Avid HAL cruiser looking to try Carnival

[VermeulT]

I've been on 11 or so Holland America cruises. I love them.  But I'll be moving to South Carolina next summer and love that Charleston is a home port and less than 2 hours from "home".  Amy input, especially about sailing these shorter cruises out of Charleston &/or Carnival Sunshine would be appreciated.

Thank you.

[firefly333]

The sunshine is a older amped ship. It does have the new stuff except for mardi gras new restaurants but used to be triumph class and was renamed when it was amped. Most seem to enjoy it. I was on it before it was changed but not since.

 

Drive to ports during covid are the best imo. Enjoy. 

 

Maybe drive down to port Canaveral some day and check out the new mardi gras to compare.

[jsglow]

We very much enjoyed Sunshine as a ship.  Generally speaking, Carnival has done a good job with these major retro-fits.

 

While I have not sailed on HAL so cannot make a direct comparison, I'd anticipate there being a bit of a difference in your cruise experience.  The two brands are definitely targeting different markets.  As long as you are aware and comfortable with that, you'll have a good time. 

[RoperDK]

Why not give it a try. I enjoyed our Sunshine cruises because of the addition of JiJis restaurant, along with Cucina Del Capitano. It also has the steakhouse along with Guys Burgers and Blue Iguana Cantina. It has a great Havana Bar area.  The ship is older, but upgraded.  It shows its age in the cabin bathrooms, but the cabins are upgraded.  We sailed in both a balcony and suite.  I prefer the suites (who wouldn't), but the balcony was fine for a short cruise.  I haven't cruised on Holland America (but we are looking), but we have cruised in suites on Princess and RCCL.  We are 65+, so not youngsters.  We like the happy vibe on Carnival.  The white glove service isn't here, but the friendly service is a plus for us.  I compare it to a Margaritaville experience versus a 4 or 5 star resort experience.  I enjoy both.  Please let us know your experience.          

[TheSeagoer]

One word no

[VermeulT]

13 hours ago, jsglow said:

We very much enjoyed Sunshine as a ship.  Generally speaking, Carnival has done a good job with these major retro-fits.

 

While I have not sailed on HAL so cannot make a direct comparison, I'd anticipate there being a bit of a difference in your cruise experience.  The two brands are definitely targeting different markets.  As long as you are aware and comfortable with that, you'll have a good time. 

I know the experience will be different.  But the proximity is a huge plus.  I like older ships so that's ok.  A 4-5 day cruise to Half Moon Cay and back... who can complain?

Thank you for your feedback.

[K&RCurt]

We started cruising on HAL and had been on 4 HAL cruises before we "strayed." 3 in Veranda Cabins and one in a Neptune Aft Corner Suite.  Our first non HAL cruise was on Celebrity and it was VERY similar to HAL. 

 

We then went on a Carnival Cruise as some friends of our were sailing and we decided to join them.  The major differences are the energy level of the passengers, the broader socio-economic background of passengers and the type of activities offered.   We were in our 40s on our first HAL cruise and felt "young."  We are now in our early 60s and while somewhat older than the "average" Carnival passenger, we in no way feel out of place.

 

We have since been on 5 more Carnival Cruises and have 2 more scheduled.  We frankly like the higher energy "Fun Ship" experience.  Food is of course subjective, but while there are no white table cloths, Ridel Crystal of fine China on Carnival the food is, for the most part, very good.  A lot depends on the kitchen team as I have had the same dish on 4 different Carnival ships that ranged from "just OK' to fabulous. You for sure, won't go hungry and will find some things you like in every venue.  We have had no issues with fellow passengers but then we are very open minded and do not judge others on how they dress, what they drink or the activities they enjoy.  In our opinion there is something for everyone on Carnival.  Yes you will see jeans and shorts and the occasional baseball hat in the MDR on Carnival, and there will even be people complaining about that, but the vibe is much lower key on Carnival and we in no way feel that "ruins" our cruise. The games around the main pool will seem raucous compared to they typical sea day around the main Pool on HAL, but head to the Serenity area and the sedate atmosphere will be there. 

 

I say give it a try and you might just like it. 

[nlktx49]

15 minutes ago, K&RCurt said:

We started cruising on HAL and had been on 4 HAL cruises before we "strayed." 3 in Veranda Cabins and one in a Neptune Aft Corner Suite.  Our first non HAL cruise was on Celebrity and it was VERY similar to HAL. 

