The fastest way to buy a Carnival gift card is directly from Carnival's website or by phone
Carnival sells gift cards through its own website at carnival.com, where you can choose a dollar amount and have the card delivered by email or physical mail. You can also call Carnival directly at 1-888-CARNIVAL (1-888-227-6482) to order over the phone. Physical cards arrive in 5 to 7 business days; digital cards arrive within 24 hours.
If you need a card quickly and want to hold it in your hands, buying in person at a travel agency that books Carnival cruises is another option. Not all agencies stock them, so call ahead. The card itself has no expiration date and works toward any Carnival cruise fare, onboard purchases, or port excursions.
Key Takeaways
- Carnival's website and phone line (1-888-CARNIVAL) are the official sources and let you choose the exact dollar amount you want to give.
- Digital gift cards arrive within 24 hours; physical cards take 5 to 7 business days.
- Third-party retailers like Amazon, Costco, and Best Buy sometimes carry Carnival gift cards, but selection and availability vary by location and season.
- Gift cards have no expiration date and can be used toward cruise fares, onboard spending, or shore excursions.
- If you buy from a retailer other than Carnival, check the card's terms to confirm it works the same way as one purchased directly.
Buying from major retailers and warehouse clubs
Amazon, Costco, Best Buy, and Walmart occasionally stock Carnival gift cards, though availability is not consistent year-round. Costco members can sometimes find them at a small discount during peak travel seasons. Amazon usually carries them at face value with the option of email or physical delivery.
The advantage of buying through these retailers is convenience if you already shop there, and occasionally a small discount. The disadvantage is that stock runs out, especially during holiday periods, and you may not find the exact denomination you want. Call or check the store's website before making a trip.
What to know before you buy
Carnival gift cards work toward the total cost of a cruise booking, including the base fare and taxes. They do not cover gratuities (tips for crew members), which are added separately. You can also use the card for onboard purchases like drinks, specialty dining, or casino play, and for port excursions booked through Carnival.
The card itself never expires, so there is no rush to use it. If the cruise costs more than the card's value, the person booking pays the difference with another payment method. If the card has money left over after the cruise, the balance stays on the card and can be used on a future cruise or onboard purchase.
When you buy from a retailer other than Carnival, the terms are the same, but double-check the packaging or receipt to confirm the card is not restricted in any way. Some retailers' gift cards have regional limits, though Carnival cards typically do not.
Using the gift card to book a cruise
The person who receives the card can use it to book online at carnival.com, through the Carnival app, or by calling 1-888-CARNIVAL. They will need the card number and PIN (usually printed on the back of a physical card or included in the email for a digital card).
During checkout, they enter the gift card information as their payment method. If the cruise costs more than the card's balance, they can add another payment method to cover the difference. The card balance is deducted from the total, and the remaining amount is charged to the other payment method.
Discounted gift cards and resale sites
Websites like Raise, CardCash, and Costco Travel sometimes list Carnival gift cards at a discount, usually 5 to 15 percent off face value. These are typically cards that were purchased by other people and resold. The discount is real, but you are buying from a third party, not Carnival.
Before buying from a resale site, read the seller's rating and return policy. Some sites may provide the card will work; others do not. If the card does not set up or has a lower balance than promised, you will need to dispute the transaction through the resale site. This process can take weeks, so weigh the discount against the risk.
Corporate and bulk purchases
If you are buying gift cards for a business, employee rewards program, or large group, Carnival offers bulk discounts. Contact Carnival's corporate sales team at 1-888-CARNIVAL and ask for the gift card department. They can discuss pricing for orders of 10 or more cards and may offer customization options.
Bulk orders typically take longer to process than individual purchases, so plan ahead if you need them by a specific date. The cards themselves work the same way as retail cards once they arrive.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a Carnival gift card on any cruise line?
No. Carnival gift cards work only on Carnival Cruise Line. If you want to give a gift for a different cruise line, you will need to purchase a gift card from that specific line.
What happens if I lose the gift card?
If you lose a physical card, contact Carnival with the card number and PIN. Carnival can freeze the card and issue a replacement, though the process may take several days. Digital cards sent by email are safer because they are not physical objects to lose.
Can I reload money onto a gift card?
No. Carnival gift cards are not reloadable. Once the balance is spent, the card cannot be refilled. You would need to purchase a new card if you want to add more funds.
Do I have to use the entire gift card balance on one cruise?
No. If the balance is not used on one cruise, it remains on the card and can be used on a future cruise or for onboard purchases. The card does not expire.
Is there a minimum or maximum amount I can put on a gift card?
Carnival typically allows amounts from $25 to $500 per card when you order directly. Some retailers may have different limits, so check before you buy.