Carnival Sensation overview

Carnival Sensation is a Fantasy-class ship, which can accommodate 2,056 passengers. This Carnival ship was completed in 1993 and underwent a major refurbishment in 2017 receiving Fun Ship 2.0 upgrades. Updates included the addition of the onboard candy store Cherry on Top, and children’s program Camp Ocean. Several new bars were also added, including RedFrog Rum Bar and Alchemy Bar. Two new restaurants were added: BlueIguana Cantina and Guy’s Burger Joint, which serves up Guy Fieri’s signature burger creations.
With three incredible waterslides, a resort-style pool, and Playlist Productions musical stage performances, Carnival Sensation lives up to Carnival’s reputation for fun. From the Serenity adults-only retreat to Seuss at Sea, which brings to life the beloved characters of Dr. Seuss, Sensation offers activities that will engage the whole family. Passengers of all ages enjoy Hasbro, The Game Show which features supersized board games. Families looking for wet and wild fun will find it at WaterWorks, the ship’s onboard waterpark. For teens, Club O2 provides an opportunity to socialize, play games, and listen to music. The ship also boasts a miniature golf course, a video arcade, and the hilarious Punchliner Comedy Club.
Carnival Sensation itineraries and departure ports
As of 2016, Carnival Sensation sails from Miami and cruises to the Caribbean and Bahamas. Three-day Bahama cruises include a stop in Nassau, the most popular Bahamian cruise port, while four-day voyages add a stop at beautiful Princess Cays. Sensation’s four-day western Caribbean cruises sail to Cozumel and Florida’s Key West.
Before you book
Best for: Carnival Sensation is ideal for first-time cruisers or travelers looking for a well-rounded cruising experience without spending a fortune. With its budget-friendly pricing, shorter cruises, and a variety of activities, the ship should appeal to young families with children and multigenerational groups.
You should know: Due to its shorter cruises, budget-friendly pricing and its variety of family-friendly activities, Sensation attracts families with children and teens. The ship may not appeal to mature travelers looking for a quiet, laid-back cruise vacation.
What activities are on Carnival Sensation?
Travelers can enjoy active days at sea on Carnival Sensation. The ship offers fun-in-the-sun favorites such as miniature golf and a thrilling corkscrew waterslide at its onboard water park. Cruisers who prefer to relax can take a dip in one of Sensation’s three pools or soak in one of seven whirlpools. Adults will enjoy rest and relaxation at Serenity, the ship’s adults-only oasis.
Carnival Sensation offers a variety of clubs and bars for passengers who enjoy an active nightlife. These include the island-inspired RedFrog Rum Bar and Alchemy Bar, the ship’s vintage pharmacy-themed cocktail bar. Travelers looking to sit back and enjoy on-stage entertainment will enjoy Playlist Productions’ engaging musical performances. For a touch of humor, the Punchliner Comedy Club offers both adults-only and family-friendly shows.
Carnival Sensation highlights
- WaterWorks waterpark, featuring the Twister corkscrew waterslide
- Seuss at Sea programming, including the Green Eggs and Ham Breakfast
- Hasbro, The Game Show
- Punchliner Comedy Club
- Miniature golf
- Kid-friendly activities in the Camp Ocean, Circle C, and Club O2 youth clubs
- Guy’s Burger Joint featuring Guy Fieri’s signature burgers
- Serenity adults-only retreat
- Playlist Productions musical stage performances
- Three pools and seven whirlpools
- Cherry On Top candy-and-more store
Carnival Sensation cabins
Carnival Sensation cabins fall in four categories: interior, oceanview, balcony, and suite. Cabins with portholes are available for budget-conscious travelers craving an ocean view. For travelers who desire additional private outdoor space, Sensation also offers extended-balcony staterooms with expansive stern-side views. According to reviewers, the ship’s balcony rooms fill quickly so travelers should book early.
Carnival Cruise Line is known for its spacious staterooms, and each cabin includes a full bathroom. Room service is available to all cabins, and the ship provides a 24-hour room steward for passenger assistance.