 

We then went on a Carnival Cruise as some friends of our were sailing and we decided to join them.  The major differences are the energy level of the passengers, the broader socio-economic background of passengers and the type of activities offered.   We were in our 40s on our first HAL cruise and felt "young."  We are now in our early 60s and while somewhat older than the "average" Carnival passenger, we in no way feel out of place.

 

We have since been on 5 more Carnival Cruises and have 2 more scheduled.  We frankly like the higher energy "Fun Ship" experience.  Food is of course subjective, but while there are no white table cloths, Ridel Crystal of fine China on Carnival the food is, for the most part, very good.  A lot depends on the kitchen team as I have had the same dish on 4 different Carnival ships that ranged from "just OK' to fabulous. You for sure, won't go hungry and will find some things you like in every venue.  We have had no issues with fellow passengers but then we are very open minded and do not judge others on how they dress, what they drink or the activities they enjoy.  In our opinion there is something for everyone on Carnival.  Yes you will see jeans and shorts and the occasional baseball hat in the MDR on Carnival, and there will even be people complaining about that, but the vibe is much lower key on Carnival and we in no way feel that "ruins" our cruise. The games around the main pool will seem raucous compared to they typical sea day around the main Pool on HAL, but head to the Serenity area and the sedate atmosphere will be there. 

 

I say give it a try and you might just like it. 

Excellent summing up of the Carnival experience! 21 cruises and counting.

[jsglow]

31 minutes ago, K&RCurt said:

We started cruising on HAL and had been on 4 HAL cruises before we "strayed." 3 in Veranda Cabins and one in a Neptune Aft Corner Suite.  Our first non HAL cruise was on Celebrity and it was VERY similar to HAL. 

 

We then went on a Carnival Cruise as some friends of our were sailing and we decided to join them.  The major differences are the energy level of the passengers, the broader socio-economic background of passengers and the type of activities offered.   We were in our 40s on our first HAL cruise and felt "young."  We are now in our early 60s and while somewhat older than the "average" Carnival passenger, we in no way feel out of place.

 

We have since been on 5 more Carnival Cruises and have 2 more scheduled.  We frankly like the higher energy "Fun Ship" experience.  Food is of course subjective, but while there are no white table cloths, Ridel Crystal of fine China on Carnival the food is, for the most part, very good.  A lot depends on the kitchen team as I have had the same dish on 4 different Carnival ships that ranged from "just OK' to fabulous. You for sure, won't go hungry and will find some things you like in every venue.  We have had no issues with fellow passengers but then we are very open minded and do not judge others on how they dress, what they drink or the activities they enjoy.  In our opinion there is something for everyone on Carnival.  Yes you will see jeans and shorts and the occasional baseball hat in the MDR on Carnival, and there will even be people complaining about that, but the vibe is much lower key on Carnival and we in no way feel that "ruins" our cruise. The games around the main pool will seem raucous compared to they typical sea day around the main Pool on HAL, but head to the Serenity area and the sedate atmosphere will be there. 

 

I say give it a try and you might just like it. 

Well done.  Great info for the OP.

[Cruise, J.D.]

5 hours ago, VermeulT said:

I know the experience will be different.  But the proximity is a huge plus.  I like older ships so that's ok.  A 4-5 day cruise to Half Moon Cay and back... who can complain?

Thank you for your feedback.

 

Yes, HMC is one of the best features of a cruise from Charleston. Charleston has its own charms too.

[silversneakers]

19 hours ago, VermeulT said:

I've been on 11 or so Holland America cruises. I love them.  But I'll be moving to South Carolina next summer and love that Charleston is a home port and less than 2 hours from "home".  Amy input, especially about sailing these shorter cruises out of Charleston &/or Carnival Sunshine would be appreciated.

Thank you.

I have sailed both Carnival and Holland America a number of times.  Totally different environments as HA caters to an older population and doesn't offer a lot of night life (or may not enough participants at night). Carnival is very family friendly, shorter 3-4 cruises tend to be more of a quick get-away, party crowd, lots of activity and nightlife, definitely a not-so-sedate population as H/A. Carnival is good value for the money.

[OCruisers]

Over the years we've tried Carnival several times because Charleston is so close to us and hoping things had changed for the better.  Unfortunately, not.

