ellaslist Reviews: First Time Cruisers on Carnival Splendor

If you’ve been dreaming of a short family escape that blends island adventures with all-inclusive fun, we’ve found the perfect trip - a 4-night cruise on Carnival Splendor to Moreton Island. I recently set sail with my three daughters, and let’s just say, we came back relaxed and refreshed with sun-kissed skin and memories we’ll be talking about for years.

First Time Cruisers: A Mum & Daughters Getaway of Fun, Food & Family Bonding on Carnival Splendor

If you’re new to cruising, a 4-day cruise is the perfect beginner's cruise. It’s just enough time to get the hang of cruising and explore a little of everything on offer. Also, the great thing about the Carnival Splendor’s 4-day cruise is that it departs on a Thursday and arrives back on a Monday morning, so it’s great for a long weekend, without having to take off too much annual leave.

Being newbies to cruising, I can truly say that I couldn’t have asked for a better mix of fun, relaxation, and bonding time.

All Aboard

One of the most stressful parts of a holiday with kids is the packing and then the boarding of the plane, train, or, on this occasion, the massive cruise ship. I always get so nervous about where to go and what to do. Have I packed everything or packed something I shouldn’t have? Carnival made it so easy to board. We had already pre-selected our boarding time via the online check-in system.

From the moment we arrived at the International Cruise Terminal at Circular Quay, there were friendly staff guiding us to where to drop our bags and then go through to security. The process was easy and relatively quick. Just make sure you have all your documents handy - boarding passes and photo ID.

Family-Friendly Fun from the Get Go

From the second we stepped onboard, the girls (11, 14, and 16) were wide-eyed. The Carnival Splendor is a floating resort. There’s just so much to see and do! Waterslides, pools, mini golf, and the all-important kids’ and teen clubs, which gave me the perfect excuse to sneak away to the adults-only Serenity deck with a book. Evenings were spent in the restaurants, at the lively stage shows, movies on the Lido deck under the stars, and of course, making our way through dessert and other sweet treats.

Dining Highlights for Every Taste

We tried a little bit of everything, but a few food experiences stood out.

Fahrenheit 555 Steakhouse

This is Carnival’s fine dining experience, and it’s worth the extra cost. We booked it as a special treat, and it didn’t disappoint. Think perfectly cooked steaks, gourmet sides, and incredible service — the kind of meal that makes the whole table feel fancy. My girls are now massive fans of fine dining and fillet mignon! Parents, you’ll be impressed by the extensive wine list too.

The Black Pearl Dining Room

Our nightly dinner spot, and it felt like a proper family dinner without the washing up. The staff were great - we were greeted by name and they were lots of fun - special shout-out to Erik Ryan.

Lunch at The Deli

A hidden gem! Freshly made sandwiches and rolls with plenty of options for picky eaters. The steak & cheese and chicken schnitzel & salad roll were favourites — and it was a quick, satisfying lunch before hitting the cabanas.

Cabin Comforts

We had an ocean-view cabin on Deck 2. It was cosy but cleverly laid out. We had 2 decent-sized windows, so our view of the ocean was pretty impressive. The cabins have everything you need - good-sized beds, bar fridge, desk, TV, wardrobes with ample hanging space and shelves. The bathroom was well laid out with a great sink area and loads of room to put toiletries and make up which was pretty important with 4 girls sharing the cabin. The housekeeping team kept everything spotless and fresh with daily cleaning and very cute ‘towel animals’. Nothing was a problem. Andrea looked after us and was so helpful. Our bed configuration was 2 single beds, a bunk bed that came down from the wall and a sofa bed that turned into a single bed.  

Activities & Entertainment

Carnival really does cater well to all ages. My daughters were constantly on the go—between the waterslides, pools, arts & crafts and Build-a-Bear Workshop. There is always a show or an activity on at any time of the day, so you definitely shouldn’t hear the words ‘I’m bored’!  Mini golf was set out on the top deck, and it was great having a putt with an amazing ocean backdrop. Singing along to old favourites in the piano bar and going back in time at the 80s show were amongst our favourite experiences.

We also loved just taking time out to relax and found the cabanas looking out to the ocean on Deck 11 were just the ticket. Each cabana fits 2 people, and they were really comfy. There is a bar on deck 11, too, so it was easy to keep refreshed with cool drinks. Also, room service will come to you anywhere on the ship, which made ordering a sneaky glass of bubbles and a cheese plate very easy. 

Moreton Island Magic

Our shore day at Moreton Island was a highlight. There is so much to do on the Island - from hiking, quad bikes, paragliding and snorkelling. A range of food options is also available - we opted for some fish and chips and grabbed a spot on the grass overlooking the beach. We booked the sip ‘n swim excursion. Great option for those who aren’t too adventurous - you get to swim in the crystal clear water or just enjoy the view from the boat with a drink and some nibbles. The water was clear, warm, and full of marine life. 

Grinchmas In July

Apart from all the usual great experiences on the Carnival Splendor, our cruise was themed 'Grinchmas in July'. We celebrated Grinchmas festivities including a snow fall and Christmas tree - a floating winter wonderland! It was festive fun for the whole family with colourful Christmas decorations, live holiday shows, snowy Christmas trees, and cheeky appearances by the Grinch himself. There was aslo an ugly sweater contest, themed entertainment, and plenty of holiday cheer around every corner—making it a must-do Christmas cruise experience for families.

Book now for Grinchmas in July 2026 three-night sailing from $489 a person twin share.

Why We’d Do It Again

This cruise was the perfect mum-and-daughters mini-break. Everything was taken care of, everyone had space to do their own thing, and we reconnected in a way that’s hard to do in the day-to-day. Whether you’re planning a first cruise or just need a fuss-free family adventure, Carnival Splendor delivers.

Carnival Splendor Top Tips

• Wear swimmers onboard – Your bags arrive after sail away, so be ready to hit the pool immediately.

• Bring photo ID – Even if you’re not travelling internationally, ID is required at check-in.

• Download the cruise app – Use it to check schedules, set reminders for events, and chat with your group using free onboard Wi-Fi.

• Use the Kids’ Clubs – Divided by age (e.g. Camp Ocean, Circle “C”), these clubs offer crafts, games, and more, giving parents downtime.

• Know the pool rules – Only toilet-trained kids can swim in the pools.

• Family dining is easy – Casual dining with kid-friendly meals (pizza, fruit, buffet) is available all day. Try the fancy restaurant – Enjoy a date night at Fahrenheit 555 or take the kids (cheaper pricing for them!).

• Take soft drinks or juice onboard for the kids - they have to be in cans or cartons, but you can't take Poppa juice cartons.

• Take one bottle of wine per adult, as this will save on drinks.

• Travel with family/friends – Bring grandparents or friends for shared fun and babysitting help.

• Explore the ship – Carnival ships are safe and easy for little ones to navigate.

• Catch live shows early – Arrive 15+ minutes before evening shows for the best seats (middle front is best).

• Check the daily schedule – Don’t miss themed parties, movie nights, and family-friendly performances.

• Bring your camera – Capture sail away moments, especially leaving Sydney Harbour.

• Shore excursions, pick short, family-friendly excursions and pack snacks, sunscreen and a backpack so it's easy to carry your things and explore.

Explore all the sailing options and book your perfect cruise experience on the Carnival Splendor.

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