July 1, 2008 -- Carnival Cruise Lines began accepting reservations today for the previously announced European and Caribbean itineraries of the new 130,000-ton Carnival Dream, which is scheduled to enter service in September 2009, introducing a host of innovations and amenities.

            The largest “Fun Ship” ever constructed, the 3,646-passenger SuperLiner is set to debut Sept. 21, 2009, with a 12-day Grand Mediterranean cruise from, calling at Naples, Livorno and Venice, Italy; Dubrovnik, Croatia; Messina, Sicily; Monaco; and Barcelona, Spain. Two additional 12-day Grand Mediterranean cruises will be offered on Oct. 3 and 15, 2009.

May 16, 2008  - Alaska is one of the world's most beautiful destinations and Carnival Cruise Lines has expanded its shore excursion offerings in the “Last Frontier” with 10 exciting new tours that cater to adventure lovers and history buffs alike.  Carnival's summer 2008 lineup of new shore excursions includes everything from fascinating historical and cultural tours to glass-blowing demonstrations and a trip on one of the Bering Sea fishing boats from the reality program, “Deadliest Catch.”

Carnival will offer more than 120 different shore excursion choices in total on its seven-day itineraries aboard the 2,124-passenger Carnival Spirit.  Voyages depart northbound from Vancouver or southbound from Whittier/Anchorage, with each itinerary introducing guests to Alaska's stunning beauty through scenic cruising opportunities.

Guests have the option of sailing one of three seven-day itineraries: Southbound, Northbound or Glacier Bay. Each itinerary provides incredible views with scenic cruising through the Inside Passage, Lynn Canal, Prince William Sound, College Fjord and Glacier Bay as Carnival Spirit makes its way to Alaska’s most popular port towns including Sitka, Juneau, Skagway and Ketchikan.

In Skagway, the Gateway to the Klondike, cruisers can now take part in the new “Golden Glassblowing Experience.” This hands-on outing allows guests to sculpt their own work of art complete with 24-karat gold and have the finished product packed and shipped home as the ultimate souvenir. Also making a debut this season is the “Takshanuk Mountain Trail by 4×4.” This journey begins with a scenic cruise aboard a high-speed catamaran down North America’s longest and deepest fjord. A four-wheel drive “mule,” or heavy-duty golf cart, continues the journey, taking guests to beautiful waterfalls and crystal clear creeks before reaching sub-alpine meadows, followed by a gourmet lunch and fast-ferry return to the ship.

Skagway, located in the upper Lynn Canal, is considered the northernmost point in Southeast Alaska and features wooden sidewalks, old-fashioned saloons and horse-drawn carriages serving as reminders of the Alaska gold rush days. Those seeking a golden treasure can opt for the “Gold Fever Adventure,” which allows guests to pan for gold on an active claim.

Joining Ketichkan's array of excursions are four new experiences, including the “Bear Creek Zip Line and Challenge Course.” This eco-rainforest adventure begins with an all-terrain vehicle ride, suitable for beginners and experts, and features zip lines, tree platforms, a skywalk, a rainforest swing, rope-bridge and a spruce slide. Those seeking a more relaxing day can explore Revillagigedo Island, which boasts the world’s largest collection of totem poles, or opt for the “Rainforest Wildlife Sanctuary, Eagles & Totems,” an eco-exploration with a guided nature hike, bald eagle viewing and interaction with reindeer.

Foodies also are in for a treat with Carnival's latest culinary offering in Ketchikan — “The Alaskan Chef’s Table, A Cultural Affair.” This culinary tour allows guests to see how local produce is caught and then crafted into a sumptuous Alaskan dinner party. This excursion keeps on giving once guests return home, as they receive a unique keepsake box featuring recipes for the dishes served so they, too, can re-create the fun for friends and family.

Those wanting to get a little more up-close and personal with their Alaskan fare may want to board the Aleutian Ballard for the “Bering Sea Crab Fisherman” experience. The Aleutian Ballard, the king crab fishing vessel made famous by the Discovery Channel's original series “Deadliest Catch,” invites guests calling at Ketchikan to sail and learn how these boats operate and to hear first-hand accounts of the crews' Bering Sea exploits.

Juneau, America's largest capital city geographically, also presents an incredible opportunity for cruisers. Here guests can board their own private custom-built catamaran, complete with captain and naturalist, to explore the region’s ice-carved fjords and rugged coast. This “Wild Coast Exploration by Private Boat” accommodates up to six guests and lets them set a course for watching whales, bears and eagles, or hauling in their own catch of the day.

While calling at Sitka, history enthusiasts who take “Sitka's Cultural & Colonial Russian Tour” will gain an appreciation for the island community. Participants will delve into the region's history at the Sheldon Jackson museum, the oldest exhibit of Indian and Eskimo artifacts in Alaska; view a former World War II PBY Aircraft Base, and visit St. Michael's Cathedral — home to priceless religious artwork dating back to the late 15th century.

Back on board, Carnival Spirit's activities cater to the whole family with relaxing spa experiences or dining options such as the elegant reservations-only Nouveau Supper Club, and children's programs for three different age groups — Camp Carnival for kids, Circle C for 'tweens and Club O2 for teens.

Carnival Spirit also offers indoor and outdoor promenades, a variety of entertainment options and a diversity of nightclubs, lounges and live music venues. Additionally, 80 percent of the staterooms aboard the Carnival Spirit offer either an ocean view or balcony – ideal for scenic Alaska cruising.

MIAMI (April 3, 2008) – Carnival Cruise Lines, the world’s largest cruise operator, was named “Number One Cruise Line” in a readers poll conducted by the Fresno Bee, the major daily newspaper in Fresno, Calif.

Carnival is the West Coast’s most popular cruise line, with four ships - the Carnival Paradise, Carnival Pride, Carnival Elation and Carnival Spirit- sailing year-round or seasonally from Long Beach and San Diego.

