I LOVE Cruising~

This whole “From DEN to Dock” project came to be because I randomly stumbled across a $52 round-trip Frontier flight that lined up perfectly with the December '25 cruise dates. One of those moments where you just kind of blink, refresh the page, and go, “Well… I guess I’m going on a cruise!”

6 Days on Carnival Panorama December 14 -20, 2025 - sailed

I’ve been home for a week now and finally coming up for air after a busy stretch of travel. I hope you all had a Merry Christmas!

I just published a new blog post about a fun and surprisingly efficient way I got to the airport from home on this last trip. It’s part of how I’m rethinking travel logistics to save time, money, and energy, especially when trips stack close together.

I’ll be sharing more about how I plan, test routes, and simplify logistics as I go. For now, I wanted to share this latest post for anyone interested in smarter, more flexible ways to make travel work in Colorado.

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This trip I sailed with one of my besties from high school, which makes the adventure that much sweeter. What started as a lucky airfare find has now grown into it's own chapter for my Go Wild Locals travel guide. This site will evolve with every cruise/airport moment and every traveler I meet along the way.

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Whether you're:

• A Go Wild Traveler
• A first-time cruiser
• A Denver-to-Coast adventurer (like I am)
• OR someone ready for a December getaway…

You’re welcome to come along!

I’ll keep this page updated with:

• Latest trip, latest rates - Typical inside cabins begin at $269 PP
• plus taxes, fees and gratuities
• Packing Hacks & Travel Tips
• Pre-cruise meetups
• LAX/Long Beach hotel partners coming in 2026!

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See if Carnival has something for you!

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Quick Ship Facts:

• Launched: 2019
• Capacity: 4,008 guests
• Tonnage: ~133,500
• Length: 1,055 ft
• Itinerary: Cabo San Lucas • Ensenada
• Vibe: Warm, modern, and packed with fun

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Traveler Favorites:

• WaterWorks Waterpark
• SkyRide + ropes course
• Havana Pool & Cabanas
• Guy’s Burger Joint
• Big, beautiful spa + gym

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⚓ Embarkation: Long Beach Cruise Terminal

Address: 231 Windsor Way, Long Beach, CA
​Parking: ~$23/day (if you’re driving)
​Terminal Landmark: Right next to the Queen Mary

What to Expect:

• Spacious, efficient terminal
• Luggage drop-off curbside
• Security + check-in flow similar to an airport but easier
• Outdoor waiting areas for early arrivals

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✈️ Flying in to Long Beach / LAX

LAX (Most Flexible)

• Best flight availability
• Often cheapest
• ~22 miles from port
• Rideshare/taxi: 25–35 mins
• Public transit: ~70–120 mins (multi-transfer)

LGB (Closest-No Frontier, so no Go Wild)

• Smaller & easier to navigate
• ~6 miles from port
• Rideshare: 10–20 mins
• Fewer flights but super convenient

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📍 Getting to the Ship

From LAX:

• Uber/Lyft: $35–$85, I've seen as high as $120 during rush time.
• Taxi: ~$65
• Carnival Shuttle (shared): $35
• Public Transportation - Bus/Train $1.75

From LGB:

• Uber/Lyft: $15–$25

From Boutique Hotels:​
Many offer:

• Port shuttles
• Luggage help
• Early cruise check-in

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Vicki’s Pro Tip:

🧳 Packing & What You Can Bring on Carnival

Allowed:

• 1 bottle of wine or champagne (750ml) per adult
• 12-pack of soda per person
• Sealed snacks
• Small fan, magnets, nightlight
• Carry-on backpacks + personal bags

Provide a small packing checklist for your roomie & friends:

• Passport/ID
• Cruise documents
• Medications
• Formal night outfit (optional)
• Chargers
• Sunscreen
• Cash for tips, at port and casino

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💺Inside Cabins are OK and Why I Like Them!

Good for sleeping
Cool + dark
Great for early risers and budget-happy travelers

It gets you on the ship!

For best pricing:

• Let Carnival Assign Your Cabin
• You can upgrade later if a “Last Minute Upgrade Offer” appears

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I truly love sailing out of Long Beach, it’s easy, friendly, and full of budget-friendly cruise dates over the next few months. One of the January '26 weeks had balcony cabins under $500 on the Carnival Firenze, which is wild in the best way. If you’d like updates on deals and future travel plans, feel free to subscribe. This adventure is just getting started, and it would be fun to have you along for the ride.

⭐ Travel Insurance Reminder

When you’re traveling outside the U.S., it’s important to know that your regular health benefits may be limited or not covered at all. That’s why I always recommend having travel insurance. I personally use Allianz and, as a frequent traveler, I carry an annual plan for peace of mind.

When you book your cruise, you’ll also have the option to add travel insurance directly through Carnival. One way or another, I highly recommend being covered before you sail. If you’d like a quote or help comparing options, feel free to reach out.

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🌍 Also join our community in the Go Wild Locals Facebook group, be the first to know about our next adventures. You’ll find ideas, inspiration, and real tips for making travel easier.

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I can’t wait to hear about your adventures and where you want to go next!

– Vicki C

See you around...