Carnival
Hot Deals
- 3-night Bahamas cruise (Miami roundtrip) on Carnival from $349 for oceanview
- 7-night S. Caribbean cruise (San Juan roundtrip) on Golden Princess, from $599
- 7-night Mexico cruise (Los Angeles roundtrip) on Carnival Pride, from $579
Carnival Ships
- Carnival Conquest
- Carnival Destiny
- Carnival Glory
- Carnival Legend
- Carnival Miracle
- Carnival Pride
- Carnival Spirit
- Carnival Triumph
- Carnival Valor
- Carnival Victory
- Celebration
- Ecstasy
- Elation
- Fantasy
- Fascination
- Holiday
- Imagination
- Inspiration
- Jubilee
- Paradise
- Sensation
Carnival Information
About
Carnival, founded in 1972 and headquartered in Miami, is the world's largest cruise line. The line's humble origins pigeonholed it as the cruise industry's version of a floating fraternity party for a long, long time. But that's yesterday, and while Carnival still commands a certain reputation for a flashy, neon-esque atmosphere, and by no means stints on elaborate lounges and discos, its ships continue to evolve. In particular, Carnival has earned kudos for enhancing cuisine (never a high point in the old days), investing in a top-notch children's program, and expanding its itinerary offerings beyond traditional Caribbean and Bahamas trips to regions like Alaska and Atlantic Canada. It even offered its first European itineraries in 2002 (while successful, the company has not yet revealed if it will add a regular series of European voyages to future rosters). Carnival also offers a wide variety of cruise lengths. They currently range from three- to 17-day voyages.
Carnival is one of the world's most innovative cruise lines. Among its firsts:
- It's the only major cruise line to build and operate a completely smoke-free cruise ship.
- It pioneered the concept of building regional "drive to" ports, expanding its embarkation centers beyond Miami to places like New Orleans, Galveston, and New York.
- It offers a vacation guarantee program that allows dissatisfied passengers the chance to disembark at the first non-U.S. port and receive a refund.
The line continues to update and upgrade its ships with an aggressive new-build program. The 18-ship fleet received three new additions in 2002: Carnival Conquest, Carnival Legend, and Carnival Pride. July 2003 marks the debut of Carnival Glory, the second ship in the Conquest class. The year 2004 will be big for Carnival as two more vessels are scheduled to emerge from Italy's Fincantieri shipyard: Carnival Miracle, part of the Spirit class, and Carnival Valor, another Conquest-class ship. The company expects a fourth Conquest-class ship to launch in 2005, which would bring the fleet total to 22.
The explosive expansion at Carnival Cruise Line extends beyond its ships. Parent company Carnival Corporation is the industry's largest. Other cruise lines in the family fold include Costa Cruise Lines, Cunard Line, Holland America Line, Seabourn Cruise Line, and Windstar Cruises. And it likely will get even bigger. In a year-long effort, Carnival Corporation is in the final phases of its plan to acquire P&O; Princess. Shareholders for both companies will vote on the proposed deal in mid-March 2003.
Onboard Atmosphere
Carnival offers an incredibly diverse range of onboard activities, ranging from traditional (napkin folding classes, Vegas-style revues, and kitchen tours) to funky (belly flop pool contests and waterslides). All of its ships offer size-appropriate spa and fitness facilities and have multiple pool areas. From Destiny-class onward, one pool always lies under a retractable roof so that it can be used year-round. Casinos on Carnival ships are elaborate, Vegas-style rooms with all the neon and flash one would expect.
Carnival is increasingly experimenting with dining venues on its ships. The revamp, which falls under the umbrella Total Choice Dining, includes a four-tiered, staggered dining time arrangement in the ships main restaurants. Passengers can choose dining times of 5:45 PM, 6:15 PM, 8 PM, and 8:30 PM.
Beyond traditional dining, Carnival is gradually introducing specialty eateries, including an Asian-themed restaurant and New York-style deli on Carnival Conquest, Carnival Destiny, Carnival Pride, Carnival Spirit, Carnival Triumph, and Carnival Victory; and a pre-dinner sushi bar on Celebration, Ecstasy, Elation, Fantasy, Imagination, Inspiration, Jubilee, Paradise, and Carnival Conquest. Other new dining concepts include a patisserie on Ecstasy, Elation, Fantasy, Paradise, Carnival Conquest, Carnival Destiny, Carnival Pride, Carnival Spirit, Carnival Triumph, and Carnival Victory; and the Nouveau Supper Club, an upscale boutique restaurant, on Carnival Conquest, Carnival Legend, Carnival Pride, and Carnival Spirit.
Carnival has renamed its Nautica Spa; the new moniker, adopted fleet wide, is SpaCarnival. Other ship highlights include Internet cafés and the recent introduction of in-cabin amenity baskets.
The newfangled additions Carnival is gradually implementing on its ships vary wildly among vessels. For the most part, the newer, bigger ships have the more sophisticated accouterments. This is definitely one cruise line where, despite much uniformity, ship-by-ship research is a good idea if there are particular features of interest.
Passengers are a broad crisscross of mostly middle America. According to Carnival, 30 percent of its passengers are under age 35, 40 percent are ages 3555, and 30 percent are over age 55.
Special Programs
Children's programs
Carnival has invested heavily in Camp Carnival, its youth program, with increasingly elaborate facilities, counselor-guided programs and activities, and special dining menus. Camp Carnival is divided into four categories: Toddlers (ages 25), Juniors (ages 68), Intermediates (ages 911), and Teens (ages 1215). Theres a playroom for children under age 3. Generally, families may find that the fleet's newer ships have the best childrens facilities, but this is another area where ship-by-ship research is important.Carnival Vacation Guarantee
One innovative program exclusive to Carnival is Carnival's Vacation Guarantee. It states that if passengers are dissatisfied with their cruise experiences, they may disembark in the first non-U.S. port of call and receive a refund for the unused portions of their cruise fares. To be eligible for the refund, guests must notify the purser's office onboard prior to the first port of call. Carnival will reimburse the cost of coach air transportation back to the port of embarkation. The refund will be prorated depending on the number of days left at the point which the guest disembarks. The Carnival Vacation Guarantee has been extended for departures through December 15, 2003.Past guest program
Past passenger status on Carnival extends to frequent cruiser discounts on Carnival Corporation member lines, including Costa, Cunard Line, Holland America, Seabourn, and Windstar.Our cruise line reviews are provided by CruiseCritic.com, an award-winning cruise community, giving you objective, unbiased information to help you choose the right cruise.
