Carnival Fascination overview
Explore picture-perfect ports in the southern Caribbean while experiencing the perks of small-ship cruising aboard the 2,000-passenger Carnival Fascination. Launched in 1994, this Fantasy-class cruise ship has ample nightlife, diverse activities, and well-rounded programs for kids. Its classic amenities are ideal for first-timers, couples, and friends.
Carnival Fascination is a Hollywood-themed Fun Ship with elegant Regency-style public spaces designed by Joe Farcus, the architectural king of the seas. Fascination might be a quarter-century old, but it has a boatload of new features. The latest Fun Ship 2.0 upgrades were completed in 2018. This multimillion-dollar project added new entertainment, activities, and dining options.
Passengers can sample these additions at the RedFrog Rum Bar, the BlueIguana Cantina, and Bonsai Sushi Express. Other new features include the Punchliner Comedy Club, stage shows by Playlist Productions, and DJ classes in the O2 teen club. Plus, travelers can still take advantage of Carnival's signature Sail Away deck parties, Dr. Seuss-themed parades, and special events.
Adults can enjoy a wide selection of activities, including martini tastings, poker tournaments, and art auctions. On sea days, there's always time to relax in the Serenity Retreat or book a spa treatment. This classic cruise ship offers an excellent variety of onboard attractions, but the historic ports and tropical beaches included on each itinerary are what make it a real winner.
If you're looking for a Carnival Fascination itinerary that explores the Caribbean, there are several options in the 5 to 7-day range. Choose from round-trip and one-way cruises that depart from San Juan or Barbados. These itineraries visit breathtaking ports in the southern and eastern Caribbean, including Grand Turk, St. Lucia, St. Kitts, and other destinations in the Lesser Antilles and the Virgin Islands.
Carnival Fascination ship highlights
- Resort-style Lido Pool
- WaterWorks aqua park
- City Sports Park jogging and minigolf
- Camp Ocean youth center
- Circle C tween space
- Club O2 teen lounge
- Night Owls after-hours childcare
- Seuss at Sea activities and events
- Deck parties and parades
- Classes and workshops
- Clue: The Murder Mystery game
- Lip Sync Battle: Carnival
- Hasbro, The Game Show
- Punchliner Comedy Club
- Playlist Productions stage shows
- Lounge-style entertainment
- Twelve bars and clubs, including Alchemy Bar
- Carnival Fascination Casino Royale
- Adults-only Serenity sundeck
- Full-service Spa Carnival
Before you book
Why sail on Fascination: With its ample nightlife, diverse dining, and adult-oriented activities, Carnival Fascination is popular, budget-friendly option for couples, friends, and first-time cruisers looking for a less overwhelming cruise experience on a smaller ship.
You should know: Fascination’s amenities are much improved since the FunShip 2.0 upgrades, but the ship still likely won’t appeal to cruisers who prefer larger, more cutting-edge modern ships.
Purchase a (waterproof) camera! We loved capturing photos of our time onboard, as well as our excursions. When we went swimming with the dolphins and kayaking, we were able to take our camera in the water with us, giving us amazing photos and video! Also, bring an air freshener for your cabin!
There is a small Adult Only section called Serenity just off the back of the Lido deck. If you exit the doors to the left of the Pizza Bar just go down the steps. Its for 21 and older so go enjoy the quiet and two hot tubs for adults only. Unlike the other "sardine" hot tubs full of kids!!
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