Carnival was recognized by Fresno Bee readers for providing an outstanding shipboard experience and high quality service, along with a wide variety of itinerary choices.
“Carnival understands the importance of providing guests with relaxing and unique vacation experiences and for that reason puts forth maximum effort to ensure guests return home with a lifetime of memories,” said Lynn Torrent, Carnival senior vice president of sales and guest services. “To be recognized for those efforts by Fresno Bee readers is a wonderful honor for both our shipboard and shoreside team members,” she added.

Carnival’s “Fun Ships” offer a number of “resort-style” features, including a variety of formal and casual dining choices, lavish production revues, elaborate spa facilities, and full casino gambling. Carnival Pride and Carnival Spirit also feature elegant reservations-only supper clubs serving prime aged beef and other gourmet fare.

Carnival also offers fun-filled activities for kids of all ages through its “Camp Carnival” program for young children, “Circle C” for 12- to 14-year-olds and “Club O2” for ages 15-17. Fleetwide Internet cafes, Wi-Fi access, and cell phone service are also available.

From Long Beach, the 2,052-passenger Carnival Paradise offers three-and four-day Baja cruises year-round, and the 2,124-passenger Carnival Pride offers seven-day cruises to the Mexican Riviera year-round. The line’s San Diego-based ships include the 2,052-passenger Carnival Elation, which offers four- and five-day voyages to Mexico year-round, and the Carnival Spirit, which operates eight-day Exotic Mexican Riviera cruises seasonally.

Carnival is the largest and most popular cruise line in the world, with 22 "Fun Ships" operating voyages ranging from three to 18 days in length to the Bahamas, Caribbean, Mexico, Alaska, Hawaii, the Panama Canal, Canada, New England, Bermuda, Europe and South America.

MIAMI (April 9, 2008) – From a 5,500-square-foot play area – the largest in the “Fun Ship” fleet – to a fun-filled water spray park and facilities and activities aimed at youngsters, ’tweens and teens, kids of all ages are sure to have a blast aboard Carnival Cruise Lines’ new 113,000-ton Carnival Splendor, set to debut this summer.

The largest “Fun Ship” ever constructed, the 3,006-passenger Carnival Splendor is slated to debut July 2, with a special eight-day Europe voyage from Genoa followed by the launch of the line’s first-ever 12-day Northern Europe program from London (Dover) July 13, 2008.

Designed as the ultimate vacation for families, Carnival Splendor will offer different programs catering to specific age groups, including “Camp Carnival” (ages 2-11), “Circle C” (ages 12-14) and “Club O2” (ages 15-17), along with children’s menus, a corkscrew water slide, a stroller rental program and numerous other family-friendly features.

“As the largest ‘Fun Ship’ ever constructed, Carnival Splendor provides a huge canvas to create some truly exciting spaces to entertain kids of all ages while further bolstering Carnival’s distinction as the family cruise leader,” said Lynn C. Torrent, Carnival’s senior vice president of sales and guest services.

Largest Play Area in the ‘Fun Ship’ Fleet
A focal point for many of the Carnival Splendor’s youth activities will be an expansive 5,500-square-foot children’s play area – roughly 30 percent bigger than the largest facility in the Carnival fleet. 

Located mid-ship on Panorama Deck, the two-level facility will be divided into separate areas with each focusing on a different activity or function. One area will be an all-ages playroom with a variety of toys, games and puzzles. Another will be a computer game room with the latest computer gaming consoles, while a third will offer a dance floor and plasma screen TV displaying music videos and popular children’s movies.

Located one deck above will be a children’s water park with various water-spray apparatus, and a wet tot lot offering hours of splashing fun. The water park will complement Carnival Splendor’s four swimming pools, including a pool on Panorama Deck featuring the line’s signature 214-foot-long “Twister Waterslide.”

In addition to activities focusing on music, art, science and physical fitness, Carnival Splendor will also offer educational programming geared toward the ship’s various European, Caribbean, South American and Mexican Riviera itineraries.

New ‘Circle C’ Program for 12- to 14-Year-Olds
Carnival Splendor will be the first “Fun Ship” to feature a purpose-built “Circle C” facility, which caters specifically to the 12- to 14-year-old set.

Located mid-ship on Atlantic Deck, the sleek, modern facility will feature a dance floor with high-tech sound and lighting system, along with 42-inch plasma-screen TVs displaying movies and music videos, and a touch-screen jukebox stocked with the latest hits.

Other features will include gaming pods with the latest video games and consoles, with 20-inch plasma-screens positioned throughout the room and used exclusively for video gaming. “Circle C” activities will include basketball, volleyball, ping-pong, water games, and late-night movies and pool parties.

‘Club O2’ for Teens
Continuing Carnival’s emphasis on providing older kids with their own spaces and activities, Carnival Splendor will offer its own version of the line’s popular “Club O2” teen program, which is aimed at kids ages 15 to 17.

The 2,365-square-foot facility, located mid-ship on Promenade Deck, will include a dance floor, DJ, and a state-of-the-art sound and lighting system, and a lounge where teens can relax and enjoy non-alcoholic specialty drinks. A library with popular teen-oriented books and magazines will also be available. Special shore excursions offering older kids an opportunity to visit historic European destinations together as a group, along with Carnival’s popular Y Spa teen spa treatment program, will also be offered.

Children’s Dining Options, Other Family-Friendly Amenities
Kids have their own unique dining preferences and Carnival Splendor will offer such family friendly options as children’s menus in the main dining rooms, 24-hour pizza and ice cream at the poolside restaurant, and a program where kids can enjoy a meal with the youth staff on the Lido Deck.

A children’s turn-down service providing freshly baked cookies at bedtime and Carnival’s popular “Fountain Fun Card,” which, for a one-time fee, provides unlimited soft drinks throughout the voyage, will also be available.

