How Much Does Carnival Charge for Children

When planning a family cruise with Carnival, a key question often arises: How much does the company charge for children? In my research on cruise travel, I’ve delved into Carnival’s pricing structure to bring you the necessary information.

Key Points

If you don’t have time to read the whole article, here are the key points:

• Carnival charges are per person, regardless of age. This means fares apply equally to adults and children.
• Discounts for Additional Passengers: Carnival offers a discounted rate for any additional passengers, including children, when two guests pay the full fare in the same stateroom. This discount is not exclusive to children but applies to any extra guest in the stateroom.
• Importance of Total Cost Consideration: Considering the total cost for a family when planning a cruise is recommended, acknowledging that Carnival treats every passenger equally in terms of fare.
• Carnival’s Infant Policy: Children under two years are not required to pay gratuities, and infants must be at least six months old to sail.
• Drink Packages for Children: Carnival offers drink packages for children 17 and under, starting at $6.95 per day, plus an 18% gratuity.
• Youth Program and Babysitting Services: Carnival provides a Youth Program for children aged 2-17 with age-specific activities. Babysitting services are available, with costs varying depending on the cruise and cabin type.

How Much Does Carnival Charge for Children?

Carnival’s approach to pricing is straightforward yet inclusive: charges are levied per person, regardless of age. This means that the fares apply equally to adults and children alike.

If you’re travelling with a party where two guests are paying the full fare in the same stateroom, Carnival offers a discounted rate for any additional passengers – and yes, this includes your little ones.

However, it’s essential to note that this discount isn’t exclusively for children. Whether it’s an extra adult or a child, the reduced rate applies uniformly to all additional guests sharing the stateroom.

Understanding this pricing policy is crucial for families planning their cruise budget. While it might seem that children should incur a lesser charge, Carnival’s policy reflects a broader industry standard where a passenger is a passenger, irrespective of age. As a regular cruiser and writer in this domain, I recommend always considering the total cost for your family, factoring in these nuances in pricing.

Recommended reading: The best Carnival ship for children.

General Costs for Children on Board

Firstly, it’s essential to understand that cruise fares are charged per person. This is standard practice across the board, and Carnival is no exception. Whether your travel party includes an infant or a teenager, each child is counted as a passenger and is subject to the per-person fare. This approach ensures simplicity and transparency in Carnival’s pricing policy.

However, there’s a silver lining for families. When you book a stateroom with two full-fare paying guests – typically the parents or guardians – Carnival offers a discounted rate for additional guests in the same stateroom.

This means that if you’re travelling as a family, your children will likely qualify for these discounted rates. But remember, this discount is not uniquely tailored for children; it extends to any extra passenger, regardless of age, sharing the room.

It’s also noteworthy that the extent of the discount for additional passengers may vary. Factors such as the type of cruise, the destination, and the specific stateroom category can influence the final price.

As someone who has spent considerable time researching and writing about cruises, I advise parents to review the pricing details thoroughly during the booking process. This way, you can clearly see the overall cost of your family’s cruise adventure.

Related reading: Do Minors Need Passports for Carnival Cruise?

Infant Policy on Carnival Cruises

Embarking on a cruise with an infant presents a unique set of considerations, and Carnival’s policies are designed to address these. As I delve into the specifics, it’s crucial for parents of infants to be well informed to ensure a smooth sailing experience.

Firstly, Carnival’s policy is quite accommodating for families with infants. One key aspect to note is that children under two years of age are not required to pay gratuities. This is a thoughtful exemption, recognising that infants, while important members of your travel party, do not utilise the full spectrum of services provided on the cruise.

Another important policy to be aware of concerns the age limit for infants. To go on a Carnival cruise, infants must be at least six months old at the time of sailing. This age requirement is a common practice in the cruise industry, primarily for safety reasons.

Additional Costs for Families

While the essentials of your cruise fare cover a wide array of amenities, Carnival also understands the diverse needs of families on board. To cater to these, they offer a range of additional services designed to enhance the experience for both you and your children.

For example, there are many free drinks available on the ship. However, there is also the Bottomless Bubbles drinks package for children aged 17 and under, starting at $6.95 per day.

This is an economical option considering the range of beverages included – from sodas to various juices. It’s a practical choice, especially for families with children who might frequently request drinks throughout the day. Remember, there’s an added 18% gratuity to the daily rate, which is standard across most services on the cruise.

Youth Program and Babysitting Services

As a parent, I know how important it is to have “me time” or adult-only activities. Luckily, Carnival have a Youth Program designed for children aged 2-17, which is inclusive of your fare. This programme is segmented into age-specific activities and entertainment, ensuring that every child finds something exciting and age-appropriate to engage in. It’s a fantastic way for kids to socialise, learn, and enjoy their time on board.

Carnival also provides babysitting services. The cost and availability of these services can vary depending on the cruise and cabin type. I’ve often recommended these services to parents who desire a balance between family time and personal relaxation. It’s a win-win: kids enjoy supervised activities while parents recharge or indulge in adult-centric amenities.

Wrapping It Up

In summary, Carnival Cruises offers a well-rounded experience for families, balancing cost-effective options with engaging activities for all ages. Their straightforward pricing, inclusive drink packages for kids, and diverse entertainment ensure a cruise that’s enjoyable for both children and adults.

Carnival’s youth programs and babysitting services are ideal for parents seeking a blend of family fun and personal downtime. Choosing Carnival for your family’s next cruise promises a blend of enjoyment and value, making for a memorable sea voyage.