For your 8-day Mexican cruise on Carnival, you’ll want to pack accordingly for a variety of activities, the weather, and time spent at sea. Here’s a packing list that should cover your bases:
Clothing:
- Daywear: Lightweight clothing for warm weather (shorts, t-shirts, sundresses, tank tops, swimsuits).
- Evening attire: Casual chic for dinners (there will likely be some formal nights—think nice dresses or collared shirts and slacks). Some Carnival ships have a “cruise elegant” dress code for special evenings.
- Swimwear: Swimsuits, cover-ups, flip-flops.
- Activewear: For the gym or sports activities on board (sneakers, workout clothes).
- Jacket or Sweater: It can get cool in the evenings, especially on the higher decks.
- Rain gear: A light, compact rain jacket, as tropical areas can have sudden showers.
- Shoes: Comfortable shoes for excursions and casual dining. Formal shoes if needed for elegant nights.
Toiletries & Essentials:
- Sunscreen & Lip Balm with SPF
- After-sun Lotion (like Aloe Vera)
- Toothbrush, Toothpaste, and Personal Hygiene Items
- Medications or Supplements
- Prescription Glasses/Contact Lenses and Solution
- Shampoo, Conditioner, and Hair Products (Cruise ships often provide basic shampoo/conditioner, but if you’re picky about brands, bring your own)
- Hand Sanitizer & Disinfectant Wipes
- Camera, Chargers, and Power Bank
- Water Bottle (refillable)
- Sunglasses and Hat
Special Items:
- Formal Outfit for formal nights or any themed parties
- Excursion gear (sunscreen, shoes, hats, etc. for excursions in Puerto Vallarta or other stops)
- Snacks: If you have dietary preferences or restrictions, you may want to bring your own snacks.
In-Room Amenities:
- Coffee maker: Most Carnival rooms offer a coffee maker. You’ll be able to make a basic cup of coffee in your cabin.
- Hair Dryer: A hair dryer is usually provided in the room, so you don’t need to pack one unless you have specific preferences.
- Safe: For storing valuables.
- Mini-fridge: Typically included for beverages or snacks you might bring onboard.
- Towels, Bedding, and Basic Toiletries: Towels are provided, but bring your own beach towel for excursions if you’d prefer.
Embarking on your 8-day Mexican Riviera cruise aboard the Carnival Panorama, departing Long Beach on February 1, 2025, promises a blend of relaxation, adventure, and cultural experiences. Here’s an overview of the events and dining options you can anticipate during your voyage:
Itinerary Overview:
- Day 1 (Feb 1): Depart Long Beach, California, at 4:00 PM.
- Day 2 (Feb 2): Day at sea.
- Day 3 (Feb 3): Day at sea.
- Day 4 (Feb 4): Arrive in Puerto Vallarta, Mexico, at 9:00 AM; depart at 9:00 PM.
- Day 5 (Feb 5): Arrive in Mazatlán, Mexico, at 9:30 AM; depart at 6:00 PM.
- Day 6 (Feb 6): Arrive in Cabo San Lucas, Mexico, at 6:30 AM; depart at 2:30 PM.
- Day 7 (Feb 7): Day at sea.
- Day 8 (Feb 8): Arrive back in Long Beach at 9:00 AM.
Onboard Events and Activities:
- Entertainment: Enjoy high-energy shows like Playlist Productions, featuring popular music reimagined into dynamic performances.
- Comedy: The Punchliner Comedy Club offers family-friendly shows, with late-night performances for adults.
- Movies: Dive-In Movies presents films on the big screen by the pool, perfect for a relaxed evening.
- Music and Dancing: The Havana Bar provides live music and dancing, capturing the vibrant spirit of Cuba.
- Wellness: The Cloud 9 Spa offers a range of treatments, while the Serenity Adult-Only Retreat provides a tranquil space for relaxation.
- Sports and Recreation: Engage in activities like the SkyRide suspended cycling, Sky Zone trampoline park, and the WaterWorks water park.
Dining Options:
- Main Dining Rooms: Enjoy complimentary dining with a variety of menu options for breakfast, lunch, and dinner.
- Specialty Restaurants:
- Fahrenheit 555 Steakhouse: Indulge in premium cuts of meat and seafood.
- Bonsai Teppanyaki: Experience Japanese hibachi-style dining.
- Bonsai Sushi: Savor a selection of fresh sushi and sashimi.
- JiJi Asian Kitchen: Delight in a variety of Asian cuisines.
- Seafood Shack: Enjoy fresh seafood in a casual setting.
- Guy’s Pig & Anchor Smokehouse|Brewhouse: Relish smoked meats and craft beers.
- BlueIguana Cantina: Taste authentic Mexican fare, including tacos and burritos.
- Guy’s Burger Joint: Enjoy gourmet burgers crafted by celebrity chef Guy Fieri.
- Cucina del Capitano: Experience Italian cuisine in a family-style setting.
- Havana Bar: Savor Cuban-inspired dishes and cocktails.
- Casual Dining: Options like the Lido Marketplace buffet and the Pizzeria del Capitano are available for more relaxed meals.
Special Events:
- Themed Nights: Participate in themed parties and events, such as the White Hot Night and 80s Dance Party.
- Cooking Demonstrations: Attend culinary demonstrations and tastings hosted by the ship’s chefs.
- Art Auctions: Explore art exhibitions and auctions held throughout the cruise.
Your $100 onboard credit can be used for a variety of experiences and purchases on your Carnival cruise! Here’s a breakdown of what you can use it for:
Dining:
- Specialty Restaurants: Your credit can be used to pay for meals at Carnival’s specialty restaurants, like Guy’s Pig & Anchor Smokehouse, Fahrenheit 555 Steakhouse, Bonsai Sushi, or the Chef’s Table.
- Beverages: If you want to indulge in drinks (alcoholic or non-alcoholic), your onboard credit can be used for cocktails, wine, beer, and soft drinks at bars and lounges.
- Café or Snack Purchases: Grab a coffee at the onboard café or snack items around the ship.
Spa & Wellness:
- Cloud 9 Spa: Use the credit toward spa treatments like massages, facials, or other wellness services (including the sauna or thermal suite access).
- Salon Services: You can also use the credit for haircuts, styling, or other beauty treatments at the salon.
Shore Excursions:
- Excursions: Use your credit to book activities and excursions at your ports of call, such as tours, sightseeing, or adventure activities like ziplining or snorkeling.
Shopping:
- Onboard Shops: Your credit can be used in Carnival’s onboard retail shops, where you can purchase souvenirs, cosmetics, clothing, and accessories.
Wi-Fi and Internet:
- Internet Packages: If you need to stay connected during the cruise, you can use the credit to purchase internet access packages, whether for limited use or a full package.
Casino:
- Casino Credit: If you enjoy the casino, your onboard credit can be used for gaming at the casino, like slot machines or table games.
Tips & Gratuities:
- Automatic Gratuities: On some cruises, your onboard credit may also be used to cover gratuities that are automatically added to your account for services like dining and room steward staff.
Other Services:
- Photo Packages: If you have professional photos taken by the ship’s photographers, you can use your credit toward purchasing photo packages or individual prints.