On Board Carnival Legend
I was lucky enough to be invited by Carnival Cruise lines to have a tour round their ship Carnival Legend and a spot of lunch whilst she was in Edinburgh recently.
Family Friendly Accessibility
Carnival is America's favourite cruise line and is especially popular with families and mult-generational family groups. I love Carnival for this; Carnival ships have a very relaxed, homey feeling and it really does seem like everyone is one big family. One other thing to flag up whilst we're talking family is Carnival's committment to accesible cruising for all. Carnival really are fully inclusive, and that shows just from having a tour around one of their ships - from the hoists at the poolsides, to the sensory rooms in the kids' spaces. Carnival make cruising an option for everyone - and they do it with warmth.
Families will find Carnival Legend an ideal choice due to its extensive pool areas. The ship features multiple pools and hot tubs, ensuring that everyone from toddlers to adults can enjoy a refreshing dip. The Green Thunder waterslide adds an element of excitement for thrill-seekers, while the splash zones are perfect for younger children.
What can I do onboard?
Carnival's cruises are designed to offer a mix of relaxation and entertainment, the ship provides a variety of amenities and activities that appeal to all age groups. Dining on Carnival Legend is a culinary adventure. The ship boasts a wide range of restaurants, from casual eateries to fine dining. Families can enjoy the diverse offerings at the Lido Marketplace, which serves international cuisine in a buffet style. For a more formal dining experience, the main restaurant offers a sophisticated menu with options that cater to all tastes. Specialty restaurants such as the steakhouse and the sushi bar provide unique dining experiences, while 24-hour room service ensures that guests can satisfy their cravings at any time.
The ship's bars are a hub of activity and socialization. From the laid-back atmosphere of the RedFrog Pub to the elegant Alchemy Bar, there are plenty of venues for adults to unwind and enjoy a drink. The Carnival Legend also features themed bars like the piano bar, where guests can enjoy live music and sing along to their favorite tunes.
There's top-notch entertainment in the evening, with a variety of shows and performances that cater to all tastes. The main theater hosts Broadway-style productions, comedy shows, and musical performances, ensuring that there is always something exciting to see. For those who enjoy dancing, the nightclub offers a vibrant atmosphere with a live DJ.
If you're after something a bit more chill, the adults-only Serenity area, is a peaceful haven featuring comfortable loungers, hammocks, and hot tubs; the perfect setting for relaxation away from the bustling family areas.
And if you want to up the relaxation a notch, the onboard spa offers a range of treatments and therapies designed to rejuvenate and relax. From massages to facials, the spa provides a serene escape from the stresses of everyday life. There is also a well-equipped fitness center, a running track, and a gym - just in case you can't bear to take a break from your fitness regime.
What other ships do Carnival have?
Carnival Legend is one of the Lines older ships. She has 12 decks and carries around 2100 passengers. Carnival have 27 ships, their newest (and largest) is excel-class Carnival Celebration. She can carry upto 6,500 passengers. She has ultra modern facilities and entertainments. And she has a roller coaster! On the top deck! I so want to ride that roller coaster!!
Where can I go with Carnival?
Carnival sail to more than 700 destinations across the world! From the UK you can sail the Med and Northern Europe OR you could pick up one of the Lines Caribbean or Mexico cruises from Florida and combine that with a trip to Disney or Universal. The world is your Oyster.
ALSO - Newsflash - Carnival's very own island Celebration Key at the Bahamas is set to open in 2025 and it looks set to be am-a-zing!
Who is Carnival for?
Carnival Legend offers excellent value for money, combining quality service, diverse amenities, and a wide range of activities for all ages. But it's not for everyone - if you're looking for the sort of cruise that has formal nights and luxury - this is not for you. If, however, you are a couple, a solo traveller and especially if you are a family then Carnival is ideal for you. It's incedible value for money, and it's Fun with a CAPITAL F!