Planning a Carnival Cruise? New Price Increases Start in 2026
(KNGT-FM) - Are you planning to set sail on a cruise vacation anytime soon? If you are, it might end up costing you more than you originally thought. We've got everything you need to know before you embark on your next adventure...
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Cruising is a great way to enjoy a vacation because it’s easy, relaxing, and packed with value. You unpack once, then wake up in a new place almost every day, with food, entertainment, and activities all included. Here in Southwest Louisiana, we’re lucky to have two major cruise ports close by, Galveston and New Orleans, making it even more convenient.
If you’re planning a Carnival cruise next year, you may want to budget a little extra money. Carnival Cruise Line has announced some price increases that will start in April 2026.
The good news is that the price increases are small, but they are going up nonetheless. Here's what you need to know...
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Carnival Cruises Raising Daily Gratuities
Starting April 2, 2026, Carnival Cruise Line will raise its daily gratuities by $1 per person. Guests staying in standard staterooms will see the daily rate increase from $16 to $17, while suite guests will pay $19 per day instead of $18. Over the course of a seven-night cruise, that adds up to an extra $7 per person. Carnival says these gratuities go directly to onboard crew members on top of their base pay, and the automatic charge is meant to be a convenience. Guests still have the option to adjust gratuities during their cruise.
- Guests in standard rooms will pay $17 per day, up from $16
- Guests in suites will pay $19 per day, up from $18
Gratuities onboard a cruise ship are a great way to thank the crew who work hard to make your trip special. Having a good room steward can make a big difference, especially when you come back to a clean room after a long day. I think we can all agree there's nothing quite like walking into your room to see animal-shaped towels on the bed after dinner.
Carnival Raising Price of Bottomless Bubbles Drink Packages
Carnival is also increasing the price of its Bottomless Bubbles drink package for adults. The adult package will rise from $9.50 to $11.99 per day, while the children’s price will remain the same at $6.95 per day. Travelers who already have a cruise booked can still lock in the current price by purchasing the package before April 1, 2026. A 20% service charge will continue to apply.
- Adult price will go from $9.50 to $11.99 per day
- Kids’ price will stay the same at $6.95 per day
If you already have a cruise booked, you can lock in the current price by buying the drink package before April 1, 2026. Keep in mind, a 20% service charge still applies.
In the end, these are minor changes; we just wanted to keep you updated if you're going to be travelling soon. Happy Sailing!
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Gallery Credit: Michelle Heart