Nightly babysitting services, at a cost of $6 per hour for the first child and $4 per hour for each additional child in the same family, along with Carnival’s popular stroller rental program, are also available. Also featured will be “Carnival’s Seaside Theatre,” a 270-square-foot LED screen located poolside on Lido Deck and displaying movies, concerts and other programming.

Of the ship’s 1,503 staterooms, nearly 200 will be interconnecting with more than 350 accommodating up to three and four guests – perfect for families.

Exciting Inaugural Schedule
Following a special one-time eight-day western Europe voyage from Genoa July 2-10, 2008, Carnival Splendor will launch the line’s first-ever 12-day Northern Europe cruise program from London (Dover) July 13, 2008. The program will run through Aug. 30, after which the ship will sail a trans-Atlantic crossing from London (Dover) to Fort Lauderdale, Fla., from where it will launch a schedule of seven-day Caribbean voyages beginning November 29, 2008.

From January – March 2009, Carnival Splendor will sail on a series of 14- to 18-day South America voyages – the line’s first within the region – then reposition to Long Beach, Calif., for year-round seven-day Mexican Riviera voyages beginning March 29, continuing the expansion of the line’s West Coast operations.

Reservations are currently being accepted for all of the Carnival Splendor’s various European, Caribbean, South American and Mexican Riviera itineraries. Round-trip air supplements and special discounted rates for third and fourth guests sailing in the same stateroom are also available.

MIAMI (February 26, 2008) – Carnival Cruise Lines will roll out its first-ever“Funtennial”celebration offering a variety of special offers and giveaways throughout the month of March, commemorating the anniversary of the cruise line's inaugural voyage in March 1972.

The month-long promotion will feature a different booking incentive each week during March, including free stateroom upgrades, shipboard credits, special savings and more.

The special offers are available in conjunction with a wide variety of  "Fun Ship" departures, including select three- to five-day getaways to the Caribbean or Mexico, seven-day voyages to the Caribbean or Mexican Riviera, or longer length sailings to the Mediterranean, Northern Europe and South America.

Additionally, each week in March, a drawing will be held awarding a free cruise, along with a number of high quality digital cameras, to those who book any "Fun Ship" voyage that week.
The weekly cruise giveaway encompasses a four- or five-day western Caribbean voyage in an owner's suite on the Carnival Imagination from Miami or Carnival Inspiration from Tampa. These two ships are the first to undergo all phases of the line's “Evolutions of Fun” product enhancement initiative and now feature the Carnival WaterWorks aqua park, Serenity adults-only retreat, resort-style main pool area, and renovated staterooms and spas.

Consumers who book a "Fun Ship"cruise during the promotional period are also automatically registered to win one of 10 Fuji digital cameras to be given away each week during the “Funtennial” celebration – perfect for capturing terrific “Fun Ship”vacation memories.
“Our new‘Funtennial’promotion is a fun and unique way to celebrate our company's anniversary while providing consumers with some very attractive savings and upgrades, along with some great prizes and giveaways,” said Ruben Rodriguez, Carnival’s executive vice president of marketing and guest experience.

Carnival is the largest and most popular cruise line in the world, with 22 "Fun Ships" operating voyages ranging from three to 18 days in length to the Bahamas, Caribbean, Mexico, Alaska, Hawaii, New England, Canada, Bermuda, Europe, the Greek Isles and South America. The line has three new ships scheduled for delivery between now and 2011.

To obtain information on the "Funtennial" promotion and view official contest rules, visit carnival.com/funtennial beginning March 1. Consumers may enter to win without purchase.
Additional information and reservations on Carnival's “Fun Ship” vacations are available by contacting any Cruise Vacation World, calling 1-888-828-7327 (SEAS).

MIAMI (February 13, 2008) – Carnival Cruise Lines has enhanced its “Fun Pass” on-line embarkation portal to allow guests the ability to register for the line’s shipboard credit card system and to electronically accept the Terms and Conditions of Passage prior to their cruise, thus further expediting the embarkation process.

Through the enhanced system, guests sailing with Carnival are now able to submit credit card information for their on-board “Sail & Sign” accounts via a secure encryption method and review/acknowledge the line’s ticket contract, both of which previously had to be completed manually during the check-in process at the cruise terminal. Another new feature enables Carnival's guests to designate a responsible party and pre-register up to three cabins at the same time in one session.

Carnival’s on-line embarkation portal, located at carnival.com/mycruise, was launched in 2003 to comply with the data-gathering requirements of U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS). With “FunPass,” guests can register up to the day prior to sailing and are provided with a printable document allowing them to “fast track” through embarkation when they arrive at the cruise terminal.
“Currently, nearly 90 percent of all Carnival guests take advantage of the convenient on-line ‘Fun Pass’ system and these new enhancements will serve to further expedite the boarding process for embarking on their ‘Fun Ship’ cruise,” said Vicky Rey, Carnival’s vice president of reservations administration.

Carnival’s “FunPass” system is available in conjunction with departures on all 22 of the line’s ships which operate three- to 18-day voyages to the Bahamas, Caribbean, Mexican Riviera, Alaska, Hawaii, the Panama Canal, Canada, New England, Bermuda, Europe, and South America.

MIAMI (February 11, 2008) – Building upon its distinction as the family cruise leader, Carnival Cruise Lines has introduced a new on-board program called “Circle C” aimed specifically at the 12- to 14-year-old age group, with expansive new clubs, a full schedule of activities and trained staff.
The “Circle C” program complements the line’s other youth-oriented programming, including “Camp Carnival” for younger kids and “Club O2” for 15- to 17-year-olds, which combined are expected to host 600,000 kids this year – the most in cruising.

In conjunction with the launch of “Circle C” – and just in time for summer travel planning - Carnival is offering exceptionally attractive rates for families, with prices for third and fourth guests in a stateroom starting at $199 per person for three-day cruises and $329 per person for seven-day cruises on select dates. These rates are featured at carnival.com/family, which also contains a variety of helpful information on Carnival's youth programs.

