Setting Sail on Waves of Fun Discovering the Carnival Sunshine Experience
Cruise enthusiasts, family travelers, and adventure seekers, gather around as we set sail on an exciting exploration of the Carnival Sunshine Cruise Ship. If you're dreaming of a sea voyage filled with laughter, relaxation, and unforgettable memories, this is the place to be. My updated Carnival Sunshine review promises to provide you with all the inside information you need for your next adventure at sea.
The Carnival Sunshine cruise is renowned for providing a vibrant and thrilling cruise experience. With a vast array of amenities and activities, it's designed to cater to every cruise-goer's whim. Whether you're traveling with family or searching for a heart-pounding adventure on the open seas, the Carnival Sunshine has something special to offer. Through this review, I'll share my personal insights and experiences to guide you through an unforgettable cruise.
Prepare to uncover the treasures of the Carnival Sunshine as we explore the ship's incredible facilities, delectable dining options, exhilarating entertainment, and much more. From where the Sunshine will be sailing in 2025 to the delightful crew members who make every voyage a joy, this review is your compass to navigate the waters of fun and relaxation.
This was not my first time on a cruise ship, and not my first cruise on Carnival ships, so I mostly knew what to expect. Carnival cruise line is known as the fun ship, and honestly, I could not agree more.
Ship Overview
The Carnival Sunshine, a beacon of joy and excitement on the high seas, invites you to discover its vast ocean playground. This magnificent vessel is a favorite among cruise enthusiasts, offering a comprehensive suite of amenities and facilities tailored to delight travelers of all ages. From thrilling water parks to serene relaxation zones, the Sunshine is a floating wonderland waiting to be explored.
Families will find endless opportunities for fun with the ship's family-friendly features. The WaterWorks water park, with its twisting slides and splash zones, ensures that the young (and young at heart) are entertained for hours. For those seeking a touch of tranquility, the expansive Serenity adult-only retreat offers a peaceful haven.
Adventure seekers can indulge their thrill-seeking desires with the SkyCourse ropes adventure, weaving their way through a maze of challenges high above the deck. Whether you're zipping down the slides or soaking in the sunshine by the pool, the Carnival Sunshine promises a voyage filled with laughter, excitement, and cherished memories.
The Sunshine is an older ship that was refurbished and given an extensive remodel several years ago. Originally built in 1996 and named the Carnival Destiny, it was the first passenger cruise ship to be built that had a tonnage over 100,000. The extensive dry sock remodel happened in 2012 and was finished and sailing in 2013. This ship holds just over 3,000 passengers and has over 1,100 crew members.
Where the Carnival Sunshine Cruise Will Be Sailing for 2025
If you're planning to set sail on the Carnival Sunshine in 2025, get ready for a voyage that promises to be extraordinary. The ship will be departing from a new home port, with exciting itineraries that take you to some of the most breathtaking destinations. While my cruise embarked from Charleston, SC, with stops in Nassau and Half Moon Cay, future adventures will unveil new horizons.
The decision not to sail from Charleston SC anymore marks the end of an era, but it also opens the door to thrilling new possibilities. I will truly miss sailing out of the Charleston SC port. Since I live in SC now Charleston was the closest port to me. Now I will either have to drive to the next closest port, which is Jacksonville Florida for a Carnival Cruise, or take a flight.
Travelers can look forward to embarking on journeys from different ports, each offering unique experiences and adventures. Whether you're soaking up the sun on a Caribbean island or exploring hidden coves, the Carnival Sunshine will guide you to unforgettable destinations. As of right now, future cruises on the Carnival Sunshine sails from Norfolk, Virginia.
Cabin Review
A comfortable and inviting cabin can make all the difference on a cruise, and Carnival Sunshine offers a variety of cabin types to suit every traveler's preference. From cozy interiors to luxurious suites, the ship ensures that your accommodation is a sanctuary at sea.
During my cruise, I had the pleasure of staying in a balcony cabin, and I couldn't have been happier with my choice. Waking up to the gentle sound of waves and stepping onto the balcony to greet the day with a fresh sea breeze was a highlight of the experience. I loved drinking coffee on the balcony in the mornings. The cabin was spacious and well-appointed, with thoughtful touches that made it feel like a home away from home. It was not anything fancy but perfect for what me and my travel companions needed. There were 3 of us in the cabin. The couch turned into a bed for the 3rd person in the room to sleep on.
For families, the family cabins and suites offer ample space and comfort, ensuring that everyone has room to unwind after a day of adventure. Whether you're a solo traveler seeking solitude or a family looking for a cozy retreat, Carnival Sunshine provides accommodations that cater to your unique needs. One thing I love, when you unpack your suitcase, there is enough room under the bed to store luggage.
