Carnival vs Royal Caribbean
Which Cruise Line Is Better? (2025 Comparison)
Complete head-to-head comparison for NJ residents. Prices, ships, dining, entertainment, and more. Get expert advice from local travel agents who know both cruise lines.
The Bottom Line Up Front
Choose Carnival If:
- ✓You want the best value (25-35% cheaper)
- ✓You don't mind mid-size ships
- ✓You love high-energy fun and comedy
- ✓You prefer casual dress code
- ✓You need more departure dates (50+ vs 30+)
Choose Royal Caribbean If:
- ✓Budget is flexible (30% premium)
- ✓You want the biggest ships
- ✓You love Broadway shows and ice skating
- ✓You're a foodie (15-25 dining venues)
- ✓You prefer upscale experiences
For NJ residents: Carnival wins for convenience (50+ annual departures from Port Liberty vs. Royal Caribbean's 30+)
Price & Value: Carnival Wins
| Cruise Length | Carnival (Inside) | Royal Caribbean (Inside) | Savings with Carnival |
|---|---|---|---|
| 5-Day Bahamas | $450-$600 | $650-$850 | $200-$250 (31%) |
| 7-Day Caribbean | $750-$950 | $1,100-$1,400 | $350-$450 (32%) |
| 8-Day Bermuda | $800-$1,000 | $1,200-$1,500 | $400-$500 (33%) |
Real Example: Family of 4 (5-Day Bahamas, Inside Cabin)
Carnival: $2,000 total ($500/person)
Royal Caribbean: $2,800 total ($700/person)
Savings with Carnival: $800 (28% cheaper)
Verdict: Carnival is 25-35% cheaper across all cabin types and itineraries. For budget-conscious families, this translates to $500-$1,200 in savings per cruise.
Ship Size & Amenities: Royal Caribbean Wins
Carnival Fleet (Port Liberty)
Carnival Mardi Gras (2021)
5,200 passengers • 180,000 tons
BOLT roller coaster (first at sea!), 6 themed zones, 11 dining venues
Carnival Liberty (2005)
2,974 passengers • 110,000 tons
Budget-friendly, great for families
Royal Caribbean Fleet (Port Liberty)
Anthem of the Seas (2015)
4,180 passengers • 168,666 tons
North Star observation capsule, RipCord skydiving, SeaPlex bumper cars
Adventure of the Seas (2001)
3,858 passengers • 142,000 tons
Rock climbing, ice skating, Broadway shows
Verdict: Royal Caribbean has more diverse activities (rock climbing, ice skating, FlowRider surf simulator), especially for thrill-seekers. Carnival's BOLT roller coaster is unique, but overall Royal Caribbean wins for amenities.
Dining: Royal Caribbean Wins (But Carnival Is Good Value)
| Category | Carnival | Royal Caribbean |
|---|---|---|
| Total Venues | 8-12 | 15-25 |
| Specialty Dining Cost | $15-$50/person | $35-$75/person |
| Free Casual Options | Guy's Burger Joint, BlueIguana Cantina | Café Promenade, Sorrento's Pizza |
| Upscale Dining | Good | Excellent |
Verdict: Royal Caribbean wins for variety and upscale dining (15-25 venues vs 8-12). Carnival wins for value (cheaper specialty dining, better free casual options like Guy's Burger Joint).
Frequently Asked Questions
Which cruise line has better food: Carnival or Royal Caribbean?
Royal Caribbean has more dining variety (15-25 venues vs. 8-12) and better upscale dining. Carnival has better free casual dining (Guy's Burger Joint, BlueIguana Cantina). If you plan to stick to included dining, Carnival offers better value. If you'll pay for specialty dining, Royal Caribbean is superior.
Is Carnival or Royal Caribbean better for first-time cruisers?
Carnival is better for first-timers—easier to navigate, more casual, less overwhelming, and cheaper (so if you hate cruising, you didn't spend as much).
Which is better for adults-only (no kids)?
Royal Caribbean—more upscale, refined atmosphere, better entertainment for adults. Carnival can feel very family-oriented (loud, kids everywhere).
Can I really wear jeans to dinner on Carnival?
Yes! Carnival allows jeans on all nights except Elegant Night (and even then, dark/neat jeans are usually fine). Royal Caribbean allows jeans on smart casual nights but expects dressier attire on formal nights.
Do both cruise lines sail from Port Liberty year-round?
Yes, both offer year-round departures from Port Liberty, NJ. Carnival has more frequent sailings (50+ vs. 30+).
Still Can't Decide?
Our NJ-based travel experts know both cruise lines inside and out. We've sailed on both, and we can help you choose the right one based on your priorities, budget, and travel dates from Port Liberty.