“Circle C” facilities are already in place on Carnival Legend, Carnival Pride, Carnival Victory and Carnival Valor with Carnival Imagination, Carnival Inspiration, Carnival Liberty, Carnival Fantasy, Carnival Paradise and Carnival Glory scheduled to be retrofitted by the end of the year. The balance of the fleet is expected to be completed by 2010.

“Carnival has earned its position as the family cruise leader by investing significant research and resources into understanding kids’ unique vacation needs and expectations,” said Ruben Rodriguez, Carnival’s executive vice president of marketing and guest experience. “‘Circle C’ – with its high-tech spaces, fun-filled activities and energetic hosts – is a direct result of these efforts and reflects our ongoing commitment to providing exceptional vacations to guests of all ages,” he added.

Expansive ‘Circle C’ Facilities
The focal point of “Circle C” activities will be custom-designed clubs, providing 12- to 14-year olds a place to truly call their own.

The facilities feature a dance floor with high-tech sound and lighting system, along with 42-inch plasma-screen TVs displaying movies and music videos, and a touch-screen jukebox stocked with the latest hits. Also featured are gaming pods with the latest video games and consoles, with 20-inch plasma-screens positioned throughout the room and used exclusively for video gaming.
The facilities offer a sleek modern design created especially to appeal to younger teens, with a vibrant motif, oversized picture windows, and plush comfortable seating -- perfect for hanging out with new friends.

Special Activities
The “Circle C” program also offers a full schedule of activities, which include everything from sports such as basketball, volleyball, ping-pong and various water games to late-night movies and “swimming under the stars” pool parties. “Circle C” activities are listed in a special edition of Carnival Capers printed daily.
A new logo and branding campaign incorporating the “Circle C” theme of “cruise.chill.connect” has also been created.

‘Fun Ships’ Are Tops With Families
“Circle C” is just the latest enhancement to kid-friendly amenities aboard the “Fun Ships.” Children ages 2-11 can enjoy diverse activities and dedicated facilities of “Camp Carnival,” which continues to evolve with new 1,600-square-foot play areas on “Fantasy-class” ships and new programming fleetwide. For older kids, there’s the “Club O2” teen program featuring teen dance clubs, just for teens shore excursions, and more.

Also new is Carnival WaterWorks, an aqua park featuring a 300-foot-long twister water slide, dual-lane racing slides and water spray apparatus, currently rolled out as part of the “Evolutions of Fun” refurbishment program on select ships. Carnival Splendor, set to debut in July, will boast Carnival’s largest play area to date and a water spray park.

Other fleetwide features include babysitting services, stroller rentals, children’s menus, and a variety of spacious accommodation categories, with dozens of inter-connecting cabins -- ideal for large families or family gatherings.

Carnival is the world’s largest and most popular cruise line with 22 “Fun Ships” operating three- to 18-day voyages to the Bahamas, Caribbean, Mexican Riviera, Alaska, Hawaii, Panama Canal, Canada, New England, Bermuda, Europe and South America. The line currently has three new ships on order between now and 2011.

MIAMI (January 28, 2008) - An expansive new aqua park featuring a 300-foot-long water slide, along with an exclusive adults-only area, and a totally redesigned “resort-style” main pool will be incorporated into the Carnival Fantasy when the 2,052-passenger SuperLiner undergoes a multi-million-dollar dry dock this fall.  

The “extreme makeover” represents phase two of “Evolutions of Fun,” Carnival Cruise Lines’ $250 million extensive ship refurbishment program for the line’s eight 70,000-ton Fantasy-class vessels.          

Carnival Fantasy, which operates year-round four- and five-day western Caribbean cruises from New Orleans, will be the third ship to be fully outfitted with all “Evolutions of Fun” upgrades, with Carnival Inspiration and Carnival Imagination completed in recent months. 

“Carnival Fantasy – already a fantastic cruise vacation option from New Orleans, one of America's great cities – will be even better following the implementation of our incredible new ‘Evolutions of Fun'  features,” said Ruben Rodriguez, Carnival’s executive vice president of marketing and guest experience.      

New Aqua Park, Adults-Only Area, Redesigned Main Pool

Taking center stage on the Carnival Fantasy's Verandah Deck will be Carnival WaterWorks, a spectacular aqua park featuring a four-deck-high 300-foot-long corkscrew water slide – the longest, most elaborate at sea – along with an 82-foot-long dual-lane racing slide, and various water spray apparatus creating cool and exhilarating fun for kids and adults, alike.

Located aft will be Serenity, an exclusive adults-only outdoor retreat designed as an ocean-going oasis for relaxation, tranquility and comfort.  Offering magnificent ocean vistas, Serenity will feature plush chaise lounges and chairs, colorful oversized umbrellas, two whirlpools, and a separate area where guests can relax in shaded comfort.  Bar service will be provided with waiters offering a tempting selection of icy cocktails and frozen concoctions. 

The new resort-style main pool area, located mid-ship,  will feature striking umbrellas providing shaded seating at pool’s edge along the tiled “beach” bordering the circumference of the pool. A thatched roof will cover one of the two whirlpools at either end of the swimming pool, while towering faux palm trees, along with more thatched roofing over new, centrally positioned staircases will further enhance the tropical ambiance.

Other ‘Evolutions of Fun’ Upgrades

These new enhancements will complement the wide range of “Evolutions of Fun” upgrades incorporated into the Carnival Fantasy during earlier dry docks. These include completely renovated staterooms with flat-screen TVs and other amenities, a nine-hole miniature golf course, a renovated 12,000-square-foot Spa Carnival facility, updated dining rooms, a New York-style deli, an atrium lobby bar, a new conference facility, a patisserie serving specialty coffees and sweets and new photo and art galleries.

A number of family-friendly amenities – including expansive new facilities for children and teens, part of the top-rated “Camp Carnival” and “Club O₂” programs, respectively – along with more than 50 interconnecting staterooms, have been added, as well. 

High-tech sound and lighting systems for a host of live music and entertainment venues have also been incorporated.

Attractive Short Cruise Itineraries from New Orleans

The namesake of the Fantasy-class, Carnival Fantasy operates four- and five-day cruises to Mexico from New Orleans – the only ship operating year-round from the Big Easy. 

On this popular route, four-day cruises depart Thursday and call at Cozumel while five-day voyages visit Progreso and Cozumel.  Carnival also offers pre- and post-cruise land stays in New Orleans to provide guests the opportunity to experience and explore the city's unique architecture, legendary nightlife and outstanding restaurants.  

Reservations

Carnival is currently accepting reservations for all of the Carnival Fantasy's four- and five-day departures from New Orleans.  For additional information and reservations, contact Cruise Vacation World at 1-888-828-7327 (SEAS).

MIAMI (January 16, 2008) — Carnival Cruise Lines, the world's largest cruise operator, raked in a record number of awards during the past year, capping off the final weeks of 2007 with several additional accolades from a variety of esteemed organizations.  

Readers of Ocean & Cruise News - the publication of the World Cruise & Ocean Liner Society, an organization comprised of highly experienced cruise enthusiasts -- named Carnival “Best Cruise Value” in the superior four star category for the 14^th consecutive year. The line also took home top honors in the “Short Cruise” category.

During the ninth annual Reader's Choice Awards conducted by Travel Weekly magazine, Carnival was named “Best Domestic Cruise Line,” while the 88,500-ton Carnival Spirit was named “Best Overall Individual Ship.”  Also, for the third consecutive year, Carnival's business development managers were recognized for providing the cruise industry’s “Best Sales and Service.”

Carnival also received the prestigious “Best Cruise Line” honor from highly popular Southern Living Magazine, within that publication's 2008 Readers Choice Awards.

Carnival’s incentive programs were recognized by the Society of Incentive and Travel Executives (SITE), receiving one of the organization's “Most Outstanding Travel Reward Program” awards.

Among a wide variety of other accolades received throughout the year, Carnival was honored with nine Readers Choice Awards from Porthole magazine, including “Best Children's Program,” “Best Entertainment” and “Most Value-for-the-Money.”

Meanwhile, Carnival Senior Cruise Director John Heald was named “Sea Going Employee of the Year” by Seatrade Insider.

Carnival was also honored by readers of TravelAge West magazine during the magazine's annual WAVE (Western Agents Votes of Excellence) Awards, which named Kirk Neal, Carnival Cruise Lines' business development director for the Sacramento region, “Favorite Individual Cruise Line Sales Representative,” while Harry’s Supper Club aboard the 110,000-ton Carnival Liberty was named “Best Alternative Dining Facility.”

Cruise One/Cruises Inc. named Carnival “Most Improved Cruise Line” for its efforts to continue to offer its guests an exciting, value-packed vacation experience and particularly for recent initiatives such as the new $250 million “Evolutions of Fun” ship refurbishment program for its Fantasy-class vessels, currently completed on the Carnival Inspiration and Carnival Imagination.  

Also, Carnival Cruise Lines' parent company, Carnival Corporation & plc, was honored at the recent World Travel Awards with the “Leading Cruise Brand” designation for 2007, as voted by travel agents in more than 190 countries around the world. 

“Carnival strives to exceed guests’ expectations in all areas of the cruising experience - from our relationship with the travel agent community to our onboard services and programs - and receiving these various recognitions is truly gratifying,” said Vicki Freed, Carnival senior vice president of sales and guest services.

Carnival is the largest and most popular cruise line in the world, with 22 "Fun Ships" operating voyages ranging from three to 18 days in length to the Bahamas, Caribbean, Mexico, Alaska, Hawaii, New England, Canada, Bermuda, Europe, the Greek Isles and South America.

MIAMI (January 2, 2008) – Carnival Cruise Lines has been named the number one cruise line in Southern Living Magazine's 2008 Readers Choice Awards.

The annual awards are based on surveys available to the publication's 15 million readers who are asked to designate their number one choice in a variety of travel-related categories. Carnival was cited as the preferred cruise line more than any other cruise operator.

Carnival's “Fun Ships” were recognized for providing excellent activities and entertainment options, an exceptional array of fine quality cuisine, and convenient Southern U.S. departure points, with 17 ships departing from eight ports throughout Florida, Alabama, Texas and Louisiana. “The convenience is a real winner and a great reason to keep going back again for more of what their ships have to offer,” said Wanda McKinney, Southern Living's associate travel editor. 

We take a great deal of pride in providing our guests with wonderful vacation memories and have made a tremendous investment in continually updating and enhancing the ‘Fun Ship’ vacation experience. To have these efforts acknowledged by the discerning readers of Southern Living is extremely gratifying,” said Vicki Freed, Carnival’s senior vice president of sales and guest services.  

Over the past five years alone, Carnival launched five new 110,000-ton “Fun Ships” – the largest in its fleet – and rolled out the $250 million “Evolutions of Fun” shipboard refurbishment program that includes extensive renovations for its eight Fantasy-class ships.  New amenities for these vessels include the Carnival WaterWorks aqua parks, Serenity adults-only areas and totally redesigned main pool areas.

"With exciting new ship projects and guest-driven initiatives such as ‘Evolutions of Fun,’ Carnival is more committed than ever to providing our guests with fun, high quality, memorable vacations – all at an incredible value," Freed added.

Carnival is the largest and most popular cruise line in the world, with 22 "Fun Ships" operating voyages ranging from three to 18 days in length to the Bahamas, Caribbean, Mexico, Alaska, Hawaii, the Panama Canal, Canada, New England, Bermuda, Europe, the Greek Isles and South America.