I was traveling in a group of 5 people so the other 2 in my group stayed in an interior cabin just across the hall. When booking our cabins I chose this so we could all be close together. This is something you can do when booking a cruise.
If you are unfamiliar with cabins, interior cabins tend to be the most budget friendly, then ocean view, then balcony cabins. Also the lower the cabin is on the ship the cheaper the price is. Suites are the most expensive but most luxurious. There are Cloudy 9 Suites for those that love the spa, Grand Suites, Captain Suites, and Ocean Suites that offer great amenities.
Dining Experience
Prepare your taste buds for a culinary adventure aboard the Carnival Sunshine. The ship boasts a diverse array of dining options that cater to every palate, from casual bites to gourmet delights. Your dining experience on the Sunshine is nothing short of a gastronomic voyage.
One of my personal favorites was Guy's Burger Joint, where the mouthwatering burgers are worth every delicious bite. However, a word of advice—be prepared for lines on embarkation day! For those looking to avoid the crowd, waiting until later in the cruise is a wise choice. Guy’s burgers are the perfect place to visit on a sea day soaking up the sun on the pool deck.
The buffet that is also located on the pool deck (Lido Deck) has a large variety of food including pizza that everyone talks about. Personally, I find the pizza is fine, but not my favorite thing to eat while on the cruise.
My favorite desert is in the main dining room, and it is very popular with guests on every carnival cruise. The Chocolate Lava Cake! Every Carnival cruise I have to get this at least once with vanilla ice cream.
The BlueIguana Cantina is another place near the pool area for breakfast or lunch that will provide you with tacos, burritos, or just chips and salsa. When you are in the mood, this is good. Honestly, I think there is nothing better when I have had a few too many drinks by the pool then a big burrito.
From specialty restaurants offering exquisite cuisine to casual dining spots serving up comfort food, the Carnival Sunshine ensures that every meal is a memorable experience. Whether you're indulging in a perfectly cooked steak, savoring international flavors, or enjoying a sweet treat, the ship's culinary offerings promise to delight. The Italian Restaurant called Cucina del Capitano is a great place for a fancy dinner or the Steakhouse for a mouthwatering steak. I enjoyed the Steakhouse on this cruise, but I have done the Italian on other Carnival cruises.
Ji Ji Asian Kitchen and Bonsai Sushi are also restaurants with additional fees. I should have tried these, but there were so many food options, and I was on a shorter cruise, I did not have a chance, but I have heard great things about these restaurants.
Bars and Lounges
I have 2 favorite bars on the Sunshine. The Alchemy Bar with its unusual and fun drinks, and the piano bar. You will have a great time at both. The Alchemy Bar is located on the same level as the casino and not terribly far away near Ocean Plaza and Red Frog Pub where there are plenty of places to sit at the bar or lounge around in chairs nearby. Watch the bartenders make many martinis and you should have a martini tasting where you get 4 tiny martinis of different flavors so you can decide which is best.
The Piano Bar is made for a good time, singing along with the talented piano player. You will know the songs, and everyone joins in the fun. You will have a blast well into the night at this place. Earlier in the day it is calmer and a great place for a drink with comfortable seats.
Another great place for a drink is the Casino Bar, it is just on the outside of the casino, and you catch all the people walking by, so it is good for people watching. Also, they play Trivia at this bar sometimes which is always fun.
Havana Bar area, RedFrog Pub, Skybox Sports Bar and the bars on the pool deck are great too! You will always find the perfect places to drink while on board. There are many public areas to get your drink on.
As for the Cheers package, that's up to you. If you are a drinker, I highly recommend it, but if you drink less than 3 drinks a day, per person it will not be worth it. When drinking on a cruise ship prices tend to be much higher than you are used to, unless you are drinking in a bar in New York City.
Entertainment and Activities
When it comes to entertainment, the Carnival Sunshine shines brightly with a dazzling array of options to keep guests entertained from dawn to dusk. Whether you're seeking high-energy shows, relaxing lounges, or unique activities, the ship has it all.
The onboard entertainment includes captivating performances, live music, and a comedy club with shows that leave audiences in stitches. For those looking to unwind, the largest Serenity area at sea offers a blissful escape with its tranquil whirlpools and loungers.
Playlist productions in the theater always put on a good show. These are musical productions with singing, dancing and even some acrobatics at times. Highly entertaining in the evenings, after dinner shows. The theater is used for other events during the day too. You will always be aware of what is going on when and where with the activities list left in your cabin the night before.
