carnival freedom cruise ship restaurants

• Cruise Advice

19 Places to Eat on Carnival Freedom

Heather Baxter

• September 1, 2016

If you’re sailing on Carnival Freedom soon, come hungry because this ship is bursting with options for grabbing grub. Here are 19 choices for finding food aboard the ship.

1. The Freedom Restaurant

You may casually refer to this as the “lido buffet,” but it certainly has no shortage of food selections. From an omelet bar at breakfast to “The Sweet Spot” dessert bar, one could conceivably eat at the buffet for every meal of every day given its depth of variety and quality in flavor. However, we can’t say we recommend that when there are so many other amazing options for eating on the ship.

2. Posh and Chic Main Dining Rooms

The main dining rooms are the culinary staples of any cruise ship, and Carnival Freedom does not disappoint. The American Table menu is set to impress, and the food is all top-notch. Come hungry!

3. Sea Day Brunch

Served by waiters in one of the main dining rooms, the sea day brunch is a can’t-miss. You’re treated to a full menu of starters, eggs, entrees, and desserts along with coffee and juice (and even bloody marys). Forget fighting the buffet lines; let the waiters serve you.

4. Sun King Steakhouse

For just $35 per person (and now $10 for kids), the steakhouse serves an intimate, four-course meal with exemplary cuts of steaks.

5. Guy’s Burger Joint

Guy’s Burgers is an undisputed Carnival cruiser favorite food stop, and it certainly lives up to its hype. “The best burgers at sea” and the seasoned fries are free and available from noon to 6 pm every day, so you’ll have plenty of opportunities to grab a plate and try all the different toppings, like Guy’s signature “donkey sauce.”

6. Blue Iguana Cantina

To get your burrito fix while onboard, don’t miss Blue Iguana Cantina, where you get your choice of tortilla, type of meat, fillings, and toppings.  Be sure to stop by one day for breakfast, too, as the breakfast burritos filled with eggs, hash browns, and chicken sausage (or “iguana,” as one crew member tried to tease me) are better than any I’ve tried on land!

7. Fish N’ Chips

Found only on select Conquest-class ships, Fish N’ Chips is located on Deck 10 just above the aft pool. However, this line doesn’t just have fried fillets and French fries. The menu also serves up items like ceviche, fried oysters, and bouillabaisse, among others. And best of all, this seafood stop is totally free.

8. Green Eggs and Ham Breakfast

Although very kid-oriented, the Green Eggs and Ham breakfast is a must-try. Yes, your eggs actually come out green! Or you can pick the French toast covered in Fruit Loops, which you can finish off with some Dr. Seuss “moose juice.”

9. Mongolian Wok

If you were wondering if Carnival Freedom had any Asian food on board, the answer is yes. Mongolian Wok will satisfy any stir-fry cravings during your cruise with its customized bowls of whatever noodle, veggie, sauce, or meat combos you can dream up.

The Carnival Deli dishes up both hot and cold deli sandwiches, including a pastrami on rye, corned beef on rye, a grilled Reuben, and an arugula, pepper, and mozz sandwich on ciabatta. The best part is the Deli is open 11 am to 11 pm, so you can hit it up for several meals throughout the day.

11. Pizza Pirate

Next to the quiet aft pool on lido deck, pizza pirate is open 24/7 and is completely complimentary. Free pizza at any hour of the day? Sign me up!

12. Taste Bar

Aptly named, The Taste Bar is located along the thoroughfare of the promenade deck and offers cruisers a taste of tapas-sized food items that you could find on other Carnival ships so you can see what other ships have to offer. I wonder if it’s a coincidence that it’s located right next to the “Future Cruise” desk…

13. Coffee Bar

While you’re grabbing your java at the Coffee Bar, keep your blinders on if you don’t want to be tempted by the window display of cakes and desserts. Or, go ahead and give into temptation. The desserts are a small extra fee, but they are well worth your money because the slices are huge!

14. Swirls Soft Serve and Froyo

Tucked into small nooks toward the back of the lido deck, the ice cream and froyo machines offer 24-hour self-serve soft serve ice cream and froyo for whenever you feel like a cold snack, be it 3 pm or 3 am.

15. Tea Time

On sea days, you can always attend the Tea Time hour, which is typically 3-4 pm in one of the main dining rooms. The cup of specialty herbal hot tea is only $1.95 (or free if you purchased the Cheers! package), but included in that price is an array of desserts and pastries that are served to you by the dining room wait staff.

16. Steakhouse Cooking Demonstration

Check your Fun Times schedule to see when the steakhouse chefs will be demonstrating how to cook some of the steakhouse favorites, and then stop by to get some free tasters and a list of recipes. Just be sure to get there a little early to get a seat up front so you can see all the action.

17. Select Bars

If you’re looking to snack while you drink, Carnival Freedom has no less than three bars where you can do so. If you’re trying out the elixirs at Alchemy Bar, the mixologist will be happy to give you a (free) plate of olives, cheese, and nuts to munch on if you ask. If you’re headed to RedFrog Pub for the board games and beer pong tournaments, be sure to try out the crispy plantain chips (also free). And last but not least, the SkyBox Sports Bar serves hot soft pretzels and peanuts in the shell.

18. Cherry On Top

Okay, so this may not be a place to eat a meal, but it’s the perfect place if you need to satisfy your sweet tooth. Just be sure to bring your Sign & Sail card, because the candy isn’t free. (Could you imagine if it were??)

19. Room Service

Lest we forget the tried-and-true option of room service, keep in mind that you can have food brought to your stateroom at any time of the day. The continental breakfast and a variety of hot and cold sandwiches, salads, desserts, and beverages are always complimentary. However, there’s an expanded fee-based menu that includes items like chicken wings, fried shrimp, and a banana split, but none of the extra items costs more than $6.

Recent Posts

Celestyal discovery sets sail on first cruise following extensive renovation, passengers scramble to rejoin cruise after missing ship, norwegian cruise lines cancels several voyages across 7 ships, royal caribbean relocates baltimore ship after bridge collapse, share this post, related posts.

Passengers Left Behind at Pier as Travel Agent Cruises Without Them

Carnival Ship Debuts New Funnel After Fire [PHOTOS]

Bringing you 15 years of cruise industry experience. Cruise Radio prioritizes well-balanced cruise news coverage and accurate reporting, paired with ship reviews and tips.   

Quick links

Cruise Radio, LLC © Copyright 2009-2024 | Website Designed By   Insider Perks, Inc

Carnival cruise food: The ultimate guide to restaurants and dining on board

On a Carnival cruise, food is always one of the highlights. From Guy Fieri burgers to fancy steaks at Fahrenheit 555, you'll find endless options to satisfy your hunger in a highly enjoyable fashion. In fact, there's often more to eat and explore than you could possibly have time for in a single sailing.

If you're planning your next cruise and want to know which Carnival restaurants to expect on board, you've come to the right place. While certain dining venues remain a standard across all ships — like the much-loved Lido Deck buffet — the options keep expanding with every new ship launch. Plus, older ships are constantly being refurbished and updated with new restaurants. That's why we put together this comprehensive list of Carnival cruise restaurants and where you can find them.

For cruise news, reviews and tips, sign up for TPG's cruise newsletter .

Consider this your ultimate guide to Carnival cruise food, with details about every restaurant in the fleet, as well as answers to the most commonly asked questions about dining on a Carnival cruise ship.

Carnival restaurants available fleetwide

Coffee bar or javablue cafe.

A la carte pricing; snacks

Black coffee and tea are free at the buffet and in the main dining room, but you'll want to come here for specialty coffee drinks like espresso or cold brew. You can also purchase milkshakes and baked goods when you need an extra pick-me-up (or grab free Danish pastries and croissants in the morning).

Dining room

Included; breakfast and dinner

The main dining room serves a sit-down breakfast and the nightly three-course dinner that's included in your cruise fare. Even better, Carnival's chief culinary officer, Emeril Lagasse, is now behind many of the dining room's new menu items. On Carnival, the main dining room comes with less pretense than on many other cruise lines. In fact, it's not uncommon for your servers to break out in song and dance by the end of the night.

Don't miss other special dining experiences like the complimentary Seaday Brunch menu or the family-friendly Dr. Seuss-themed breakfast for an additional fee ($10 to $15 per adult; $8 to $10 per child), which includes meet-and-greets with characters.

Related: The ultimate guide to cruise ship food and dining

Lido Marketplace

Included; breakfast, lunch and dinner

Carnival's buffet on the Lido Deck has all the staple stations to keep you fed from morning until night. Try the deli counter, barbecue spot, pasta bar or Asian noodle station. Don't miss the always-essential salad bar or pizza station. Finish up with soft serve ice cream, frozen yogurt or an enormous cake slice and other goodies from the dessert station.

Included; snacks

No cruise experience is complete without on-demand soft serve. Open on the Lido Deck until midnight, the Swirls station serves up frozen yogurt and soft serve ice cream in the classic flavors of vanilla, chocolate and strawberry, or you can enjoy your own combo swirl. The best part is it's self-serve, so no one can judge you for how often you come back for another cone.

