Carnival Valor Tips - Average Cruiser

The Carnival Valor is one of our favorite Carnival ships because it is a nice size and has a couple of features that some of the newer Carnival ships just don’t. Those small details plus the fact that it is just easy to get around mean we have enjoyed sailing the Carnival Valor several times. These are our top tips on how to make the most out of the fun features on board the Carnival Valor!

1. Know the adults only areas

The Aft Pool (the one on the back) is for adults (18 and up) only. Because the pizza and an ice cream machine is nearby, children can walk around on the deck. But the pool itself is for adults only. The crew will come around and have the children leave and go to the main pool.

The Serenity Deck on 11 and 12 forward is 21 and up. There are a couple of hot tubs on the Serenity Deck and some very plush chairs and loungers. Be warned – it can get very windy up there!

2. Don’t stick to the main buffet

Make sure you try out Guy’s Burgers, Blue Iguana Cantina, the Mongolian Wok, the Deli and the Pizza for lunch in addition to the main buffet lines. The lines may be really long so it is not necessarily something you want to check out if you have an excursion to get to. The food at the quick service lines is made fresh to order, unlike the buffet, and is customizable to what you want. Don’t think Carnival’s food is bad because you don’t have the patience to stand in a long line. I promise it’s worth it!

Looking for more about lunch on a Carnival Cruise? Check out this Ultimate Guide To Lunch (For Free!) On Carnival!

3. Take the stairs

The Carnival Valor is really a relatively small ship. Use the stairs – usually where you are going is only up or down a few flights. It is a great way to get places a little faster than waiting for the elevators. Plus it always makes me feel better about eating dessert at all three meals!

4. Don’t forget the kid’s pool under the slide!

While there are several adult areas on the ship, there is also a pool just for kids! The small pool near the slide is a perfect pool for kids to enjoy since they can’t be in the one on the back of the ship!

5. Walk around in the buffet

There are several lines in the buffet. Make sure you check out the ones in the middle as well as the ones at the back. But they may all have a long line, so pack your patience!

6. Book a room in the back

Choose a room towards the back of the ship for closer access to the food! In general, the back of the ship is much more convenient on the Carnival Valor because it makes it so much easier to get to the buffet and the main dining. There is less you would regularly want on the front of the ship.

7. Fully explore decks 3-5.

Make sure you check out all the bars and seating areas on the main indoor decks. There are a few lounges sort of tucked into corners and plenty of seating where you can hang out with your drinks from one of the many bars or from the Java Cafe!

8. Plan your meals in advance

The Hub App shows the menu for dinner every night, so you can go ahead and plan what you want to have each night and if you want to eat at the main dining room or buffet that particular night.

9. Use the Hub App

The Hub App has a wealth of information. It has ship maps. It has menus. The app shows your bill and how much you owe. It has the weather, plus the times of sunrise and sunset. It has general information. Make sure you download the app in advance and then utilize it while on board!

The Carnival Valor really is a great ship. Sure it’s not the newest or most shiny, but it is holding up well. The decks outside decks are convenient, there is a good number of pools for everyone and it’s small size really comes in handy!

Hope these tips make your cruise on the Carnival Valor the best possible!