We are leaving for a Carnival Cruise at 6pm on Sunday evening ---the ship leaves at 7pm? What?

Question

What goes on the first night when you check in? Is there a a regular assigned dinner seating the first night? Is the ship really active the first night or does the party start Monday morning?

What to wear the first night when checking into the cruise?

Answer 1

the "fun" starts as soon as you get on.

the dining room does serve the first night with no real dress code, just no swim wear, at regular times.

and they serve lunch too. we have been on 2 Carnival Cruises and have another in Sept, we plan to get there at noon, less rush too then. but we live in Florida and are only 2 hrs away from the port.

however the stateroom do not open until about 1:30 so carry on as little as you can. (made that mistake the first time)

Answer 2

You have some options for what to wear if you plan ahead.  When you first board the afternoon buffet will be ready and the pools and hot tubs will be open.  You can also go to the gym or just find a seat in the sun or a shady spot.  So decide what you would like to do after you grab a bite to eat.  If you want to do the pools and hot tubs or start sunning, take a swim wear in your carry-on, sun screen also.  If you want to go workout, take clothes and stuff for that. Or if you just want to chill wear some shorts, sandals and a cool top.

The dining rooms are pretty lenient on dress the first evening because many people, especially those who arrive later in the day, don't get there luggage in time to change.  So you can more than likely wear your shorts, but definitely not swim wear to the dining room, Sandals and sneakers will be OK too.

If you don't already know it, you will be given your table assignment when you board the ship.  That's your table for the cruise, unless you decide to do the informal measl in the buffet, or somewhere else.

The party starts when the ship is ready to sail.  Most ships do a mandatory life boat drill before they pull out.  Then after you take your life preserver back to your cabin, head back to the pool deck and the band will be playing.  Its a deck party, enjoy.

Answer 3

When we went on a cruise, it took us about 2 hours to get our bags (they bring them to your cabins).  So I would suggest something comfortable, my guess is that dinner will not be formal the first night, so casual clothes are fine.  You will probably have a muster drill (to show you where the life boats are) and there will be shows and activities.  The party will start right away - we had our first drink before they even untied the lines.  If you ahven't already gotten an itinerary from the cruise line, you might call them or find one online to get a better idea of what to expect.  Have fun!

Answer 4

You'll be able to board the ship about 1:00 PM.  After you check-out your cabin, you can head right to the Lido Deck, where a buffet lunch will be served - and the bars are open!

Make sure you bring a bathing suit (if you want to jump in the pool or lounge on the deck) and a change of clothes in a carry-on bag, since your luggage may not "appear" in your room for a few hours.  

The first night is always "casual", since you may not have your luggage yet, however, you will be asked to sit at your assigned table/time.

Yes!  The party does start on your first night - and Carnival ships offer many clubs/rooms with different types of entertainment.

Have a wonderful cruise and "Bon Voyage"