Carnival Elation vs Carnival Dream

Carnival Elation

Built in 1998 as a classic Fantasy-class vessel and refurbished in 2017, Carnival Elation offers a more intimate and traditional cruising experience. She blends retro charm with modern amenities, creating a comfortable yet lively atmosphere across her 15 decks. Her overall vibe is designed to inspire fun with a muses theme, providing a value-oriented vacation where guests can be as active or relaxed as they choose. Her smaller size makes for easy navigation, appealing to those who prefer a less overwhelming ship.

Carnival Dream

Launched in 2009 as the genesis of the Dream class and refurbished in 2017, Carnival Dream is a larger, more modern ship that masterfully balances vibrant energy with comfortable relaxation. She features a wide array of innovative dining and entertainment options across her 15 decks. Her overall vibe is one of lively, family-focused fun, while also providing ample opportunities for serene escapes, appealing to those who appreciate a dynamic yet well-balanced cruise experience with contemporary touches.

Carnival Elation

Carrying 2,190 guests with a crew of 920, Carnival Elation maintains a friendly, uncrowded feel, allowing for a more personalized experience. The atmosphere is notably family-friendly and lively, yet offers dedicated retreats like the Serenity Adult-Only Retreat for those seeking tranquility. Expect a casual environment where guests can easily socialize or find quiet corners. The ship's smaller scale fosters a sense of community, appealing to those who enjoy a classic cruise vibe without the hustle and bustle of larger vessels.

Carnival Dream

Hosting 3,646 guests with a crew of 1,367, Carnival Dream offers a bustling yet genuinely friendly atmosphere. The ship is renowned for its exceptional and happy crew, contributing to a welcoming environment. It's particularly family-centric and lively, especially during peak seasons, but thoughtfully designed spaces like the adults-only Serenity retreat and the Lanai Promenade provide quieter spots for relaxation, ensuring a comfortable experience for various preferences on this larger vessel.

Carnival Elation

Carnival Elation offers a robust selection of complimentary dining. Guests can enjoy diverse options from the Dining Room, with rotating menus and Steakhouse Selections, to the casual Lido Marketplace featuring a variety of stations including BBQ, deli, and pasta. Poolside favorites include Guy's Burger Joint for hand-cut fries and burgers, and BlueIguana Cantina for fresh tacos and burritos. Pizza Pirate serves 24-hour pizza, while Sweet Spot satisfies dessert cravings. For a special treat, The Chef's Table provides an exclusive multi-course experience for an additional $75.

Carnival Dream

Carnival Dream boasts an impressive selection of dining venues. Complimentary options include the dual-level Scarlett and Crimson Restaurants, Guy's Burger Joint, BlueIguana Cantina, and Guy's Pig & Anchor Smokehouse for delicious BBQ on sea days. The Gathering Lido Buffet features popular stations like Mongolian Wok and Indian Tandoor. For a fee, guests can indulge at the Chef's Art Steakhouse for $38, Bonsai Sushi a la carte, or enjoy a whimsical Green Eggs and Ham Breakfast with Dr. Seuss characters for $6.

Carnival Elation

Entertainment on Carnival Elation centers around lively, engaging experiences. Guests can laugh at The Punchliner Comedy Club with both family-friendly and adult-only shows, or enjoy live music at venues like Duke’s Piano Bar and the Atrium. Playlist Productions offers full-blown musical spectacles, while RedFrog Rum Bar and BlueIguana Tequila Bar keep the poolside party going. For those feeling lucky, the Casablanca Casino provides table games and slots, alongside various tournaments. WaterWorks water park features a 300-foot Twister Waterslide and two racing slides for all ages.

Carnival Dream

Carnival Dream delivers extensive entertainment, from high-energy Playlist Productions and comedy at The Punchliner Comedy Club to live music in Ocean Plaza and Sam's Piano Bar. The Encore Theater hosts nightly shows, while the Caliente Nightclub offers late-night dancing. Guests can test their luck at the Jackpot Casino, enjoy outdoor movies at the Seaside Theater, or participate in various deck games and themed parties. The WaterWorks water park features a 303-foot Twister water slide and a 104-foot Drainpipe slide.

Carnival Elation

Carnival Elation features a variety of cabins, generally noted for being large and comfortable with ample storage. Standard interior and ocean view staterooms are 185 sq ft, accommodating up to five guests, with porthole options also available. Balcony staterooms offer 220 total sq ft including a 35 sq ft private outdoor space. Suites, such as Junior Suites, Grand Suites, and the Grand Vista Suite, provide increased space, larger balconies, and VIP perks like priority check-in and complimentary laundry. It's worth noting that eight Junior Suites on Deck 11 have obstructed views.

Carnival Dream

Carnival Dream offers roomy and comfortable cabins, with standard interior staterooms at 185 sq ft, larger than the industry average. Many cabins feature twin beds convertible to a European king, and some accommodate up to five. The ship offers a wide range of balconies, including Cove Balconies close to the waterline and expansive Premium Vista Balconies. Suites, such as Ocean Suites and Grand Suites (up to 345 sq ft with an 85 sq ft balcony), provide even more space, walk-in closets, whirlpool tubs, and suite-specific VIP amenities. Cloud 9 Spa staterooms offer exclusive spa perks.

Carnival Elation

The service aboard Carnival Elation is characterized by a friendly and attentive crew, dedicated to ensuring a fun vacation. The onboard style has a blend of 1970s color and geometrics with some Vegas touches, reflecting its classic Fantasy-class heritage. Despite the older decor, the 2017 refurbishments added modern touches, contributing to a comfortable and welcoming atmosphere. The emphasis is on a classic, unpretentious cruise experience with a focus on guest enjoyment and value, providing a hospitable environment.

Carnival Dream

Carnival Dream is consistently praised for its exceptional service, with a crew that often goes above and beyond to personalize the guest experience. The ship's style, while incorporating some of Carnival's signature vibrant decor, feels more contemporary than its older counterpart, especially after its 2017 refurbishment. The layout, including the Lanai Promenade, facilitates a relaxed yet engaging onboard flow, contributing to the ship's reputation for high-quality, attentive hospitality and a genuinely happy, inviting atmosphere.

Carnival Elation

Carnival Dream