Carnival Cruise Archives - Look What Mom Found

Cat in the Hat for President on Board the Carnival Pride

September 11, 2016 by Melissa

About a month after returning from a cruise on the Carnival Sunshine (more on that later) our family was invited to visit the Carnival Pride in Baltimore, MD for a day of fun, food, friends and fanfare.

We were invited to help Cat in the Hat win the Presidential Race along with Thing 1 and Thing 2 as his running mates. In case you haven’t noticed it’s an election year. You and your family may have noticed some commercials on television.

Along with his recent presidential announcement, The Cat in the Hat released a new book, One Vote, Two Votes, I Vote, You Vote. Perfect timing don’t you think? This book is meant to teach children why we vote, how we vote and who can vote. Of course this is done with the whimsy and fun that other Dr. Seuss books brings to childhood literature. Carnival Cruise Lines wants kids to know they have a voice and it should be heard loud and clear. Maybe this is why Carnival is called the Fun Ship. The kids get exactly what they want and end up having an amazing vacation.

Kid Friendly Cruising with Carnival is easy with all the amenities on board to keep kids occupied for days.

Camp Carnival, Circle C & Club O2
Seuss at Sea
Sweet Spot
Waterworks
Hasbro the Game Show
SportsSquare
Dive in Movies
Mini Golf
and so much more on and off the boat

After a loud parade led by Schwartz, an amazing brunch of Green Eggs and Ham, Froot Loop French Toast, some photo ops and chatting with old and new friends we were given the freedom to roam the boat and see how it measures up to the other ships we’ve already seen.

The Carnival Pride has recently gone through a renovation to include fan favorite dining/drinking options such as Guy Burger Joint, Red Frog Pub, Alchemy Bar, BlueIguana Cantina and more.

What I found was a very romantic feel as soon we got above the belly of the boat. I’m not sure what was new but I fell in love with the lighting, the bold furnishings and all the hallways. Those gave a secret, tucked away feeling.

Overall we’ve decided that the Carnival Pride is the next ship we’re boarding for a cruise. We already love cruising and with the amenities added in recent years we know we’ll have a wonderful time.

Follow us on Instagram to see more of this day and our recent cruise through the Caribbean, Melinda on Instagram and Rob on Instagram.

Carnival and Carrie Underwood Support Operation Homefront

March 6, 2016 by Melissa

You’ve heard me talk about Carnival Cruise in the past. While they are truly one of the best vacation adventures our family has taken they are also an amazing supporter for communities in need. They recently announced an initiative with Carrie Underwood and Operation Homefront to help raise funds for military families.

During her The Storyteller Tour, Carrie Underwood will treat selected military families, chosen in partnership with Operation Homefront, to personal meet-and-greets 10 different concert appearances. The final stop in the cross-country Honor. Family. Fun. campaign will be New York City, where Carnival, Operation Homefront, and Underwood will treat hundreds of military families to a special concert aboard the new Carnival Vista at the Port of New York on November 4, 2016.

Driving the effort to raise funds for the cause, fans of Underwood, and of the program, will have the opportunity to donate by clicking on the “Donate Now” button on Carnival’s HonorFamilyFun page. Commemorative dog tags will also be available for purchase at merchandise stands at all Storyteller Tour stops as well as on board the fleet of Carnival ships with all proceeds going to Operation Homefront.

In the coming weeks, Carnival will launch a new shipboard military appreciation program. Each ship will host a special event on board to recognize active and retired military personnel and their families and will kick off with a welcome video featuring Carrie Underwood.

Finally, it was also revealed that Carrie Underwood will join the Carnival LIVE! roster of artists in early 2017 with further details to be announced at a later date.

Kid Friendly Cruising on Carnival #cruisingcarnival

August 21, 2014 by Melissa

Being miles and miles off shore on a cruise ship is one of the most exciting things to happen for my kids. They absolutely love cruising and have been lucky enough to have experienced it twice now. I get asked a lot if cruising is truly a kid friendly vacation. My answer is an emphatic YES when it comes to Carnival Cruise Lines. Your kids will never be bored when it comes to #CruisingCarnival.