If the OP really likes HAL, the OP will probably not care of Carnival.  

 

 

 

 

[VermeulT]

1 hour ago, xDisconnections said:

 

I agree.

 

If the OP enjoys HAL that much, I’m not sure the OP would be a good fit with Carnival. They target entirely different markets and clientele and the experience is very different. It’s like staying at a La Quinta vs a JW Marriott. One cruise line is targeting the budget minded traveler while the other is providing a premium, sophisticated experience. 
 

I’d try other brands sooner like Royal Caribbean and just fly to the port.

 

OP: if you have to ask, you already know the answer.

HAL used to be sophisticated.  It's really not anymore.
To use your comparison... I'm a Courtyard type of person... in between both experiences. It all depends on setting the right expectations. 

[xDisconnections]

4 minutes ago, VermeulT said:

HAL used to be sophisticated.  It's really not anymore.

Let's revisit this after you sail on Carnival 😉

Edited November 30, 2021 by xDisconnections

[mz-s]

My biggest grumble with Charleston is the port is not efficient though they have tried to optimize the facility as much as possible.

 

Secondarily to that, there aren't many choices in itinerary. I hope you like Nassau.

 

Other than that, considering wife and I can easily drive to the port morning of - we quite like cruising out of Charleston. We preferred the smaller vessels, but the Sunshine is great in it's own way.

 

No experience with HAL.

[wgeddings]

HAL was my favorite cruise line.  Lately though, the prices of Carnival cruises have pulled me in and I am really enjoying them.  Some HAL touches (like tablecloths) are missed but by and large there is less difference now.  

 

WELCOME to South Carolina!  We live in Manning (about 90 minutes above Charleston, right on I-95).  We have cruised out of Charleston and on the Sunshine and enjoyed it.  I like a longer cruise but had no problems with the Sunshine and the Charleston port is very easy to get in and out of since there is only 1 ship..  We are close enough to cruise out of Jacksonville (but have not yet) and often cruise from Port Canaveral or Tampa.  Even Miami and Fort Lauderdale are doable in a single day's drive but because of the inevitable traffic snarl on I-95, we always go a day ahead and spend the night next to the port when not going to Charleston.   

 

TONS to do in Charleston though and if you have never been, let me know and I would be glad to make some suggestions.  What part of South Carolina is going to be lucky enough to have you?

 

 

[VermeulT]

1 hour ago, wgeddings said:

HAL was my favorite cruise line.  Lately though, the prices of Carnival cruises have pulled me in and I am really enjoying them.  Some HAL touches (like tablecloths) are missed but by and large there is less difference now.  

 

WELCOME to South Carolina!  We live in Manning (about 90 minutes above Charleston, right on I-95).  We have cruised out of Charleston and on the Sunshine and enjoyed it.  I like a longer cruise but had no problems with the Sunshine and the Charleston port is very easy to get in and out of since there is only 1 ship..  We are close enough to cruise out of Jacksonville (but have not yet) and often cruise from Port Canaveral or Tampa.  Even Miami and Fort Lauderdale are doable in a single day's drive but because of the inevitable traffic snarl on I-95, we always go a day ahead and spend the night next to the port when not going to Charleston.   

 

TONS to do in Charleston though and if you have never been, let me know and I would be glad to make some suggestions.  What part of South Carolina is going to be lucky enough to have you?

 

 

Thank you.  I'll be just outside of Columbia.  We have family in Charleston and have been there several times this year in our quests to move south.

[OCruisers]

43 minutes ago, VermeulT said:

Thank you.  I'll be just outside of Columbia.  We have family in Charleston and have been there several times this year in our quests to move south.

Noticed ALL of your HAL cruises.

You may have a bit of culture shock on Carnival Sunshine.  😒

[csm5986142]

We typically choose Carnival, but did one HA cruise because of their itinerary through the Panama Canal.  I agree, it's a very different crowd.  Both good experiences.

I actually prefer the shorter cruises (4 days is my ideal) and we were recently on the Sunrise (sister ship to the Sunshine).  From the inside it was nicely refurbished, but from the outside you could definitely see its age (rust, water stain buildup on the windows, etc). 

Although the shorter cruises can certainly be booze cruises, it doesn't bother us for the most part.  We have learned to choose a cabin way up front where we usually don't hear noisy people returning from the bar/clubs in the middle of the night and things like that. 