Families will delight in the Seuss at Sea program, where beloved characters come to life, and Camp Ocean provides a haven for younger travelers. The Cloud 9 Spa offers a touch of indulgence and relaxation, ensuring that guests leave feeling rejuvenated. My mom loved getting a pedicure onboard. Personally, I find that the prices are a little bit more expensive than you would find at a spa in your hometown, but my mom doesn't mind. She loved to be pampered in the spa while on a cruise, and besides it is just a few dollars more.
And of course, the water slides, pools, hot tubs and activities you can do on the pool deck or other outside decks, from ping pong, basketball and so much more in the SportsSquare. For exercise you can even just walk laps around the deck, but in my eyes, you will get enough walking in exploring the ship and exploring the ports you visit while on the cruise.
My favorite place to soak up the sun is the outside Serenity Deck, its adults only and large enough you can always find a spot. Now don't get me wrong, if it is a beautiful seaday, you will want to be out there before 10 AM. The lounge chairs fill up after breakfast pretty quick. I will say since I have been to Nassau a few times, I tend to stay on the ship nowadays and treat the Serenity deck as my own personal sea day, it will not be packed at all that day because everyone is in port.
One of my favorite places to visit on any cruise ship is the casino, and Carnival Cruise Line does a great job for the gamblers out there. If you gamble be sure to use your card so you gain points for gambling, and that way Carnival will know you are a gambler. I have received huge discounts on future cruises due to gambling on cruise ships. Have you ever seen a $100 cruise, I have, and it was offered to me because I have gambled in the past on Carnival cruises. You may not see any rewards if you just toss $20 in a machine, but if you gamble a few hundred bucks, you might end up with a deal on a future cruise.
Service and Staff
A cruise is only as memorable as the people who make it special, and the Carnival Sunshine's crew goes above and beyond to ensure that every guest feels welcome and valued. Their warmth, friendliness, and dedication to service create a sense of camaraderie that makes you feel like part of the family.
Personally, I had the pleasure of meeting a couple of exceptional bartenders during my cruise, and we've stayed connected on social media since. Their passion for creating delightful drinks and fostering connections added a personal touch to the experience.
From housekeeping to dining staff, every member of the crew is committed to making your cruise unforgettable. Their genuine smiles and attention to detail enhance the overall enjoyment of the voyage, leaving you with memories that last a lifetime.
I always give a little bit of an extra tip for the cabin steward, especially if they go out of their way and they always seem to. I do not remember the name of my steward, but he remembered my name and always said hello to me when passing in the hallway. His towel animals were amazing.
One Large Hiccup on the cruise
Halfway through the cruise there was a waterpipe that burst on the cruise ship. It flooded part of the floor where my cabin was located. My carpets were soggy near the door to the cabin, but it did not reach past the bathroom area of my cabin. My room was lucky. The staff just opened my door and placed a fan there for part of the day and it was fixed. But other rooms were flooded pretty badly.
People like me who stick their luggage under the bed had water soak into their cloth luggage, and it took a long time for the water to dry in their cabins. Some people were asked to move to other cabins during the cruise, which was helpful for them and luckily there were extra cabins available on the ship. Still, this was an inconvenience during their vacation, and I would overhear people complaining about it while on the ship the last day before debarkation.
Shore Excursions and Itinerary
One of the highlights of any cruise is the opportunity to explore stunning destinations through carefully curated shore excursions. Carnival Sunshine offers an array of excursions that cater to a variety of interests and preferences, ensuring that every traveler finds an adventure that speaks to their heart.
Whether you're snorkeling in crystal-clear waters, embarking on a cultural tour, or enjoying a leisurely beach day, the shore excursions provide an enriching extension of the cruise experience. Each itinerary is thoughtfully designed to offer a balance of relaxation and exploration, allowing you to immerse yourself in the beauty of each destination.
From the breathtaking beaches of Half Moon Cay to the vibrant streets of Nassau, the Carnival Sunshine's shore excursions open the door to unforgettable experiences. Be sure to book early, as these exciting adventures are popular among fellow travelers.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the Carnival Sunshine delivers a cruise experience that is both exhilarating and enriching. From the ship's remarkable facilities and amenities to the warmth and friendliness of the crew, every aspect of the voyage is designed to create lasting memories for cruise enthusiasts, family travelers, and adventure seekers alike. I would definitely do this cruise again!!!
As you plan your next adventure at sea, consider the Carnival Sunshine as your gateway to a world of exploration and relaxation. Share your own experiences and thoughts with fellow travelers, and don't hesitate to take the plunge into the captivating world of cruising.
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