Carnival confirms there will be no public display during the US elections

With early voting open in several states and Election Day just two weeks away for what is already a highly contentious U.S. presidential election, many cruise travelers are understandably concerned about following election results while on vacation.

Carnival Cruise Line has responded to multiple questions about whether or not election information or voting results would be broadcast in public areas, such as on the movie screen on the Lido decks of many ships or in onboard bars and lounges.

‘There were so many people asking about the election coverage on the ships next week’ said John Heald, the cruise line’s official brand ambassador. “Having spoken to our Chief Communications Officer Chris, I can confirm that there will be no public screening of election coverage anywhere on the ship.”

To be clear, Carnival Cruise Line offers a variety of news channels that you can watch on individual televisions in the guest cabins. These news channels are sure to be filled with election coverage until and even after Election Day – Tuesday, November 5. There are no restrictions on travelers watching the coverage in their own cabins.

What will not happen, however, is that such reporting will be broadcast in public areas on television Carnival fleet. Instead, public screens will continue showing sporting events, scheduled films and other broadcasts.

This may be disappointing to some travelers who are closely following election results, but many guests agree it is the right decision, especially when opinions and party relations can become so heated.

“Exactly the right decision. What you don’t need is people starting fights about politics.”

“This is the right decision. There is WAY too much laughing about this election, and it is a recipe for disaster if people start drinking and watching together.”

“Thank you for not showing anything political. I’m going on holiday to get away for a few days.”

However, some travelers are upset that they won’t have the “freedom” to stay up to date with election coverage.

“That’s ridiculous! This is America! It is our freedom to watch!” one commenter exclaimed, encouraging further clarification from Heald.

“It has nothing to do with politics or freedom. You have the freedom to view it in your cabin. You have the freedom to use the internet to watch it and sit wherever you want on the ship,” Heald confirmed.

“But we are not going to change schedule of events, movies and deck parties to broadcast politics on the big screen or in other bars or lounges where there is normally live music. Cheers.”

A number of commentators also point out that although Carnival Cruise Line bills itself as “America’s Cruise Line,” not all of its passengers are Americans. Likewise, not all guests will be interested in political news, regardless of their personal politics.

Also read: What to expect when you go on a Carnival cruise

Many cruise travelers take the opportunity to unplug during their vacation and enjoy their time at sea without having to worry about news or problems at home. These problems will always await when the ship returns to its home port.

Controversial TV broadcasts

Not surprisingly, Carnival will not be offering election coverage in public areas onboard. This is similar to coverage of other events, which often depends on the networks the cruise line can offer and whether or not some broadcasts may be disruptive to guests.

For example, Heald often asks questions and applications for sports reportingsuch as favorite teams or competitive finals. It’s not always possible to show every competition or meetup, but Carnival Cruise Line does offer that NFL Syndication and Sunday Ticket Package for the 2024-2025 season.

When a traveler’s favorite television show or network isn’t available, the cruise line’s Wi-Fi packages provide it Fast enough for individual streaming services if desired.