Camp Carnival

We were able to register them online so their information was on hand and name tags were ready. When we first boarded we had to hunt done the locations of camp so that when they were ready to go they knew where to go. Shaun was able to come and go as he pleased due to his age. That isn’t the rule but something we allowed him to do. Shae had to be checked in and out by an adult or Sabreena. This is a level of security that I appreciated. Even on the last day the camp counselors were checking out Sign and Sail cards as ID. You can never be too sure!

Camp Carnival is specially designed with crafts, activities and games for different age groups: 2 to 5 years, 6 to 8 years, and 9 to 11 years. The daily schedules are available each night before we were able to check off all the things the kids wanted to participate in the next day. This let the whole family plan their day around lounging, activities, spa treatments or even exploring the ports. Shae spent lots of her time working on crafts, playing board games and and painting. Shaun of course spent lots of time playing video game and EPIC rounds of dodge ball. I was never worried about them having a good time while at camp. Carnival also offers a Night Owls segment. From 10-12pm they had special activities and movies for the kids so the adults could plan time at the casino, clubs or just alone on the Serenity Lounge.

Games and Chess

This was one of the first things we noticed when coming aboard. Rob and Shaun like to play chess and little did we know Shae knew how to play too. The spent lots of time challenging each other and other kids with a game or two. Regular chess in the Library was a great way for Rob and Shae to spend a little quality time together too.

Video Arcade

We tried to stay as unplugged as possible while cruising but the flashing lights and high tech graphics drew the kids in for one night only.

Mini Golf

With 360 degree views of gorgeous blue ocean there was no wonder mini golf is a popular activity for the kids. The wind can make it a little tricky sometimes but it also made it super fun when trying to race against it.

Circle C and Club O2

Hangout spots for the older kids too are needed when they need some downtime away from the family. Carnival organizes movies, club nights and activities for the big kids too.

Punchliner Comedy Club

The comedy club makes cruising truly family friendly by offering swear word free sets. Shae joined us for one show before heading off to her nightly activities.

Waterworks

This waterpark overlooking the ocean is a site to be seen. Kids can splash and slide while parents lounge on the sidelines.
Pool & Deck Parties

The Lido Deck is the party hub especially when there are Hairy Chest contests to watch and pools to jump in. The cruise director and their staff along with a DJ keep the people moving, laughing and entertained with goofy games and lively music.

Stage Shows

Shae was called up on stage during the magic show but was so shy she couldn’t participate. During the next show and Hasbro, The Game Show she insisted on sitting farther away from the stage just so she could watch.

The list goes on and on with activities the kids and families can participate in each day. Don’t forget about the excursions available when you arrive at each Port of Call too. Those adventure are once in a lifetime. Know one thing, your kids will never be bored on a Carnival Cruise.

Never Go Hungry On @CarnivalCruise #cruisingcarnival

August 4, 2014 by Melissa

One of things cruises are known for is the food. The unlimited food can be found not just on the Lido Deck but in the dining room on Carnival CruiseLines. Our recent trip in the Carnival Fantasy showed us that big time.

Within minutes of getting onboard we were on the Lido Deck grabbing some lunch waiting for our stateroom to be ready so we could shed of our 12 hours in the car grossness. The choices were simple; salads, burgers, dogs, chicken tender, veggies and stirfry. Let’s not forget about the 24 Soft Serve Ice Cream and Frozen Yogurt. That took just a few minutes to get into. It’s one of the things the kids remember them most. Oh and the 24-hour Pizza. The pizza was so good. I’m talking gourmet shop style with a thin chewy crust.

In fact the Hotel Director, Alina, chatted long about it. She said she doesn’t even like pizza but was won over when Carnival came up with this recipe with special imported flour from Italy. We ate pizza everyday. It was our nighttime snack when the kids were done with camp and we were done with the Comedy Club. We took a walk to the Lido Deck and stood in long lines waiting for hot fresh pizza and ice cream.

