Your Itinerary to a 7-Day Carnival Eastern Caribbean Cruise
- Angie - Your Guide
- 5 days ago
- 6 min read
Imagine a week where your biggest decision is choosing between a turquoise beach and a thrilling waterslide that twists out over the ocean. That's the magic of a 7-day Carnival Eastern Caribbean cruise itinerary. This sun-drenched corner of the world is a kaleidoscope of vibrant cultures, breathtaking landscapes, and unforgettable adventures. Get ready to cast off the everyday and sail into a world of pure joy and discovery.
This guide is your treasure map to planning the perfect escape in the cruise world. We'll explore the different departure ports, the incredible ships that sail these routes, and the dazzling destinations that await you. Let's dive into the heart of the Caribbean!
Carnival Cruise 7 day Eastern Caribbean Itinerary
Setting Sail: Your Florida Departure Port
Your journey to paradise begins in the Sunshine State, but the port you choose shapes your adventure. Carnival offers Eastern Caribbean voyages from four key Florida ports, each with its own unique fleet and rhythm.
Port Canaveral (Orlando)
As the home port for some of Carnival's newest and most spectacular ships, Port Canaveral is a destination in itself. You'll often find the Excel-class Mardi Gras here, complete with the first-ever rollercoaster at sea, BOLT! The brand-new Carnival Jubilee and Carnival Celebration also make appearances, bringing unparalleled fun. The Vista-class Carnival Vista and Dream-class ships are also frequent sailors from this port, ensuring a wide variety of onboard experiences.
Miami
The cruise capital of the world, Miami is a bustling hub of activity. From here, you can sail on a diverse range of Carnival vessels. The popular Vista-class Carnival Horizon often calls Miami home, offering everything from a SkyRide cycling course in the clouds to an IMAX Theatre. You'll also find Dream-class and Conquest-class ships sailing from Miami, providing a classic Carnival Fun Ship experience.
Fort Lauderdale (Port Everglades)
Just a short drive from Miami, Port Everglades offers a slightly more relaxed departure experience. Carnival typically stations ships like the Vista-class Carnival Sunrise here, which underwent a massive transformation to include guest-favorite dining spots and activities. The mix of ships changes seasonally, so it's always an exciting port to watch.
Jacksonville
Offering a convenient departure point for those in the Southeast, Jacksonville provides a fantastic gateway to the Caribbean. While itineraries from Jacksonville can sometimes focus more on the Bahamas, it frequently offers wonderful 7-day Eastern Caribbean sailings, often on Spirit-class or similar-sized ships. These vessels provide a more intimate yet incredibly fun cruising experience. Many 7 day cruise destinations from Jacksonville end up with stops in the Bahamas, you will find cruises that go to other Eastern Caribbean Islands.
It's important to note that ship deployments change. The Carnival corporation shuffles its fleet annually to keep offerings fresh, so the ship sailing from your favorite port this year might be different next year. Always check Carnival's official website for the most current and future schedules.
Tampa
Does offer cruises that go east, but this is one of the best port to go western Caribbean with stops in Mexico, Jamacia, or Grand Cayman Islands. One that I love about leaving Tampa on a cruise, you get to pass under the Sunshine Skyway Bridge. It is a neat experience.
​Norfolk Virginia, Baltimore Maryland, and NYC -offers eastern Caribbean cruises, but usually visit Bermuda, some will visit the Bahamas, but for 7-day cruises it is best to leave from Florida
Fun at Sea: Your Ship is the Destination
A Carnival cruise is about more than just the ports; the ship itself is a floating resort packed with excitement. The amenities you'll enjoy depend on the ship's class.
Excel Class (Mardi Gras, Jubilee, Celebration):Â These are the game-changers and new ways to enjoy a Carnival Cruise. Get your adrenaline pumping on the BOLT roller coaster, splash around in the massive WaterWorks aqua park, and explore six themed areas with unique dining, entertainment. and live music.
Vista Class (Vista, Horizon, Panorama):Â Known for outdoor fun, these ships feature the SkyRide, a suspended cycling adventure high above the deck. They also boast massive water parks, the relaxing Havana Bar & Pool area, and a wide array of specialty dining. Don't forget about the Playlist Productions in the theater.Â
Dream Class (Dream, Magic, Breeze):Â These fan-favorites expanded on the Fun Ship concept with extensive WaterWorks parks, serene adults-only Serenity Retreats, and the thrilling Cloud 9 Spa.
