Royal Caribbean VS Carnival in 2026 - Here's What You Need to Know

Royal Caribbean vs Carnival — two of the biggest names in cruising, but which one is actually right for you? We've sailed both lines extensively, and the answer might surprise you. 💲Save BIG with MEI-Travel cruise deals: https://bookmeicruise.com/?apid=escy 🌎Save Up to 40% On Shore Excursions: https://www.shoreexcursionsgroup.com/?id=1603014 In this Royal Caribbean vs Carnival comparison, we break down everything that matters — ships and fleet size, itineraries, private destinations, food, cabins, entertainment, bars, drink packages, and pricing — so you can make the most informed decision before booking your next cruise. Here's what we found: Carnival wins on food value and included dining, with standout options like Guy's Burger Joint and more complimentary venues across the fleet. Royal Caribbean wins on entertainment and onboard attractions, with Broadway shows, AquaTheater performances, ice skating rinks, surf simulators, skydiving simulators, and some of the largest cruise ships ever built — including Icon of the Seas and Star of the Seas. When it comes to private destinations, Royal Caribbean has a clear edge with Perfect Day at CocoCay, Labadee, Royal Beach Club Paradise Island, and several new destinations opening in 2026 and 2027. Carnival counters with Half Moon Cay and Celebration Key. Pricing is where it gets interesting. In the Carnival vs Royal Caribbean debate, Carnival generally offers lower fares for Caribbean and Bahamas sailings — but the gap widens significantly on newer Royal Caribbean ships. That said, Royal Caribbean can actually be cheaper for Alaska sailings departing from the West Coast. Whether you're a first-time cruiser trying to decide between Carnival and Royal Caribbean, or a seasoned traveler looking to switch things up, this video gives you the honest, side-by-side comparison you need. By the end, you'll know exactly which cruise line fits your travel style — and which one to avoid. Subscribe to the Eat Sleep Cruise YouTube Channel if you love to travel and cruise the world! https://www.youtube.com/@Eatsleepcruise1 🛳️ FREE CRUISE PLANNING GUIDE: https://eatsleepcruise.com/cruise-planning-guide Royal Caribbean vs Carnival – Which One is Best For You? 0:00 Comparing Royal Caribbean and Carnival Cruise Line 1:04 Comparing Royal Caribbean and Carnival's Ships & Fleet Size 4:30 The Onboard Vibe on Carnival and Royal Caribbean 6:05 Food & Dining Options on Carnival and Royal Caribbean 7:43 Royal and Carnival Bars & Drink Packages 9:15 Cabins & Staterooms on Both Cruise Lines 11:20 Entertainment & Onboard Attractions 14:11 Kids & Family Centers on Carnival and Royal Caribbean 15:34 Where Do Both Cruise Lines Sail? 17:27 Is Carnival Cheaper than Royal Caribbean? 19:34 Which Cruise Line Wins? ----TRENDING VIDEOS FROM EAT SLEEP CRUISE------ Best Cruise Ships of 2026: https://youtu.be/X1dhNISRnLk Best Cruises for Couples: https://youtu.be/fenNj5GmLdM Cruise Essentials We Always Pack: https://youtu.be/xa-0mxKWkeo The Cruise Rip-offs https://youtu.be/cjbKOLTVStQ Join us on Social Media as we “Sea the World, One Port at a Time.” Instagram: https://instagram.com/EatSleepCruise Facebook: https://facebook.com/EatSleepCruise Twitter: https://twitter.com/EatSleepCruise TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@eatsleepcruise Pinterest: https://pinterest.com/EatSleepCruise #RoyalCaribbeanvsCarnival #CarnivalvsCarnival #CruiseTips #RoyalCaribbean #CarnivalCruise #CruiseLineComparison #CruisePlanning #BestCruiseLine #EatSleepCruise #CruiseReview Question – Which cruise line are you sailing on in 2026? Affiliate link: Some links above may earn us a small commission at no extra cost to you. Disclaimer: This video is not sponsored. Some links may be affiliate links. We're breaking down the strengths and weaknesses of Carnival Cruise Line and Royal Caribbean in this comprehensive cruise line comparison. Discover which cruise line is best for your travel style by examining food, ships, and entertainment. This cruise review will help you choose wisely for your next adventure.