The Chef's Table

Fixed price; dinner

This exclusive multicourse dining experience hosted by the ship's master executive chef takes place in untraditional spaces like the galley or library to give you a behind-the-scenes VIP feel. (Some newer ships even have a dedicated Chef's Table dining room with a window into the galley.) You'll be part of a group of only 14 to 16 guests, and the evening kicks off with cocktails, hors d'oeuvres and a tour of the galley. The dinner menu itself changes based on what's in season or local to the port, but it always includes wine pairings and, of course, dessert.

24-hour room service

A la carte; all-day dining

When hunger calls at odd hours of the night or you're craving a meal from the comfort of your balcony, you can access 24-hour room service on your Carnival cruise ship. Just pick up your cabin's phone and place your order. While room service is generally only available for a cost, Carnival does offer free continental breakfast delivery to your room from 6 to 10 a.m.

Pizza delivery

Fixed price; all-day dining

You can order pizza on the Carnival Hub app to wherever you are on the ship, any time of day, for a delivery fee of $5 per pie. Pro tip: Take a picture of yourself showing where you're located on board to help the pizza delivery staff find you.

Pizzeria del Capitano or Pizza Pirate

Included; lunch and dinner

The all-day pizza station is going to be your go-to option when you get back from a day at port and the lunch buffet is already closed or when you're hungry after a late night of partying. Choose from five prepared pizza options, ranging from classics like margherita and pepperoni to other delicious Italian favorites like funghi and prosciutto. Order a slice or get a whole pie delivered through the Carnival Hub app.

Related: Which line has the best cruise pizza? I tasted slices from 7 brands

Popular Carnival dining options

Blueiguana cantina.

Included; breakfast and lunch

This casual poolside spot serves up Mexican favorites like tacos and burritos with fillings including chipotle chicken, roast pork and battered fish. Order your tacos or burrito to your liking, then head to the salsa bar to add all your favorite toppings. In the morning, you can order breakfast burritos or huevos rancheros as an alternative to the typical Lido buffet breakfast.

Available on : Carnival Breeze, Celebration , Conquest, Dream, Elation, Freedom, Glory, Horizon, Jubilee, Legend, Liberty, Magic, Mardi Gras, Miracle, Panorama, Paradise, Pride, Radiance, Spirit, Sunrise, Sunshine, Valor and Vista

Related: 7 secret Carnival cruise breakfast spots that let you skip the buffet crowds

Bonsai Sushi and Bonsai Sushi Express

A la carte pricing; lunch and dinner

Carnival's sit-down sushi restaurant, Bonsai Sushi, serves sushi rolls and sashimi alongside soups, sakes and sweets. Select ships feature Bonsai Sushi Express, where you can order rolls to go.

Available on : Carnival Breeze, Celebration, Conquest, Dream, Elation, Freedom, Horizon, Jubilee, Luminosa, Legend, Mardi Gras , Miracle, Panorama, Paradise, Pride, Radiance, Spirit, Sunrise, Sunshine , Venezia and Vista

Cucina Del Capitano

Cucina Del Capitano honors the cruise line's connection to Italy (many of Carnival's captains and chief engineers have either Italian heritage or maritime training in Italy, known for its long tradition of excellence in shipbuilding). This rustic restaurant serves made-to-order pasta and other Italian comfort food favorites like risotto and chicken Parmesan.

On Carnival Jubilee , Cucina Del Capitano is free for the whole sailing. On Carnival Celebration and Mardi Gras, your first meal is included, with additional visits at a cost of $8 per person. The other ships with this venue currently charge a fixed price of $24 per adult.

On any of the ships, come to Cucina for a complimentary Captain's Pasta Bar at lunchtime. Just choose your pasta, sauce, meat and other mix-ins — buon appetito!

Available on : Carnival Breeze, Celebration, Horizon, Jubilee, Magic, Mardi Gras, Panorama, Radiance, Sunrise, Sunshine and Vista

Guy's Burger Joint

Included; lunch

Carnival's poolside burger joint was dreamt up by Food Network star Guy Fieri to feel like the kind of roadside burger shack you'd see on one of his episodes of "Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives." Don't underestimate these simple smashburgers — they pack a ton of flavor.

Available on : Carnival Breeze, Celebration, Conquest, Dream, Elation, Freedom, Glory, Horizon, Jubilee, Legend, Liberty, Magic, Mardi Gras, Miracle, Panorama, Paradise, Pride, Radiance, Spirit, Splendor, Sunrise, Sunshine, Valor, Venezia and Vista

Related: Which line has the best cruise burger? Here are TPG's top picks

Guy's Pig & Anchor

Included for lunch; a la carte pricing for dinner

Satisfy your barbecue cravings at sea at Guy's Pig & Anchor, which serves up a complimentary lunch of smoked meats like pork butt and andouille sausage, comfort food sides such as collard greens and macaroni and cheese, and a line of signature barbecue sauces. Select ships have a full-service Guy's Pig & Anchor Smokehouse & Brewhouse that's also open for dinner with an a la carte menu, plus a brewery with an exclusive line of craft beers and live musical entertainment.

Available on : Carnival Breeze, Celebration, Dream, Horizon, Jubilee, Magic, Mardi Gras, Panorama, Radiance, Sunrise and Vista

RedFrog Pub

This Key West, Florida-inspired pub is the spot for a round of trivia or foosball, brews and tunes. You can also enjoy Caribbean bites like conch fritters and coconut shrimp with your laid-back island vibes. On Carnival Vista, sailors get a full RedFrog Pub & Brewery, which became North America's first brewery at sea when it opened.

Available on : Carnival Breeze, Freedom, Legend, Magic, Miracle, Pride, Radiance, Spirit, Splendor, Sunrise, Sunshine, Valor and Vista

Seafood Shack

At this New England-style seafood shack, you can order everything from buckets of fried seafood to steamed shellfish by the pound. Don't forget about everyone's favorites, clam chowder and lobster rolls.

Available on : Carnival Breeze, Celebration, Conquest, Dream, Freedom, Glory, Horizon, Jubilee, Liberty, Magic, Mardi Gras, Panorama, Radiance, Splendor, Sunrise, Valor, Venezia and Vista

The Steakhouse

When you feel like celebrating, Carnival's upscale steakhouse serves USDA Prime steak cuts alongside all of the classic steakhouse favorites, from starters like lobster bisque and shrimp cocktail to a selection of steak sauces and rich, comforting side dishes.

Available on : Carnival Breeze, Celebration, Conquest, Dream, Freedom, Glory, Horizon, Jubilee, Legend, Liberty, Luminosa, Magic, Mardi Gras, Miracle, Panorama, Pride, Radiance, Spirit, Splendor, Sunrise, Sunshine, Valor, Venezia and Vista

Related: Fahrenheit 555 steakhouse on Carnival Cruise Line (with menu)

Carnival dining options exclusive to a few ships

Big chicken.

The crispy chicken sandwich is a food fad that isn't going away anytime soon, and Carnival's chief fun officer Shaquille O'Neal is the face behind this new chicken spot on the latest Carnival ships. Here, you can find everything chicken — chicken sandwiches, crispy chicken strips and fried chicken baskets (even chicken biscuits at breakfast!) — plus essential sides like potato salad and jalapeno slaw.

Available on : Carnival Celebration, Jubilee, Mardi Gras and Radiance

Bonsai Teppanyaki

Fixed price; lunch and dinner

This Japanese hibachi-style restaurant is part meal and part performance, as your chef prepares your lunch or dinner at the griddle-top table in front of you. The meal begins with a selection of starters and continues with a grilled meat or seafood entree of your choice (think: teriyaki salmon, lobster tail with yuzu cream or filet mignon with truffle salt) paired with fried rice, stir-fried vegetables and a sweet bento box for dessert.

Available on : Carnival Celebration, Horizon, Jubilee, Mardi Gras, Panorama and Venezia

A modern Chinese-Mexican fusion concept, Chibang! is a specialty restaurant without the specialty prices. That's right, dining at Chibang! is free all sailing long for guests on Carnival Jubilee; on Carnival Celebration and Mardi Gras, your first meal at Chibang is included and additional visits are only $8 per person. At lunchtime, you can order your own noodle bowl or burrito bowl (which makes it a great spot if your group has separate cravings), or at dinner, mix and match between cuisines and choose shareable plates for the table or order classic Mexican and Chinese mains.

Available on : Carnival Celebration, Jubilee and Mardi Gras

Emeril's Bistro

A la carte pricing; breakfast, lunch and dinner

At any of the three Emeril's Bistro restaurants at sea, you can get a taste of the world-famous New Orleans chef's take on Creole cuisine. We're talking Crescent City classics like fried oysters, barbecue shrimp, po'boys, muffuletta sandwiches and jambalaya. At breakfast, you'll even find shrimp and grits or bananas Foster crepes. Emeril's Bistro 1937 on Carnival Celebration also spotlights rotating international dishes daily in addition to these Nawlins favorites.

Related: 7 reasons you should treat yourself to a cruise ship specialty restaurant

Italian for "the voyage," this specialty restaurant on the Italian-themed Carnival Venezia ship takes guests on a trip with a menu of signature regional dishes from across Italy.

Available on : Carnival Venezia

JiJi Asian Kitchen

Explore both the exotic and the familiar at this modern Asian restaurant serving regional specialties while you're surrounded by Mongolian-inspired fabrics and Asian prayer rolls. May you enjoy good food and great fortune when you're here!

