Carnival Cruise Line Brand Ambassador Warns Passengers: Don’t Game the System for Special Access

A brand ambassador for Carnival Cruise Line warns passengers that scheming to get special access to restricted areas won’t be tolerated.

In a recent Facebook post, Carnival Cruise Line Brand Ambassador John Heald revealed that some passengers have attempted to access restricted areas by purchasing unauthorized wristbands through third-party sellers. Heald emphasized that the Carnival Cruise Line is fully aware of these efforts and is actively taking measures to prevent such actions, ensuring that exclusive experiences remain secure and fair for participating guests.

The scheme revolves around Carnival Cruise Line’s exclusive Havana Retreat. This ship-within-a-ship experience features Cuban-inspired staterooms and private areas reserved solely for Havana guests.

Those booked in Havana staterooms receive distinctive silicone wristbands that grant access to these exclusive spaces. These bands allow crew members to easily identify authorized guests and ensure that only those with proper access can enjoy this premium area of the ship.

Heald wrote, alongside an image of wristbands worn by Carnival Cruise Line guests, that this type of behavior is increasing. He sounded the alarm for any customers who take steps to access these restricted areas, as employees are on to the scheme.

He began, “Some very naughty people have been selling their Havana Wrist bands on [eBay] and other auction sites. These bands are checked by the staff working in the Havana area.”

Heald added, “We used to have just two colors for these cabins in the Carnival Vista, Carnival Horizon, Carnival Panorama, Mardi Gras, Carnival Celebration, and Carnival Jubilee. And someone silly decided to buy two of these and tried to wear them to get into the Havana area on one of the ships. They were denied, and I am sure they were embarrassed because the wristband was the wrong color. You see, we have different colors, which are changed at random each cruise.”

In response, cruisers shared what they believe is an easy solution to this ongoing problem in the post’s comments section.

“They should scan their room card to get in. Problem solved,” one customer wrote. A second wrote, “Or put a sticker on the S&S card like they do with the suite cabins.”

A third believes that no matter what, those who seek to enter exclusive areas will find a way. “So, what you’re telling people (who would purchase these bands to begin with) is that they should splurge for the ‘assorted colors’ lot of bands, to improve their chances.”

What Makes the Carnival Cruise Havana Guest Experience Desirable?

Per Carnival, the Havana guest experience is more exclusive than traditional cruising. The area is only available on Carnival Vista, Carnival Horizon, and Carnival Panorama, as well as all three of the cruise line’s Excel-class ships, including Mardi Gras, Carnival Celebration, and Carnival Jubilee.

Cruisers who purchase Havana staterooms and suites have exclusive access to the Havana Pool area, plus branded bathrobes and towels for use throughout the cruise. Those who upgrade can choose from a variety of stateroom options, including interior rooms, balconies, and spacious suites, all designed to reflect the charm and warmth of old Havana.

Havana Cabanas include extra-large outdoor spaces, featuring a lounge-ready hammock chair. Havana Cabana suites offer cruisers even more space, with the addition of a luxurious rain shower. 

Havana staterooms on Carnival ships can range in price depending on the specific ship, cabin type (Havana Interior, Havana Balcony, or Havana Cabana Suite), and the length and time of year of the cruise. Prices fluctuate due to the season and destination. However, passengers can expect to pay significantly more for the exclusivity of the area and its amenities.