distinctive red and blue funnel stands out against the coastal town backdrop, showcasing the vibrant colors and leisurely atmosphere of a tropical destination.

Carnival Conquest is a solid choice if you’re after a laid-back cruise with a fun, social atmosphere. While it still appeals to families, there aren’t loads of activities for younger kids or teens, so adults looking to unwind might feel more at home.

It’s not overly rowdy, though the theatre can get lively at night, and there are plenty of quieter spots to relax.

Less flashy than some of Carnival’s newer ships, Conquest is ideal if you just want to switch off and enjoy a few easygoing days at sea.

15. Carnival Magic

Carnival Magic cruise ship sailing on the ocean

Carnival Magic was a game-changer when she launched, introducing now-iconic features like the Hasbro Game Show, RedFrog Pub, and the first ropes course at sea for Carnival.

While those additions still hold up, her early popularity means she often feels busy, and for some, that can be a bit much.

Ironically, it’s her success that works against her now. Crowds and a slightly overwhelming vibe have nudged her down the rankings in 2025.

16. Carnival Celebration

Carnival Celebration cruise ship captured in an aerial shot as it navigates the waters near Miami, displaying the ship's extensive decks and leisure amenities.

As one of the newest ships in the fleet, Carnival Celebration comes packed with impressive features, but her lower ranking suggests that newer doesn’t always mean better in guests’ eyes.

She’s a sister to Mardi Gras and Carnival Jubilee, and as a flagship vessel, she delivers big on entertainment, dining variety, and onboard attractions.

However, her massive size can impact service levels, with some guests frustrated by longer waits and bigger crowds. Still, there’s plenty on board to keep everyone entertained, it just might take a bit more patience.

17. Carnival Sunshine

Originally launched as Carnival Destiny in 1996, Carnival Sunshine is the oldest ship still sailing in the fleet, but thanks to a major renovation and rebrand, she received many of the Fun Ship 2.0 upgrades.

Her design is a little more understated than some of her louder siblings, and she offers a lively but not overcrowded experience.

That said, age is creeping back in, recent reviews mention she’s in need of a bit more TLC if she’s going to keep up with the rest of the fleet.

18. Mardi Gras

The Carnival Mardi Gras cruise ship cuts through the deep blue sea, its towering red and white funnel standing out against a backdrop of scattered clouds in a vibrant blue sky.

Before Mardi Gras, a roller coaster at sea sounded like a joke, but Carnival made it happen, and to their credit, it’s actually brilliant. The ship is the largest in the fleet, packed with high-energy entertainment and impressive venues that live up to the flagship status.

Still, some guests have found the cabins surprisingly tight, and the speciality dining hasn’t quite hit the mark compared to sister ships.

With an average rating of 3.68 out of 5, Mardi Gras is far from a flop, but for a headline ship, it’s not quite where Carnival would want her to be.

19. Carnival Freedom

The Carnival Freedom cruise ship illuminated at night, showcasing the vessel's multiple decks and rows of balconies. The ship's name is prominently displayed on the side, and the iconic red and blue funnel stands tall against the dark sky, symbolizing the ship's readiness for adventure on the open sea.

The last of the Conquest-Class ships to debut, Carnival Freedom was also one of the last to get her Fun Ship 2.0 upgrades, though she did gain a revamped water park and favourites like the RedFrog Pub and BlueIguana Tequila Bar.

Still, the ship can feel a bit disjointed. The updated areas are great for families, but other sections show their age, creating a noticeable contrast between old and new.

It’s a ship with solid highlights, but one that sometimes feels like it’s caught between two eras.

20. Carnival Elation

The image displays the 'Carnival Elation' cruise ship, easily recognizable by its distinctive red funnel and white-and-blue hull, sailing on a serene blue ocean under a clear sky. Perfect for a vacation getaway theme.

Carnival Elation isn’t the oldest ship in the fleet, but she certainly feels like it, despite receiving a substantial renovation back in 2017.

The decor is dated, the entertainment options are more limited, and the ship feels compact compared to today’s mega-ships.

But that smaller scale also means a quieter, more relaxed vibe. For cruisers who prefer classic Carnival charm without the crowds, Elation might just strike the perfect balance.

21. Carnival Paradise

The Carnival Paradise cruise ship, bathed in the golden light of the setting sun, cruises the open sea, its blue hull and red funnel vibrant against the expansive sky and sea.

If the massive, feature-packed ships feel a bit overwhelming, Carnival Paradise offers a simpler, more traditional Carnival experience.

She’s not dull by any means, but without all the flashy attractions, the ship feels more relaxed and far less crowded.

Ideal for cruisers chasing great value, Paradise delivers solid service, decent food, and enough family-friendly touches like mini golf, a water park, and kids’ clubs, to keep everyone entertained, even if the ship is starting to showitsr age.

22. Carnival Splendor

In the warm glow of sunset, the Carnival Splendor cruise ship journeys across the calm sea, its distinctive red funnel marking a striking contrast against the serene twilight sky.

Carnival Splendor is a bit of an oddball in the fleet. Originally designed for Costa Cruises, she was handed over to Carnival mid-construction, and it shows in her one-of-a-kind, bold interior.

You’ll either be charmed by the dramatic décor or find it a bit over the top, but it rarely overshadows the overall cruise experience.