Available on : Carnival Horizon, Panorama, Sunshine and Vista

This lunch spot feels like a food cart from the Far East. It serves a rotating menu of bowls that span the gamut of Asian cuisines, from Korean bulgogi to Japanese ramen to Vietnamese pho.

Available on : Carnival Sunrise

Masala Tiger

You can't miss the aromas wafting from this Indian food station, where dishes like tandoori chicken and beef kebabs are cooked at over 1,000 degrees in a traditional clay oven.

Available on : Carnival Splendor

Rudi's Seagrill

Developed by Rudi Sodamin, the master chef for sister cruise line Holland America, this eatery celebrates the delicacies of the sea with elegant dishes like succulent shellfish starters, crab-stuffed lobster tail imperial and cioppino (a fisherman's stew).

Street Eats

An homage to casual food trucks and stalls, Street Eats is like a miniature open-air food market with three different stations serving street food favorites. Find bao buns and pot stickers at Steam Dream, kebabs and satay at Mad Sizzle and epic loaded fries at Time Fries.

Carnival cruise food: Frequently asked questions

How do seating times work in the main dining room?

Before sailing, you must choose your preferred dining format for the main dining room — either set dining times with assigned seating or a flexible option called Your Time Dining with open seating. If you prefer a preset dining time and a guaranteed table with the same server every night, you can choose early dining at 5:30 p.m. or late dining at 7:45 p.m.

With Your Time Dining, you can go to the main dining room anytime between 5:15 p.m. and 9 p.m. to be seated on a first-come, first-served basis. Just alert the dining room that you're coming on the Carnival Hub app so your table will be ready sooner. You can request a specific waiter, but more likely, you'll sit at a different table with a new waiter each evening. You might have to wait for a table at peak dinner times, but Carnival says the average wait time is usually less than 20 minutes, depending on your party size.

Either way, there's no need to make a reservation for the main dining room.

Do you need reservations for specialty dining restaurants?

Reservations are highly recommended for specialty restaurants, as these locations can book up in advance. You can make reservations online up to 48 hours before your cruise by visiting the "Manage My Booking/Cruise Manager" section of Carnival.com, at which time you'll also pay the cover charge for the restaurant.

Once you get on board, look for staff set up at booths to help you make specialty dining reservations. You can also call or visit the restaurant yourself to make a reservation, but seating times might be limited. Walk-ins are allowed but will get seated based on availability. If you don't make a reservation, be prepared for a wait or the possibility of being turned away if the restaurant is booked.

Can you enjoy unlimited food on your Carnival cruise?

It depends on where you eat! There are no limits on most of the included food options, and you can pretty much find free food on your cruise from the crack of dawn to late into the night. You can always eat as much as you want at the buffet in Lido Marketplace and other included food stations across the ship during their operating hours. In the main dining room, however, guests are limited to two free entrees (which, let's be honest, is still plenty!) before having to pay for additional entrees.

Is there a fee for room service?

Room service isn't free on Carnival anymore, except during breakfast. Instead, menu items are available to order a la carte. Complimentary continental breakfast can be delivered to your room between the hours of 6 and 10 a.m. For more details, check out our complete cruise ship room service guide .

Are kids menus available?

Most dining venues offer kids menus with plenty of safe options for picky eaters (think: chicken nuggets, macaroni and cheese, and spaghetti and meatballs). If you're dining at one of the specialty restaurants with a cover charge, there's a reduced fee for kids under 11.

Does Carnival still offer a Lobster Night?

Lobster is available for dinner nightly in the main dining room for a surcharge, but on cruise sailings of six nights or longer, Carnival offers one night per sailing (typically one of the formal nights) where a lobster tail is included as a complimentary entree option on the three-course menu. But don't expect to scarf down all the lobster you can eat. In line with Carnival's two-entree limit in the main dining room, guests now have to pay for any additional lobster past the first two entrees.

Planning a cruise? Start with these stories:

• The 5 most desirable cabin locations on any cruise ship
• A beginners guide to picking a cruise line
• The 8 worst cabin locations on any cruise ship
• The ultimate guide to what to pack for a cruise
• A quick guide to the most popular cruise lines
• 21 tips and tricks that will make your cruise go smoothly
• Top ways cruisers waste money
• The ultimate guide to choosing a cruise ship cabin

• Vacation Rentals
• Restaurants
• Things to do
• Carnival Cruises
• Carnival Cruises from California
• Carnival Cruises from Florida
• Carnival Cruises from Texas
• Carnival Cruises from Mobile
• Carnival Cruises from Los Angeles
• Carnival Cruises from Fort Lauderdale
• Carnival Cruises from Miami
• Carnival Cruises from Port Canaveral
• Carnival Cruises from Tampa
• Carnival Cruises from Charleston
• Carnival Cruises from Norfolk
• Carnival Cruises from New York City
• Carnival Cruises from Jacksonville
• Carnival Cruises from Baltimore
• Carnival Cruises from New Orleans
• Carnival Cruises from Seattle
• Carnival Cruises from Honolulu
• Carnival Cruises from Barbados
• Carnival Cruises from Vancouver
• Carnival Cruises from Barcelona
• Carnival Cruises to La Romana
• Carnival Cruises to Grenada
• Carnival Cruises to Jamaica
• Carnival Cruises to Montego Bay
• Carnival Cruises to Ocho Rios
• Carnival Cruises to Puerto Rico
• Carnival Cruises to San Juan
• Carnival Cruises to Martinique
• Carnival Cruises to St. Lucia
• Carnival Cruises to St Martin / St Maarten
• Carnival Cruises to British Virgin Islands
• Carnival Cruises to Tortola
• Carnival Cruises to Cayman Islands
• Carnival Cruises to Grand Cayman
• Carnival Cruises to St. Kitts and Nevis
• Carnival Cruises to St. Kitts
• Carnival Cruises to Turks and Caicos
• Carnival Cruises to Grand Turk
• Carnival Cruises to U.S. Virgin Islands
• Carnival Cruises to Barcelona
• Family Carnival Cruises
• Things to Do
• Travel Stories
• Rental Cars
• Add a Place
• Travel Forum
• Travelers' Choice
• Help Center

Carnival Freedom Deck Plans & Reviews

Carnival Freedom

Activities & entertainment

• Art Auction
• Beauty Salon *
• Dance Classes
• Deck Parties
• Evening Kids Programs *
• Fitness Center
• Fitness Classes *
• Green Eggs n Ham Breakfast *
• Groove For St. Jude *
• Hot Tubs (7)
• Ice Carving Demonstrations
• Jogging Track
• Lip Sync Battle
• Massage Room *
• Monticello Library
• Photo Portraits *
• Seuss-A-Palooza Parade & Storytime
• Spa Carnival® *
• Spa Parties *
• Sports Deck
• Whirlpool Spa
• White Party
• Wine Tasting *
• Waterslides
• The Warehouse *
• Circle "C"®
• Dr. Seuss Bookville
• 70s Dance Club
• Carnival's Seaside Theatre®
• Comedy Shows
• International Aft Lounge
• Live Nightly Music
• Outdoor Movies
• The Centuries Promenade
• Victoriana Main Lounge
• Bar - Pool Bar *
• Dining Room Annex - American
• The Chic Restaurant - American
• The Posh Restaurant - American
• Cherry On Top - Candies *
• Centuries Bar - Casino Bar *
• Freedom Restaurant - Casual
• Coffee Shop - Coffee & Pastries *
• Guy's Burger Joint - Fast Food
• Fish & Chips - Fish & Chips
• Swingtime Bar - Jazz Bar *
• Taste Bar - Light Bites
• Alchemy Bar - Martini Bar
• BlueIguana Cantina - Mexican
• Scott's Piano Bar - Piano Bar *
• Pizza Pirate - Pizza
• BlueIguana Tequila Bar - Pool Bar *
• RedFrog Rum Bar - Pool Bar *
• RedFrog Pub™ - Pub *
• Skybox Sports Bar - Sports Bar *
• Sun King Steakhouse - Steakhouse *
• Excellent 44
• Very Good 17
• Terrible 28
• All languages ( 123 )
• English ( 120 )
• Spanish ( 3 )

Upcoming itineraries

Have Fun. Be Safe

• Health Protocols and Requirements for Sailing

Travel Documentation and Online Check-in

• Travel Documents
• Online Check-In

Getting There

• Cruise Terminal Information and Parking
• Airport and Pier Transportation
• Air Information

Before You Board

• Embarkation Day Check-In

Youth and Family

• Youth Programs (Under 2 and 2-11 years old)
• Teen Programs (12-17 years old)
• Carnival's Seuss at Sea
• Age Policies

Things to Know

Onboard experiences.

• Shore - Excursions
• Spa and Fitness
• Outdoor Fun
• Entertainment and Activities
• For Your Convenience
• Onboard Guidelines and Policies
• Past Guest Recognition Programs

Onboard Celebrations

• The Fun Shops
• Special Occasions
• Wedding Cruises and Vow Renewals

Dining and Beverages

• Dining and Snacking Options
• Dining Rooms
• CHEERS! Beverage Program
• Liquor and Beverage Policy

Onboard Communication

• WI FI Service and Carnivals HUB App
• Staying Connected

Money and Gratuities

• Gratuities (Tips)
• Sail & Sign Onboard Account
• Forms of Payment
• Cruise Cash/Bar/Photo
• Financial Access

Shipboard Health and Safety

• Passenger Bill of Rights
• Guest Screening Policy
• Safety and Security
• Safety Briefing - Muster Station Drill
• General Health Information
• Privacy Notice
• What to Pack
• Cruise Ticket Contract
• Carnival Vacation Protection
• Guests with Disabilities
• Choosing Your Cruise
• Tech Support
• Early Saver Promotion
• Minors / Infants / Pregnancy
• Making changes to your booking
• Carnival EasyPay
• Financing Powered by Uplift
• US Department of State Travel Tips
• And more things to know....

