Carnival Conquest Review 2024: Is This Classic Ship Still Worth The Scratch?
Did you know the Carnival Conquest carries over 2,980 passengers and has undergone 3 major refurbishments since its launch in 2002? While some cruise ships feel dated after two decades, the Conquest has managed to keep things fresh and exciting according to recent passenger reviews.
Cruising the Carnival Venezia: Is It Worth the Hype? – Travel Pro X Presents: Kings and Queens of Travel
Listen up, cruise fam! After extensive research and conversations with past passengers, I’m breaking down everything you need to know about this classic vessel – from Guy’s Burger Joint to the Serenity Adult-Only Retreat. In this comprehensive 2024 analysis, we’ll explore what works (and what doesn’t) on one of Carnival’s most talked-about ships.
Whether you’re a first-time cruiser or a seasoned sailor, you’ll want to read this before booking your next vacation. You feel me? Let’s get into it!
Ship Overview and Recent Updates
The Carnival Conquest is what I’d call a sweet spot in the cruise world – not too big, not too small. At 110,000 gross tons with 13 passenger decks, she’s got room for 2,980 passengers without feeling like a floating city. And let me tell you about the 2023 refurbishment – Carnival didn’t just give her a fresh coat of paint. They went in and modernized the whole Lido Deck dining scene, refreshed the public spaces, and added some contemporary touches that really bring this classic ship into 2024.
Walking through the Conquest is like taking a journey through French Impressionism (yeah, they went there with the theme). The main atrium hits you with these massive reproductions of Impressionist artwork that’ll have you feeling like you stepped into a floating museum. It’s different, and that’s exactly what makes it interesting.
The layout makes good sense once you get your bearings. Your main social spots are clustered on decks 3 through 5 – we’re talking about the main dining rooms, theater, and that lively promenade that comes alive at night. The cabin decks run from 6 through 11, and then up top you’ve got the Lido deck with the pool scene and that sweet Serenity Adult Retreat.
Hotels in Orlando: 3 stars
| Hotel | Stars | Discount | Price before and discount | Select dates |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Hampton Inn & Suites Orlando/Downtown South - Medical Center | ★★★ | -15% | 194 165 | View hotel |
| Fairfield Inn and Suites by Marriott Orlando Near Universal Orlando | ★★★ | -22% | 152 119 | View hotel |
| Comfort Suites Near Universal Orlando Resort | ★★★ | -23% | 163 125 | View hotel |
| Courtyard by Marriott Orlando Downtown | ★★★ | -14% | 216 185 | View hotel |
| Holiday Inn Express Hotel & Suites Orlando - Apopka, an IHG Hotel | ★★★ | -24% | 164 125 | View hotel |
| Holiday Inn Express & Suites - Orlando - Lake Nona Area, an IHG Hotel | ★★★ | -30% | 184 129 | View hotel |
| The Delaney Hotel | ★★★ | -12% | 227 199 | View hotel |
| Club Wyndham Cypress Palms | ★★★ | -24% | 150 114 | View hotel |
Speaking of getting around – here’s something worth knowing: those mid-ship elevators can get pretty busy during peak times, especially around dinner and show times. My research shows the forward and aft elevators tend to move faster, particularly when everyone’s heading to the Lido deck for lunch.
One thing that really stands out in recent passenger reviews is how well the Conquest handles accessibility. They’ve thought it through with wheelchair-accessible cabins, ramps at most thresholds, and Braille signage throughout the ship. It’s not just an afterthought – they’ve made it a priority.
Now, this ship isn’t trying to compete with the newest vessels out there that have all those wild attractions. Instead, it’s focused on delivering that classic cruise experience with just enough modern touches to keep things interesting. The layout is intuitive, the spaces flow well into each other, and everything you need is within easy reach. That’s what really matters when you’re spending a week at sea.
Cabins and Suites: What to Expect
When it comes to accommodations on the Carnival Conquest, you’ve got options for every budget and style. The interior cabins measure about 185 square feet, featuring a king bed that converts to twins and surprisingly ample closet space. While you won’t get any ocean views, recent reviews praise the smart layout that prevents these rooms from feeling cramped.
The oceanview cabins offer identical square footage but with that all-important window, making them popular with families who want natural light without the balcony premium. Speaking of balconies, these cabins add 35 square feet of private outdoor space – just enough room for two chairs and a small table, perfect for peaceful mornings at sea.
Suite life on the Conquest comes in three flavors: Junior Suites (275 square feet), Ocean Suites (320 square feet), and Grand Suites (430 square feet). Each includes a larger bathroom with a whirlpool tub, though the perks aren’t as extensive as on newer ships.
