Carnival Vs Royal Caribbean Cruise Line Comparison Food Pricing And Onboard Experience

Carnival and Royal Caribbean are two of the most popular cruise lines in the industry, each offering distinct experiences for travelers. While both cruise lines provide enjoyable vacations, they differ significantly in their food offerings, pricing structures, onboard atmosphere, and overall value proposition. This comparison examines these key differences to help travelers make informed decisions when choosing between these cruise lines.

Food Offerings: Free vs. Paid Options

One of the most notable differences between Carnival and Royal Caribbean lies in their food offerings and the balance between complimentary and specialty dining options. Both cruise lines ensure passengers won't go hungry, but they approach complimentary dining differently.

Carnival Cruise Line appears to emphasize complimentary dining options as a key value proposition. According to comparisons, Carnival offers "more and better 'free' options" compared to Royal Caribbean. Popular complimentary venues on Carnival ships include:

• Guy's Burger Joint: Fresh-grilled burgers with seasoned fries at no additional charge
• BlueIguana Cantina: Mexican food options
• Pizzeria del Capitano: Pizza offerings
• Big Chicken: Chicken-focused food station
• Deli options

Additionally, some specialty restaurants that charge for dinner offer free lunch options, further enhancing the value proposition for Carnival passengers.

A first-time Carnival cruiser who had previously sailed twice on Royal Caribbean's Allure of the Seas shared positive feedback about Carnival's food options, stating: "The food was incredible! We ate at Chibang, Cucina del Capitano, and did all of the Street Eats, Guy's [Burger Joint], Big Chicken, and BlueIguana Cantina." The cruiser found that some of Carnival's complimentary dining options were comparable to specialty dining on Royal Caribbean.

In contrast, Royal Caribbean offers fewer free dining options outside the main buffet and dining rooms. The cruise line appears to focus more on specialty restaurants that charge additional fees. These specialty restaurants tend to lean toward "fancier, high-end eats" rather than casual dining options. While Royal Caribbean ships, particularly larger ones, do offer complimentary dining venues, they are described more as "snacks than meals" compared to Carnival's more substantial free offerings.

One Reddit commenter noted the difference by saying: "Really irritating [Johnny Rockets] was not included, yet I could get Guy's [Burger Joint] and BlueIguana Cantina, which were pretty darn good (better than the paid-for stuff at Royal), for free."

Pricing Structures

The pricing approaches of Carnival and Royal Caribbean differ, which affects how passengers budget for their cruise experience.

Royal Caribbean employs dynamic pricing where the cost varies from cruise to cruise. This means prices can fluctuate based on demand, seasonality, and other factors. While this approach allows for potential deals during off-peak times, it can make budgeting more challenging as prices aren't as predictable.

Carnival, on the other hand, uses "more traditional pricing" that tends to be more consistent. This approach may provide passengers with greater predictability when budgeting for their cruise.

When considering onboard spending, particularly for beverages, the two cruise lines also differ in their package offerings. Carnival's CHEERS! beverage package is priced at approximately $70 per day when purchased before the cruise (before 18% gratuity). Royal Caribbean uses dynamic pricing for its beverage packages, with costs generally higher than Carnival's offerings.

An important distinction in beverage packages is the 15-drink limit over a 24-hour period for alcoholic beverages on Carnival (non-alcoholic drinks are unlimited). Royal Caribbean makes no mention of such a limit in its offerings.

Beyond cruise fare and beverage packages, passengers should budget for additional onboard expenses such as Wi-Fi, excursions, specialty restaurants, and gratuities. The good news is that all these expenses are optional, allowing passengers to control their spending based on preferences and budget constraints.

Onboard Atmosphere

Carnival and Royal Caribbean each cultivate distinct onboard atmospheres that appeal to different types of travelers.

Carnival is known as the "Fun Ships" and tends to have a more "laid-back party atmosphere." Passengers on Carnival are often described as more outgoing, with opportunities for activities like "having a margarita and dancing in conga line around the pool." While both cruise lines offer fun experiences, Carnival's atmosphere is generally perceived as more energetic and party-oriented.

Royal Caribbean, in contrast, has "more of a luxury feel" that is "more subdued than Carnival." It's not described as stuffy, but rather as having a different vibe with "plenty of chances to party" in a slightly more refined atmosphere.

One Reddit commenter who had previously sailed with Royal Caribbean noted: "I am SO SO glad we booked! We had been loyal to Royal previously and have Emerald status. We will still do Royal, and eventually want to try Icon [of the Seas], but I feel like my first cruise on Carnival has beat my last two on Royal."

The commenter specifically mentioned enjoying the multitude of casual dining options on Carnival's Excel class ships, where "the majority of restaurants on Carnival's Excel class ships are complimentary, with only a few select specialty options for splurging."

Ship Comparisons

Carnival's Excel class vessels, including the Carnival Jubilee launched in 2023, represent the cruise line's newest and biggest ships, accommodating up to 6,500 passengers at capacity. These ships appear to bridge the gap between Carnival and Royal Caribbean's offerings.

One Reddit commenter noted: "The Excel Class ships are really nice. Much closer to the Royal experience, but with far better food. We love doing them but just wish they had better entertainment."

This suggests that Carnival's newer ships incorporate some of the upscale amenities found on Royal Caribbean vessels while maintaining the cruise line's strength in complimentary dining options.

Royal Caribbean's newest and biggest ships, such as Allure of the Seas and the upcoming Icon of the Seas, offer extensive amenities and activities. These ships are known for their innovative features, diverse entertainment options, and multiple neighborhoods within the ship.

Value Proposition

When deciding between Carnival and Royal Caribbean, the value proposition differs based on passenger priorities.

For travelers who prioritize complimentary dining options and a more energetic atmosphere, Carnival may offer better value. The abundance of free dining venues and lower beverage package costs can result in significant savings, especially for families or those who plan to eat frequently onboard.

Royal Caribbean may appeal more to travelers seeking a slightly more upscale experience, with a focus on amenities, entertainment, and activities. While specialty dining costs more, the overall experience may justify the expense for those who prioritize these aspects.

The decision between these cruise lines is ultimately subjective, as noted in the frequently asked section of one source: "Like most preferences, the decision of which cruise line is better is subjective. Many people are steadfast fans of one ship over another — and won't hear anything otherwise."

Conclusion

Carnival and Royal Caribbean both offer enjoyable cruise experiences with approximately 80% similarity, but the remaining 20% of differences can significantly impact a traveler's experience. Carnival excels in complimentary dining options, with venues like Guy's Burger Joint, BlueIguana Cantina, and Big Chicken offering quality food at no additional charge. The cruise line also tends to have a more energetic, party-oriented atmosphere and generally lower beverage package costs.

Royal Caribbean, on the other hand, offers a more subdued, luxury feel with a focus on specialty dining and innovative ship features. Its dynamic pricing model can offer potential deals but may make budgeting less predictable.

For travelers who prioritize value through complimentary dining and a fun atmosphere, Carnival may be the preferred choice. Those seeking a more upscale experience with diverse amenities and entertainment might lean toward Royal Caribbean. Ultimately, both cruise lines provide quality vacation experiences, and the best choice depends on individual preferences and priorities.

Sources

1. Cruzely: 11 Major Differences Between Royal Caribbean and Carnival
2. Royal Caribbean Blog: First Time Carnival Cruise
3. Airial Travel: Casa del Carnaval