Debarkation - After Your Cruise

• Preparing to Go Home
• Post Cruise Inquiries

Specialty Restaurants - Dining Reservation Information

Online reservations can be made up to 48 hours prior to your sail date. Reservations can also be made on board at the specialty restaurant or by calling from your stateroom. Walk-ins are welcome as well and will be seated, space permitting. 

If you find the need to cancel or change your reservation, we appreciate you making the change online prior to your cruise. For the Chef's Table and Bonsai Teppanyaki, there is a $25 USD fee for cancellations made within 24 hours of your reservation.

The Steakhouse | Ji Ji Asian Kitchen | Cucina del Capitano | Bonsai Teppanyaki  |  Rudi's Seagrill | Il Viaggio The Chef's Table  | Green Eggs and Ham Breakfast  | Thing 1 & Thing 2 Birthday Breakfast

The Steakhouse

With an elegant, but fun-filled, relaxed and somewhat casual atmosphere and a menu that includes steakhouse favorites, the Steakhouse is guaranteed to be a favorite dining spot. Guests can take in the atmosphere and enjoy the amazing culinary creations of our chefs. The Steakhouse is open daily, 5:30pm-9:30pm.

• There is a fee of $49  USD per adult and $15  USD per child, 11 and under (when ordering from the Kids' menu, available upon request). The fee includes a starter, salad, entrée, dessert and the wait's staffs' gratuity; additional gratuities may be extended at the guest's discretion. The fee does not include any beverage that is normally ordered through bar service such as wine, liquor, soda and bottled water. 
• The dress code follows the dress code specified for that evening on board; if the evening is specified as Cruise Casual, shorts are not permitted.
• The Steakhouse dinner menu ; a menu for kids (11 and under) is available upon request. 
• You should allow 2-1/2 hours for your dining experience.
• Our Event Planning Department can assist eleven (11) or more guests, with a common group booking number, to make advance Steakhouse reservations. We recommend that requests be made at least 30 days prior to departure. Please contact Event Planning at  [email protected] and provide the group number, preferred date, time and party size.
• The Steakhouse is on the following ships: Carnival Breeze, Carnival Celebration, Carnival Conquest, Carnival Dream, Carnival Firenze, Carnival Freedom, Carnival Glory, Carnival Horizon, Carnival Jubilee, Carnival Legend, Carnival Liberty, Carnival Luminosa * , Carnival Magic, Carnival Miracle, Carnival Panorama, Carnival Pride, Carnival Radiance, Carnival Spirit, Carnival Splendor * , Carnival Sunrise, Carnival Sunshine, Carnival Valor, Carnival Venezia, Carnival Vista and Mardi Gras. 
• *  The price listed above is not applicable to ships sailing from Australia. 

Ji Ji Asian Kitchen®

A dining spot inspired by a millennia-old society, Ji Ji Asian Kitchen serves up enticing dishes in an atmospheric space that brings not just good food, but good fortune — and perhaps a surprise or two — to the table. You’ll enjoy your meal among Asian prayer rolls and Mongolian-inspired fabrics that infuse northern-country style into this unique culinary experience – an open kitchen will allow guests to view highly skilled chefs artfully preparing a tantalizing menu. 

• For dinner, there is a fee of $24  USD  per adult and $11  USD  per child 11 and under (when ordering from the Kids' menu, available upon request). The fee includes a starter, entrée, dessert and the wait staffs’ gratuity; additional gratuities may be extended at the guest's discretion. The fee does not include any beverage that is normally ordered through bar service such as wine, liquor, soda and bottled water. 
• The dress code is Cruise Casual.
• Ji Ji Asian Kitchen menu .
• Ji Ji Asian Kitchen is on the following ships: Carnival Horizon, Carnival Panorama, Carnival Sunshine and Carnival Vista.

Cucina del Capitano®

Cucina del Capitano, ‘The Captain’s Kitchen’, is a homage to Carnival’s rich Italian lineage. A delicious dinner-time option with made-to-order Italian favorites in comfortable, relaxed surroundings. Many of the dishes and recipes were hand-selected by Carnival’s captains. 

• On Carnival Celebration and Mardi Gras, Pre-Cruise reservations are not available. All guests are welcome to enjoy a complimentary dinner during their voyage. A nominal charge of $8, per guest, will be assessed for additional visits. Any beverage that is normally ordered through bar service such as wine, liquor, soda and bottled water is additional.  
• On Carnival Jubilee, Pre-Cruise reservations are not available. All guests are welcome to enjoy complimentary dinners during their voyage. Any beverage that is normally ordered through bar service such as wine, liquor, soda and bottled water is additional.
• Cucina del Capitano dinner menu ; a menu for kids (11 and under) is available upon request.
• Cucina del Capitano is on the following ships: Carnival Breeze, Carnival Celebration, Carnival Horizon, Carnival Jubilee, Carnival Magic, Carnival Panorama, Carnival Radiance, Carnival Sunrise, Carnival Sunshine, Carnival Vista and Mardi Gras. 

Bonsai Teppanyaki™

One part meal, one part performance — and all parts unforgettable! The Bonsai Teppanyaki experience begins with a curated selection of delectable dishes. It is then followed by a choice of appetizers that spans many flavors. Your chef will then expertly prepare a main course that is enjoyable with each and every bite. The main course features selections such as filet mignon, grilled tofu, spiced grilled chicken or a seriously impressive array of fish, shrimp and lobster. 

• For dinner, there is a fee of $42  USD per guest, including children ($38  USD per guest, including children, for lunch), which includes a starter, entrée and dessert; an 18% service charge will be added. additional gratuities may be extended at the guest's discretion. The fee does not include any beverage that is normally ordered through bar service such as wine, liquor, soda and bottled water. 
• There is a $25 USD fee for cancellations made within 24 hours of your Bonsai Teppanyaki dinner reservation.
• Bonsai Teppanyaki lunch and dinner menu .
• Bonsai Teppanyaki is on the following ships: Carnival Celebration, Carnival Firenze, Carnival Horizon, Carnival Jubilee, Carnival Panorama, Carnival Venezia and Mardi Gras. 
• There is a fee of $49  USD per adult and $15  USD per child 11 and under (when ordering from the Kids' menu, available upon request). The fee includes a starter, entrée, dessert and the wait staffs’ gratuity; additional gratuities may be extended at the guest's discretion. The fee does not include any beverage that is normally ordered through bar service such as wine, liquor, soda and bottled water. 
• Rudi's Seagrill dinner menu  
• Rudi's Seagrill is on the following ships: Carnival Celebration, Carnival Jubilee and Mardi Gras. 
• There is a fee of $42  USD per adult and $14  USD per child 11 and under (when ordering from the Kids' menu, available upon request). The fee includes a starter, entrée, dessert and the wait staffs’ gratuity; additional gratuities may be extended at the guest's discretion. The fee does not include any beverage that is normally ordered through bar service such as wine, liquor, soda and bottled water. 
• Il Viaggio dinner menu  
• Il Viaggio is on the following ship: Carnival Venezia. 
• The reservation fee is $90  USD  per person   on the following ships: Carnival Conquest, Carnival Elation, Carnival Freedom, Carnival Glory, Carnival Legend, Carnival Liberty, Carnival Luminosa ( on Alaska cruises ), Carnival Miracle, Carnival Paradise, Carnival Spirit, Carnival Sunshine and Carnival Valor.
• The reservation fee is $119  USD  per person on the following ships: Carnival Breeze, Carnival Celebration, Carnival Dream, Carnival Horizon, Carnival Jubilee, Carnival Magic, Carnival Pride, Carnival Radiance, Carnival Sunrise, Carnival Vista and Mardi Gras. On these ships, the Chef's Table offers an enhanced experience! 
• The reservation fee is $150 USD  per person on the following ships:  Carnival Firenze, Carnival Panorama and Carnival Venezia. On these ships, the Chef's Table offers an enhanced experience!
• There is a $25 USD fee for cancellations made within 24 hours of your Chef's Table dinner reservation.
• The dinner(s) as well as the dinner date(s) are subject to the number of guests wishing to participate in this experience.
• The dress code follows the dress code specified for that evening on board; if the evening is specified as Cruise Casual, shorts are not permitted. Since guests are taken on a personalized tour of the galley, open-toed, heels and shoes with slippery soles are discouraged.
• Children must be at least 12 years of age. 
• Price * :  $10  USD  per adult and $8  USD   per child, 11 and under (children under 2 are complimentary); gratuities may be extended at the guest's discretion. The fee does not include any beverage that is normally ordered through bar service such as wine, liquor, soda and bottled water. 
• Ships:  Most ships - Green Eggs and Ham Breakfast will be replaced with Thing 1 & Thing 2 Birthday Breakfast on the sail dates listed below.
• Menu  
• The special breakfast will take place typically on a sea day morning, in the main dining room at 8:30am and 9:30am; scheduling is based on itinerary, so once on board, guests will be notified of the day and time the event will occur. 
• * The price listed above excludes those ships sailing from Australia. 
• Price * : $15  USD  per adult and $10  USD   per child, 11 and under (children under 2 are complimentary); gratuities may be extended at the guest's discretion. The fee does not include any beverage that is normally ordered through bar service such as wine, liquor, soda and bottled water.

