As the holiday season approaches, many people start wondering when their favorite places will transform into winter wonderlands. One such magical transformation occurs at Carnival cruise ships, which are renowned for their festive decor during the Christmas season. Let's dive into the timeline of when Carnival starts decorating for Christmas in 2018, and what you can expect if you plan to embark on a holiday cruise.
When Does the Decoration Begin?
Carnival Cruise Line generally begins its Christmas decorations around the end of November. Here’s a brief overview:
- End of November: Crew members start with the basic preparations like unpacking decorations and setting up lights.
- Early December: Full-scale decoration takes place, with the ship looking festive by the first week of December.
🎄 Note: This schedule can vary based on the specific ship’s itinerary and port calls.
What to Expect Aboard a Carnival Ship During Christmas 2018?
If you’re fortunate enough to be cruising with Carnival during the Christmas season, here’s what you can expect:
Exterior and Public Spaces
The exterior of Carnival ships becomes a visual spectacle with:
- Decorated Christmas trees on the lido deck.
- Seasonal lights, garlands, and wreaths.
- Santa and Mrs. Clause might be seen walking around or even arriving by helicopter on select ships.
Interior Decoration
The interior of the ship is no less enchanting:
- Atrium: A massive Christmas tree, often reaching several decks high, is a focal point for photos and activities.
- Decorative Themes: Gingerbread houses, elves, and other holiday motifs adorn common areas.
- Christmas Music: Festive tunes fill the air, creating a jolly atmosphere.
Celebration Events
Carnival ships host a variety of Christmas-related events and traditions:
- Tree-Lighting Ceremony: A magical moment where passengers gather to celebrate the lighting of the main Christmas tree.
- Holiday Shows and Carols: Special performances, caroling sessions, and holiday-themed shows entertain guests throughout the voyage.
- Children’s Activities: Including gingerbread house decorating, crafting ornaments, and meet-and-greets with Santa.
How Does It Compare to Other Years?
While the overall timing and themes for Christmas decoration at Carnival remain fairly consistent, each year brings subtle variations:
- Themes: Themes can change, providing a fresh look to the holiday decor.
- Interactive Elements: Technology and interactive decor have become more prevalent, enhancing the visitor experience.
Planning Your Christmas Cruise with Carnival
If you’re considering a Carnival cruise for Christmas 2018, here are some tips:
- Book Early: Christmas cruises fill up quickly, especially cabins with ocean views or those near central activities.
- Know Your Itinerary: Consider how the ship’s ports of call might influence the timing of decorations.
- Check for Special Packages: Carnival often offers holiday-themed packages or activities that can enhance your festive experience.
🎄 Note: Some ships might start decorations earlier if they have a Christmas-themed itinerary, so always check directly with Carnival for specifics.
As the festive season approaches, Carnival cruise ships transform into floating Christmas villages, creating unforgettable memories for all aboard. Whether you're in the mood for celebration, relaxation, or simply to immerse in the holiday spirit, a Christmas cruise with Carnival in 2018 promises to deliver joy and wonder from start to finish.
When exactly does Carnival start decorating for Christmas?
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Carnival Cruise Line typically starts its Christmas decorations by the end of November, with full decorations up by early December.
Do all Carnival ships follow the same decoration schedule?
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While the general schedule is similar, specific itineraries and port calls can influence the exact timing of when a ship starts its holiday decorations.
Are there any special Christmas events or activities?
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Yes, Carnival hosts a variety of holiday events including tree-lighting ceremonies, caroling, and Christmas-themed shows.
Can I bring my own Christmas decorations?
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While Carnival provides ample decorations, small, non-flammable personal items are usually allowed, but check with Carnival’s policy for specifics.
Is there a surcharge for holiday cruises?
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Holiday cruises might have slightly higher rates due to demand, but there are usually no additional charges for participating in Christmas-themed activities or seeing the decorations.
