Ship Comparison
Carnival Conquest vs Carnival Tropicale
For a classic, lively short cruise, Carnival Conquest delivers, while Carnival Tropicale promises a modern, expansive family adventure upon its 2028 debut.
The verdict
Carnival Conquest, despite its 2002 build and 2022 refresh, maintains a distinct 'Old School Carnival' charm, offering a boisterous, fun-filled environment ideal for short, value-focused getaways to the Bahamas. Its dedicated crew and established amenities provide a comfortable, if sometimes crowded, experience. In contrast, Carnival Tropicale, an Excel-class newbuild launching in 2028, represents a leap forward with a strong emphasis on innovative family-centric features like the Sunsation Point waterpark and extensive interconnecting cabins. It promises a modern, active, and vibrant atmosphere, targeting those seeking the latest in cruise ship design and family-friendly programming.
Choose Carnival Conquest if…
Carnival Conquest is for guests who appreciate a lively, unpretentious cruise experience with a strong party vibe, especially for short Caribbean escapes. It appeals to those who enjoy classic Carnival entertainment, a variety of casual dining, and a social atmosphere without a premium price tag. Families seeking value and a fun-filled environment for older kids on slightly longer sailings will also find it suitable.
Best for
- The Social Cocktail Connoisseur
- The Weekend Warrior
- The Value-Seeking Family Funster (on 4-night sailings)
- The Classic Carnival Enthusiast
Avoid if
- Families with young kids on 3-night cruises
- Guests seeking quiet, uncrowded experiences
- Travelers averse to 'Old School Carnival' décor
Choose Carnival Tropicale if…
Carnival Tropicale is ideal for families and active cruisers seeking a modern, innovative, and spacious ship experience. It caters to those who desire cutting-edge waterpark attractions, enhanced youth programs, and flexible cabin configurations for groups. Early adopters interested in new concepts, environmental consciousness (LNG power), and a vibrant, contemporary atmosphere will find it particularly appealing.
Best for
- The Family Fun Seeker
- The Thrill & Activity Enthusiast
- The Modern Cruiser (Early Adopter)
- The Social & Entertainment Lover
Avoid if
- Guests expecting the BOLT roller coaster
- Travelers who prefer traditional, established cruise experiences over new, untested features
- Those who dislike large, bustling ships
Overall Vibe
Carnival Conquest
Built in 2002 and refreshed in 2022, Carnival Conquest offers a vibrant "Old School Carnival" experience, complete with distinctive Joe Farcus interiors. This 14-deck vessel maintains a lively, unpretentious charm, blending classic cruising elements with updated touches like USB outlets in cabins. It’s a ship that embraces its heritage while ensuring modern comforts, creating a familiar and energetic atmosphere for guests seeking straightforward fun at sea. The overall impression is one of a well-loved ship ready for a good time.
Carnival Tropicale
Launching in 2028, Carnival Tropicale is poised to be Carnival's fifth Excel-class mega-ship, representing the future of the fleet. This newbuild is designed with a modern, innovative ethos, emphasizing expansive outdoor spaces and cutting-edge features, including being powered by liquified natural gas (LNG). Its design signals a contemporary, family-focused approach, moving beyond traditional Carnival aesthetics to offer a fresh, active, and vibrant cruising environment. The ship promises significant innovations, building on the success of its predecessors.
Atmosphere & Crowd
Carnival Conquest
Carnival Conquest cultivates a loud, boisterous, and party-hard atmosphere, especially popular on its shorter 3- and 4-night Bahamas cruises. Carrying up to 2,980 guests, the ship attracts a diverse crowd of vacationers looking to truly let loose. While the energy is high and can be intense, particularly on weekend sailings, the dedicated crew works to ensure a fun-filled experience for all ages. It’s an environment where social interaction and lively moments are at the heart of the journey.
Carnival Tropicale
As a larger Excel-class ship set to accommodate 5,270 passengers with a crew of 926, Carnival Tropicale is being designed for a vibrant, family-friendly atmosphere. The focus is on active enjoyment and modern comfort, with enhanced youth programs and expansive top-deck attractions indicating a lively, inclusive environment. While specific crowd dynamics are yet to be seen, the ship’s scale and amenities suggest a bustling but well-managed flow, catering to families and active cruisers seeking a contemporary experience.
Dining
Carnival Conquest
Dining on Carnival Conquest offers a wide range of choices, from the complimentary two-deck Monet and Renoir Restaurants, praised for good quality and variety, to casual poolside favorites like Guy's Burger Joint and BlueIguana Cantina. The Lido Marketplace (Cezanne) provides a diverse buffet, while specialty options include The Point Steakhouse, Sushi at Sea, and The Chef's Table for a more gourmet experience. Even a fun Green Eggs and Ham Breakfast is offered, creating a comprehensive culinary journey.