In general we just want to relax and enjoy the fun ship/laid-back atmosphere of Carnival.  

[Djptcp]

DH and I are retired and are Carnival Platinums, soon to be Diamonds, and Holland America 3 Star Mariners, soon to be 4 Star, so we have a lot of experience on both cruise lines. We live in Florida near Tampa and it is so convenient for us to sail on Carnival out of Tampa and Port Canaveral. We have to drive to Port Everglades to sail on Holland, about 4 hours. We sail on the new Holland's Rotterdam tomorrow (11 days) and have two more booked for 2022. We have 4 Carnival cruises booked for 2022.

 

With the OP moving to S. Carolina, the Charleston port is the closest, but also not too far to drive to Jacksonville and Port Canaveral for Carnival cruises. Port Canaveral is about 400 miles from Charleston and also has NCL and Royal Caribbean sailing from there. We only sailed out of Charleston once when we lived in N. Carolina and it was the closest port for us. It was quite a long time ago but I recall we enjoyed sailing from there on a Carnival ship.

 

Holland is my favorite line and DH's is Carnival. I love the elegance of the Holland ships, the fantastic cuisine, and there are so many more perks as we have cruised up the loyalty ranks. Also, not a lot of kids. Carnival ships are glitzy Las Vegas, food is good, and has more to do in the evenings than Holland. They are party ships, especially on the shorter cruises and way too many kids, so we try to cruise as much as possible when school is in session.

 

We sail more on Carnival because of the amazing casino deals I receive (many free rooms we upgrade to balconies or suites) and because of the convenience of living close to two FL ports. If the OP has only sailed on Holland, I agree there will be a bit of a culture shock, but should definitely try Carnival.

[x lindsay x]

I also started cruising Carnival due to port proximity (the NYC terminal was 20 minutes from my apartment) and stops at HMC after cruising extensively on HAL. I've continued cruising on Carnival due to the low prices (those casino rates are no joke) and kids splash area. 

 

I think most of the posters above have gone into some of the major differences, and that's how you should frame it, different, not better or worse. 

[ontheweb]

1 minute ago, x lindsay x said:

 

 

I think most of the posters above have gone into some of the major differences, and that's how you should frame it, different, not better or worse. 

I would add to that come in with an attitude that you are going to enjoy the cruise rather than one of I'm not going to like things about this particular cruise line and you should be fine.

[triplemom3]

My parents are in their 80’s and are longtime HAL passengers, frequenting the Neptune suites. This week they have taken their first Carnival cruise on the Pride out of Tampa. We will see when they get home on Sunday what their thoughts are on the differences. Ironically, they get off the ship on Sunday and my husband and I get on it a couple of hours later LOL

[Homosassa]

On 11/30/2021 at 7:38 AM, VermeulT said:

I know the experience will be different.  But the proximity is a huge plus.  I like older ships so that's ok.  A 4-5 day cruise to Half Moon Cay and back... who can complain?

Thank you for your feedback.

If you enjoy the HAL buffet lunch at Half Moon Cay, be aware that the Carnival buffet offering is more limited.  

 

There is also a difference in the number of passengers ashore in Half Moon Cay between HAL calls and Carnival calls. There are less people on a HAL day.

[wgeddings]

15 hours ago, csm5986142 said:

We typically choose Carnival, but did one HA cruise because of their itinerary through the Panama Canal.  I agree, it's a very different crowd.  Both good experiences.

I actually prefer the shorter cruises (4 days is my ideal) and we were recently on the Sunrise (sister ship to the Sunshine).  From the inside it was nicely refurbished, but from the outside you could definitely see its age (rust, water stain buildup on the windows, etc). 

Although the shorter cruises can certainly be booze cruises, it doesn't bother us for the most part.  We have learned to choose a cabin way up front where we usually don't hear noisy people returning from the bar/clubs in the middle of the night and things like that. 

In general we just want to relax and enjoy the fun ship/laid-back atmosphere of Carnival.  

Saw the Sunrise in a port last week while we were (on the Horizon).  I mentioned to a fellow cruiser I thought it was a sister ship of the Sunshine and he had cruised on both recently and said they were almost nothing alike now.  He had a low opinion of the Sunrise but thought the Sunshine was very nice and good.  I am curious now as to how much they are really different now because from all he said, Sunshine got all the renovations but Sunrise did not.  Been on Sunshine but not on Sunrise.