If you're looking for an affordable, action-packed family vacation where kids never get bored and parents can actually relax, the Carnival Splendor might be your next trip.
I have had the opportunity to work on the Carnival splendor and here is why Splendor is a PortPins team favorite for families.
Ship Size + Capacity
The Carnival Splendor is a Conquest-class ship that carries about 3,012 guests at double occupancy, and up to 3,780 guests total when she is filled. She also has around 1,150 crew members.
That size is the sweet spot: big enough for water parks and multiple restaurants, but small enough that you don’t spend 20 minutes finding your cabin.
Where Does Carnival Splendor Sail?
At the time of making this post, Splendor is based out of Sydney all year, which makes her perfect for Aussies and neighbouring countries like New Zealand, Fiji etc.
From Sydney:
- South Pacific: Vanuatu, New Caledonia, Fiji, Noumea
- New Zealand: Bay of Islands, Auckland, Tauranga, Wellington
- Australia: Brisbane, Airlie Beach, Cairns
Most cruises are 8-12 nights, so you get real time in port without feeling rushed. But she also does 3 days cruises out to nowhere and 4 day cruises mostly to Moreton Island (Tangalooma resort Island).
Why It’s Perfect for Families
1. Affordable Cruises
Carnival is famous for value. You can often find 8-night South Pacific sailings for under $1500 AUD per person including room, food, and entertainment. Kids sail free/super cheap on select dates too. That’s way less than land-based resorts.
2. Food That Everyone Loves
Dining is included and it’s genuinely good. No extra cost for:
- Guy's Burger Joint - Best burgers at sea. Flamed grilled, free, and open late.
- Pizzeria del Capitano - 12hr pizza. Perfect for picky eaters and midnight snacks.
- Deli - Tacos and burritos for lunch by the pool.
- Main Dining Room - 2-story MDR with fun menus and great service.
3. Amenities: Water Park, Pools + More
This is where Splendor shines for kids:
- WaterWorks - 2 slides, splash zone, and a 300-gallon tipping bucket. Kids spend all day here.
- 4 Pools + 6 Hot Tubs - Adult-only Serenity deck so parents get peace too.
- Camp Ocean - Free kids club for ages 2-11. Trained staff, games, and crafts.
- Circles "C" - Teens club with video games and music.
4. Entertainment That’s Actually Amazing
Nights on Splendor are packed:
- Punchliner Comedy Club - Family and adult shows.
- Hasbro Game Shows - Deal or No Deal, Guess that groove live on stage.
- Themed Night Parties 80's Rock n Glow party, All white Silent Party, SuperHero Academy , Island Night Party aand lots more.
- Dr. Seuss Bookville + Seuss-a-palooza Parade - Kids meet Cat in the Hat, Thing 1 & 2, and do a full parade. This is the #1 hit for ages 3-10.
- Playlist Productions - Broadway-style shows included.
Final Verdict
Carnival Splendor nails the family cruise formula: affordable price + tons of food + water park + free kids clubs + great destinations. You can do as much or as little as you want.
Pro tip: Book an aft balcony. You get amazing views of the wake and it’s sometimes cheaper than mid-ship staterooms.