Location wise, aim for mid-ship on decks 6 through 8 for minimal movement. Avoid deck 6 aft due to engine vibration and cabins directly under the Lido deck if you’re sensitive to noise. Storage space impresses across all categories, with three closet sections, multiple drawers, and under-bed space for luggage. Standard amenities include a mini-fridge, safe, flat-screen TV, and basic toiletries.
These cabins might not feature the latest tech, but they deliver the essentials – comfort, functionality, and a good night’s sleep at sea.
Dining Options and Food Quality
The Carnival Conquest’s dining scene balances traditional cruise favorites with modern casual spots. The two main dining rooms – Point and Golden – serve up the classic cruise experience with rotating menus and traditional set dining times at 6:00 PM and 8:15 PM. Your Time Dining offers more flexibility in the Point Restaurant from 5:45 PM to 9:30 PM.
The Lido Marketplace buffet gets busy, especially during peak breakfast and lunch hours. Savvy cruisers hit the buffet before 8:00 AM for breakfast or after 2:00 PM for lunch to avoid the crowds. The food stays fresh thanks to small-batch cooking, with stations featuring everything from Asian stir-fry to made-to-order sandwiches.
Guy’s Burger Joint stands out as a crowd favorite, serving up hand-crafted burgers with a build-your-own toppings bar. Right next door, BlueIguana Cantina dishes out fresh tacos and burritos that rival your favorite local Mexican spot. Both venues are included in your cruise fare.
Late-night cravings? Pizza Pirate serves hot slices 24/7, while room service offers a mix of free and paid options. The Cheers! beverage package runs $59.95 per day (plus gratuity), covering up to 15 alcoholic drinks daily along with specialty coffee and soft drinks.
For the best dining experience, hit the main dining room for sea day brunch – it’s less crowded than breakfast and offers an elevated menu worth checking out.
Entertainment and Activities
Entertainment on the Carnival Conquest strikes a balance between classic cruise traditions and contemporary fun. The Toulouse-Lautrec Main Lounge hosts nightly production shows, with “Amor Cubano” and “Vintage Pop” drawing the biggest crowds. Smart money catches the 9:30 PM showing instead of the packed 7:30 PM performance.
Live music sets the mood throughout the ship. Piano Bar 88 transforms from a chill spot during the day to an energetic sing-along venue after dark. The Promenade keeps the vibe going with live bands, while the Blues Bar offers a more laid-back atmosphere for unwinding.
The casino features the standard mix of slots and table games, with $6 minimum blackjack tables that tend to fill up fast during sea days. For family entertainment, Camp Ocean runs solid programs for different age groups, though teens seem to prefer hanging out in Club O2’s dedicated space.
The Punchliner Comedy Club deserves special mention – offering family-friendly shows early and adult-only performances late night. These shows pack out quickly, so arriving 30 minutes early isn’t just suggested, it’s necessary.
Daily activities run the gamut from trivia sessions to mixology competitions, but the deck parties really shine, especially on tropical nights. While you won’t find the flashy attractions of newer ships here, the Conquest nails the basics of cruise entertainment with a consistent lineup of crowd-pleasing options.
Pool Deck and Outdoor Spaces
The Conquest’s outdoor spaces offer something for every type of sun seeker. The main Lido deck features two pools – a lively mid-ship pool that pulses with DJ music and poolside games, and a more relaxed aft pool perfect for quiet afternoon dips. Four hot tubs complement these pools, though they tend to fill up quickly on sea days.
The Serenity Adult-Only Retreat provides a peaceful escape for the 21+ crowd. This space earns its name with padded loungers, dedicated hot tubs, and stellar ocean views. Early birds get the best spots – by 9 AM on sea days, prime real estate here becomes scarce.
WaterWorks aqua park keeps the younger crowd entertained with two water slides and a splash pad, while the Sports deck offers mini-golf, basketball, and a jogging track for active types. The track might not be state-of-the-art, but nine laps equals a mile if you’re counting.
Chair hunting can get competitive, especially between 10 AM and 3 PM on sea days. The key is timing – before 8 AM you’ll have your pick of spots, after 3 PM things open up again. The ship enforces a 40-minute chair saving policy, helping manage the eternal cruise challenge of saved seats.
Service and Staff Experience
Service on the Carnival Conquest reflects the tried-and-true Carnival approach – friendly without being overbearing. The check-in process runs smoothly, with most passengers reporting less than 30 minutes from curbside to ship during their designated arrival times. Mobile check-in through the Carnival app significantly speeds things up.
