Carnival Glory: A Caribbean Cruise Review
Join us as we embark on an adventure filled cruise on-board the Carnival Glory as we explore the wonders of the Western Caribbean. This cruise review delves into the ship's luxurious amenities, delectable dining options, thrilling entertainment, and exciting shore excursions. Discover the highlights of each port of call, from the stunning beaches of Cozumel to the vibrant culture of Belize.
Onboard Activities and Entertainment
Pool and Water Park
The Carnival Glory offers a variety of onboard activities and entertainment options to keep guests entertained throughout their cruise. One of the highlights is the pool area, which features multiple pools and jacuzzi’s for guests to relax and cool off in. The main pool is surrounded by loungers and is a popular spot for sunbathing and socializing. Additionally, there is a water park on board, complete with thrilling water slides and splash zones, perfect for both kids and adults looking for some aquatic fun.
Sports and Fitness
For those who enjoy staying active, the Carnival Glory offers a range of sports and fitness activities. The ship features a well-equipped fitness center with state-of-the-art equipment, allowing guests to maintain their workout routines while at sea. There are also outdoor sports facilities, including a basketball court and a jogging track, providing opportunities for guests to engage in friendly competitions or enjoy a leisurely run with stunning ocean views.
Spa and Wellness
Guests looking for relaxation and pampering can indulge in the ship’s spa and wellness facilities. The Carnival Glory offers a luxurious spa, where guests can enjoy a variety of treatments such as massages, facials, and body wraps. The spa also features a thermal suite, complete with saunas and steam rooms, providing the perfect setting for ultimate relaxation and rejuvenation.
Live Entertainment
When it comes to entertainment, the Carnival Glory does not disappoint. The ship offers a wide range of live performances and shows to suit every taste. Guests can enjoy Broadway-style productions in the main theater, featuring talented singers, dancers, and performers. There are also comedy shows, live music performances, and themed parties held throughout the cruise, ensuring there is always something exciting happening on board.
Casino and Nightlife
For those feeling lucky, the Carnival Glory features a vibrant casino where guests can try their hand at various games, including slot machines, poker, and blackjack. The casino offers a lively atmosphere and is a popular spot for those looking for some night-time entertainment. Additionally, the ship boasts a variety of bars and lounges, each with its own unique ambiance, providing guests with plenty of options to enjoy a drink, socialize, and dance the night away. Our favorite was “The Alchemy Bar” and having a drinks package we sampled everything on the menu!
Kids and Teens Activities
The Carnival Glory caters to younger guests with a range of activities designed specifically for kids and teens. The ship offers supervised youth programs, divided into different age groups, providing age-appropriate activities and entertainment. Kids can enjoy arts and crafts, games, and even participate in talent shows, while teens have their own dedicated spaces, including a lounge and a dance club, where they can hang out and make new friends.
Other Onboard Activities
In addition to the mentioned activities, the Carnival Glory offers various other onboard options to keep guests entertained. These include trivia contests, cooking demonstrations, art auctions, and even a library for those seeking a quiet space to relax and read. The ship also hosts themed parties and events, such as deck parties and costume nights, adding to the overall festive atmosphere on board. The followings days activities are published in a daily news letter which is delivered to your state room each morning.
Carnival Glory Accommodation and Cabin Review
Cabin Types and Amenities
Carnival Glory offers a variety of cabin types to suit different preferences and budgets. Passengers can choose from interior cabins, ocean view cabins, balcony cabins, and suites. Each cabin is well-appointed and designed to provide a comfortable and enjoyable stay.
Interior cabins are the most affordable option and are perfect for travelers who prioritize value. There is little use for a fancy room when you will be out and about all day!
Ocean view cabins provide guests with stunning views of the ocean. These cabins feature large windows that allow natural light to fill the room, creating a bright and airy atmosphere. I find that although it is nice to have some natural light, but if you’re going to spring for a ocean view cabin you might as well go a little higher for the balcony cabin.
For those seeking a more luxurious experience, balcony cabins are an excellent choice. These cabins offer a private balcony where guests can relax and enjoy the breathtaking views. In addition to the standard amenities, balcony cabins also include a mini-refrigerator and a sitting area.
Suites are the epitome of luxury on Carnival Glory. They feature spacious living areas, separate bedrooms, and large private balconies. Guests staying in suites also enjoy VIP perks such as priority embarkation and debarkation, access to exclusive lounges, and dedicated concierge service.