With a massive spa, plenty of activities for kids, and South Pacific itineraries out of Australia, Splendor is a great choice for relaxed adventure, just don’t expect the cabins to feel brand new.

23. Carnival Radiance

Carnival Radiance cruise ship with its distinctive red funnel cruising through the deep blue ocean under a clear sky, with a puff of white clouds in the distance

Carnival Radiance is a bold attempt to pack big-fun energy into a smaller ship, and while it delivers on variety, space is definitely at a premium.

Some venues feel cramped, queues can be long, and odd design choices like spa rooms beneath the kids’ club don’t help.

It’s still far from boring, and reviews are generally positive, but if you’re hoping for a relaxing cruise, Radiance might feel a little too busy for comfort.

24. Carnival Sunrise

The Carnival Sunrise cruise ship sails on a calm ocean, its red funnel iconic against the vast blue sky scattered with white clouds, embodying a sense of adventure on the high seas.

If Carnival’s reputation for being loud and lively gives you pause, Carnival Sunrise might not win you over. It’s one of the most energetic ships in the fleet, fully embracing the party atmosphere.

Originally sailing as Carnival Triumph (yes, the one featured in Netflix’s Poop Cruise documentary), Sunrise was given a massive overhaul and rebranding, but she’s still known for her buzzing vibe and high-energy crowds.

There’s plenty to do from the ropes course and water slides to a packed sports deck, and while there is a Serenity Deck, don’t expect total tranquillity. If you can handle the queues and the volume, you’ll have a wild time. If not, maybe steer toward something calmer.

25. Carnival Firenze

A large cruise ship, the Carnival Firenze, majestically sails on a calm blue ocean under a clear sky.

Carnival Firenze is the newest ship to join the fleet, but not a brand-new build. She originally sailed for Costa Cruises for four years before being rebranded and transferred to Carnival.

Despite her stylish design and plenty of positive reviews, she ranks low, just like her sister ship, Carnival Venezia.

For some loyal Carnival fans, the blend of Italian elegance and Carnival’s signature Fun Ship vibe hasn’t quite clicked. It’s a bold experiment, and while it hasn’t won everyone over yet, there’s still time for opinions to shift.

26. Carnival Venezia

The majestic Carnival Venezia cruise ship sails the ocean at dusk, its multiple decks glowing warmly against the fading light, with the vast sea stretching into the horizon.

Carnival Venezia, like her sister ship Carnival Firenze, began life with Costa Cruises before joining the Carnival fleet in 2023.

While she’s visually impressive, with elegant design throughout, the blend of Italian flair and Carnival’s classic Fun Ship energy hasn’t landed well with everyone.

Many guests were hoping for a more traditional Carnival experience, and the cultural mix has left some feeling a little disconnected, even if the ship itself is undeniably beautiful.

27. Carnival Luminosa

The image showcases the Carnival Luminosa cruise ship elegantly docked in a tranquil waterway, with lush coastal greenery in the background and a serene sky above as daylight fades.

Carnival Luminosa is a unique blend of Spirit Class and Vista Class design, having originally sailed for Costa Cruises from 2009 before joining the Carnival fleet in 2022 with a fresh refurbishment.

Like her Costa-born sisters, she hasn’t fully won over the Carnival faithful. While some appreciate the European-style touches, reviews often mention underwhelming food, inconsistent service, and a general sense that something doesn’t quite click.

That mismatch in expectations is likely why Luminosa finds herself near the bottom of the rankings.

28. Carnival Encounter

Carnival Encounter cruise ship sailing on the ocean

Following the closure of the P&O Australia brand in early 2025, two of its ships joined the Carnival fleet, Carnival Encounter being the newer and slightly better-reviewed of the pair.

That said, her average rating still lags behind the rest of the fleet, and it’s clear the transition hasn’t been completely smooth.

Early reviews are mixed, with some guests noting a drop in food and drink quality, as well as value for money, since the rebranding. While it’s still early days, there’s a sense that the overall experience has taken a step back under Carnival’s wing.

29. Carnival Adventure

Carnival Adventure cruise ship sailing on the ocean

Carnival Adventure joined the fleet in early 2025 following the disbandment of P&O Australia, but unfortunately, she now holds the title of lowest-rated ship in the Carnival lineup, with an average score of just 2.16 out of 5.

To be fair, that rating comes from a limited number of reviews, but the early signs aren’t promising. One bluntly titled “It should have been sunk, not sold” sums up the sentiment, with maintenance issues popping up frequently in guest feedback.

There’s hope that things will improve, but for now, Carnival Adventure has some serious catching up to do.

Choosing The Best Carnival Ship For You

Picking the ‘best’ Carnival ship isn’t a one-size-fits-all affair because each offers something unique. While some ships buzz with activity, others offer a more laid-back vibe. It boils down to what you’re looking for, whether it’s a ship that’s destination-focused or all about the onboard experience.

Carnival is famous for its lively party atmosphere, and that reputation is well-deserved. However, the notion that some ships can feel overcrowded or noisy isn’t without merit, though most guests report having a fantastic time.

Choosing the right ship requires some thought since they vary so much. You’ll need to consider whether you’re after the latest and greatest features, a more relaxing journey, or a great deal on a fun getaway.

And hey, I’d love to hear your thoughts on this list. It’s based on reviews, but everyone’s experience is different. If you think there’s a better order or have your favourites, drop a comment below and let us know!