Cabin stewards maintain a nearly invisible presence, somehow knowing exactly when you’re out to transform your cabin. They handle twice-daily service efficiently, though you can opt for once-daily if you prefer fewer interruptions. The evening turndown service with those signature towel animals still brings smiles.
Dining room staff keep things moving while maintaining a personal touch, remembering preferences from night to night. Bar service varies by location – lightning fast at the pool bars, sometimes slower in crowded lounges during peak hours. The Guest Services desk handles issues promptly, though lines can form during port days and disembarkation morning.
What stands out in recent reviews isn’t the flashy extras but the consistent, reliable service across all areas of the ship. While you might not find the white-glove treatment of luxury lines, the staff maintains Carnival’s reputation for friendly, efficient service.
Ports of Call and Excursions
The Conquest primarily sails Caribbean itineraries from Miami, mixing popular ports with less-visited gems. Current routes typically include combinations of eastern Caribbean stops like St. Thomas and San Juan, or western routes hitting Cozumel and Grand Cayman.
Shore excursions range from basic beach breaks to adventure tours, with most ports offering 15-20 ship-sponsored options. While ship excursions cost more than independent tours, they come with the guarantee of not being left behind – crucial for more distant excursions like the Mayan ruins in Cozumel.
Port facilities vary significantly. In places like the new St. Maarten cruise terminal, you’ll find modern shopping complexes and easy taxi access. Other ports require tender service, which can eat into your shore time, especially in Grand Cayman. Experienced cruisers recommend booking early morning excursions on tender days to maximize time ashore.
The best value often comes from mixing ship-sponsored tours at more challenging ports with independent exploration at easier ones. Research suggests booking popular excursions well before sailing – cave tubing in Belize and stingray encounters in Grand Cayman frequently sell out in advance.
Value for Money Analysis
The Carnival Conquest hits a sweet spot in cruise value, especially in 2024. Inside cabins typically start around $399 per person for 7-night Caribbean sailings, while balcony cabins range from $699 to $999 depending on season. These base prices make the Conquest one of the more affordable ships sailing from Miami, but let’s break down the real costs.
Beyond your cabin fare, count on spending extra for certain perks. The Cheers! beverage package runs $59.95 per day plus gratuity – worth it if you’ll drink more than 5-6 alcoholic beverages daily. Specialty dining doesn’t hit the wallet too hard since many popular spots like Guy’s Burgers and BlueIguana Cantina come included.
Internet packages start at $10.20 daily for social media access, while the premium package runs $14.45 for faster speeds. Most passengers find the basic package sufficient for staying connected. Gratuities currently set at $16 per person, per day, can be prepaid or added to your onboard account.
Shore excursions represent the biggest optional expense, typically ranging from $45 for beach breaks to $150+ for adventure tours. Booking independent tours can save money, but ship excursions offer peace of mind with guaranteed return times.
While newer ships might offer more amenities, the Conquest delivers solid value with well-maintained facilities, decent included dining options, and competitive pricing. The key to maximizing value? Book during shoulder season, choose strategic package add-ons, and mix ship-sponsored excursions with independent exploration.
Insider Tips for Sailing Carnival Conquest
The key to maximizing your Conquest cruise lies in the details. Book deck 7 or 8 mid-ship for the smoothest ride and best access to all areas. Download the Carnival Hub app before sailing – it’s essential for checking daily schedules and making reservations. Consider eating at off-peak hours (before 8 AM or after 2 PM) at the Lido Marketplace to avoid crowds.
Sea day brunch in the main dining room offers better quality than the buffet breakfast, and it’s included in your fare. For the Serenity deck, arrive before 9 AM to secure prime spots. Book your excursions at least a few weeks before sailing – the popular ones sell out fast, especially during peak season.
Most importantly, the Conquest proves you don’t need the newest ship for a great cruise experience. What matters most is how you use the amenities available, and this vessel offers plenty of opportunities for a memorable vacation without breaking the bank.
Real Talk: Is the Carnival Conquest Worth It in 2024?
Let me keep it straight with you about the Carnival Conquest. This ship might not be the newest ride on the block, but it’s still bringing solid value in 2024. The food hits right (especially at Guy’s Burgers), the entertainment keeps you moving, and the service makes you feel at home – all without emptying your wallet.
Look, if you’re chasing the latest gadgets and gizmos, this might not be your wave. But for first-timers, couples looking to chill, or families trying to stretch their vacation dollars? The Conquest delivers what matters. They’ve kept her updated where it counts, and that classic cruise vibe still holds up.
Drop a comment below if you’ve sailed on the Conquest – let’s hear your story!
