Carnival vs RCI vs NCL?

Question

Which one of these is better? I'm looking for lots of people & activities, Stuff for 12-14yrs, decent nightlife, casual dressing & conversations, cheaper, and its big. I dont really mind about food so long as it's not bad.

Answer 1

What's best depends on what you like, and based on what you're describing I think Carnival's the best fit for a fun social experience, good prices, and great activities for tweens.

Here's the breakdown:

CARNIVAL has

- Activities and nightlife: By far the the best nightlife and is generally a really great, fun time.

- Great kids' program.  More about their latest changes to their "Circle C" program for 12-14 year olds here:

http://www.cruisesavvy.com/news/2008/02/...

- Food and service are very good, but the atmosphere can focus more on "fun" than on being "polished"

RCI is more polished. Their newer ships (Voyager or Freedom class) because have lots of interesting facilities -- ice skating rink, rock wall, surfing simulator, water park.

- Nightlife and daytime activities (other than the ice rink and stuff) aren't so hot, though.

- And drinks are more expensive than on Carnival

- Kids: they have a good program, and the facilities on the big ships are fun -- but those ships are more expensive

NCL is still getting their act together. They just announced they're spending $1Bn over the next couple of years on upgrades, but right now I'm not a fan.

And if this is your first cruise, you might like this "Introduction to Cruises" which covers stuff like what a typical day is like, what costs are included vs. extra:

http://www.cruisesavvy.com/savvyguide/in...

Hope that helps!

Answer 2

RCCL