Although Mother’s Day is less than two weeks away, there are still plenty of opportunities to show your appreciation for mom this year by whisking her away with a “Fun Ship” getaway aboard Carnival Cruise Lines.

            With six departures ranging from three to five days available over the May 11, 2008, Mother’s Day holiday, Carnival’s “Fun Ships” will offer moms of all ages an opportunity to visit a variety of warm, tropical destinations in Mexico, The Bahamas, or Caribbean. And with an array of shipboard amenities designed to appeal to the entire family, mom won’t be the only one having fun.

           Carnival’s three- to five-day cruises departing over Mother’s Day weekend include:

Carnival Fantasy departing on a four-day cruise from New Orleans to Cozumel Thursday, May 8

Carnival Paradise departing on a three-day cruise from Long Beach, Calif., to Ensenada Friday, May 9

Carnival Fascination departing on a three-day cruise from Miami to Nassau departing Friday,     May 9 

Carnival Imagination on a five-day cruise from Miami to Grand Cayman and Ocho Rios Saturday, May 10

Carnival Inspiration departing on a five-day cruise from Tampa to Grand Cayman and Cozumel Saturday, May 10

Carnival Sensation departing on a four-day cruise from Port Canaveral, Fla., to Freeport and Nassau Sunday, May 11.    

            Mom and the entire family can enjoy white-sand beaches and azure waters while creating a lifetime of wonderful memories as they cruise around the Caribbean and Mexico. Treat mom to unforgettable experiences such as swimming with stingrays, climbing Ocho Rios’ famous Dunn’s River Falls or exploring ancient Mayan ruins. Shop-aholics also can experience incredible duty-free bargains at the various ports.

            Aboard ship, moms can indulge at Spa Carnival with a pampering massage or facial or relax in the sauna or steam room.  Dining options abound, with delicious full-service meals in elegant main dining rooms, a variety of casual choices in expansive poolside eateries, or even breakfast in bed, compliments of Carnival’s 24-hour stateroom service. 

            Carnival ships offer numerous shipboard amenities including a variety of entertainment options, multiple nightclubs and lounges and, on the Carnival Imagination and Carnival Inspiration, the new Serenity adults-only retreat. 

            Cruise-only rates begin at $349 per person for three-day cruises, $399 per person for four-day cruises, and $449 per person for five-day cruises, based on double occupancy.

            For additional information and reservations, contact any travel agent, call 1-800-CARNIVAL or visit carnival.com.