Embarking on a cruise vacation is an exciting adventure, and choosing the right ship can significantly enhance your experience. If you’re considering a Carnival Cruise Line getaway, understanding the differences between their ships is key. Having personally sailed on three distinct Carnival vessels – the Sensation, Dream, and Ecstasy – our family has gained valuable insights into what each ship offers. This comparison will help you navigate the options and select the Carnival ship that best fits your cruise style and preferences.
Our Carnival journey began with a Spring Break extended family cruise aboard the Carnival Sensation. This 4-night Bahamas cruise from Port Canaveral was our first foray into cruising, and we were immediately captivated. The Sensation, a Fantasy-class ship, offered a fantastic introduction to cruise life. While not the newest or largest in the fleet, its manageable size was a definite plus. Navigating the ship was easy, and we appreciated the shorter wait times at food venues. Our ports of call included Freeport and Nassau, Bahamas, where the stunning Cabbage Beach left a lasting impression.
Our second cruise took us on a longer 7-night Western Caribbean adventure on the Carnival Dream in October. Departing again from Port Canaveral, the Dream showcased a different side of Carnival cruising. Significantly larger and newer than the Sensation, the Dream immediately impressed us with its expanded entertainment and dining options. The sheer variety of activities and food choices was noticeably greater. A highlight was dining at Chef’s Art Steakhouse, an exceptional culinary experience well worth the extra cost.
One of the standout features of the Carnival Dream was its expansive Serenity adults-only area. Unlike the smaller ships, finding a relaxing spot in Serenity was always easy. The area’s size, wrapping around the ship’s side, provided ample loungers and seating. This spaciousness was a significant upgrade compared to the more compact Serenity areas we experienced on smaller ships.
In February 2014, we embarked on our third Carnival cruise, this time on the Carnival Ecstasy. Another Fantasy-class ship, the Ecstasy took us on a 4-night cruise from Miami to Key West and Cozumel. While older and smaller than the Dream, the Carnival Ecstasy still offered a pleasant cruise experience. The Serenity area, though smaller than on the Dream, was still inviting and comfortable.
The Carnival Ecstasy, despite its age, was well-maintained and clean. We even enjoyed a top-notch suite. Similar to the Sensation, we found the food lines to be more manageable than on the larger Dream. While entertainment was adequate, it wasn’t as extensive as the offerings on a larger ship like the Carnival Dream. However, the Lido Deck on the Ecstasy had its own nighttime charm.
Our cruising preferences lean towards experiencing the ports of call and enjoying the onboard music. Cruising itself is a delightful way to travel, and we appreciate the journey as much as the destinations. Among our favorite ports, Roatan, Honduras, stands out with its stunning scenery, monkeys, and parrots.
Cozumel was another highlight, visited on both the Carnival Dream and Ecstasy itineraries. The beaches and clear waters of Cozumel are undeniably beautiful.
Comparing these three Carnival ships, the Carnival Dream emerged as our favorite overall. Its larger size meant more activities, dining choices, and a more spacious Serenity area, making it ideal for longer cruises where onboard time is plentiful. The Carnival Sensation and Carnival Ecstasy, while smaller and older, were well-suited for shorter itineraries, offering a more intimate experience with easier navigation and manageable crowds. All three ships provided essential Carnival amenities like miniature golf, Carnival Kids Clubs, swimming pools, and Serenity areas.
Ultimately, the “best” Carnival ship depends on your individual cruise preferences and trip length. For shorter, budget-conscious cruises, the Fantasy-class ships like Sensation and Ecstasy are excellent choices. For longer voyages seeking more variety and space, the Dream-class ships like Carnival Dream offer a richer onboard experience. Each ship created memorable moments, and we’re already considering exploring the Carnival Sunshine for our next cruise adventure!