Cruise Critic ©2003, The Independent Traveler, Inc. All rights reserved.
Booking your cruise
The information below is from Carnival Cruise Line and is subject to change by Carnival Cruise Line at any time and without notice. The details shown are for informational purposes only. We are not responsible for any errors and/or omissions resulting in pricing, inventory, or content discrepancies.
Deposit and Payment: The following deposit is required in order to secure confirmed accommodations: 3-Day Cruises - US$100 per passenger balance payable no later than 60 days prior to departure date; 4-Day Cruises - US$150 per passenger, balance payable no later than 60 days prior to departure date; 5-Day Cruises - US$200 per passenger, balance payable no later than 60 days prior to departure date; 6- and 7-Day Cruises - US$250 per passenger, balance payable no later than 70 days prior to departure date; 8-Day Cruises - US$300 per passenger, balance payable no later than 70 days prior to departure date; Alaska Cruises and CruiseTours - US$350 per passenger, balance payable no later than 75 days prior to departure date; 10-Day or longer Cruises - US$400 per passenger, balance payable no later than 75 days prior to departure date. Carnival accepts American Express, VISA, MasterCard and Discover Card for all cruise payments.
Deposit, payment and cancellation terms may differ for groups; please consult any travel agent or Carnival for the terms that apply to your specific group.
Price Guarantee : Carnival reserves the right to increase published rates and air fare supplements without prior notice. However, fully paid or deposited guests will be protected, except for fuel surcharges, government taxes, other surcharges and changes to deposit, payment and cancellation terms/conditions, which are subject to change without notice. 2004 rates are slightly higher.
Canceling your cruise
The information below is from Carnival Cruise Line and is subject to change by Carnival Cruise Line at any time and without notice. The details shown are for informational purposes only. We are not responsible for any errors and/or omissions resulting in pricing, inventory, or content discrepancies.
If a cancellation occurs, the following charges could be assessed:
Carnival Cruise lines Cancellation Charges (Per Person)
2- & 3-day cruises-to-nowhere
Days Before Departure Charges per personMore than 60 days...............................................25% of total fare
30-60 days..........................................................Deposit amount
8-29 days............................................................50% of total fare
Fewer than 8 days...............................................100% of total fare (no refund)3- to 5-day cruises
Days Before Departure Charges per personMore than 60 days...............................................No penalty (full refund)
30-60 days..........................................................Deposit amount
8-29 days............................................................50% of total fare
Fewer than 8 days...............................................100% of total fare (no refund)6- to 8-day cruises
Days Before Departure Charges per personMore than 76 days...............................................No penalty (full refund)
30-75 days..........................................................Deposit amount
8-29 days............................................................50% of total fare
Fewer than 8 days...............................................100% of total fare (no refund)Alaska cruises, Cruisetours, & 10-day & longer cruises
Days Before Departure Charges per personMore than 75 days...............................................No penalty (full refund)
46-75 days..........................................................Deposit amount
15-45 days..........................................................50% of total fare
Fewer than 15 days.............................................100% of total fare (no refund)In the event of partial cancellations (for example, one guest cancels from a stateroom originally booked for four guests), Carnival reserves the right to change the stateroom assignment for reservations in staterooms that accommodate three or more guests. Name changes or additions will be allowed at Carnivals discretion and are subject to cancellation charges and rate increases.
Reservations will be held until 30 minutes prior to departure without risk of automatic cancellation.
No refunds will be made in the event of "no shows" or interruption or cancellation by the guest after the start of the cruise.
Before you sail
Welcome Aboard: Our Welcome Aboard brochure will be sent along with your cruise documents. Please read it carefully as it contains a wealth of information about your Carnival cruise.Change In Itinerary: When practicable, Carnival will promptly notify guests of a pre-cruise itinerary change through their travel agents or directly, in the case of direct bookings. Carnival will offer such guests an opportunity to cancel their cruise within 24 hours without penalty. No additional compensation for the itinerary change will be offered at a later time. If an itinerary change occurs while a ship is at sea or when notice prior to sailing is not feasible, Carnival shall attempt to substitute an alternative port. No compensation shall be provided to passengers when an alternative port is offered. If an alternative port is not provided, guests shall be provided a shipboard credit of $20 per person. The Vacation Guarantee shall not be affected by this policy. The foregoing is a summary of the itinerary change policy and is qualified in its entirety by the complete policy which is posted on Carnival's web site at carnival.com.
Cruise Rates: Government taxes and fees, taxes on airline transportation, air transportation, shore excursions, medical services, items of a personal nature such as bar beverages, gift shop purchases, beauty salon/barber shop and massage services, gambling and service/porterage gratuities are not included in the cruise rate. The amount of the taxes and charges specified herein are subject to change. Carnival reserves the right to pass through to the guests any increases which become effective after the printing of this brochure.
Sail & Sign®: For your convenience, charges for most of your onboard purchases are made to your Sail & Sign account. A required application form will be included with your documents. Carnival accepts American Express, VISA, MasterCard, Discover Card and cash for deposit on your account. (A minimum deposit will be required for cash accounts: 2 to 4 Day Cruises $100; 5 to 8 Day Cruises $200; 9 Day or Longer Cruises $350.)
Service Charges: A $100 service charge will be assessed for issuing prepaid airline tickets. A $35 service charge will be assessed within 60 days of departure for the following: a) any cruise or vacation package changes (per guest, per change), except for stateroom upgrades or the addition of services; b) any change from Fly Aweigh® to Cruise-Only status and changes of Fly Aweigh cities (per guest, per change); and c) research and/or providing copies of airline tickets or other documentation subsequent to your cruise (per request, payable in advance).