Carnival Tropicale
Carnival Tropicale will continue the popular complimentary dining tradition with Guy's Burger Joint, a staple for delicious poolside burgers. It will also feature the rustic Pig & Anchor Smokehouse Brewery, known for its smoked meats and craft beers, and Big Chicken for quick-service poultry. The ship is set to introduce an unnamed new dining outlet, replacing previous Chinese and Mexican eateries, indicating a fresh approach to specialty cuisine. The emphasis appears to be on casual, well-loved Carnival favorites.
Entertainment & Nightlife
Carnival Conquest
Carnival Conquest's entertainment is diverse and lively, featuring large-scale Playlist Productions shows in the three-story Toulouse-Lautrec theatre, alongside variety acts and game shows. For nightlife, guests can enjoy craft cocktails at Alchemy Bar, sing-alongs at the Blues Piano Bar, or dance until late at Henri's Nightclub. The Punchliner Comedy Club offers both family-friendly and adult-only stand-up, while the SkyBox Sports Bar caters to sports fans, ensuring options for every evening mood.
Carnival Tropicale
Carnival Tropicale is set to introduce innovative entertainment concepts, most notably the Sunsation Point waterpark, which will feature six slides, splash pads, and evening illuminations with a DJ. This promises a dynamic, interactive experience for all ages. The ship will also debut new music venues across decks 6, 7, and 8, including zones for outdoor performances, suggesting a strong focus on live music and social gatherings. While specific show lounges aren't detailed, the overall direction points to modern, active, and musically-rich entertainment.
Cabins & Suites
Carnival Conquest
Carnival Conquest offers a range of accommodations, from Interior and Ocean View to Balcony staterooms and various Suites, including Junior, Ocean, Grand, and the expansive Captain's Suite (up to 806 sq ft). Cabins are generally larger than industry average, featuring comfortable Carnival’s Signature Bed and Bedding, updated soft furnishings, and new USB ports. Suites provide VIP perks like priority check-in and deluxe bathrooms, ensuring a comfortable and well-appointed retreat for every guest.
Carnival Tropicale
Carnival Tropicale will prioritize family comfort with a significant innovation: 1,000 interconnecting cabins, marking a 70 percent increase compared to its Excel-class predecessors. This thoughtful design choice will make it considerably easier for larger families and groups to stay together. While specific cabin sizes or suite categories are not yet detailed, the emphasis on connectivity highlights a commitment to flexible and accommodating living spaces, catering directly to the needs of multi-generational travelers.
Service & Onboard Style
Carnival Conquest
The Carnival Conquest upholds the cruise line's reputation for dedicated and spot-on service, with crew members known for their friendliness and efficiency. The onboard style is "Old School Carnival," characterized by vibrant, art-inspired Joe Farcus designs that create a distinctive, energetic atmosphere. Despite its 2002 build, the 2022 refresh ensures a well-maintained environment, blending classic charm with modern amenities, offering a reliable and familiar experience for returning Carnival guests.
Carnival Tropicale
As a brand-new Excel-class ship launching in 2028, Carnival Tropicale is expected to deliver a modern standard of Carnival's renowned service, focusing on efficiency and guest satisfaction within its contemporary environment. Its onboard style will be fresh and innovative, moving towards expansive outdoor spaces and advanced features, including LNG power. While specific service nuances are yet to be experienced, the ship's forward-thinking design suggests a smooth, technologically integrated, and highly Personalized cruise experience.
Best Itineraries
Carnival Conquest
Carnival Conquest is ideally suited for short, lively getaways, primarily offering 3- and 4-night cruises to the Bahamas. These itineraries are perfect for vacationers seeking a quick escape with a strong emphasis on fun, parties, and a bustling social scene. The shorter duration and destination make it an accessible option for first-time cruisers or those looking for a value-packed, high-energy mini-vacation without committing to a longer voyage.
Carnival Tropicale
While specific itineraries for Carnival Tropicale are not yet announced, its design as a large Excel-class ship with 1,000 interconnecting cabins and extensive family-focused amenities like Sunsation Point waterpark suggests it will be best suited for longer, family-centric cruises. These voyages would allow ample time for multi-generational groups to fully explore the ship's innovative features and enhanced youth programming, making it an ideal choice for extended family vacations that prioritize onboard activities and shared experiences.
What reviewers say
Carnival Conquest
4/5Carnival Conquest, despite its age, offers a solid short cruise getaway with comfortable staterooms and engaging public rooms. The dedicated crew provides spot-on service, ensuring a memorable time onboard and ashore for vacationers seeking lively fun.
Carnival Tropicale
Carnival Tropicale is an upcoming Excel-class ship, slated for a 2028 launch, promising significant innovations and a strong family focus. This preview highlights its new top-deck attractions and enhanced cabin configurations designed to cater to a broad audience.
Itineraries to compare
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Carnival Conquest
Carnival Tropicale
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