Carnival Paradise - Short Western Caribbean from Tampa
Carnival Paradise sails a budget-friendly 5-night Western Caribbean itinerary from Tampa to Cozumel and Grand Cayman. As one of Carnival's classic Fantasy-class ships, she offers a fun-filled experience at an unbeatable price point, perfect for a quick tropical getaway from Florida's Gulf Coast.
Price Range
$
Budget
*Prices vary by cabin type, sailing date, and availability. Confirm rates with Carnival Cruise Line before booking.
Ship Details — Carnival Paradise
View full Carnival Paradise detailsYear Built
1998
Tonnage
71,925 GT
Passengers
2,606
Crew
920
Decks
11
Class
Fantasy
Itinerary & Route Map
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Onboard Amenities
Cruise Highlights
About the Ship
What Travelers Say About Carnival Paradise
Reviews of the ship itself — the same for every Carnival Paradise sailing. Based on 4,200 discussions.
Carnival Paradise is one of Carnival's oldest active ships, a Fantasy-class vessel launched in 1998 and lightly refreshed in 2023 that sails short 4-5 night cruises out of Tampa to Mexico and the Caribbean. Its appeal is squarely about value and convenience rather than flash: it's small, easy to navigate, and routinely among the cheapest ways to get on a cruise. The vibe is casual, social and unpretentious, drawing budget-minded travelers, first-timers and groups looking for a quick, affordable getaway rather than the theme-park spectacle of Carnival's newer megaships.
What People Love
- Among the cheapest ways to cruise from Tampa - aggressive pricing makes it a favorite for budget travelers and first-timers
- Small Fantasy-class footprint means quick walks from cabin to pool, dining or theater with no long elevator waits
- Crew and dining staff earn consistent praise for friendly, attentive service that regulars say makes the trip
Common Complaints
- Ship launched in 1998 and shows its age - dated 90s decor and worn finishes are a frequent complaint
- Cabins are small (around 185 sq ft), functional but dated with limited storage
- Main pool is undersized for the passenger load and gets packed 'like sardines' on sea days