The line currently has three new ships on order, including the 113,300-ton Carnival Splendor, set to launch Carnival’s first Northern European cruise program July 13, 2008, and the 130,000-ton Carnival Dream and Carnival Magic – to be the largest “Fun Ships” ever constructed when they enter service in June 2009 and October 2011, respectively.

MIAMI (December 3, 2007) - Carnival Cruise Lines led the way once again in Porthole Cruise Magazine's “Reader Choice Awards,” winning in nine different categories.
Porthole Cruise Magazine's “Readers Choice Awards”are determined by thousands of the publication's readers who vote on their favorite cruise line in a wide variety of categories. Since the awards were established in 1999, Carnival has taken home an unprecedented 92 “Readers Choice Awards”– the most of any cruise line.

        Carnival's 2007 Readers Choice Awards include:
        - Best Megaship (Carnival Liberty)
        - Best Children’s Programs
        - Best Value-for-the-Money
        - Best Short-Duration Cruise
        - Best Shore Excursions
        - Best Onboard Activities
        - Best Main Dining Room Cuisine
        - Best Entertainment
        - Best Party Line

        “Carnival is constantly striving to deliver truly memorable vacations for our guests in every aspect of their cruise experience and these awards are not only an honor but an affirmation of those efforts,” said Vicki Freed, Carnival’s senior vice president of sales and guest services.

        “Carnival Cruise Lines continually is at the forefront of our Readers' Choice Awards,” said Bill Panoff, publisher and editor-in-chief of Porthole Cruise Magazine. “Clearly, our readers appreciate the value and quality of the line and that shows in their votes.”

Established in 1993, Porthole Cruise Magazine is a consumer publication offering its readers a variety of information about cruising including ship reviews, news, details on popular ports of call and travel tips.        

        Carnival is the largest and most popular cruise line in the world, with 22 "Fun Ships" operating voyages ranging from three to 18 days in length to the Bahamas, Caribbean, Mexico, Alaska, Hawaii, New England, Canada, Bermuda, Europe, the Greek Isles and South America.

        The line currently has three new ships on order, including the 113,300-ton Carnival Splendor, set to launch Carnival's first Northern European cruise program July 13, 2008, and the 130,000-ton Carnival Dream and Carnival Magic – to be the largest “Fun Ships” ever constructed when they enter service in June 2009 and October 2011, respectively.

For additional information on Carnival's "Fun Ship" vacations, contact any Cruise Vacation World at 1-888-828-7327.

MIAMI (November 13, 2007) – Carnival Cruise Lines' 2,642-passenger Carnival Destiny will launch a unique seven-day cruise program from San Juan featuring extended calls at six tropical destinations – St. Kitts, Antigua, St. Lucia, Barbados, Dominica, and St. Thomas/St. John. The new schedule begins March 2, 2008.

Featured on the new itinerary is a day-long stop at St. Kitts, an island paradise offering a landscape of rugged mountains and dense rainforest, which serves as a dramatic backdrop to magnificent beaches that range in color from black to golden. The island also offers excellent examples of West Indian and Creole architecture, as well as centuries-old fortresses and plantations.

At 108 square miles, Antigua is the largest of the Leeward Islands and known for a multitude of beaches, some 365 of them, in fact, or "one for every day of the year." Antigua also features a variety of historical sites including Nelson's Dockyard, the Caribbean's version of Colonial Williamsburg.
Often referred to as the “crown jewel” of the Windward Islands, St. Lucia is distinguished by the Pitons, twin volcanic mountains that overlook a lush landscape of flowers, fruit trees, cane fields, rain forests and white and black sand beaches.

A friendly British isle boasting particularly beautiful aqua-blue waters and white sand beaches, Barbados also offers a diversity of shopping, dining and watersports opportunities.
The largest of the Windward Islands, Dominica is a 289-square-mile island with lush mountains, hot springs and volcanoes, as well as gorgeous white-sand beaches and crystal-clear waters teeming with tropical fish.

One of the Caribbean’s most popular islands, St. Thomas boasts excellent duty-free shopping bargains and world-famous beaches. The stop includes an optional shore excursion to St. John, a 20-square-mile island paradise whose Trunk Bay Beach consistently ranks among the world’s best.
“Carnival Destiny's new seven-day program offers consumers the unmatched opportunity to visit six different Caribbean destinations including rarely visited ports and some of the Caribbean’s most popular islands, each offering unforgettable and unique experiences ashore,” said Vicki Freed, Carnival’s senior vice president of sales and guest services.

A “floating resort” in every sense of the word, the 101,000-ton Carnival Destiny offers an array of dining, entertainment and activity options for guests of all ages. Housed within the vessel’s 13 passenger decks are four dining rooms, including an expansive 1,200-seat poolside eatery featuring a 24-hour pizzeria, along with a 14,500-square-foot health and fitness center and duty-free shopping mall.
The ship also houses 18 lounges and bars, including a sports bar, wine bar, piano bar, and a multi-level theater showcasing lavish revues. Its family friendly amenities include “Camp Carnival” and “Club O2,” with facilities and activities for children and teens, respectively. An Internet café with ship-wide Wi-Fi access and cell phone service are also available.

Carnival Destiny also offers a variety of comfortable and spacious accommodations including a wide selection of balcony staterooms and suites. All feature the exclusive Carnival Comfort Bed sleep system with plush mattresses, luxurious duvets and high quality linens and pillows.
Carnival Victory will assume the Carnival Destiny’s new six-port Caribbean program when it repositions when it repositions to San Juan in November 2008.

Reservations are currently being accepted for Carnival’s new six-port, seven-day southern Caribbean cruises from San Juan.

MIAMI (October 10, 2007) – Carnival Cruise Lines’ new 113,300-ton Carnival Splendor – the largest “Fun Ship” ever constructed — will operate a special one-time eight-day European cruise in July 2008. 

The eight-day voyage, which departs Genoa July 2 and arrives in London (Dover) July 10, 2008, will visit four magnificent ports in three countries: Cannes, France; Barcelona, Spain; Lisbon, Portugal; and Le Havre (Paris), France.

