CARNIVAL ELATION
A true survivor. As one of the last Fantasy-class ships, Elation offers a classic, intimate experience that the mega-ships simply cannot replicate.
- Guests
- 2,190
- Tonnage
- 71,909
- Ratio
- 32.8
- Crew
- 900
The Prodigy Verdict
The Cozy Classic.
Sailing exclusively from Jacksonville, the Elation serves a very specific purpose: the quick, accessible getaway. Because of her size (she fits under the Dames Point Bridge), she offers a level of intimacy lost on modern giants. You can cross the entire ship in minutes. While she lacks the roller coasters and IMAX theaters, she makes up for it with a robust "Fun Ship 2.0" refit that added Guy’s Burgers, BlueIguana, and the Alchemy Bar. It is a traditional cruise experience at a highly competitive price point.
- Southeast locals (easy drive-to port)
- First-time cruisers testing the waters
- Travelers who prefer smaller, easier layouts
- Balcony cabins are in shorter supply here; booking early is essential.
- Entertainment is traditional and intimate rather than high-tech mega-productions.
- Staterooms feature efficient, vintage layouts distinct from modern resort styles.
The Zones
Despite her smaller size, Elation has distinct areas that separate the party from the peace.
Serenity Deck
Located aft (back of ship), this adults-only retreat is quieter than on other classes. It feels secluded and features its own hot tubs.
Grand Atrium
The classic "Joe Farcus" design. Neon, glass elevators, and a buzzing lobby bar. It is the heart of the ship's nightlife.
Lido Deck
Compact and high-energy. With the pool, Guy's Burgers, and the BlueIguana Tequila Bar all within steps of each other, this is the social hub.
Mikado Lounge
The main show lounge. A throwback design with excellent sightlines for the Playlist Productions shows and big bingo games.
WaterWorks
Featuring the spiraling Twister Water Slide and side-by-side racing slides. It dominates the top deck and is a major hit for families.
Alchemy Bar
A vintage pharmacy-themed cocktail bar. Lab coat-clad mixologists prescribe custom "elixirs" based on your mood. A true adult hotspot.
Limelight Lounge
The home of the Punchliner Comedy Club. Expect back-to-back shows ranging from family-friendly laughs to adults-only late-night sets.
Camp Ocean
The supervised kids' hub. Divided into Penguins (2-5), Stingrays (6-8), and Sharks (9-11), keeping the little ones engaged all day.
Dining & Provisions
Elation focuses on the "Fun Ship" staples. While it lacks a dedicated steakhouse, the included options are strong.
Guy's Burger Joint
Lido Deck
The fleet favorite. Freshly smashed patties and the famous toppings bar. It's the go-to lunch spot.
BlueIguana Cantina
Lido Deck
Fresh tacos and burritos with homemade tortillas. The breakfast burritos here are the best kept secret on the ship.
Inspiration Dining
MDR Aft
The classic dining room experience. While there isn't a Fahrenheit 555, you can order "Steakhouse Selections" here for a surcharge.
Pizza Pirate
Aft Deck
24-hour pizza. It's thin crust, reliable, and always there when you need a late-night snack.
Bonsai Sushi Express
Promenade
Fresh sushi, sashimi, and rolls prepared to order. Perfect for a lighter dinner or a sophisticated snack on the go.
Tiffany's Lido
Lido Deck
The main buffet offering a rotating menu. From the Salad Bar to the Carving Station and the Sweet Spot, it covers all bases.
The Chef's Table
Exclusive
An intimate, multi-course culinary journey hosted by the Master Executive Chef. Requires reservations and is strictly limited capacity.
JavaBlue Café
Promenade
The spot for specialty espresso and massive slices of cake. A quiet place to people-watch on the promenade.
Where It Sails
Elation is a permanent resident of Northern Florida.
- Homeport: Jacksonville, FL
- 4 & 5 Night Bahamas
- Year-Round Rotation
Classic Bahamian ports: Nassau, Freeport, and either Princess Cays or Half Moon Cay. The 5-day itineraries usually include two stops.
Check Availability
See dates for Jacksonville departures.
Check DatesAffiliate disclosure: outbound booking links may earn CruiseProdigy a commission.
Cost Reality
Elation is often one of the most affordable ships in the entire industry.
- Guy's Burgers & BlueIguana
- Main Dining Rooms
- Serenity Deck Access
- WaterWorks Slides
- Alcohol (Cheers! Package)
- Specialty Coffee
- Chef's Table Experience
- Spa Treatments
Port Hack: The port of Jacksonville is smaller and less chaotic than Miami or Canaveral. You can get from your car to the ship in record time.
The Vibe Check
Is this ship for you? It's about simplicity and social connection.
Intimate and Casual. You will see the same faces throughout the cruise, which fosters a friendly community vibe often missing on 6,000-passenger ships.
A mix of locals, party-goers on weekend warriors, and value-conscious families.
Ready for a quick escape? Check pricing below.
Cabin Recon
On the Fantasy class, balcony cabins are a luxury commodity, not the standard.
Standard Ocean View
Features a large picture window. On this older class of ship, these rooms are often larger than the standard cabins on newer vessels.
Aft-View Extended Balcony
Retrofitted onto the back of the ship. These offer incredible views of the wake and a deeper balcony than standard.
Grand Suite
Offers a whirlpool tub and significantly more floor space. Because this is an older ship, the price jump to a suite is often very reasonable.