Liquor and Beverage Policy: Guests are prohibited from bringing alcoholic beverages on board. Fine wine or champagne may be brought on board only during embarkation at the beginning of the cruise. A $10 corkage fee per bottle will be charged should you wish to consume this wine in the dining room. Guests may bring a small quantity of non-alcoholic beverages. Excessive quantities, to be determined at the discretion of security and/or embarkation personnel, will be confiscated and retained by Carnival until the cruise is completed. Guests may purchase a variety of beverages onboard the ship. Alcoholic beverages will not be sold or served to anyone under the age of 21. We reserve the right to refuse the sale of alcoholic beverages to anyone. Alcoholic beverages purchased in the ships gift shops or in ports of call will be retained by Carnival until the end of the voyage.
Tipping: How much you tip is purely a personal matter and completely up to you. However, we do have many guests who ask for some guidelines in regard to what is appropriate. For your convenience, we are automatically adding the gratuities for your dining and stateroom services to your onboard Sail & Sign® charge account. The total amount will be $9.75 per guest, per day (our recommended guideline) as follows: Stateroom Services - $3.50 per guest per day; Dining Room Team Service - $5.50 per guest per day; Alternative Dining Service and Incentives for Dining Staff - $0.75 per guest per day. You have complete discretion to adjust these gratuities while onboard based upon the level of service you receive during the cruise. This will include the option to adjust gratuities (up or down) for any of the service teams. Tipping your Maitre d' is at your discretion, based upon the service you received. Other personnel, such as Bar and Room Service staff, may be tipped as service is rendered. For Cruises-To-Nowhere, gratuities of $10 per guest per day must be prepaid.
Clothing: Casual attire is in order during the day. For one or two nights, a dark suit or formal attire is suggested. The dress code for other evenings ranges from sport coat and tie to casual resort wear. Shorts and T-shirts are not permitted in the dining room during dinner. For Alaska cruises, sweaters, lightweight jackets and raincoats are suggested.
Shore Tours: Optional shore tours are available for purchase aboard the ship. Please bring your completed order form (available on board) to the Information Desk. On select ships, you will be able to order directly through your in-stateroom Fun Vision® system. These tours are operated by independent contractors and Carnival is not responsible for their actions.
Dining Room Reservations: Dining preferences (time, companions) may be requested by your travel agent at the time of booking. By popular request, all our Dining Rooms are now Smoke-Free. (Smoking is permitted in designated areas and in your stateroom, except for PARADISE, which is completely Smoke-Free.) No requests are guaranteed. Your table assignment will be confirmed at embarkation. Dining times are (subject to change):
Main Seating Late Seating: Breakfast (at sea): 7:45 A.M. 9:00 A.M. Lunch NOON: 1:30 P.M., Dinner:* 5:45 or 6:15 P.M. 8:00 or 8:30 P.M.
You can also enjoy a continental breakfast in your stateroom (until 10:00 A.M.) or a limited breakfast menu on deck. Lunch and dinner are also available bistro-style on the Lido Deck. (Seaview Bistro is not available on the last night of the cruise.) Spirit-class and Conquest-class ships have the added convenience of a reservations-only supper club (nominal fee will apply).
Breakfast times vary by ship; these times are provided as a general guideline. Please check your daily Capers for exact times. *We have four sittings for dinner on all ships except on Spirit-class ships (CARNIVALSPIRIT, CARNIVALPRIDE, CARNIVAL LEGEND, CARNIVAL MIRACLE), where we have two (Main-5:45 PM; Late-8:15 PM).
Passport Data: Proper travel documentation is required at embarkation and throughout the cruise and is the responsibility of the guest. Any guest traveling without proper documentation will not be allowed to board the vessel and no refund of the cruise fare will be issued. U.S. citizens must present proof of citizenship in the form of a passport (valid or expired for less than 10 years), original birth certificate, state-issued certified copy of a birth certificate from the Department of Health and Vital Statistics, U.S. Military ID (no dependent IDs), or original Naturalization papers. U.S. Alien Residents need a valid Alien Resident Card. Canadian citizens must present a valid passport, original birth certificate or certified copy of a birth certificate. Non-U.S. citizens need a valid passport and a valid, unexpired U.S. Multiple Re-Entry Visa, if applicable. Non-U.S. citizens eligible to apply for admission under the Visa Waiver Pilot Program must still have a valid, unexpired passport.
For sailings calling on Canadian ports of call, certain foreign nationals must obtain a Canadian visa in addition to the multiple-entry visa. Non-U.S. citizens must contact the appropriate consulates, U.S. Embassy and U.S. Immigration office to inquire about necessary travel documentation. Carnival assumes no responsibility for advising guests of Immigration requirements. For sailings calling on Bermuda, U.S. Alien Residents will need a valid passport (or a birth certificate and official photo ID) in addition to their Alien Resident Card.
All Non-U.S. citizens and U.S. Alien Residents must surrender their passport and/or green cards at time of embarkation. These documents will be returned upon completion of the Immigration inspection. To debark for more than 24 hours in Mexico, guests must have obtained a Mexican Tourist Card from either a travel agent or a Mexican consulate prior to their departure. Additionally, if debarking with children, guests must have a notarized affidavit from any absent parent indicating permission to travel with the accompanying adult.
In addition to the above requirements, all guests 16 years of age or older, must provide an official photo ID. It is important that guest names on travel documents (passport, Alien Resident Card, birth certificates, etc.) be identical to those on the cruise and airlines tickets. Otherwise, proof of name change (i.e., a marriage license) OR a valid drivers license or government issued photo ID (i.e., U.S. Military ID) must be presented.
