Carnival vs. Royal Caribbean

[CanTex]

A girlfriend and I were just looking for a cheap 3 day cruise for just us girls we didn't care which cruise line. RCCI came in $60 cheaper per person, same type cabin, same weekend basically same itinerary, this isn't the first time I have seen RCCI with a lower price you just have to check.

3 or 4 day cruises are a whole different ball game. Their objective is to fill up the ship and extract your discretionary spending to the greatest extent, and loyalty either way isn't a big factor.

[cruisnpat]

We usually cruise RC but have just done a Carnival cruise last month. Will be going back to RC next time because we like them better. I shop for our cruises and they compare in price with Carnival.

[txmd2b]

This is a tough question since each ship is different.

 

My first cruise with Carnival (Inspiration) was wonderful and I could not wait to get on another one. The second on the Fascination was the worst I have ever gone on. We stayed in a cat 12 and out room was never cleaned and I swore I would never cruise on Carnival again. The next two (honeymoon and 1 yr ann) on the Rhapsody of the Seas were unbelievable our waiter and head waiter from the first one remembered us a year later. Then after a friend begged and pleaded we went on the Elation and it was a great cruise. We went on the Voyager in March it was the best we have ever been on. At that time we were working as agents for RCCL. Now I am planning on going the Conquest and I’m sure that it will be great cruise.

 

I tend to think they are what you make it. Don’t go with preconceived ideas one is better than the other and you have a great time.

[Casino Player]

We have friends who swear by Royal Caribbean. We've been on 3 Carnival cruises and loved every one of them. Our next Carnival cruise is in 4/08. None of them can explain why we should pay more money to go on Royal Caribbean and to the same ports for the same number of days as on Carnival. Maybe they've never been on CArnival and should try it.

 

I have experienced both lines. I like Carnival. The only time I've never had a drink with my meal was in the dining room of a RCL ship. The only time I've seen someone so drunk they couldn't sit in their seat was on RCL. The only time room service showed up at least an hour after I called was on RCL.

Ever try to get help from the Pursar's office? On RCl you will be told to have your travel agent call their office in Florida. They can't help you on the ship.

That said, Carnival has larger staterooms, better food, better service and more activities. You get more bang for your buck. The attitude of the staff of RCL is like they are doing you a big favor. The staff is more friendly on Carnival.

[bobar]

Have done 10 on carnival and 4 on rccl. find carnival to be more consistant. my last cruise on RC i wanted to throw our annoying little know it all waiter overboard.

 

cabins- carnivals are bigger

casinos- carnivals more lively and open and bright

shows- about equal

spas- royal

kids program-carnival

gym- carnival

lounges- royal,especially the royal crown lounge on top

night life- carnival,dance all night

menu- higher end selections on royal but not always prepared well

buffets- about the same,carnival has better sandwich bar and pizza

adult pool, hands down royal

toiletries- royal

fun atmosphere- carnival

golf at sea- carnival

pool games-carnival

staff friendliness- carnival

ship decor- royal( sleek and not gawdy)

 

that's about all i can think of. hope it helps:cool: