Carnival Ecstasy
Sail date: August 06, 2011
Luggage drop off, parking and boarding was a breeze. Got on about 2 1/2 hours early and ate lunch and looked around. We traveled with two teenagers and we had two staterooms. Rooms were clean and neat. Maid service is efficient and friendly. In fact all of the employees were helpful, friendly and efficient. Food was better than we expected after reading some reviews. Extensive buffets, tons of fresh fruit and salad bar, pizza, deli sandwiches, burgers, chicken sandwiches, and that's just lunch. Breakfast is equally large and for dinner there's still the buffets, Mongolian stir fry, and of course the dinners in the dining rooms. There's also plenty of selections for those with more healthy eating habits. There's bar service on the pool and upper decks. The pool is small and most adults sit on the edge or stand in the water enjoying conversation. Not much room for kids to jump and splash, but there are some water slides on the aft deck. There are quieter lounge chairs on other areas of the ship if you want peace and quiet. Plenty of activites for young, old, and in between. Comedians, casino, lounges, stage, and shopping to name a few. Everything goes on your room key card so no need for much cash. Be cognizant of your drink tab, since it can add up quickly over several days. Progresso, Mexico is the first stop. There's free bus service from ship to the town. Be ready for LOTS of folks trying to sell you their products. We went down to the public beach and rented Jet Ski's ($40.00 per half hour if you act indecisive) and then sat in the shade and relaxed. The next stop was Cozumel which was much better. We did the dolphin excursion at Dolphinaris and it was fun and very well organized. After that it was off to eat at Senor Frogs. Ther's a Carlos and Charlie's right below. The shopping was in stores more like an outdoor mall, but other smaller shops nearby as you stroll around town. Felt very safe here and not much presence of military or police. There was more of a military presence in Progresso which reminded us of the current difficulties in other parts of Mexico. Then back to the ship and off to sea. They do keep on their time schedule so don't be late getting back. We had a very nice and relaxing time and will do it again. Very little ship motion and often forgot we were on the ocean. Once again, the Carnival emloyees were very nice and helpful.