Seaday Brunch was my favorite meal. We actually missed it the first morning I regret that so much. The menu items were a mix of decadent, homestyle and simple dishes. Shae wanted a simple bagel and cream cheese but was brought lox as an accompaniment. Instead of dismissing it she tried and of course liked it. Rob and Shaun were brought oatmeal while Sabreena chose cereal crusted french toast. I opted for an omelet filled with fresh veggies. The options were endless and delicious.
Dinner was just as indulgent too. Our dining room staff was amazing. Gultekin (Glen), Wahyudi and Jewel anticipated our every need or want and didn’t hesitate to make each meal the best ever.

How many servers have you seen cut your child’s food for them? And to think I thought I spoiled them at home.
We sat at our table each night for dinner and our head waiter “Glen” always called out good evening Mr. & Mrs. Babiak which turned into a more comforting and friendly Mr. Robert and Mel. The kids were also greeted with smiles and favorite foods.

To say we were doted on is an understatement. Some nights we were just brought appetizers “Glen” thought we would enjoy rather than wait for us to order. He also knew my kids like to experiment so when it came to more exotic dishes he made sure to bring them their own plate. This is Shae and Shae eating escargot.
Next up were Frog Legs. They weren’t as big of a hit but they tried it because “Glen” and his crew gave us everything and more.
I don’t know how other cruiselines handle their guests grumbling bellies but Carnival is all about filling them up with mouth-watering and gorgeous food.

Fun Facts about #CruisingCarnival

July 13, 2014 by Melissa

Carnival Cruise Lines have been in the business of FUN for over 40 years. Based in Miami it’s ships tour the globe with cruises to Mexico, Hawaii, Alaska, Canada, the Caribbean and places in between.

A Carnival Cruise Ship is like a city at sea. There are enough amenities to keep even the busiest person occupied and entertained for days. You all know about the endless eating options, live shows, casinos and excursions but there’s more the the Fun Ships that you may not have known about.

Fun Facts about #CruisingCarnival

Carnival Cruise Lines is the most popular cruise line with more than 24 ships operating 3 to 18 day voyages
A Carnival Cruise is truly a family friendly vacation with activities for kids age 2 to teen
Some of the most loved staff are the Stewards. They are the ones that create those cute towel animals (Towel Animal classes are available, check with Guest Relations)
Schedule a “Behind the Fun” tour where you can see the bridge, engine control room and backstage area to get an up close and personal look at the operations
During Signature Dining, if you can’t decide between 2 entrees or appetizers just order both
In one week Carnival Fantasy guests will consume 36,000 slices of bacon, mmmmmm bacon
The staff to guest ratio is sometimes as low at 1:3 making for a truly personable, attentive sailing
The on-board pools are filled daily with filtered salt water from the sea
The Serenity Adult Retreat is the perfect kid-free zone for ultimate relaxation and peace
The on-board fitness centers are included voyage with the exception of instructor led classes and spa treatments
Leave the ball gowns, tuxedos and fancy shoes at home. It’s called a FUN SHIP for a reason

We’re out into the Atlantic Ocean right on our way to days filled with smiles, sun, memories and FUN. Wish you were here.

10 Essentials to Pack for a Cruise Vacation

July 2, 2014 by Melissa

Your bags are packed. You’ve followed the guidelines on dress code and think you understand what it means by formal attire. You have just enough shoes for any occasion without being too many. You’ve secured all of your toiletries in mini bags to avoid spillage. Now you’re ready to go. But are you really? We’re so used to having everything handy in our daily life that we don’t think about packing them for vacation. Take a peek at these 10 essentials to bring on a cruise vacation to see what else you should pack for your next adventure.