Was this answer helpful?

Answers others found helpful.

• For Your Eating Pleasure...
• What Does the Price of my Cruise Include?
• Casual Dining in the Lido Restaurant
• 24 Hour Room Service
• Table Sizes

Carnival Freedom – The Steakhouse

Be the first to leave a review.

This review has no replies yet.

Your browser does not support images upload. Please choose a modern one

• Food Quality
• Staff & Service

• CruiseMapper
• Carnival Cruise Line

Carnival Freedom

Cruise line Carnival Cruise Line

• Port Canaveral (Orlando, Florida)

Carnival Freedom current position

Carnival Freedom current location is at North West Atlantic Ocean (coordinates 26.53077 N / -78.75475 W) cruising en route to USPCV>BSFPO. The AIS position was reported 19 minutes ago.

Current itinerary of Carnival Freedom

Carnival Freedom current cruise is 4 days, round-trip The Bahamas . Prices start from USD 394 (double occupancy rates). The itinerary starts on 04 Apr, 2024 and ends on 08 Apr, 2024 .

Specifications of Carnival Freedom

•   Itineraries
•   Review
•   Wiki

Carnival Freedom Itineraries

Carnival freedom review, review of carnival freedom.

The 2007-built Carnival Freedom cruise ship is the 5th/last of Carnival's Conquest-class liners, with sisterships Conquest , Glory , Valor , Liberty .

The vessel (IMO number 9333149) is currently Panama- flagged (MMSI 371154000) and registered in Colon .

History - construction and ownership

Carnival Cruise Lines (CCL) is a US shipping company, trademarked brand and subsidiary of Carnival Corporation (shipowner). CCL was founded in 1972 as an independent company by Ted Arison (1924-1999, co-founder of NCL Norwegian ).

CCL has the Corporation's largest fleet as number of vessels and GT-tonnage (ship sizes/volumes and passenger capacities). In 2023, CCL had ~9% (by revenue) and ~19% (passengers) share of the cruise industry's worldwide market. In 2024, the parent company (Carnival Corporation) had ~51% stake in the US$64+ billion industry.

The 3000-passenger ship Carnival Freedom was refurbished in 2014 for USD 70 million. Vessel's main architecture is a standard sandwich with most public rooms on Decks three through five; most fitness, spa and casual dining rooms on Deck 9 and above; and most cruisers cabins in among or below the public room decks. This main design has been a pattern for CCL newbuild construction since the introduction of Carnival Destiny in 1996.

There have been made few changes and enhancements in attributes and conveniences since the class was pushed in 2002, most especially, the addition of Seaside Theater (huge outdoor screen above swimming pool on Lido Deck). However, the Carnival ship Freedom suffers from the same cruisers-flow bugaboos as do the other vessels in this class. It is impossible to get from the Posh Dining Room (aft end of the liner) to the Victoriana Lounge (basic showroom) all the way forward without having to climb or descend 1 or 2 decks. And even then, one has to pass either go through the other dining room or the cigar bar.

Decks and Cabins

Carnival Freedom staterooms (1492 total, in 27 grades) include 52 Suites, 504 Balcony, 330 Oceanview and 587 Inside cabins, including 29 wheelchair-accessible (in all cabin categories). The ship has no "family cabins" but instead offers connecting rooms in various categories. Most cabins are sized 170-185 ft2 (16-17 m2). Cabin balconies are sized 35-75 ft2 (3-7 m2). The ship has 3 types of suites - Captain's, Grand, Ocean. The largest are Captain's Suites (500 ft2 / 46 m2 plus 150 ft2 / 14 m2 terrace).

The boat has 13 passenger decks , of which 8 are with cabins. Over 50% of all staterooms are outside, 60% of those are with balconies.

Shipboard dining options - Food and Drinks

Two formal restaurants onboard Carnival Freedom serve open seating breakfast and lunch. Dinner is served in an open seating option or two assigned seatings. The casual Lido buffet offers a number of food stations with a variety of choices, including a salad bar, deli, dessert station, daily regional cuisines. The ship also boasts an upscale supper club which assesses a cover charge and requires reservations. You'll also find outdoor poolside grills, specialty coffee bar, complimentary sushi bar, pizzeria and 24-hour room service that provides a limited selection of items.

Onboard dining has remained mainly free of charge onboard Carnival Freedom. Apart from the main dining room and the buffet, there are burritos and burgers with enough toppings to experience something different every day of your voyage. Even the buffet themed counters seem like tiny, specialized eateries.

Follows the complete list of Carnival Freedom restaurants and food bars.

• Chic Restaurant (744-seat forward Dining Room, with two fixed dinner seatings and “Your Time Dining”; offers “Seuss At Sea” themed breakfast for $5)
• The Posh Restaurant (1122-seat aft Dining Room, with two fixed dinner seatings and open seating for Breakfast and Lunch)
• Freedom Lido Buffet Restaurant (1396-seat, self-service buffet restaurant with various food stations; operates as a bistro in the evenings)
• Sun King Steakhouse (108-seat, reservations only specialty restaurant for steaks and seafood, with dance floor and live music)
• Carnival Deli (complimentary) offers hot/cold sandwiches, side dishes, paninis, and has a draft beer dispenser (for ThirstyFrog Red and Bud Light).
• (refurb 2019) Bonsai Sushi Express (Deck 9 starboard) is a new outdoor food bar offering a variety of rolls, sushi, sashimi.
• Meiji Sushi (sushi bar, complimentary)
• Bluelguana Cantina (complimentary fast food Mexican bar - burritos, tacos)
• Guy’s Burger Joint (complimentary fast food bar by Guy Fieri).

Shipboard entertainment options - Fun and Sport

In 2012 Conquest-class ships first received the newly branded Carnival bars and comedy club. Deck parties are a staple highlighted by new musical performances and poolside bars. Carnival Freedom boasts 22 bars and lounges, giant disco, as well as a piano bar, sports bar, wood-paneled lounge with leather chairs and smoking section. The three-level theater is the special venue for Vegas-style productions accompanied by live orchestras.

Freedom is the first Carnival ship with Camp Ocean, which replaced Camp Carnival as children's program. Carnival Freedom is also the first ship to feature Bookville, a play space and reading room that anchors Seuss at Sea onboard experience. She's also the first ship to boast 4 full PlayList Productions shows at 30 minutes each, rotating throughout the cruise. A number of other Carnival branded experiences enhance onboard life. EA Sports Bar offers action on every wall with video games, sports games, and sports memorabilia. "Hasbro, the Game Show" plays the board games everyone knows out on the stage together with members of the audience. Apart from the "commercial breaks" showcasing Hasbro advertisements, the action is infectious.

Follows the complete list of Carnival Freedom lounges, clubs and other entertainment venues for kids, teens, and adults.

• Victoriana Theatre (1400-seat, 3-level show lounge for grand shows and musical productions; also used for daily trivia game shows, movies, bingo sessions).
• Freedom Atrium The Millennium Lobby (9-deck high open floor area with Millennium Lobby Bar for live performances)
• Chic Card Room; Art Room Gallery; The Dynasty Conference Room
• The Fun Shops (offer “Bon Voyage” items, duty-free liquor, jewelry, fashion boutiques, souvenirs, logo items), Carnival Adventures Shop (refurb 2019)
• Cherry on Top (candy shop)
• Club O2 (teens' club lounge for video games, movies, karaoke, and themed parties)
• Players’ Bar (55-seat sports bar); Nouveau Bar (30-seat wine bar); Alchemy Bar; Scott’s Bar (100-seat piano bar); Swingtime Bar (88-seat jazz bar); Habana Bar (147-seat cigar bar with live music and a faux fireplace)
• Babylon Casino (484-seat, served by Centuries Bar); Centuries Promenade Bar (23-seat)
• Viennese Cafe (specialty coffee bar)
• Video Games Arcade
• 70’s Disco and Nightclub (211-seat)
• International Lounge (425-seat, with dance floor; hosts Punchliner Comedy Club)
• Blue Iguana Tequila Bar (Mexican beer, tequila, margaritas)
• RedFrog Rum Bar (Caribbean rums selection, ThirstyFrog Red draught beer, burgers, and fries)
• Spa Carnival complex (with steam rooms, saunas, massage room, Spa Pool, Beauty Salon, and Gymnasium)
• Sports Deck (multi-sports court, Tennis Tables, Shuffleboard)
• 9-hole Mini-Golf Course, Jogging Track
• Circle C (kids' club lounge, complimentary)
• Internet Cafe (24-hour Internet computers room)
• Timeless Pool area (with 2 Timeless Bars, 2 Grille Bars, and 2 Whirlpools).
• Endless Pool area (with SkyDome glass roof; two Whirlpools are served by Endless Bar, Grille and Pizzeria)
• (refurb 2019) WaterWorks aqua park (Deck 10) features a 62-m / 203-ft long AquaTunnel (waterslide), Carnival’s signature 65-m / 212-ft long Twister slide, a 75-gallon / 285-liter PowerDrencher (tipping bucket) and the kids-only SplashZone.
• Heroes Tribute Bar & Lounge
• Dreams Studio (photo sessions studio)
• Carnival Seaside Theatre (poolside LED screen / outdoor cinema)
• Serenity (adult-only sundeck with Serenity Bar, two Whirlpools, padded lounges)
• Camp Ocean (kids' club lounge hosting complementary programs with supervised activities, an outdoor playground). Camp Carnival's wading/paddling pool for kids is no longer available.

