Carnival Cruise Line continues to elevate its efforts to honor its community contributions as the cruise line carries more active and retired travelers than any other. The carrier announced the addition of its Military Appreciation Ceremony to Military Appreciation Day on all North American Cruises.
The Miami-based cruise ship also announced the launch of a special beer, the proceeds of which will go to Operation Homefront. Carnival is also making it easy for guests on board to donate to a nonprofit organization that supports thousands of former members.
Increasing Military Appreciation
Carnival Cruise Line is bringing a series of additions to military appreciation events on its ships in North America, introducing Military Appreciation Day. Travelers announced today, July 20, 2023.
Beginning the week of July 24, every Carnival cruise ship will host a Military Appreciation Day. Guests will be greeted with special messages broadcast on the Carnival Seaside Theatre, and announcements will be made by the Cruise Director and Captain.
On cruises of four days or more, the full United States Flag will be displayed on board the ship during Military Appreciation Day.
“At Carnival, where we are proudly known as America’s Cruise Line, we want to honor our military heroes and expand our Armed Forces Gathering to a full day of deep respect for the sacrifices that military personnel and their families have made,” said Christine Duffy, President of Carnival Cruise Line.
“Carnival already carries more active duty and retired veterans than any other cruise line, and we are proud that our new Military Appreciation Day will serve as a wonderful salute to veterans and their families.”
More than Just a Date
Military Appreciation Day maintains the principles of the previously established Military Appreciation Convention, with a few additions. This event is designed to honor and show appreciation for the military, including service, retention, and personnel.
One notable event is the launch of Operation Homefront, a non-profit organization affiliated with Carnival. Operation Homefront provides essential support to personnel to prevent short-term problems from escalating into long-term problems.
In addition, Carnival is supporting a way for guests to donate to Operation Homefront by implementing a quick transfer system for the Sail & Sign card.
In addition, guests can purchase group photos at the convention at a discounted price, with a portion of the proceeds benefiting Operation Homefront. Each soldier who attends the meeting will also receive a special pin, and the longest serving soldier will be honored with a special coin.
In April 2023, Carnival announced that it would bring back the raffle which provides free travel to a member of the military and a guest who has chosen him every month. Guests can enter the raffle by simply turning in their Sail & Sign card at the Military Appreciation Gathering.
Carnival brand ambassador John Heald had this to say about restoring the raffle: “This is another way of saying thank you to those whose bravery and courage allow us all the freedom to sail and have fun.”
Extra Honors and Privileges for Military Guests
Carnival offers Veterans Meet and Greet events on all cruises. Also, on the way Carnival FestivalMardi Gras, Carnival Venezia, Carnival Panorama, Carnival Radianceand Pride of Carnivalthese events will take place in Heroes Tribute Lounge. These tours will also feature a Veterans Table – a place for veterans to enjoy tea time.
In addition to the celebration, Carnival is introducing a new beer called “Heroes American Pale Ale.” Made exclusively for Carnival cruise ships with beer, one dollar from each sale will be donated to Operation Homefront.
Since 2016, Carnival has held a Military Appreciation Ceremony on every cruise. In 2023 alone, Carnival is expected to host 1,510 cruises across its fleet.