Reusable/refillable water bottle so you stay hydrated without running back and forth to Lido Deck.
Travel Charger Surge Protector with USB Ports to plug in/charge computers, ereaders, ipods, curling irons, etc

Beach bag or tote to carry camera, book, beach towels and sunscreen on the ship or to your excursions
Nightlight, when those curtains are drawn and the sun has set it can get mighty dark in those rooms
Small wallet/purse or Lanyard for key cards & identification
Over the Door Pocket Organizer
to hold cosmetics, toiletries, brushes, curling irons and medications instead of clogging up small counters

Lightweight or mesh bag to keep dirty laundry separate on the way home.
Medication and not just prescriptions. Think about upset stomachs, headaches, allergy relief and even cough meds just in case.
Extra Sunscreen, that tropical sun is fierce so bring along more than you think you’ll need.
Notepad and pen to leave notes for your traveling companions, children or room steward.
It’s no fun overpaying for something on vacation that you already have at home. Packing a few extra essentials will keep your budget on track so you can spend money on the fun things like fruity drinks with umbrellas or slot machines.

luggage photo provided via Flickr by Thor

Pin to Win @CarnivalCruise for 2 #Giveaway

October 5, 2012 by Melissa

The ultimate in Pin to Win contests!

Carnival Cruise Lines if giving away a Caribbean Cruise for 2.

Pinterest boards are one of the greatest ways to get inspiration for recipes, home renovation projects, education tools, kids crafts and more so why not vacation destination spots. Simply create a board based on your Perfect Carnival vacation. Pin at least 5 images directly from Carnival’s Social Media sites or Carnival.com to get started. Pin other images to build your boards into a visual story your perfect Carnival vacation.

Source: carnival.com via Carnival on Pinterest

Don’t stop there. Create more boards from the other destination choices. At the end of the contest period, judges from Carnival will select the top 10 boards based on beauty, creativity and originality. The grand prize winner will be chosen by guest judge and “pinning rock star” Mike Dew who has more than three million followers on Pinterest (https://pinterest.com/tempspaz/). To inspire participants, Dew will also be creating his own board specifically for the contest.

I will be creating my own boards for each destination. Repin from my boards or Carnivals to create your Perfect Carnival Vacation.

I’d Rather Be Carnival Cruising-Alaska

I’d Rather Be Carnival Cruising- Caribbean

I’d Rather Be Carnival Cruising- Europe

I’d Rather Be Carnival Cruising-Hawaii

All rules and details can be found HERE

Weekend Whirlwind Partying with Carnival and Texas

November 15, 2011 by Melissa

This weekend was a whirlwind. Thanks to the gracious community and tourism board of Galveston Island and Carnival Cruise Lines, Rob and I spent a busy but fun-filled weekend together traveling and touring a beautiful and historic city AND aboard the newest funship; Magic.

The Carnival Magic made it’s 1st appearance in Galveston, TX this weekend for it’s inaugural US sailing on November 14th. The Magic is not only Carnival’s newest ship but also the largest and most entertaining. The newest additions include the Red Frog Pub, expanded Waterworks and SportsSquare with favorites like miniature golf, resort style pools, Cloud 9 Spa, Serenity lounge and array kid’s clubs.

Last year’s cruise on the Dream was just that, a Dream. It was the best family vacation we’ve ever been on; the kids still talk about it today. Our visit on the Magic though topped that. We were greeted by enthusiastic and friendly crew members from the start and the fun started immediately. Country Line Dancers in the Lobby, special drinks being made at the bars and Red Frog brew being poured at the Pub. Oh, and the sushi!

After dropping off our bags and checking out our room we headed for seat and grabbed some drinks and chatted with our new bloggin’ buddies @SthrnFairyTale and her husband (Rachel and Nathan) before heading off to the Maroon 5 concert. The concert was great, the weather was gorgeous, the music was awesome, and the crowd was surprisingly tame and polite; well except for the teen that puked near us.