Minor Guests: Guests under the age of 21 years must be accompanied by a parent, grandparent or guardian 25 years or older in the same stateroom. Infants must be at least four months old to be eligible to travel. Guests under the age of 21 staying at any hotel in conjunction with Carnivals Fly Aweigh® program or vacation packages may be required to be accompanied by a guest 21 years or older in the same room as per each hotels policy. Permission for minor guests to fly unaccompanied is permitted/denied by the airlines as per each airlines rules. Guests should check with their scheduled airline for eligibility. Carnival assumes no responsibility for guests under 21 years traveling unaccompanied by air. Our Camp Carnival® program features supervised activities for children 2-15. Please note that guests under 16 are not permitted in the spa and guests under 18 are not allowed in the casino.
Visitors: Carnival has a No Visitors policy and regrets any inconvenience this may cause.
Baggage Liability: We highly recommend that all guests purchase a vacation protection policy covering baggage, contents and accidents. Carnivals Cruise Vacation Protection Plan is a comprehensive program that is attractively priced. If you choose not to purchase insurance, Carnivals liability for lost or damaged baggage, contents and personal possessions is limited to a maximum of $50 per bag with a maximum total limitation of $100 per stateroom regardless of the number of bags. Carnival cannot accept liability for loss or theft of money, jewelry or other valuables left in the stateroom or public areas on board. Safe-deposit boxes are available in your stateroom, as well as at the Information Desk at no charge ($25 refundable key deposit). We highly recommend guests personally carry any valuables, medication or breakable items on and off the ship.
Baggage Assistance: Curbside porters are available at the pier during embarkation to take luggage to the vessel for delivery to your stateroom. Please be sure each piece of luggage is locked and has a tag listing your name, ship and stateroom number. Customary tip is $1 per bag. Curbside porters are not employees of Carnival; therefore, any problems are the responsibility of the guest. Carnival assumes no responsibility for carry-on luggage. Any luggage left at the pier will be forwarded at the guests expense. Claims for luggage loss or damage must be made in writing to the debarkation personnel prior to leaving the pier area.
Advanced or Delayed Sailings: In the event of strikes, lockouts, riots and stoppage of labor from whatever cause, or for any other reason whatsoever, including inclement weather, the ship owner may at any time cancel, advance or postpone any scheduled sailing and may, but is not obliged to, substitute another vessel and shall not be liable for any loss to guests by reason of such cancellation or substitution. Reservations are subject to change in the event of a full-ship charter.
Responsibility: Carnival neither controls, nor operates, nor is responsible for the actions of independent contractors, such as airlines, railroad companies, tour operators or ground transporters. Carnival denies any responsibility or liability for late arrival of your flight or train or for any illness, injury, damage, loss of cruise time or other irregularities resulting therefrom. Carnivals responsibility does not extend beyond the vessel. You are responsible for arriving at the respective ports on time for embarkation and for joining the vessel at its next port of call if for any reason you miss a scheduled sailing. Carnival reserves the right to refuse or discontinue passage to anyone when, in Carnivals judgment, it would be considered a risk to the guests own safety and well-being or the health, safety, well-being, comfort and enjoyment of any other guest or crew member.
Shipboard life
Special Diets: Special diet requirements may be requested by your travel agent at least two weeks prior to sailing. You should discuss the method of preparation of menu items with your waiter or headwater: There may be limitations in our ability to accommodate special orders. Kosher meals are not available.Medical Services: Should you require medical attention while onboard, our infirmary staff is available to assist you 24 hours a day. Our shipboard infirmaries meet or exceed the Medical Facilities Guidelines established by the International Council of Cruise Lines and the American College of Emergency Physicians. The medical staff is from the fields of Emergency Medicine and/or Family Practice, and is certified in Advanced Cardiac Life Support.
Our physicians are independent contractors and, as such, are entitled to render services at a customary charge. The charge for their services and any other medical expenses will be applied to your Sail & Sign account.
Pregnancy: Please be advised that guests who are 27 weeks or more into their pregnancy at the time of the voyage will not be permitted to sail because of the risk of premature labor.
Passengers with Special Needs: Carnival seeks, to the extent feasible, to accommodate passengers with special needs so they are able to enjoy our ships and other facilities. For example, service animals are permitted onboard ships if prior arrangements have been made at time of booking. In situations where a passenger with special needs, such as a passenger in a wheelchair; would be unable to be comfortably accommodated due to vessel safety barriers and other criteria, we may find it necessary to ask the passenger to bring along a companion to assist, or to make alternative arrangements.
Terms and conditions
IMPORTANT NOTICE TO GUESTS: THIS DOCUMENT IS A LEGALLY BINDING CONTRACT ISSUED BY CARNIVAL CRUISE LINES TO, AND ACCEPTED BY, GUEST SUBJECT TO THE IMPORTANT TERMS AND CONDITIONS APPEARING ON THE FOLLOWING 11 PAGES. THE PROVISIONS ON THE FOLLOWING PAGES OF THIS CONTRACT ARE INCORPORATED AS THOUGH FULLY REWRITTEN ON THE FACE OF THIS CONTRACT.NOTICE: THE ATTENTION OF PASSENGER IS ESPECIALLY DIRECTED TO CLAUSES 1 AND 13 THROUGH 17, WHICH CONTAIN IMPORTANT LIMITATIONS ON THE RIGHTS OF GUESTS TO ASSERT CLAIMS AGAINST CARNIVAL CRUISE LINES, THE VESSEL, THEIR AGENTS AND EMPLOYEES, AND OTHERS.
IMPORTANT TERMS AND CONDITIONS OF CONTRACT - READ CAREFULLY
In consideration of the receipt of the full cruise fare, Carnival Cruise Lines ("Carnival") agrees to transport Passenger on the above - specified voyage on the following terms and conditions:1. (a) Whenever the word "Carnival" is used in this Contract it shall mean and include, the Vessel, its owners, operators, employees, agents, charterers and tenders. The term "Passenger" shall include the plural where appropriate, and all persons or entities booking or purchasing passage and/or traveling under this Contract, including heirs, representatives and any accompanying minors. The masculine includes the feminine.