Cabin Comfort and Design
Regardless of the cabin type chosen, guests can expect a high level of comfort and thoughtful design. The cabins are well-maintained and feature modern decor with a touch of nautical charm. The Carnival Comfort Bed ensures a restful night’s sleep, with plush bedding and comfortable pillows.
The layout of the cabins is efficient, making the most of the available space. Ample storage options, including closets, drawers, and shelves, allow guests to keep their belongings organized and easily accessible. The private bathrooms are clean and well-equipped, with a shower, sink, and toilet.
Cabin Service
The cabin service on Carnival Glory is exceptional. Stateroom stewards are attentive and dedicated to ensuring guests have a pleasant stay. They provide daily housekeeping service, replenish towels and toiletries as needed, and are available to assist with any special requests or inquiries.
Accessibility
Carnival Glory offers accessible cabins to accommodate passengers with mobility challenges or disabilities. These cabins are designed with wider doorways, grab bars, and roll-in showers to ensure ease of movement and comfort. The ship also provides accessible routes throughout the vessel, making it accessible for all guests to enjoy the amenities and activities onboard. Please be sure to arrange these cabins when making your reservation.
Family-Friendly Accommodations
Families traveling with children will find suitable accommodations on Carnival Glory. The ship offers a range of family-friendly cabins that can accommodate multiple guests. These cabins often feature additional bunk beds or pull-out sofas to accommodate families of various sizes. The cabins are designed with families in mind, providing ample space and amenities to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable stay for all.
Dining Options and Culinary Experience
Main Dining Room
The Carnival Glory offers a delightful culinary experience with its main dining room, which features elegant decor and a welcoming atmosphere. Guests can choose from a variety of appetizers, soups, salads, and entrees, all expertly prepared by the talented onboard chefs. The menu changes daily, ensuring a diverse selection of dishes throughout the cruise. From succulent seafood to mouthwatering steaks, there is something to satisfy every palate.
Specialty Restaurants
For those seeking a more intimate and unique dining experience, the Carnival Glory offers several specialty restaurants. The Steakhouse is a popular choice, serving up perfectly cooked cuts of prime beef and other delectable dishes. The Italian restaurant, Cucina del Capitano, offers a taste of Italy with its authentic pasta dishes and flavorful sauces. Guests can also indulge in fresh seafood at the Seafood Shack or savor Asian-inspired cuisine at the Mongolian Wok. Speciality dinning is often not included in your cruise package, so you will either be charged or you need to upgrade your cruise packages to include speciality dining.
Lido Marketplace
The Lido Marketplace is a casual dining option that provides a wide array of choices for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Here, guests can enjoy a buffet-style experience with various stations offering different cuisines. From made-to-order omelets and pancakes in the morning to international dishes and comfort foods throughout the day, there is something to please every taste bud. The Lido Marketplace also features a salad bar, deli, and dessert station, ensuring a satisfying and diverse dining experience.
Guy’s Burger Joint and BlueIguana Cantina
For those craving a quick and delicious bite, Guy’s Burger Joint and BlueIguana Cantina are the go-to spots. Guy’s Burger Joint serves up juicy, handcrafted burgers with a variety of toppings and sauces, while BlueIguana Cantina offers flavorful Mexican-inspired fare such as tacos and burritos. These casual dining options are perfect for grabbing a bite to eat while enjoying the ship’s outdoor activities and poolside lounging.
Room Service
Guests can also enjoy the convenience of 24-hour room service on the Carnival Glory. Whether craving a late-night snack or a leisurely breakfast in bed, a diverse menu is available for in-room dining. From sandwiches and salads to desserts and beverages, guests can indulge in a private dining experience without leaving the comfort of their cabin. We found the room services prices very steep, and with all the dining options available there is really very little need to order room service.
Beverage Options
To complement the culinary offerings, the Carnival Glory provides a variety of beverage options. From refreshing cocktails and mocktails to a wide selection of wines and beers, there is a drink to suit every preference. Guests can enjoy their favorite beverages at the various bars and lounges onboard, including the RedFrog Pub, Alchemy Bar, and the BlueIguana Tequila Bar. Soft drinks and alcohol are not included in your cruise package, so be sure to check out the beverage packages available as this can save you a lot of money.
Our 7 Day Carnival Glory Itinerary
Day 1: At Sea
Setting sail from Miami we commenced our journey with drinks in hand waving goodbye to the vibrant port of Miami. The first evening brought an enchanting sunset, and it was a harbinger of the stunning views and experiences to come.