A night full of decedent food, free flowing drinks and really hard laughter was exactly what Rob and I needed. We met bloggers and had so much fun it was hard to say goodbye. Monday morning came way too fast and it was time to come home. We are already scheming I mean planning a way to get on the Magic for a full week’s cruise.

The 3,690-passenger Carnival Magic set sail on its inaugural six-day cruise from Galveston Nov. 14-20, calling at Costa Maya and Cozumel. On November 20, the ship will launch year-round seven-day cruises from Galveston. Two different itineraries will be offered, including seven-day western Caribbean voyages to Montego Bay, Grand Cayman and Cozumel, and week-long eastern Caribbean cruises to Nassau, Freeport, and Key West.

Carnival Announces Unique Concert Experiences

May 5, 2011 by Melissa

Remember Carnival’s “Didja Ever” campaign, where they asked you to create a list of things you’ve always wanted to do; a bucket list of sorts? Well in response to the all the music lover’s wishes Carnival and Live Nation have joined together to bring cool opportunities such as attending a sound check with a top-performing artist, meeting a band prior to a show, VIP seating, fan interaction and other exclusive artist access.

The agreement makes Carnival the Official Concert Series Sponsor at four Live Nation amphitheater concert venues, including Aaron’s Amphitheatre at Lakewood in Atlanta, Jiffy Lube Live in Washington D.C., Cynthia Woods Mitchell Pavilion in Houston and Superpages.com Center in Dallas. Carnival branding will prominently appear on tickets and in advertisements promoting Carnival’s “Rock The Deck” Concert Series in each market. Carnival will also be the Official Cruise Line category sponsor at Live Nation’s Susquehanna Bank Center amphitheater in Philadelphia. All markets are within a short drive of a year-round Carnival homeport.

They are called the Fun Ships for a reason. “Carnival is all about creating fun, memorable, once-in-a-lifetime experiences and encouraging people to get out of their comfort zone and try things for the first time – whether that’s taking their first cruise, trying a new food or experiencing their favorite new band performing live,” said Jim Berra, senior vice president and chief marketing officer for Carnival Cruise Lines. “By tapping into Live Nation’s own unique assets, we have a prime opportunity to create new and exciting experiences well-aligned with our brand that showcases the essence of a Carnival cruise vacation to an audience of loyal fans and those we invite to sail with Carnival for the first time.”

Stay tuned with Carnival Cruise Line’s Facebook Page for more details and announcements of appearances and activities near you and chances to win cool stuff!

Name the Magic’s Mini

January 15, 2011 by Melissa

The sky’s the limit when it comes to outdoor fun and fitness at the innovative SportSquare to be featured on Carnival Cruise Lines’ newest vessel, Carnival Magic, when it sets sail May 1. The line’s most expansive outdoor recreation area by far, SportSquare on Carnival Magic is an active cruiser’s on-board paradise, featuring SkyCourse, the first ropes course at sea, and cruising’s first-ever outdoor fitness area. Guests can also get in the swing of things with the line’s first-ever two-level nine-hole miniature golf course, which the company is encouraging fans to help name it.

Come up with something catchy, funny, witty or just plain to the point. The best submission will win a digital camera and other Carnival-branded golf paraphernalia. Not to mention your winning entry linked to the golf course forever. Through, January 24, 2011, fans ages 13 and older can submit their suggested name. Submissions must be no more than 50 characters. In late January, Carnival will invite fans to vote on the names and the winner will be announced mid-February.

If you need a little incentive to get involved please know that Carnival will be donating $1 to St. Jude’s Children’s Research Hospital for every entry plus every vote. Not only will it be a fun time it’s going to help lots of children in need. Visit Carnival Magic for complete details on the contest, description of the newest ship and more.

In the coming weeks, Carnival will launch a new shipboard military appreciation program. Each ship will host a special event on board to recognize active and retired military personnel and their families and will kick off with a welcome video featuring Carrie Underwood.

The ultimate in Pin to Win contests!

Carnival Cruise Lines if giving away a Caribbean Cruise for 2.

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