(b) "Cruise Fare" or "Fare" means the amount paid for cruise plus any air travel to or from the vessel at the beginning or end of the cruise, if arranged by Carnival. The fare includes full board, ordinary ship's food during the voyage, but not spirits, wine, beer, soft drinks or mineral waters, or any other incidental charge or expense. The cruise fare shall be deemed to be earned when paid and not refundable except as stated in Carnival's brochure applicable to the voyage and as provided in paragraph 8, herein.
(c) Cruise Fare does not include Government taxes and fees imposed or sanctioned by the U.S. Government or other Governments. These charges are in addition to the Cruise Fare and include but are not limited to, Passenger Facility Charges, Security Surcharges, Fuel Surcharges, International Passenger Departure or Arrival Tax, Customs User Fee, Immigration Fee and Agricultural Inspection Fee.
(d) This ticket is valid only for the person(s) named hereon as Passengers and cannot be transferred or modified without Carnival's written consent. It supersedes all prior contracts and representations, whether oral or written. The acceptance or use of this ticket by the person(s) named hereon as Passengers shall be deemed acceptance and agreement by each of them to all of the terms and conditions of this Passage Contract.
(e) All rights, exemptions from liability, defenses and immunities of Carnival under this contract shall also inure to the benefit of Carnival's facilities, whether at sea or ashore, servants, agents, managers, affiliated or related companies, suppliers, shipbuilders and manufacturers of component parts and independent contractors, including, but not limited to, shore excursion or tour operators, ship's physician, ship's nurse, retail shop personnel, health and beauty staff, fitness staff, video diary staff, and other concessionaires, who shall have no liability to the Passenger, either in contract or in tort, which is greater than or different from that of Carnival.
2. (a) The Passenger admits a full understanding of the character of the Vessel and assumes all risks incident to travel and transportation and handling of Passengers and cargo. The Vessel may or may not carry a ship's physician or other medical personnel at the election of Carnival. While at sea or in port the availability of medical care may be limited or delayed. Passenger acknowledges that all or part of their voyage may be in areas where medical care and evacuation may not be available. Passenger agrees to indemnify and reimburse Carnival in the event Carnival elects to advance the cost of emergency medical care, including medical care provided ashore as well as transportation and/or lodging in connection therewith.
(b) Carnival's vessels visit numerous ports in a number of countries. Passengers assume responsibility for their own safety and Carnival cannot guarantee Passenger's safety at any time. The United States Department of State, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and other governmental and tourist organizations regularly issue advisories and warnings to travelers and Carnival strongly recommends Passengers obtain and consider such information when making travel decisions. Carnival assumes no responsibility for gathering said information. The Passenger acknowledges that the cruise may be booked in a location that is susceptible to severe weather systems, including but not limited to, hurricanes, tropical storms and depressions, and that Carnival reserves the right to alter the ship's course, ports of call, itinerary, activity and shore excursions to avoid such weather systems and insure the comfort and safety of the Passenger and crew.
(c) Proper travel documentation is required at embarkation and throughout the cruise. Any passenger traveling without proper documentation will not be allowed to board the vessel and no refund of the cruise fare will be issued. United States citizens must produce proof of citizenship in the form of a passport (valid or expired for less than 10 years), original birth certificate, state-issued certified copy of birth certificate, U.S. Military ID, or original Naturalization papers. Canadian citizens must produce a valid passport, original birth certificate or certified copy of a birth certificate. U.S. Resident Aliens need an Alien Resident Card. Non-U.S. citizens need a valid passport and a valid, unexpired U.S. Multiple Re-Entry Visa if applicable. Aliens eligible to apply for admission under the Visa Waiver Pilot Program must have a valid, unexpired passport. Carnival assumes no responsibility for advising Passenger of Immigration requirements. Resident Aliens and Aliens must contact the appropriate consulate, U.S. Embassy and U.S. Immigration office to inquire about necessary travel documentation. Canada requires certain foreign nationals to obtain a Canadian visa in addition to the multiple-entry visa. All passengers 16 years of age or older, must provide an official photo I.D.
(d) Passenger acknowledges receipt of Carnival's applicable brochure and "Welcome Aboard" booklet. Passenger agrees to abide by the terms and conditions of Carnival's brochure and "Welcome Aboard" booklet.
(e) Passenger acknowledges that, for a voyage commencing in a United States port for a round-trip voyage via one or more United States ports, Passenger must complete the voyage and disembark at the embarkation port. Failure to do so may result in a fine or penalty being imposed by the United States Customs Service or other governmental agency. In consideration for the fare paid, Passenger agrees to pay any such fine or penalty imposed because of Passenger's failure to complete the voyage.
(f) Carnival shall refuse boarding to any Passenger under the age of twenty-one unless: (1) the Passenger is traveling in the same cabin with an individual twenty-five years or older; (2) traveling in the same cabin with their spouse; or (3) traveling with a parent or guardian in an accompanying cabin. Proof of age and/or proof of marriage are required. Carnival shall not be liable to make any refunds or for any damages with respect to any Passenger's failure to provide proper proof of age or marriage or otherwise comply with this provision.
3. Any travel agent or sales agent utilized by the Passenger in connection with this contract is solely the agent of the Passenger and not Carnival. Carnival is not responsible for the financial condition or integrity of any travel agent utilized by Passenger. In the event that an agent shall fail to remit to Carnival any monies paid to the agent by Passenger, Passenger shall be and remain liable for the fare due to Carnival, regardless of whether liability is asserted before or after embarkation. Issuance and validity of ticket contract is conditional upon final payment being received by Carnival prior to sailing. Any refund made by Carnival to an agent on behalf of Passenger shall be deemed payment to Passenger, regardless whether the monies are delivered by the agent to Passenger. Receipt of this ticket contract, any other documentation or notification pertaining to the cruise by Passenger's travel agent shall constitute receipt by Passenger.
4. (a) Each fully paid adult Passenger will be allowed an unlimited amount of baggage free of charge. Baggage means only trunks, valises, satchels, bags, hangers and bundles with their contents consisting of only such wearing apparel, toilet articles and similar personal effects as are necessary and appropriate for the purpose of the journey.
