Carnival Horizon: 8 Days in the Southern Caribbean

This was my ninth cruise on Carnival, and I am working my way to Platinum Status. The Carnival Horizon is a ship in Carnival’s Vista class. Like other Carnival ships, the Horizon lived up to the Fun Ship vibe. It was packed with activities and caters to a diverse crowd, including many families, couples, and large groups.

The ship makes excellent use of its outdoor spaces. Highlights include:

• SkyRide: A unique pedal-powered bike ride suspended high above the deck, offering fantastic views. My son had a blast on this ride cruising around the edge of the ship.

• SportSquare: I loved the mini-golf course while my son tackled the ropes course (SkyCourse). There was also a multi-purpose basketball/pickleball court.

• Serenity Adult-Only Retreat: This is a peaceful area with whirlpools and a bar for adults seeking quiet time.

Entertainment

• Liquid Lounge: This is the main theater hosting “Playlist Productions” at night and daytime activities like bingo and trivia.

• IMAX Theater: My son and wife took in a first-run movie for a fee.

• The Punchliner Comedy Club: Our family attended several of the stand-up comedy shows. The later shows get crowded, so it is worth it to go early and stand in line until the club opens.

Relaxation & exercise

• Cloud 9 Spa: Offers a variety of treatments, saunas, thermal suites, and a fitness center. Spa staterooms offer exclusive access and rewards. I love the heated tile loungers. They are so good, but you must be careful not to doze off into a deep nap.

• Fitness center: To work off all the eating, you can go into the fitness center or attend a fitness class. I did a light work out for two days just to not be complexly lazy.

• Jogging track: I am more of a walker, but it was another wonderful way to take some steps in.

Whirlpool on Serenity Deck

Dining aboard

Carnival Horizon boasts a wide range of dining—from complimentary casual options to specialty restaurants with an extra charge. In the Main Dining Room, I celebrated my retirement with a great dinner and delicious chocolate cake to share with my table. Guy’s Burger Joint is the go-to place for celebrity chef Guy Fieri’s popular poolside burger spot with a toppings bar for lunch. The Blue Iguana Cantina’s freshly made burritos and tacos for breakfast were great. Later in the day, you can stop by the cantina for your favorite brew or margarita.

Retirement party at sea

Since we were sailing during the college bowl season, I visited Guy’s Pig & Anchor Smokehouse | Brewhouse several times. It was great for BBQ and choices from the onboard microbrewery while catching a few football games.

When we did have dinner in the Main Dining Room, we had a family-style meal at JiJi Asian Kitchen. This restaurant, like Cucina del Capitano offering Italian, was an additional charge. My wife discovered that Cucina del Capitano offers complimentary lunch.

Our staterooms

Cloud 9 Spa: My wife and I have been spoiled since we cruised on the Panorama prior to the pandemic. We now only book Cloud 9 Spa rooms. They include amenities like spa bathrobes, slippers, ELEMIS bath products, priority spa reservations, free fitness classes, and unlimited access to thermal suites. We just put on our robes and walk down the hall for a steam or a sauna.

Serenity Deck

In summary

The Carnival Horizon offers a vibrant and activity-rich cruise experience, particularly appealing to families and those who enjoy a lively atmosphere. It provides a wide variety of dining options, from casual to upscale, and a broad selection of entertainment and outdoor activities. I enjoyed my time onboard and look forward to my next "Fun Ship" cruise on my way to Platinum status.

Christmas at sea on the Carnival Horizon

The Horizon is good for first-timers as it has an easy-to-navigate layout. The Carnival Hub app helps you keep up with the daily events, maps of decks, make dinner reservations, and keep up with family and friends onboard.

For more inspiration and insider recommendations, visit our Cruises page.