During drydock refurbishment in 2023 (October) were added the Heroes Tribute Bar (deck 5/replacing the Skybox Sports Bar) and the Dreams Studio (deck 3, in the Lobby), while the Babylon Casino was expanded.

CCL's Heroes Tribute Bar & Lounge (forward-portside/adjacent to the Casino) is the first-at-sea venue dedicated to active and retired US military personnel. The bar lounge features a distinctive decor with the logos of the USA's 5 armed forces (Army, Marine Corps, Navy, Air Force, Coast Guard), military memorabilia throughout, walls lined with photos and messages themed "America’s Heroes", "Welcome Home" and "Thank You for Your Service". Specialty cocktails are served in custom-made pint glasses. A portion of each beverage sale benefits Operation Homefront (nonprofit organization). The special glasses can also be purchased as souvenirs.

Itineraries

Carnival Freedom itinerary program is based on departures from Galveston TX with 7-day roundtrip cruises to Eastern and Western Caribbean. Feature port destinations include Nassau , Key West , Cozumel , Belize , Roatan .

Starting April 27, 2021, Carnival Freedom had planned cruises in Alaska leaving on roundtrips from homeport Seattle WA . The 7-day "Glacier Route" itinerary visits Skagway , Juneau , Ketchikan , Victoria (BC Canada) , Tracy Arm Fjord (scenic cruising). The ship also had an 8-day itinerary to Ketchikan, Juneau, Skagway, Icy Strait Point/Hoonah , Victoria BC, Tracy Arm Fjord. Freedom's Seattle departures were on Tuesdays.

In 2021, in Alaska Carnival Freedom had to join Carnival Miracle (10-11-day roundtrips from San Francisco ). After Alaska, Freedom was to be relocated from Seattle to homeport Fort Lauderdale Florida with a 17-day Panama Canal itinerary (September 22, 2021) for 6- and 8-day Eastern and Southern Caribbean roundtrips. However, due to the Coronavirus crisis and Canada's extended (through 2022) ban on cruise ships, CCL's entire Alaska 2021 program was canceled and CCL's Freedom ship restartded operations on October 9, 2021, out of Miami .

In 2023, to Carnival Freedom's schedule were added two Transatlantic crossings (RepositionCruises.com) between Florida USA and Europe. The special voyages were due to the drydock (in Cadiz Spain ) scheduled for 2023 October (4-23). The first/eastbound Transatlantic voyage (Sept 21-Oct 4) is a 13-night itinerary from Port Canaveral to Barcelona . The second/westbound Transatlantic voyage (Oct 23-Nov 6) is a 14-night reverse itinerary from Barcelona to Port Canaveral.

Carnival Freedom - user reviews and comments

Photos of carnival freedom.

Carnival Freedom ship related cruise news

Fire on Carnival Freedom ship prompts canceled cruises

Passengers are facing disruptions following an incident involving a CCL-Carnival Cruise Line vessel amid adverse weather conditions on Saturday...

Cruise chaos: severe weather forces major itinerary changes for multiple cruise companies

Several ships from various major cruise companies/brands encountered significant itinerary changes as severe weather conditions affected areas from...

Carnival Freedom resumes cruises after 16-day drydock refurbishment in Cadiz (Spain)

CCL's ship Carnival Freedom, featuring her iconic winged funnel, recently resumed her service with a 14-day transatlantic voyage from Barcelona Spain...

Carnival Freedom begins 16-day drydock refurbishment at Navantia shipyard (Cadiz, Spain)

The iconic winged funnel design, a hallmark of CCL-Carnival Cruise Line vessels, will soon grace Carnival Freedom once more. Currently under...

CCL-Carnival Cruise Line unveils ships and itineraries visiting Grand Bahama's new port Celebration...

CCL-Carnival Cruise Line has commenced the sale of ~400 voyages that visit Celebration Key, its newly developed private cruise port destination in...

CCL's cruise ship Carnival Freedom restarts sailings without the signature funnel

Two weeks after the funnel fire accident on CCL-Carnival Cruise Line's ship Carnival Freedom, CCL confirmed that the vessel resumed operations on...

CCL-Carnival Cruise Line cancels 2 more sailings from Port Canaveral (Orlando FL) due to Freedom...

CCL-Carnival Cruise Line canceled 2 more sailings from Port Canaveral (Orlando, Florida) on Carnival Freedom due to the need to repair fire damage on...

VIDEO: Carnival Freedom cruise ship catches fire in Grand Turk

A fire that caused damage to the funnel on CCL-Carnival Cruise Line‘s ship Carnival Freedom on Thursday, May 26, has been extinguished. There...

VIDEO: CCL-Carnival Cruise Line welcomes 2 million passengers since restart

As the first major American cruise company with its full fleet back in service since the restart last summer, CCL-Carnival Cruise Line has now...

7 Carnival cruise ships meet up at sea to celebrate the company’s 50th Birthday

As part of CCL-Carnival Cruise Line’s 50th birthday festivities and the company's Sailabrations cruises, 7 liners, including Breeze, Ecstasy...

•   show more news

Other Carnival Cruise Line cruise ships

• Carnival Breeze
• Carnival Celebration
• Carnival Conquest
• Carnival Dream
• Carnival Elation
• Carnival Firenze
• Carnival Glory
• Carnival Horizon
• Carnival Jubilee
• Carnival Legend
• Carnival Liberty
• Carnival Luminosa
• Carnival Magic
• Carnival Mardi Gras
• Carnival Miracle
• Carnival Panorama
• Carnival Paradise
• Carnival Pride
• Carnival Radiance
• Carnival Spirit
• Carnival Splendor
• Carnival Sunrise
• Carnival Sunshine
• Carnival Valor
• Carnival Venezia
• Carnival Vista

Carnival Freedom Wiki

Fun Ship 2.0 upgrade was done in 2014. Freedom is the first Carnival ship with a reservations-only/specialty restaurant (Sun King Steakhouse) and the adults-only "Serenity" (resort deck area). Freedom is also Carnival's last Conquest-class liner ( Fincantieri Monfalcone -built), with sisterships Conquest , Glory , Liberty , Valor . The inaugural cruise (maiden voyage) started on March 5, 2007 (Mediterranean itinerary from Civitavecchia-Rome ).

Carnival Freedom refurbishments review

Carnival Freedom's last drydock refurbishment was in 2023 (October 6-21) conducted at Navantia shipyard in Cadiz Spain . The drydocking project included the replacement of the funnel, superstructure and hull cleaning/repainting, exterior refurbishments (new decking installation, adding CCL's new red-white-blue hull livery), adding the Heroes Tribute Bar (deck 5), Dreams Studio (deck 3). The Casino was expanded, and all staterooms and public areas were renovated/upgraded. Curiously, the funnel was designed and manufactured by Navantia.

The ship's 2019 drydock refit and refurbishment (February 14 - March 8) was done at Grand Bahamas Shipyard in Freeport Bahamas , and resulted in the following deckplan changes:

WaterWorks Aqua Park (Deck 10) replaced the Stressless Pool area (with waterslide). The new aquapark features a 62-m / 203-ft long AquaTunnel (waterslide), Carnival's signature 65-m / 212-ft long Twister slide, a 75-gallon / 285-liter PowerDrencher (tipping bucket) and the kids-only SplashZone.

Bonsai Sushi Express (Deck 9 starboard) is a new outdoor food bar offering a variety of rolls, sushi, sashimi.

The Deli (Deck 9 portside / outdoor food bar) now offers an expanded menu with sandwiches, traditional side dishes, paninis.

The 9-hole Mini-Golf Course was relocated from Deck 12 to Deck 11.

Retail shopping areas (Promenade Deck 5) were expanded and redesigned (as mall-style space) with outlets selling watches, perfumes, jewelry, Carnival-branded merchandise (including at the new Carnival Adventures Shop / next to the Internet Cafe / midship-starboard).

The ship was also drydocked in 2021 (January-February) for routine maintenance and classification works.

Carnival Freedom's next two cruises from Port Canaveral canceled after exhaust funnel fire

A fire in the exhaust funnel of the Carnival Freedom this weekend has disrupted a cruise of the Port Canaveral-based ship for the second time in less than two years — and will mean that the ship's next two cruises are canceled.

Damage to the funnel will require the cancellation of Carnival's next two cruises out of Port Canaveral, which were scheduled to depart Monday and Friday.

Thousands of passengers with scheduled cruises will be affected by the canceled cruises during a busy spring break period for Carnival and other cruise lines.

Carnival initially had said it expected no changes in its upcoming cruises, but on Sunday afternoon said the cancellations would be required.

