Summary

A mixed experience with notable pros and cons. Guests particularly appreciated the ship’s suitability for those who prefer medium-sized vessels, the burger counter (nearly as good as Guy Fieri’s), and the easy-to-navigate layout, among other positive aspects.

However, concerns were raised about the absence of Guy Fieri’s Burger Joint and Blue Iguana Cantina, a smoky casino (especially outside Australia), and air conditioning issues that caused smoke to be pumped into cabins. While this cruise may appeal to many travelers, it’s worth considering whether these issues might affect your enjoyment.

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Pros

• Carnival Luminosa is highly rated by guests who prefer medium-sized ships, striking a balance between manageable crowds and ample amenities. The ship’s easy-to-navigate layout makes it ideal for first-time cruisers or those who enjoy a more relaxed onboard experience.
• Food is frequently praised, particularly in the main dining room (MDR), which many guests say serves some of the best meals in the Carnival fleet. The spacious dining area, with plenty of space between tables, added to the comfort and ambiance.
• While the ship lacks Guy Fieri’s branded venue, the burger counter is nearly as good, satisfying cruisers with its casual fare. The hot dog machine also won points for being quick and convenient.
• Guests appreciated the retractable Lido deck roof, which provided protection during poor weather conditions—especially useful in cooler or rainy climates.
• The Alchemy Bar and the steakhouse earned strong praise for quality drinks and meals, adding a premium touch to the overall experience.
• Cabins, including balcony rooms, were noted as larger than expected, with guests appreciating the extra space and comfort. Rooms in general were described as being on the larger side compared to similar ships in the fleet.
• Other positives included above-average entertainment for a Carnival cruise, clean and functional public restrooms, and stylish Art Deco decor, which many guests found elegant and distinctive.

Cons

• While many guests enjoyed their time on Carnival Luminosa, others found it lacking in key areas—especially when compared to newer Carnival ships. One of the most common criticisms was the absence of popular venues like Guy Fieri’s Burger Joint and BlueIguana Cantina, which are staples on most other Fun Ships.
• The casino was reported to be smoky, especially outside Australian sailings, with poor air circulation affecting nearby public spaces. Some guests also experienced air conditioning issues, including reports of smoke being pumped into cabins, contributing to the ship’s unfortunate nickname, “The Floating Ashtray.”
• Maintenance problems were frequently mentioned, including broken ice and water machines, dirty dining areas, and temporary or poor-quality repairs that failed to resolve recurring issues.
• Wi-Fi connectivity was limited and unreliable, with guests citing misconfiguration problems and difficulty staying connected throughout the cruise.
• A few guests were disappointed by itinerary changes, such as a very short stop in Victoria, BC, which felt like a bait and switch due to its rushed nature and limited excursion time.
• Activity-wise, the ship falls short compared to newer vessels, with no waterslides, no mini golf, and limited programming for teens and younger guests, making it less ideal for families seeking high-energy entertainment.
• Overall, some travellers felt that Carnival Luminosa, as an older ship, lacked the polish and amenities expected from the Carnival brand and was below the standard of other Carnival ships they had sailed on.

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