Ship Facts

70,367 tons
Passengers: 2,052
855 feet in length
103 feet wide
Decks: 9
Crew: 920
Elevators: 14
Registry: Panama
Entered service: 1998

Best For People Who Want:
Non-stop entertainment, lively casinos, extensive deck space for sunning, large, if very pink, facilities for fitness/spa and children's activities, large cabins, good food, and very informal service. Especially recommended for families, singles in groups and first time cruisers.

Should Be Avoided By People Who Prefer:
Sophisticated "seen but not heard" service people; cabins with private verandas; mega-ship action; understated elegance in a low-key environment; no children; dozens of varieties of food.

Onboard Experience:
Identical in all but décor, Carnival Paradise is the eighth and last of the Fantasy-class sister ships (Fantasy, Fascination, Ecstasy, Inspiration, Imagination, Sensation & Elation). These ships always seem to have something of interest going on, and thus are ideal for the up-and-at-'em style cruiser. Carrying 2,052 passengers, the ships are big enough to provide diverse entertainment, but tend to be deployed to the 3 and 4-day market in most cases. They have ample deck space for those whose idea of being entertained is basking in a warm sunshine glow, and separate facilities for passengers of all ages.

Having been launched in 1998, Carnival Paradise is not so full of neon, chrome and mirrors as her younger sister ships. But it's there if you know where to look. Like at the Leonardo's Dance Club with her brass barstools and neon-rimmed mirrors and ceiling panels.

In any case, this is still considered an older ship in today's fast-paced market, and as such one can expect to find bargain sailings on her, which is great because in many ways she feels like a brand new ship.

All of the public rooms recently received new sound and light systems to add a touch of excitement. Flat-screen televisions have been added to many lounges to keep up with sports and other events. The ship now has a specialty coffee bar, new art and photo galleries and purpose-built conference facilities.