“Carnival Splendor’s special eight-day voyage is just the latest addition to a highly diverse European inaugural season,” said Vicki Freed, Carnival’s senior vice president of sales and guest services. “It’s the best way to see the great cities of Europe at a great value.” 

Following this voyage, the 3,006-passenger SuperLiner will launch Carnival’s first-ever 12-day northern Europe cruise schedule from London July 13 – the first of five voyages in the program, which continues through Aug. 30, 2008. Ports include Copenhagen; Warnemunde (Berlin); Helsinki; St. Petersburg; Tallin, Estonia; and Amsterdam. 

Carnival Splendor will also sail a special 12-day Mediterranean cruise from London to Rome (Civitavecchia) Sept. 11, 2008, then operate the line’s popular Grand Mediterranean and Mediterranean and Greek Isles cruises Sept. 23, and Oct. 5 and Oct. 17, 2008.

Upon completion of its European season, Carnival Splendor will sail a 16-day trans-Atlantic crossing from Rome to Fort Lauderdale, Fla., where it will sail a series of seven-day Caribbean voyages from Port Everglades. Following Carnival’s first program of South American cruises January to March 2009, Carnival Splendor will launch year-round seven-day Mexican Riviera cruises from Long Beach, Calif., March 29, 2009, continuing the line’s West Coast expansion.

Representing a new class of “Fun Ship,” Carnival Splendor will feature a host of innovations, highlighted by a two-deck-high “Cloud 9 Spa” featuring a Thalassotherapy Pool and an elaborate Thermal Suite with four rooms set at different temperatures. Adjacent to the facility will be 68 exclusive spa staterooms and suites – another first for the line – with private access to the facility, special amenities and priority spa reservations.

The vessel’s family-friendly amenities include a 5,500-square-foot children’s play area – the largest in the “Fun Ship” fleet and part of the top-rated “Camp Carnival” program — along with a water spray park and an expansive “Club O2” teen center with a DJ, dance floor and high-tech sound and lighting system.

Also featured will be four swimming pools – one covered by a retractable Sky Dome that will house the popular “Carnival Seaside Theatre,” an oversized screen displaying movies, concerts and other programming. 

Carnival will begin accepting reservations for Carnival Splendor’s eight-day European cruise Thursday, Oct. 11.

For additional information and reservations, contact Cruise Vacation World at 1.888.828.7327.

MIAMI (August 2, 2007) – When the new Carnival Freedom begins its winter schedule of seven-day Caribbean cruises from Miami in November, it will further bolster Carnival Cruise Lines'  industry-leading and record-breaking 2007 Caribbean cruise season during which the line will carry an unprecedented 2.9 million passengers within the region – the most in its 35-year history.

In 2007, Carnival will deploy 18 ships in the Caribbean with 14 of those offering year-round service. Overall, upwards of 1,150 three- to eight-day cruises will be operated by Carnival, which is the only cruise line to offer the option of departing from 12 convenient U.S. homeports.

According to statistics from the Cruise Lines International Association, the Caribbean is the most sought-after cruise destination by far, with the region featured on roughly half of all itineraries of North American cruise operators.

“The Caribbean offers everything that consumers want in a vacation – picture perfect weather, gracious hospitality, unique sightseeing experiences, great shopping and, of course, gorgeous beaches,” said Vicki Freed, Carnival’s senior vice president of sales and marketing.  “But there’s more to the Caribbean than great beaches – this is one of the most culturally diverse regions in the world, with a rich history dating back centuries, magnificent architecture, and historical attractions and landmarks,” she added.

According to Freed, while Caribbean demand the past year or so has been impacted by unfavorable economic factors affecting consumers’ discretionary purchasing, it was clearly part of a cyclical trend that the industry has seen many times in the past. “Bookings for the second half of 2007 and early 2008 have shown much stronger fundamental demand and the trend we were previously observing clearly was not a reflection of the Caribbean’s popularity or desirability,” said Freed. “Consumers are unquestionably responding well to the strong value appeal inherent in a cruise vacation versus other vacation options,” she added. 

“Many of our other guest metrics also point to the strength of Carnival's Caribbean cruise product, with guest satisfaction levels remaining at exceptionally high historical levels including very favorable guest feedback on Caribbean destinations,” said Freed. 

As the industry leader in Caribbean cruising, Carnival is continually updating its cruise itineraries and destination choices and over the next few months will introduce several new programs.

These include a new five-day itinerary on the Carnival Imagination featuring Grand Turk, the new port in the Turks and Caicos and the award-winning private island of Half Moon Cay; a seven-day, five-port schedule on the Carnival Destiny from San Juan offering extended day-long visits to St. Lucia, Antigua, Dominica, Barbados and St. Thomas; and seven-day cruises aboard the Carnival Triumph from Miami that feature Half Moon Cay, Grand Turk, Turks & Caicos Islands, St. Thomas, and San Juan. 

Carnival has also been working with destination partners to enhance and expand shore excursion programming to cater to today’s active lifestyles, offering more choices than ever for consumers to immerse themselves in this fascinating destination. In 2007 alone, Carnival will offer approximately 900 landside tour choices in the region.

Carnival’s Caribbean expansion will continue in 2008 when the 3,006-passenger Carnival Splendor – the largest “Fun Ship” ever constructed – launches a series of seven-day Caribbean cruises from Fort Lauderdale Nov. 22. Featured will be visits to San Juan, St. Thomas, Nassau and Casa de Campo, one of the Caribbean’s finest resorts.

In addition to three- to eight-day cruises to the Caribbean and The Bahamas, Carnival offers three-to16-day voyages to the Mexican Riviera, Alaska, Hawaii, New England, Canada, Europe, the Greek Isles, and South America.

