The extensive renovation, which took place during a 35-day dry dock, is part of Carnival's "Evolutions of Fun" refurbishment program for the line's eight Fantasy-class vessels. Carnival Sensation is the fourth "Fun Ship" to receive the upgrades, joining the Carnival Imagination, Carnival Inspiration, and Carnival Fantasy which have already been renovated. The four remaining Fantasy-class ships will be refurbished over the next few years.

Ship Facts

70,367 tons
Passengers: 2,052
855 feet in length
103 feet wide
Decks: 9
Crew: 920
Elevators: 14
Registry: Bahamas
Entered service: 1993

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 Sensation is the third of the eight Fantasy-class sister ships (Fantasy, Fascination, Ecstasy, Inspiration, Paradise, Imagination & 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, 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 1993, Carnival Sensation was chartered by the U.S. Government to aid in housing relief workers during the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina. That was followed by an extensive refurbishment in March 2006. The ship is now sailing four and five day Bahamas cruises out of Port Canaveral.

In any case, this is an older ship, and as such one can expect to find bargain sailings on her, in many ways she feels like a brand new ship.