Carnival Celebration 7-Day Eastern Caribbean Cruise Review
The Carnival Celebration made its debut in November 2022 and is the latest addition to Carnival Cruise Line’s fleet and proudly holds the title as their flagship vessel. This colossal cruise ship is the second Excel class ship in the Carnival lineup, a sibling to the Mardi Gras and the forthcoming Jubilee.
As one of the largest vessels in the fleet, the Carnival Celebration hosts up to 6,600 passengers and provides a floating home for over 1,700 crew members. Its 20 expansive decks offer a myriad of entertainment and relaxation options. With an impressive array of 19 eateries, 7 watering holes, an exhilarating roller coaster, an aquatic park, a mini golf and ropes course, and numerous pools and hot tubs, among other features, there’s never a dull moment onboard.
A commemorative nod to Carnival’s 50th anniversary, the Carnival Celebration boasts several design elements reflecting the company’s rich history, some of which are highlighted in my Day 6 review. The ship currently embarks from PortMiami, treating passengers to a range of eastern and western Caribbean itineraries.
Date: June 3 – June 10, 2023
Itinerary:
PortMiami, FL: Welcome to PortMiami, the “Cruise Capital of the World”! As one of the busiest cruise ports globally, it’s your magical gateway to tropical paradises in the Caribbean and beyond. But don’t be fooled – PortMiami is more than just a jumping-off point for your seafaring adventures; it’s a destination in its own right.
Before your departure or after your return, be sure to explore Miami’s vibrant culture. The port’s proximity to downtown Miami offers easy access to a myriad of activities. Sample a café cubano in the bustling streets of Little Havana, admire the stunning street art of Wynwood Walls, or simply relax on the famous sands of South Beach. With so much to see and do, PortMiami offers a taste of tropical charm and the promise of unforgettable adventures to come. All aboard!
Amber Cove, Dominican Republic: Amber Cove, Carnival’s private port in the Dominican Republic, is a tropical oasis of fun and relaxation. This waterfront resort offers lush landscapes, stunning ocean views, and a wealth of activities. From the large pool area with its swim-up bar to ziplining adventures and local shopping opportunities, Amber Cove provides an idyllic Caribbean experience for all ages. Discover the island’s rich culture through local excursions or simply unwind by the pristine waters, making the most of this sun-drenched paradise.
San Juan, Puerto Rico: San Juan, the capital city of Puerto Rico, is a vibrant blend of old and new, where Spanish colonial architecture meets modern skyscrapers. This historic city is famous for its cobblestone streets, colorful buildings, and fortresses like the Castillo San Felipe del Morro, offering panoramic views of the ocean. The city’s heart, Old San Juan, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site full of charming restaurants, unique shops, and a lively nightlife scene.
Apart from the rich history, San Juan is home to beautiful beaches like Condado and Isla Verde, perfect for relaxation or water sports. The city’s dynamic culinary scene ranges from traditional Puerto Rican cuisine to cutting-edge fusion eateries. With a backdrop of lush hills, the vibrancy of San Juan extends from its bustling markets to its diverse art galleries, making it a captivating Caribbean destination.
St. Thomas, USVI: St. Thomas, part of the U.S. Virgin Islands, is a slice of tropical paradise in the Caribbean. Known for its pristine beaches, crystal-clear waters, and vibrant marine life, this island destination is a haven for beach lovers and snorkeling enthusiasts alike. Magens Bay, considered one of the world’s most beautiful beaches, is a must-see.
But there’s more to St. Thomas than its stunning shoreline. The island’s capital, Charlotte Amalie, boasts a rich history marked by Danish colonial architecture, historic landmarks, and the famous 99 Steps leading to breathtaking harbor views. The city also offers world-class dining experiences, lively bars, and duty-free shopping, where visitors can find everything from local crafts to luxury goods.
Outside the city, you can explore the island’s lush interior, with opportunities for eco-tours and hiking. Or, for a truly memorable experience, take the Skyride to Paradise Point for a panoramic view of the island’s magnificent landscapes and sparkling Caribbean Sea. From its natural beauty to its cultural charm, St. Thomas offers a Caribbean experience like no other.
Carnival Celebration Accommodations:
For this cruise, I am staying in an interior stateroom on Deck 9 (9364). The interior staterooms aboard the Carnival Celebration are intended to offer guests an experience of comfort and functionality. They are typically designed for two occupants, although options for additional guests can be facilitated through the use of practical pull-down beds. Each stateroom is furnished with twin beds that seamlessly convert into a king-size bed, providing a flexible arrangement based on guests’ preferences.
Although these staterooms are categorized as interior, meaning they do not have external windows, they feature intelligent design elements to cultivate an atmosphere of openness and light. The clever use of mirrors and a bright color palette helps create an illusion of a larger, more expansive space.
Every interior stateroom is fitted with practical amenities for a pleasant stay. This includes a private bathroom outfitted with a shower, toilet, and vanity area. Additionally, each room boasts a flat-screen TV for leisure, a dedicated workspace, and ample storage facilities including closets and drawers for personal belongings.
Guests staying in interior staterooms can look forward to the same level of dedicated service as those in premium stateroom categories. With daily housekeeping and round-the-clock room service at your disposal, your stay aboard the Carnival Celebration is designed to be as comfortable and convenient as possible.