(b) No tools of trade, household goods, presents and/or property of others, jewelry, money, cameras, documents, valuables of any description including but not limited to such articles as are described in Section 4281 Revised Statute of the U.S.A. (46 USC § 181) shall be carried except under and subject to the terms of a special written contract or Bill of Lading entered into with Carnival prior to embarkation upon application of the Passenger. The Passenger warrants that no such articles are contained in any receptacle or container presented by him as baggage hereunder, and if any such articles are shipped in the Passenger's baggage in breach of this warranty, no liability for negligence, gross or ordinary, shall attach to Carnival for any loss or damage thereto.
(c) Carnival shall not be liable for: (1) Passenger's failure to comply with the requirements set forth in Clauses 4(a) and 4(b); (2) any loss or damage before baggage comes into Carnival's actual custody on board or after baggage leaves Carnival's actual custody on board, including, but not limited to, loss or damage by airlines or other transportation services; (3) any loss or damage of baggage while not in the actual possession, custody and control of Carnival; (4) damage due to wear, tear or normal usage; (5) any loss or damage of perishable items, medicine, liquor, cash, securities or other financial instruments, or (6) any loss or damage while in the custody and control of stevedores.
(d) It is stipulated and agreed that the aggregate value of Passenger's property, does not exceed US$50 per passenger or bag with a maximum value of US$100 per cabin regardless of the number of occupants or bags and any liability of Carnival for any cause whatsoever with respect to said property shall not exceed such sum, unless the Passenger shall in writing, delivered to Carnival, prior to embarkation, declare the true value thereof and pay to Carnival prior to embarkation a sum equal to 5% of the excess of such value. If Carnival shall be held liable for the loss of or damage to Passenger's baggage or property it is agreed that such liability shall not exceed the lesser of: (1) the actual cash value, or (2) value declared in the manner above provided (up to US$100 if no such declaration has been made). Declared value amounts to be proportionately reduced in any case where less than all of Passenger's baggage or property is lost, delayed or rendered unusable due to damage. In no event shall Carnival be liable to pay any compensation if the nature or value of the property has been misrepresented.
(e) No Passenger is permitted to bring on board the Vessel live animals (other than qualified service animals , with not less than 14 days advance notice given to Carnival) Weapons, Firearms, Ammunition, Explosives or other dangerous goods without written permission from Carnival. Passenger will be solely responsible for any and all damage and/or loss caused by service animals.
5. Carnival has the right without previous notice to cancel this contract at the port of embarkation or any time during the voyage and shall thereupon return to the Passenger, if the Contract is completely canceled, his passage money, or, if the Contract is partially canceled, a proportionate part thereof. Under such circumstances, Carnival shall have no further liability for damages or compensation of any kind.
6. (a)The Passenger warrants that he and those traveling with him are physically fit to travel at the time of embarkation and is required to notify Carnival in writing at the time of booking the cruise of any physical disability or medical condition which may require special assistance during the voyage. Failure to do so will release Carnival from any liability for loss, damages or other compensation arising from or related in any way to such disability or condition. Upon booking the cruise, passengers who have special needs are required to contact Carnival's Special Needs Desk (305-599-2600 ext. 70025) to discuss the details of their special needs. Carnival reserves the right to require that any Passenger, who is not self-sufficient, travel with a companion who shall take responsibility for any assistance needed during the voyage and in case of emergency.
(b) Carnival and the Master each reserves the right to refuse passage, disembark or confine to a cabin any Passenger whose physical or mental condition, or behavior would be considered in the sole opinion of the Captain and/or the ship's physician to constitute a risk to the Passenger's own well-being or that of any other Passenger or crew member. Passengers who will enter their third trimester(twenty seventh week) of pregnancy by the time of the voyage and infants less than four months old shall not be permitted to board the vessel. Carnival and the Master reserve the right to disembark any passenger whose behavior affects the comfort, enjoyment, safety or well being of other passengers or of any crew.
(c) Passenger acknowledges that Carnival's vessels contain non-smoking sections. Passenger agrees to refrain from smoking in those sections and agrees that Carnival has the right to disembark the Passenger for failure to observe Carnival's non-smoking policy.
(d) Passengers are prohibited from bringing alcoholic beverages on Carnival's vessels for on board consumption. Alcoholic beverages purchased in the vessel's gift shops or ashore cannot be consumed aboard the vessel and will be retained by Carnival until the end of the voyage. Passengers who are celebrating a special occasion are permitted to bring fine wine or champagne (no other alcohol is permitted) at the beginning of the cruise during embarkation day only. A US$10 corkage fee will be charged should passengers wish to consume this wine/champagne in the dining room. Carnival reserves the right to refuse to serve alcohol to any passenger. Passenger acknowledges that the minimum age permitted for the purchase, possession or consumption of alcoholic beverages aboard Carnival's vessels is twenty-one (21). Passenger agrees to supervise all persons under age twenty-one (21) under Passenger's charge to insure that they do not violate this, or any other, shipboard regulation. Passengers who attempt to purchase alcohol by using false identification or the Sail & Sign card of a Passenger who is twenty-one or older will be deemed in violation of this policy. Any Passenger 21 or older who attempts to or purchases alcohol for any passenger under twenty-one will also be deemed in violation of this policy. Passenger agrees that Carnival has the right to disembark any passenger who violates this policy and as well as any adults traveling with minors who violate this policy or any other shipboard regulation.
7. Carnival reserves the right to increase published fares without prior notice. In the event of an increase, the Passenger has the option of accepting the increased fare or canceling reservations without penalty. Carnival reserves the right to use any substitute ship in the performance of this contract.
8. Reservations will be held until 30 minutes prior to departure. No refunds will be made in the event of "no shows", unused tickets, lost tickets, interruptions, partially used tickets, or cancellations received late or after the start of the cruise. A cancellation occurs when a cabin is released and not simultaneously rebooked on the same sailing. Carnival strongly recommends the purchase of trip cancellation insurance from your travel agent. Cancellation charges for individual bookings will be assessed as listed below. For cancellation charges related to group bookings, partial ship charters or full ship charters refer to your charter contract or group booking agreement for terms and conditions.