"Regrettably, the damage is more than we first thought, and will require an immediate repair to stabilize the funnel, resulting in the cancellation of the March 25 and March 29 cruises from Port Canaveral," according to a statement issued by Matt Lupoli, Carnival Cruise Line's senior manager of public relations. "The funnel has been stabilized for the ship’s return to Port Canaveral overnight to disembark guests, and then it will go to the Freeport shipyard on Monday afternoon to begin the required repairs."

Carnival said it made the decision after "our technical team completed a thorough assessment" during the ship’s visit Sunday to Freeport in the Bahamas.

In the statement, Carnival said: "We sincerely regret the impact to our embarking guests, as we know they have been looking forward to their spring break vacation. We are providing all guests on both canceled cruises a full refund and a 100% future cruise credit, so they can come back and enjoy a future cruise with us. We also greatly appreciate the terrific guests who are currently sailing with us, for their outstanding cooperation and support."

In a Facebook post, Carnival's widely followed brand ambassador, John Heald, conceded that many people who booked one of the canceled cruises are "feeling very disappointed," and he apologized for the turn of events.

But, Heald added that he wanted to assure affected passengers that, "when you rebook, using your full refund and your 100% future cruise credit, that the crew will be standing by to give you all the fun you deserve."

More than 500 people responded to the post, with many saying they thought Carnival was generous with the compensation offer. But some people who said they were on the cruise that experienced the fire said they thought Carnival should have done more for the people who were on the ship.

Carnival said the fire was confined to the funnel area. The cruise line said there are no reports of injuries to passengers. Two firefighting crew members were treated for minor smoke inhalation.

Carnival said that, at about 3:15 p.m. Saturday, the Carnival Freedom reported a fire on the port side of the ship’s exhaust funnel. The ship was 20 miles off Eleuthera Island, Bahamas, heading to Freeport after a canceled call to the Carnival private island of Princess Cay due to adverse weather.

Details of previous fire: Fire breaks out on Carnival Freedom while Port Canaveral-based ship was in Grand Turk

"The ship’s fire response team was quickly activated, and the ship’s captain also turned the vessel towards the heavy rain in the area to maximize the efforts to put out the flames," an earlier Carnival statement said. "Eyewitnesses reported the possibility of a lightning strike, and that is being investigated, but cannot yet be confirmed."

By 5:20 p.m. Saturday, the fire was extinguished. 

Carnival said the ship's captain made multiple announcements to passengers and crew, and advised all but essential safety personnel to stay away from balconies and all open decks. 

The port-side portion of the funnel had fallen onto Deck 10, and the firefighting response put out any flames. 

The U.S. Coast Guard has been notified of the fire, and Carnival activated its incident response team to support the ship’s crew. 

Carnival said there were no other operational issues with the ship’s systems, and the ship, which was on a four-night cruise, was visiting Freeport on Sunday.

The Freedom sailed into the channel at Port Canaveral around 7:30 a.m. Monday, and docked at Cruise Terminal 6, letting off the passengers who were on the cruise. Carnival then awaited a Coast Guard inspection of the ship before it could be cleared to leave Port Canaveral for the Freeport shipyard for repairs. The ship left the port about 6:20 p.m.

A cruise ship funnel generally serves as a smokestack to lift emissions above the deck, thus away from passengers and crew.

On Saturday evening, "Carnival Freedom guests enjoyed the Elegant Night dinner as planned, and, with the exception of the open decks, all areas of the ship are fully functioning," Carnival said in its statement. 

The sailing had about 3,700 passengers onboard. And the two upcoming sailings that were canceled each likely would have had a similar passenger count, because this is a busy time for the cruise industry.

The Carnival Freedom's next voyage was scheduled to depart from Port Canaveral on Monday afternoon on a five-night Eastern Caribbean cruise. That cruise had port-of-call stops scheduled at Amber Cove in the Dominican Republic and at Grand Turk Island in the Turks and Caicos Islands.

But that sailing and a Friday sailing both have been canceled. Friday's five-night sailing also was scheduled to stop at those two ports of call, but in reverse order.

In May 2022, a fire broke out in the funnel area of the Carnival Freedom while it was docked in Grand Turk. Carnival then canceled three scheduled sailings of the Carnival Freedom out of Port Canaveral because of the need to repair the ship's fire damage at a shipyard in Grand Bahama.

More recently, in October 2023, the Carnival Freedom debuted a new iconic winged funnel after returning from a 16-day dry-dock refurbishment in Cadiz, Spain.

Dave Berman is business editor at  FLORIDA TODAY.  Contact Berman at  [email protected] , on X at  @bydaveberman  and on Facebook at  www.facebook.com/dave.berman.54

latest in US News

NJ, feds to duke it out in court over $15 congestion pricing toll...

Stranded Australian cruise passengers describe 'worst experience...

City Island residents clamor for ferry stop in Bronx enclave as...

NY's proposed ERA curbs parents rights over kids' transgender...

Experienced climber found dead 1,200 feet below Mount St. Helens...

Texas mom gets warrant issued for her arrest over late library...

Severe thunderstorm risk stretches from Jersey Shore to Florida

Rep. Lauren Boebert has emergency surgery, diagnosed with rare...

Couple recalls terrifying moment lightning struck carnival cruise ship before it caught on fire.

• View Author Archive
• Get author RSS feed

Thanks for contacting us. We've received your submission.

A couple recalled the terrifying moment they watched lightning strike their Carnival cruise ship, which caught fire over the weekend during a Caribbean excursion.

Florence Torchia watched the bolt hit the Carnival Freedom ship during a thunderstorm as the ship was 20 miles off the coast of Eleuthera Island in the Bahamas on Saturday.

Moments later, the crew reported a fire in the ship’s exhaust funnel, the couple told Fox Weather.

“Oh my God, this doesn’t look good,” Joe recalled them saying as they saw the fire on the TV. “They had a [camera] set up.”

Crews quickly responded to the fire, but the couple said their hoses “didn’t reach the funnel.”

The Torchias tried to make their way down to the muster station after the captain made an announcement and they were met with “kids crying” while they looked for their parents.

“It was scary,” Joe said.

The exhaust stack would eventually fall onto the 10th deck, sending a plume of smoke “in our cabin and everything,” Florence said.

Despite the emergency , the couple said the cruise line’s communication was “pretty good” and they “notified us of everything.”

However, the third-time cruisers said this trip “might be our last” after the ordeal.

“I’d rather go to the Caribbean to a single destination,” Florence said.

A Carnival spokesperson told Fox Weather that their onboard team did a “thorough assessment” after the ship was able to dock at Freeport a day later and are still investigating witness reports.

The boat was able to return to Port Canaveral in Florida on Monday.

The cruise line admitted to the outlet that the damage was “more than we first thought” and would need immediate repairs to stabilize the damaged funnel.

The March 25 and 29 cruises out of Port Canaveral were canceled. Customers on those trips received refunds.

This is the second time the Freedom cruise ship’s funnel has caught fire in two years, with the last time being in May 2022.

Share this article:

Advertisement

Travel | Carnival Freedom cruise ship suffers another…

Share this:.

• Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window)
• Click to share on X (Opens in new window)

Daily e-Edition

Evening e-Edition

• Entertainment
• Theater and Arts
• Things to Do
• Restaurants, Food & Drink

Things To Do

Subscriber only, travel | carnival freedom cruise ship suffers another funnel fire.

The Port Canaveral-based Carnival Freedom just received its new funnel less than six months ago, but it has suffered more damage because of another fire on board this past weekend as it was sailing in the Bahamas.

Carnival reported the port side of the ship’s exhaust funnel was damaged in a fire at 3:15 p.m. Saturday as it was about 20 miles off the coast of Eleuthera Island, Bahamas as it was heading to Freeport. The ship had skipped over a port of call at Princess Cay because of bad weather.

Carnival Freedom cruise ship having some minor issues pic.twitter.com/PDdZ89K6KE — Dallas Texas TV (@DallasTexasTV) March 25, 2024

“The ship’s fire response team was quickly activated, and the ship’s captain also turned the vessel towards the heavy rain in the area to maximize the efforts to put out the flames,” according to an update on X by the cruise line. “Eyewitnesses reported the possibility of a lightning strike and that is being investigated.”

This is the same ship that had its funnel burn away in 2022 to the point the ship had to sail without the iconic “whale tail” shape until it went in for a replacement last October during a dry dock in Spain.

Carnival Freedom Returns to Port Canaveral Following a stack fire March 23rd pic.twitter.com/ecVVjvvoHx — Jerry Pike (@JerryPikePhoto) March 25, 2024

“The captain has made multiple announcements to guests and crew and advised all but essential safety personnel to stay away from all open decks. There are no injuries. The port side portion of the funnel has fallen onto Deck 10 and the fire response is putting out the flames,” the line said Saturday.

At the time, the line also stated its sailings from Port Canaveral this week would not be affected, but both a Monday and Friday sailing have been canceled. Its next departure is not slated until at least April 4.

More in Travel

The new issue of Explore Florida & the Caribbean takes you places

Travel | New cruise ship Disney Treasure gets 1st taste of water

Travel | Travel Troubleshooter: United Airlines canceled my flight, so why can’t I get a refund?

Travel | Peace and quiet called my name. I found it at a Turks and Caicos resort

Video shows Carnival Freedom on fire, again. Two upcoming cruises were canceled. Here's what to know

The Carnival Freedom 's next two sailings have been canceled after the cruise ship, based out of Florida, caught fire . Again.