Conquest & Spirit Classes:Â These vessels deliver the classic Carnival experience with a punch. Enjoy the signature waterslide, lively poolside music, the Punchliner Comedy Club, and fantastic shows in the main theater. They offer all the fun in a slightly more intimate setting.
Restaurant and bar selections on these ships do vary some, but for the most part you will see the favorites like Redfrog rum bar, alchemy bar, bonsai teppanyaki, buffet and main dining room just to mention a few of my favorites.Â
Island Hopping: Discovering Caribbean Jewels
Your 7-day itinerary will typically include three or four incredible port stops, each a unique gem. Here are some of the spectacular destinations you might visit.
Grand Turk, Turks & Caicos
This is Carnival’s private paradise! You step off the ship directly onto a pristine beach with sugar-white sand. One of the good things about this port, the beach is just steps away. The massive cruise center features one of the largest Margaritaville locations in the Caribbean, complete with a sprawling pool and a FlowRider surf simulator. You can rent a golf cart to explore the charming colonial-era Cockburn Town, snorkel in the crystal-clear water, or simply relax in a cabana.
San Juan, Puerto Rico
History comes alive in San Juan. Your ship docks right in the heart of Old San Juan, a vibrant, walkable city with cobblestone streets and pastel-colored colonial buildings. Explore the magnificent El Morro and San Cristobal forts, which have guarded the city for centuries. Immerse yourself in the local culture, savor delicious mofongo, and feel the rhythm of salsa music in the air.
St. Maarten/St. Martin
One island, two nations! This unique destination offers a fusion of Dutch and French culture. On the Dutch side (St. Maarten), you can explore the bustling shopping district of Philipsburg or visit the world-famous Maho Beach, where planes fly thrillingly low over your head to land at the adjacent airport. The French side (St. Martin) is known for its gourmet cuisine and secluded, clothing-optional beaches.
St. Thomas, U.S. Virgin Islands
Prepare for jaw-dropping views. St. Thomas is famous for its scenic overlooks, like Drake's Seat and Mountain Top, where you can gaze out over the legendary Magens Bay. The island is a shopper's paradise, with duty-free deals on jewelry, electronics, and spirits just a short walk from the ship docks. The colorful markets of Charlotte Amalie are right there for the taking. For adventure, you can snorkel with sea turtles or take a ferry to the neighboring island of St. John, home to a stunning national park.
Nassau Bahamas
You cannot forget about Nassau, one of the most popular stops for any cruise line in the Eastern Caribbean. Plenty of beaches, attractions, a bustling city with so much history and charm. Take a beginning Scuba tour, take in a beach day at a resort (you can even visit Atlantis Resort), or just walk the city looking for the Queens Staircase.
Carnival's itineraries are wonderfully varied. Depending on your specific sailing, you might also visit:
St. Kitts:Â A lush, volcanic island with a rich history. Explore the massive Brimstone Hill Fortress, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, or ride the scenic railway that circles the island.
Amber Cove, Dominican Republic:Â Another Carnival-exclusive port, Amber Cove is an adventure hub. Soar through the jungle on a zipline, relax by the huge Aqua Zone pool, or explore the beautiful scenery of the Dominican Republic.
Half Moon Cay, Bahamas:Â Often included on Eastern Caribbean routes, this is Carnival's award-winning private island. It's the definition of paradise, with a two-mile-long crescent beach, horseback riding in the surf, and private villas for the ultimate indulgence.
Celebration Key:Â Carnival Cruise Line's stop on Grand Bahama Island. For brand-new experiences, opened in 2025, this is a similar to the cruise ships own private resort area, with great beaches, waterpark, and so much more. A stop at this resort area is free admission, included in the cruise.
Your Unforgettable Adventure Awaits
A Carnival Cruise, 7 day, with Eastern Caribbean Itinerary is more than a vacation; it’s an invitation to experience pure, unadulterated fun. From the Carnival Mardi Gras to Carnival Horizon, you will have jaw-dropping entertainment, live shows and great food from Guy's Burger Joint, to Emeril's Bistro, while enjoying your time in the Eastern Caribbean, From the thrilling amenities on your Fun Ship to the diverse beauty of each island port, you are crafting a week of memories that will last a lifetime. Choose your port, pick your ship, and get ready to sail into the sun on your next adventure.
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