9. (a) The Vessel shall be entitled to leave and enter ports with or without pilots or tugs, to tow and assist other vessels in any circumstances, to return to or enter any port at the Master's discretion and for any purpose and to deviate in any direction or for any purpose from the direct or usual course, and to omit or change any or all port calls, arrival or departure times, with or without notice, for any reason whatsoever, including but not limited to safety, security, adverse weather, strikes, tides, hostilities, emergency debarkations of Passengers or crew, or late air, sea, car or motor coach departures or arrivals, all such deviations being considered as forming part of and included in the proposed voyage. Carnival shall have no liability for any compensation or other damages in such circumstances.
10. (a) Passenger agrees during the course of the voyage to follow the directions of the ship's Master, or his authorized officer. Passenger further agrees not to solicit anyone on the vessel for any commercial or professional purposes. Passenger agrees that any violation of this paragraph may subject passenger to disembarkation.
(b) Passenger agrees, in all ports of call, to return to the Vessel not less than 30 minutes before the scheduled departure time. Passenger further acknowledges that shipboard and shore side clocks may have different times, but it is Passenger's responsibility to return to the vessel so as not to miss vessel's departure. Any costs associated with transporting Passenger to rejoin the vessel including, but not limited to, governmental fees, visa fees, subsistence, lodging, air fare, launch fare, car hire or agency fees shall be for the account of Passenger.
(c) Carnival has a "zero tolerance" policy towards reports of any illegal activity or behavior by passengers or crew aboard its vessels. Passenger agrees to comply with this policy and further acknowledges that Carnival will report any and all alleged instances of illegal activity or behavior to the appropriate law enforcement authorities.
11. The Passenger shall be liable to and shall reimburse Carnival or the Master for any fines or penalties imposed on Carnival by any government, governmental agency or official, port or port official, for Passenger's failure to observe or comply with local requirements in respect of immigration, border patrol, customs and excise, agriculture, health or any other government regulation whatsoever.
12. The Passenger or Passenger's estate shall be liable to and shall reimburse Carnival for all deviation expenses (including loss of revenue), damages to the Vessel, its furnishings, operations or equipment, or any property of Carnival caused directly or indirectly, in whole or in part, by any misconduct, willful or negligent act or omission on the part of the Passenger or any minors traveling with Passenger. The Passenger or Passenger's estate shall defend and indemnify Carnival and the Vessel, their servants and agents against liability which Carnival or the Vessel or such servants or agents may incur towards any person, company or Government for any damage to property, personal injury or death caused directly or indirectly, in whole or in part, by any misconduct, willful or negligent act or omission on the part of the Passenger or minors traveling with Passenger.
13. (a)Passenger acknowledges that all Shore excursions/tours (whether conducted in the water, on land or by air), airline flights and ground transportation, as well as the ship's physician, nurse and on board concessions (including but not limited to, the gift shops, spa, beauty salon, fitness center, golf and art programs, video/snorkel concession) are either operated by or are independent contractors. Carnival neither supervises nor controls their actions, nor makes any representation either express or implied as to their suitability. Carnival, in arranging for the services called for by the physician or nurse, all on board concessions, all shore excursion/tour tickets, all pre and post cruise airline flights or other transportation off of the ship and its tenders, does so only as a convenience for the Passenger, and Passengers are free to use or not use these services. Passenger agrees that Carnival assumes no responsibility, does not guarantee performance and in no event shall be liable for any negligent or intentional acts or omissions, loss, damage, injury or delay to Passenger and/or Passenger's baggage, property or effects in connection with said services. Passengers use the services of all independent contractors at the Passenger's sole risk. Independent contractors are entitled to make a proper charge for any service performed with respect to a Passenger.
(b) Passenger acknowledges that the ship's masseuse, barber, hair dresser, manicurist, fitness or golf instructor, videographer, art auctioneer, gift shop personnel, wedding planners or other providers of personal services are employees of independent contractors and Carnival is not responsible for their actions. Passenger further acknowledges that although independent contractors or their employees may use signage or clothing which contain the name "Carnival" or other related trade names or logos, the independent contractor status remains unchanged. Independent contractors, their employees and assistants are not agents, servants or employees of Carnival and have no authority to act on behalf of Carnival.
14.(a) Carnival shall not be liable for any claims whatsoever for personal injury, illness or death of the passenger, unless full particulars in writing are given to Carnival within 185 days after the date of the injury, event, illness or death giving rise to the claim. Suit to recover on any such claim shall not be maintainable unless filed within one year after the date of the injury, event, illness or death, and unless served on Carnival within 120 days after filing. Passenger expressly waives all other potentially applicable state or federal limitations periods.
(b) Carnival shall not be liable for any claims whatsoever, other than for personal injury, illness or death of the Passenger, unless full particulars in writing are given to Carnival within 30 days after the Passenger is landed from the Vessel or in the case the Voyage is abandoned, within 30 days thereafter. Suit to recover on any claim whatsoever other than for personal injury, illness or death shall not be maintainable unless filed within six months after the date Passenger is landed from the Vessel or in the case the Voyage is abandoned, within six months thereafter, and unless served upon Carnival within 120 days after filing. Passenger expressly waives all other potentially applicable state or federal limitation periods for claims which, include but are not limited to, allegations concerning any and all civil rights, the ADA, trade practices and/or advertising.
(c) In consideration for the fare paid, it is agreed that Carnival shall not be held vicariously liable for the intentional or negligent acts of any persons not employed by Carnival nor for any intentional or negligent acts of Carnival's employees committed while off duty or outside the course and scope of their employment.
(d) In consideration for the fare paid, it is agreed that Carnival shall have no liability as a consequence of passenger's use of ship's athletic or recreational equipment or as a consequence of passenger's decision to participate in any athletic or recreational activity or event.