Carnival initially said there were no expected changes in its schedule but on Sunday afternoon announced cancellations of the Monday and Friday cruises out of Port Canaveral, which come during a busy spring break period.

"Regrettably, the damage is more than we first thought, and will require an immediate repair to stabilize the funnel, resulting in the cancellation of the March 25 and March 29 cruises from Port Canaveral," according to a statement issued by Matt Lupoli, Carnival Cruise Line's senior manager of public relations. "The funnel has been stabilized for the ship’s return to Port Canaveral overnight to disembark guests, and then it will go to the Freeport shipyard on Monday afternoon to begin the required repairs."

This is the second time in less than two years this cruise ship's funnel has caught on fire and disrupted the schedule.

Carnival cruise fire: Carnival Freedom's next two cruises from Port Canaveral canceled after exhaust funnel fire

When did the Carnival Freedom catch on fire?

The fire broke out on the port side of the ship's exhaust funnel area at about 3:15 p.m. Saturday, Carnival said.

The ship was 20 miles off Eleuthera Island, Bahamas. It was intended to call on the Carnival private island of Princess Cay but had rerouted toward Freeport due to adverse weather.

"The ship’s fire response team was quickly activated, and the ship’s captain also turned the vessel towards the heavy rain in the area to maximize the efforts to put out the flames," an earlier Carnival statement said. The fire was put out by 5:20 p.m., the cruise line said.

Why did the Carnival Freedom cruise ship catch fire?

Unknown at this time.

"Eyewitnesses reported the possibility of a lightning strike, and that is being investigated," Carnival said, "but cannot yet be confirmed."

Was anyone hurt in the Carnival Freedom fire?

The cruise line said there were no reports of passenger injuries, although two firefighting crew members were treated for minor smoke inhalation and part of the funnel fell onto Deck 10, according to Carnival.

There were about 3.700 passengers aboard.

Which Carnival Freedom cruises have been canceled?

While initially the cruise line said the schedule would not be affected, further investigation found more damage than suspected. Scheduled cruises for Monday, March 25 and Friday, March 29 have been canceled.

Can I get a refund for my canceled Carnival Freedom cruise?

"We sincerely regret the impact to our embarking guests, as we know they have been looking forward to their spring break vacation<' Carnival Cruises said in a statement. "We are providing all guests on both canceled cruises a full refund and a 100% future cruise credit, so they can come back and enjoy a future cruise with us. We also greatly appreciate the terrific guests who are currently sailing with us, for their outstanding cooperation and support."

Where is Port Canaveral?

Port Canaveral, Florida is located on a barrier island between the Banana River and the Atlantic Ocean just north of Cape Canaveral. The port is 54 miles from Orlando and 75 miles from Daytona Beach.

What is the funnel on a cruise ship?

A cruise ship exhaust funnel works as a smokestack to lift emissions away from the deck and from passengers and crew. They're often called stacks.

The Carnival Freedom debuted a new stylized winged funnel in October last year after a 16-day dry-dock refurbishment in Cadiz, Spain. Carnival cruise funnels are referred to as the whale tail.

Has the Carnival Freedom cruise ship caught on fire before?

A fire broke out in the funnel area in May 2022 while it was docked in Grand Turk. Three scheduled sailings were canceled while the ship was repaired at a shipyard in Grand Bahama.

The ship was carrying about 2,500 passengers at the time and a crew of about 1,100, according to the cruise line. There were no injuries reported.

Which cruise ship caught fire?

The  Carnival Freedom  caught on fire on Saturday, March 23.

The 110,000-ton vessel made its inaugural sail in 2007.  The Freedom, which has 13 decks, can hold up to 3,754 passengers and 1,150 crew members. 

Has a Carnival cruise ship ever sank?

No. But one has been shipwrecked.

On Jan. 13, 2012, the Costa Concordia struck a reef and capsized off the Tuscan island of Giglio. The ship, which was owned by a Carnival Corporation subsidiary, when the captain steered the 952-foot, 13-deck ship close to the shore to "impress the passengers" and tore a 160-foot gash in the port hull.

Captain Francesco Schettino was found guilty of manslaughter in 2015 and sentenced to 16 years in prison for the deaths of 32 passengers and crewmembers.

Carnival Freedom's next two sailings canceled after funnel fire, second within 2 years

A fire in the exhaust funnel of the Carnival Freedom this weekend has disrupted a cruise for the second time in less than two years — and will mean that the Florida-based ship's next two sailings are canceled.

Damage to the funnel will require the cancellation of Carnival's next two cruises out of Port Canaveral, which were scheduled to depart Monday and Friday.

There were about 3,700 passengers onboard the ship when the fire occured. And the two upcoming sailings, which were canceled, likely would have had a similar passenger count amid the busy Spring Break season.

Start the day smarter. Get all the news you need in your inbox each morning.

Carnival initially had said it expected no changes in its upcoming cruises, but on Sunday afternoon said the cancellations would be required.

"Regrettably, the damage is more than we first thought, and will require an immediate repair to stabilize the funnel, resulting in the cancellation of the March 25 and March 29 cruises from Port Canaveral," according to a statement issued by Matt Lupoli, Carnival Cruise Line's senior manager of public relations. "The funnel has been stabilized for the ship’s return to Port Canaveral overnight to disembark guests, and then it will go to the Freeport shipyard on Monday afternoon to begin the required repairs."

Carnival said it made the decision after "our technical team completed a thorough assessment" during the ship’s visit Sunday to Freeport in the Bahamas.

In the statement, Carnival said: "We sincerely regret the impact to our embarking guests, as we know they have been looking forward to their spring break vacation. We are providing all guests on both canceled cruises a full refund and a 100% future cruise credit, so they can come back and enjoy a future cruise with us. We also greatly appreciate the terrific guests who are currently sailing with us, for their outstanding cooperation and support."

In a Facebook post, Carnival's widely followed brand ambassador, John Heald, conceded that many people who booked one of the canceled cruises are "feeling very disappointed," and he apologized for the turn of events.

But, Heald added that he wanted to assure affected passengers that, "when you rebook, using your full refund and your 100% future cruise credit, that the crew will be standing by to give you all the fun you deserve."

More than 500 people responded to the post, with many saying they thought Carnival was generous with the compensation offer. But some people who said they were on the cruise that experienced the fire said they thought Carnival should have done more for the people who were on the ship.

Carnival said the fire was confined to the funnel area. The cruise line said there are no reports of injuries to passengers. Two firefighting crew members were treated for minor smoke inhalation.

Carnival said that, at about 3:15 p.m. Saturday, the Carnival Freedom reported a fire on the port side of the ship’s exhaust funnel. The ship was 20 miles off Eleuthera Island, Bahamas, heading to Freeport after a canceled call to the Carnival private island of Princess Cays due to adverse weather.

"The ship’s fire response team was quickly activated, and the ship’s captain also turned the vessel towards the heavy rain in the area to maximize the efforts to put out the flames," an earlier Carnival statement said. "Eyewitnesses reported the possibility of a lightning strike, and that is being investigated, but cannot yet be confirmed."

By 5:20 p.m. Saturday, the fire was extinguished. 

How safe are cruise stops? Travel advisories are only one marker for destinations

Carnival said the ship's captain made multiple announcements to passengers and crew, and advised all but essential safety personnel to stay away from balconies and all open decks. 

The port-side portion of the funnel had fallen onto Deck 10, and the firefighting response put out any flames. 

The U.S. Coast Guard has been notified of the fire, and Carnival activated its incident response team to support the ship’s crew. 

Carnival said there were no other operational issues with the ship’s systems, and the ship, which was on a four-night cruise, was visiting Freeport on Sunday.

A cruise ship funnel generally serves as a smokestack to lift emissions above the deck, thus away from passengers and crew.

On Saturday evening, "Carnival Freedom guests enjoyed the Elegant Night dinner as planned, and, with the exception of the open decks, all areas of the ship are fully functioning," Carnival said in its statement. 

The Carnival Freedom's next voyage was scheduled to depart from Port Canaveral on Monday afternoon on a five-night Eastern Caribbean cruise. That cruise had port-of-call stops scheduled at Amber Cove in the Dominican Republic and at Grand Turk Island in the Turks and Caicos Islands.

But that sailing and a Friday sailing both have been canceled. Friday's five-night sailing also was scheduled to stop at those two ports of call, but in reverse order.

In May 2022 , a fire broke out in the funnel area of the Carnival Freedom while it was docked in Grand Turk. Carnival then canceled three scheduled sailings of the Carnival Freedom out of Port Canaveral because of the need to repair the ship's fire damage at a shipyard in Grand Bahama.

More recently, in October 2023, the Carnival Freedom debuted a new iconic winged funnel after returning from a 16-day dry-dock refurbishment in Cadiz, Spain.

Dave Berman is business editor at  FLORIDA TODAY.  Contact Berman at  [email protected] .

This article originally appeared on Florida Today: Carnival Freedom's next two sailings canceled after funnel fire, second within 2 years

• Cruise From

DEPARTURE PORTS

Destination matters, but it's not the only thing. Every great vacation starts somewhere — how about yours?

Jacksonville

Dover (London)

Long Beach (Los Angeles)

New Orleans

Port Canaveral (Orlando)

Civitavecchia (Rome)

San Francisco