Our stateroom was a cozy retreat, with a private balcony for serene ocean views. After unpacking and settling in we used the at sea day exploring more of the ship, dinning in the main hall and taking in a show.
Day 2: At Sea
Our second day was dedicated to exploring more the ship’s many amenities. We began the day with a Mimosa and tomato cocktail, then spent leisurely hours by the pool or adults only area with it’s own bar and day beds. In the evenings, the ship’s talented entertainment team put on unforgettable performances that captivated the audience.
Day 3: George Town, Cayman Islands
Our first port of call was the charming George Town on Grand Cayman Island. The Celebrity Glory anchored just offshore, and we were ferried to the island. As keen snorkel enthusiasts, we had high expectations for the Cayman Islands. We found shore excursion prices a bit steep and as seasoned cruisers we knew we would find similar excursions through private tour operators at the disembarkation point. The main event seemed to be “Sting Ray City”, this is where you got transferred to a sting ray feeding spot where you got to swim and feed the sting rays. With three cruise ships docked it was a little bit of a frenzy, so glad we only paid half the price the ship was charging.
Back on the island, George Town offered a delightful blend of duty-free shopping and local culture. We strolled through the picturesque streets and savored local cuisine. The Cayman Turtle Centre was a highlight, where we learned about conservation efforts and had the opportunity to interact with these magnificent creatures. To book private excursions on Cayman Islands click HERE
Day 4: Roatan, Honduras
Not many people know that some large cruise lines own their own islands! Why you may ask? Well this saves them a lot of money in port taxes. Its a “free” stop for them on the itinerary. Yes they are investing and uplifting the local economy, but for us it felt like being herded through duty free and then directed to a theme park/beach. The weather was terrible so we spent the rest of that day onboard. Don’t get me wrong, it was a beautiful island with white sands and azure waters. If the weather had been better we might had caught a quick snorkel and spent some time on the beach.
Day 5: Belize City, Belize
Our next destination was the captivating Belize City. Again we decided to not partake in the ships excursions and hired a private tour operator where we did a private couples snorkel. The water was clear and the sea life amazing!
Belize is renowned for its rich Mayan history, and we couldn’t resist a visit to the ancient ruins of Altun Ha. The towering temples and intricate stone carvings were a testament to the Mayan civilization’s sophistication. Local guides shared fascinating stories about the site’s history, adding a deeper layer to our exploration. To book private excursions in Belize click HERE
Day 6: Cozumel
Having befriended a Canadian couple, the four of us decided to hire a topless Jeep and explore the island on our own. We had an itinerary of places to see, so armed with cold Corona’s and an eSim for GPS, we explored the best of what Cozumel had to offer.
To book private excursions click HERE
Day 7: Back to Miami
Our final morning on board the Celebrity Glory was bittersweet. We enjoyed a sumptuous breakfast and took in the last of the stunning sea views from our balcony. As we approached Miami, the crew organized a farewell event, celebrating our journey with music, dance, and a delicious brunch. The sense of community among fellow travelers and the dedicated staff was truly heartwarming.
Our Personal Thoughts on the Carnival Glory
Accommodations
With the variety of cabins available we were very happy with our balcony room. It had all the usual amenities of a hotel and was tastefully designed. The bathroom offered various toiletries and our room steward always left a little surprise to bring a smile to your face.
Dining Options
Offering a diverse selection of dining venues, there was never a hungry moment. In fact you can be guaranteed to put on a few pounds! We preferred the main dining room which provides a formal and elegant atmosphere, serving delicious multi-course meals. For a more intimate experience, you can explore the various specialty restaurants, including the steakhouse, sushi bar, and seafood shack. The Lido Marketplace offers a buffet-style dining experience with a vast selection of international cuisines. We did not have the “Speciality Dining” option so cant really comment on those restaurants.
Entertainment and Activities
There was never a dull moment. We thoroughly enjoyed the theater productions and comedy lounge. Passengers aboard the Carnival Glory will never run out of things to do. The ship features a range of entertainment options and with the daily news letter one really needs to carefully plan your day as not to miss out on any activities.
Ports of Call
The Western Caribbean itinerary of the Carnival Glory takes passengers to stunning destinations such as Cozumel, Belize City, and the Cayman Islands. These ports offered some of the best excursions the Western Caribbean has to offer. For what we paid, we were very satisfied.
Overall Experience
Cruising the Western Caribbean with Carnival Glory was a fantastic way to end our New York and Miami vacation.
We will definitely be cruising with Carnival again!