The line currently has three new ships on order – the 113,300-ton Carnival Splendor, set to debut in Europe July 13, 2008; and the 130,000-ton Carnival Dream and Carnival Magic, scheduled for delivery in October 2009 and June 2011, respectively.

MIAMI (July 17, 2007) — The recent announcement of the selection of the new Seven Wonders of the World has generated much controversy and commentary. But there' little doubt that Carnival Cruise Lines'  "Seven Wonders of the Caribbean" capture the very best of the region's unique historical, natural and cultural offerings.

Carnival is the industry leader in Caribbean cruising carrying approximately 3 million guests annually to this spectacular region of the world. Carnival's commitment to the Caribbean includes the deployment of 18 ships, including 16 vessels that offer year-round Caribbean departures. Carnival offers the widest variety of Caribbean itineraries and features more visits to the Seven Wonders of the Caribbean than any other cruise line.

“While seeing the Seven Wonders of the World may be out of reach for many vacationers, Carnival provides fantastic and affordable journeys to the Seven Wonders of the Caribbean, which is the world’s most popular cruise destination,” said Terry Thornton, Carnival's vice president of marketing planning.

The Seven Wonders of the Caribbean featured on Carnival's shore excursions include Chichen Itza in Mexico, the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef System, El Morro Castle in San Juan, the Mayan ruins of Tulum, Trunk Bay Beach in St. John, the Panama Canal and The Baths in Virgin Gorda.

Chichen Itza

Not only is Chichen-Itza one of Carnival’s Seven Wonders of the Caribbean, it also made the official list of the new Seven Wonders of the World. Chichen-Itza was a sacred city of the Itza, and the archaeological site is rated among the most important of the Maya culture. Chichen-Itza covers an area of approximately six square miles, and hundreds of buildings once stood on the sacred grounds. Possibly the best known structure on the site is Kukulkan's Pyramid — a square-based, stepped pyramid that is 75 feet tall. The tour to Chichen-Itza is offered on all of Carnival’s cruises that visit Progreso and Cozumel, Mexico.

Mesoamerican Barrier Reef System

The longest barrier reef in the Western Hemisphere and the second largest barrier reef in the world, the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef System stretches from the southern half of the Yucatan Peninsula to the Bay Islands of Honduras. A diver's paradise, it is known for fascinating coral formations, abundant sea life and extraordinary water clarity. Guests have the opportunity to dive and snorkel on the reef on Carnival’s cruises that call at Roatan, Honduras, and Belize.

El Morro Castle

Fort San Felipe del Morro — or El Morro Castle — is a 16th-century citadel that lies on the northwestern-most point of the islet of San Juan, Puerto Rico. Construction at El Morro started in 1539, and many additional new structures were added over the next 400 years. The fort was designed to guard the entrance to San Juan Bay and defend the city from enemies. In 1983, the fort was declared a World Heritage Site by the United Nations. Guests can visit El Morro Castle on Carnival cruises that depart from or visit San Juan, Puerto Rico.

Tulum

Tulum is the site of a Pre-Columbian Maya walled city serving as a major port for Cobá, and it appears to have been an important site for the worship of the Descending God. While an inscription dated 564 has been found at the site, most of the structures now visible were built between 1200 and 1450. The city remained occupied through the early years of the Spanish conquest of Yucatan, but was abandoned by the end of the 16th century. Tulum can be visited on Carnival’s calls to Calica and Cozumel, Mexico.

Trunk Bay Beach

With powdery white sand and a border of coconut palm trees, Trunk Bay Beach on St. John in the U.S. Virgin Islands is renowned as one of the most beautiful and photogenic beaches in the world. A highlight for Trunk Bay visitors is the 650 feet of underwater snorkel trails through the turquoise waters that exhibit a variety of marine life. Guests on cruises that call at St. Thomas have an opportunity to visit St. John’s Trunk Bay.

Panama Canal

Cutting through the heart of Central America, the man-made Panama Canal opened in 1914, shaving some 9,000 miles from the trip around Cape Horn. Today, the engineering marvel continues to connect the Atlantic and Pacific oceans. A series of locks raise and lower each ship, making the transit possible. On cruises that call at Colon, Panama, guests can fish in Gatun Lake, go kayaking or take a ferry transit of the canal.

The Baths

For snorkelers, sunbathers and explorers alike, The Baths in Virgin Gorda represent the perfect natural attraction. The Baths is a small beach framed by giant boulders that visitors climb through to get to a boulder-harbor. With hidden rooms filled with streams of light, coral ledges and caves, white-sand beaches and crystal-clear water, many say it’s the best reason to visit Virgin Gorda. Cruises that call at Tortola, B.V.I., offer the opportunity to see The Baths.

And while they didn’t make the short list of the Seven Wonders of the Caribbean, there are several more destinations and attractions in the region included on Carnival’s cruise itineraries that deserve honorable mentions:

El Yunque Rainforest

El Yunque is the only tropical rainforest in the United States. The intrigue of visiting the El Yunque Rainforest is only partly in the observation of the varieties of plants that have managed to grow and adapt to the abundant amounts of year-round rainfall. El Yunque can be visited from the port of San Juan, Puerto Rico.

The Basilica at Higuey

The Higuey Basilica located near La Romana, Dominican Republic is the center of religious activity in the area and one of the Caribbean's finest examples of modern religious architecture. The Basilica was named a national monument by the Dominican government and declared a minor basilica by Pope Paul IV. To highlight the architecture, a lighting scheme was completed in September 2002 that bathes the gray concrete in bright color from sunset to midnight.

Chacchoben Mayan Ruins

The first human inhabitants of the Chacchoben Mayan Ruins date back as far as 1000 B.C., though evidence found during excavation show that most of the ruins there now date back to around 360 A.D. The city remained continuously inhabited until its decline around 700 B.C. Eventually it was abandoned and reclaimed by the lush jungle, keeping its mysteries a secret. Guests can visit the ruins on cruises that call at Costa Maya, Mexico.