15. It is agreed by and between the Passenger and Carnival that all disputes and matters whatsoever arising under, in connection with or incident to this Contract or the Passenger's cruise, including travel to and from the vessel, shall be litigated, if at all, before the United States District Court for the Southern District of Florida in Miami, or as to those lawsuits to which the Federal Courts of the United States lack subject matter jurisdiction, before a court located in Miami-Dade County, Florida, U.S.A. to the exclusion of the Courts of any other county, state or country.
16. On cruises which neither embark, disembark nor call at any U.S. port,Carnival shall be entitled to any and all liability limitations and immunities provided under the Athens Convention Relating to the Carriage of Passengers and Their Luggage by Sea of 1974, as well as the 1976 Protocol to the Convention Relating to the Carriage of Passengers and Their Luggage by Sea ("Athens Convention"), which limits Carnival's liability for death or personal injury of a passenger to no more than 46,666 Special Drawing Rights as defined therein (approximately US$60,000 which fluctuates depending on daily exchange rate as printed in the Wall Street Journal), and all other limits for damage or loss to personal property.
17. (a) Carnival shall not be liable to the passenger for damages for emotional distress, mental suffering/anguish or psychological injury of any kind under any circumstances, except when such damages were caused by the negligence of Carnival and resulted from the same passenger sustaining actual physical injury, or having been at risk of actual physical injury, or when such damages are held to be intentionally inflicted by Carnival.
(b) In addition to all the restrictions and exemptions from liability provided in this Contract, Carnival shall have the benefit of all Statutes of the United States of America providing for limitation and exoneration from liability and the procedures provide thereby, including but not limited to Sections 4282, 4282A, 4283, 4284, 4285 and 4286 of the Revised Statutes of the United States of America (46 USCA Sections 182, 183, 183c (b), 183b, 184, 185 and 186); as well as all restrictions or exemptions from liability, when applicable, under the laws of any foreign nation. Nothing in this Contract is intended to nor shall it operate to limit or deprive Carnival or any such statutory limitation of or exoneration from liability under any applicable laws.
18. If the performance of the proposed voyage is hindered or prevented (or in the opinion of Carnival or the Master is likely to be hindered or prevented) by war, hostilities, blockage, ice, labor conflicts, strikes on board or ashore, restraint of Princes, Rulers or People, seizure under legal process, breakdown of the Vessel, congestion, docking difficulties or any other cause whatsoever or if Carnival or the Master considers that for any reason whatsoever, proceeding to, attempting to enter, or entering or remaining at the port of Passenger's destination may expose the Vessel to risk or loss or damage or be likely to delay her, the Passenger and his baggage may be landed at the port of embarkation or at any port or place at which the Vessel may call, at which time the responsibility of Carnival shall cease and this contract shall be deemed to have been fully performed, or if the Passenger has not embarked, Carnival may cancel the proposed voyage without liability to refund passage money or fares paid in advance.
19. Carnival and the Master shall have liberty to comply with any orders, recommendations or directions whatsoever given by the Government or Department of any nation or by any person acting or purporting to act with the authority of such Government or Department or by any Committee or person having under the terms of the War Risks Insurance on the Vessel the right to give such orders, recommendations or directions, and if by reason of, and in compliance with any such orders, recommendations or directions anything is done or is not done the same shall not be deemed a deviation or a breach of this contract. Disembarkation of any Passenger or discharge of baggage in accordance with such orders, recommendations or directions shall constitute due and proper fulfillment of the obligation of Carnival under this Contract
20. Carnival and the Vessel shall have a lien upon all baggage, money and other property whatsoever accompanying the Passenger and the right to sell the same by public auction or otherwise for all sums whatsoever due from the Passenger under this contract and for the costs and expenses of enforcing such lien and such sale.
21.Carnival and/or its promotional partners have the exclusive right to include photographic, video and other visual portrayals of Passenger in any medium of any nature whatsoever for the purpose of trade, advertising, sales, publicity or otherwise, without compensation to Passenger, and all rights, title and interest therein (including all worldwide copyrights therein) shall be Carnival's sole property, free from any claims by Passenger or any person deriving any rights or interest from Passenger.
22. This contract constitutes the entire agreement between Carnival and Passenger and supercedes all other agreements, oral or written. Any alteration to any term of this contract must be in writing and signed by Carnival. Should any provision of this contract be contrary to or invalid by virtue of the law of the jurisdiction in which this contract is sought to be enforced or be so held by a court of competent jurisdiction, such provision(s) shall be deemed to be severed from the Contract and of no effect and all remaining provisions herein shall be in full force and effect and constitute the Contract of Carriage.
23. Passenger hereby expressly agrees that he/she will not utilize any tape recording, video, or photograph(s) of himself/herself, any other passenger, crew, or third party on board the vessel, or depicting the vessel, its design, equipment, or any part thereof whatsoever, for any commercial purpose or in any media broadcast, or for any other non-private use, without the express written consent of Carnival. Passenger acknowledges that by boarding the vessel, at any time, Passenger irrevocably agrees to this provision, which is a condition precedent to being permitted on board the vessel and can be enforced by any legal means, including, but not limited to, injunctive relief.
24. If passenger is denied boarding, confined to a cabin or disembarked from the vessel pursuant to any provision of this contract, including but not limited to paragraphs 2(c), 2(f), 6(b), 6(c), 6(d), 10(a), passenger agrees:
a. Carnival will not be liable for any refund of Cruise Fare , other compensation or any damages
b.All rights under Carnival's Vacation Guarantee are forfeited. This forfeiture also applies to any passenger who disembarks because another passenger is disembarked.
c. Disembarkation and repatriation to the embarkation port or any other destination will be at passenger's sole expense.
d. To indemnify Carnival and that Carnival may charge Passenger's on-board charge account for any and all expenses incurred by Carnival in relation to Passenger's disembarkation and/or repatriation.
25. Passenger agrees if Carnival incurs any expense or sustains any damage as delineated but not limited to paragraphs 2(a), 2(e),10(b), 11, 12 that Carnival may charge Passenger's on-board charge account for any expense incurred or damage sustained.
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