The 2,980-guest Carnival Conquest, which originally sailed from the Big Easy, launched as New Orleans’ largest year-round cruise ship in 2002. After a multi-million dollar renovation in 2012 and a dry dock in 2022 that freshened both the staterooms and some interior spaces, Carnival’s first Conquest-class ship began sailing to the Bahamas and Caribbean from Miami.
Artful Ambience: They say fun at sea is an art form aboard Conquest, and with décor and names inspired by French masters — the Monet and Renoir restaurants, Henri’s Dance Club, Vincent’s Jazz Bar, and the Toulouse-Lautrec Show Lounge — the ship has ample touches of old-world elegance.
Green Eggs and Ham Breakfast: Carnival’s partnership with Dr. Seuss will delight junior cruisers — especially this vibrant breakfast event (bookable for a small extra charge), where the stars of the show are not only the “green eggs and ham” and perilously stacked pancakes served but also the costumed characters that make an appearance.
Full Bellies: Carnival Conquest has many of the line's popular complimentary casual eateries, including Guy's Burger Joint and BlueIguana Cantina. Another popular for-a-fee option is the casual Seafood Shack on the Lido deck. The New England-style spot, which debuted on Carnival Vista when it launched in 2016, serves up everything from fish and chips to lobster rolls and clam chowder.
Bar Culture: From the Alchemy Bar to the poolside BlueIguana Tequila Bar and RedFrog Rum Bar, grown-ups have plenty of places to sip their nightcaps — and their "it's five o'clock somewhere" daytime drinks.
Families and Friends: There's lots to do for cruisers of all ages, so guests who are part of big groups can have fun while spending time with — and without — the ones they love. There are bars and restaurants aplenty for the adults in the group. Kids ages 2 to 11 can make friends and do maritime-themed activities in the revamped Camp Ocean. For the tweens, there is Circle C, and teens can kick back in Club O2.
Budget Cruisers: Like other ships in the line, Carnival Conquest is great for wallet-friendly sailings ... but regular up-selling may leave some guests feeling nickel and dimed.
Limited Loungers: This ship is crowded on sea days and the sundecks fill up early. It can be hard to grab a spot.
It's Showing Its Age: The two-decade-old ship, with its rather over-the-top art theme, has some signs of wear and tear and doesn’t feel nearly as contemporary as newer Carnival vessels. But if you like bold, painterly colors and vintage décor, Conquest could charm you.
So-So Stage Shows: The performers themselves are excellent, but the material is more Vegas than Broadway. Expect to be entertained — but not wowed.