Carnival Cruise Line Tightens Cabin Rules for Booking Teenagers and Children

Carnival Cruise Line is updating its cabin rules for booking teens and kids. 

Starting Feb. 1, 2025, all reservations must pair guests 14 years of age or under with a relative or guardian who is at least 25 years of age, either in the same cabin or a connected cabin.

Previously, guests 12 years old and under were permitted to stay in a cabin next to or across the hall from their relative or legal guardian.

Guests 14 to 17 years old can be separated by up to three staterooms—as per Carnival’s existing minor policy—but now their reservation must be linked and cross-referenced with the accompanying adult (minimum 25 years of age).   

The policy for guests 18 to 20 years old also remains the same: there are no restrictions on what cabin they occupy, but the reservation must be linked with a relative or legal guardian who is at least 25 years old.  

Another key update is the room assignment policy for minors. Carnival will no longer accept “to be announced” (TBA) bookings for guests 20 years old or younger. Cabins must be assigned at the time of booking.

Carnival will continue to allow guests 21 years old to book independently, as well as legally married couples and qualified military personnel under 21 years of age. 

A representative of Carnival told TMR, “the new guidelines are part of our continued efforts to provide a safer, more enjoyable cruise experience for our guests by making sure all minor guests are monitored by adults.”

Carnival offers year-round youth programming for travelers 17 years old and younger, split into multiple categories by age. Parents can register ahead of departure as the capacity is limited.