Carnival Spirit overview
Carnival Spirit became a fan favorite among Australian cruisers since it’s relocation to Sydney in 2012. This Spirit-class ship from Carnival Cruise Line fits the relaxed yet adventurous vibes that Aussies are known for. Though launched in 2001, Carnival is investing in the future of Carnival Spirit with a multi-million dollar refurbishment in 2018 that added Funship 2.0 upgrades. New dining venues, an outdoor movie screen and new bars were added, just to name a few. That means an improved ship that delivers a pleasurable experience for singles, couples and families.
Onboard, travelers can choose from several options for relaxation or fun. The WaterWorks water park can provide both for all ages. The pool area is just right for chill days at seas, but if you’re up for a challenge, you might try conquering Green Thunder, the steepest water slide at sea, or for a more laid back ride, try the Twister Waterslide. With 3 kids-only youth spaces, young cruisers of all ages have a space all their own. Mini-golf, video game arcade, sports courts and onboard games means getting into the fun is easy aboard Carnival Spirit.
When it’s time to take a break from the action, choosing how to relax is a breeze. In the new SKYBOX Sports Bar and Alchemy Bar, cool off with a drink with friends; or get pampered at Spa Carnival. The ship comes to life at night with live music, laughs, dancing and more. You can even put your own talents on display with the Hasbro Game Show or shine in Lip Sync Battle: Carnival Edition and become a super star.
Carnival Spirit itineraries and departure ports
Carnival Spirit itineraries offer many options. Spirit will spend most of 2019 sailing from Sydney before relocating to its new homeport of Brisbane in October 2020.
Best for
As an easygoing ship with fun activities, good food and friendly staff, this Carnival ship is perfect for families with kids of all ages, couples and singles.
You should know
While Carnival Spirit isn’t the newest ship or largest ship at sea, it’s well-equipped to provide an enjoyable cruise with entertainment, dining and fun for young families, fun-loving couples and singles.
Activities on Carnival Spirit
Carnival Spirit activities include the WaterWorks aqua park, a mini golf course, movies on the jumbo screen by the pool, and themed deck parties like the sailaway party and 80’s Rock-N-Glow party. Indoors, you’ll find the Punchliner Comedy Club with an early show for families, and a late-night performance for adults only. There’s also Playlist Productions shows in the main theater, Towel Animal Theater where passengers of all ages can learn how to make the cuddly cabin creatures, and Hasbro, The Game Show — a competition where members of the audience can compete in board games come to life onstage. For a competition that lasts throughout the whole voyage, passengers can audition for Lip Sync Battle: Carnival and compete for a chance to make it to the next round. At the end of the cruise, the audience determines the ultimate Lip Sync Battle Champion!
Kids have their own clubs divided into age groups in Camp Ocean, as well as a space just for teens, too. The Build-A-Bear Workshop at Sea pop-up shop is popular among youngsters looking to create a new stuffed friend, and the Dr. Seuss-themed Seuss at Sea parade and activities are always a hit among kids that sail Carnival. The line also has a partnership with Michael’s for fun crafts throughout the voyage for all ages, including bracelets, key chains, photo frames, and more. For the adults, there are cocktail tastings, fitness classes, mixologist competitions, the casino, and Spa Carnival with a thermal suite and treatments. There are even spa treatments just for teens.
Carnival Spirit ship highlights- Waterworks Water Park
- Spa Carnival
- Serenity adults-only Retreat
- Kid’s Programs: Camp Ocean, Circle C, Club O2
- Video game arcade
- Sports courts, mini golf, fitness center
- Hasbro Game Show and Lip Sync Battle
- Onboard shopping
- RedFrog Bar, RedFrog Rum Bar, Alchemy Bar, SKYBOX Sports Bar
- Green Thunder water slide
- Casino
- Souplay art studio
- Guy’s Burger Joint
- Bonsai Sushi
Carnival Spirit cabins
There are four basic types of cabins on Carnival Spirit: interior, oceanview with a window, balcony, and a variety of suites. There are cabins designated as interiors, but actually have a floor-to-ceiling window with an obstructed view. They are a great value for those who want an interior price with a bonus: natural light. The ship’s balcony cabins also come in a variety, with larger, extended balconies available. Suites come in four subcategories, and all include balconies of varying sizes.
Carnival Spirit dining
Carnival Spirit has one main dining room, the Empire Restaurant, which occupies two decks and seats 1,300 passengers. It has a regal, elegant feel with gold trimmings, murals on the ceiling, and crystal chandeliers. Most of the restaurant is for those with a set seating time at dinner, but the starboard side of the upper level is for those on Your Time Dining. The La Playa Grill is the ship’s lido buffet, which features stations throughout the space. The pizza counter and ice cream station are located in the buffet, and are open 24/7.
Other included dining venues on Carnival Spirit include BlueIguana Cantina which serves burritos, and Guy’s Burger Joint serving a menu of tantalizing burgers and fresh-cut fries. Both are located on the lido deck next to the pool. During lunch, you can also enjoy the Ol’ Fashioned Barbecue counter, which serves smoked beef, braised pork butt, baked beans, mac and cheese, and more. The ship’s popular RedFrog Pub also offers tasty bites in addition to fresh brews.
Specialty restaurants on the ship include the a la carte venue Bonsai Sushi, the Seafood Corner, and the Noveau Restaurant steakhouse. The Coffee Bar is also available for specialty coffees and cakes, and Cherry on Top has bulk and specialty candy for sale as well as an ice cream counter for sundaes and ice cream sandwiches.
