pddolan2

Upon arrival, the crew helping with the luggage in the parking lot was rushed, disorganized, and not very friendly. The ship looked old and tired. We quickly learned that it was and that this was its last voyage. Once we got to the line to embark, it was like a flip was switched and everyone was friendly and helpful. We had one person in our party in a wheelchair and they escorted and helped them on the ship with all their luggage (and let their party go with them). They also helped at every single port of call, embarking and debarking and helped out everyday in the dining room. There was so much food, so many options and you could eat all day and nearly all night!! It was incredible. The inside of the ship design was a little dated but incredibly well kept and clean. The stewards knew us all by our first names and greeted us every morning and all throughout the day. The rooms were sparkling clean and we always had a fresh animal towel each day. The hot and cold water took a minute to learn but once you did, it was great. Princess Cays was my favorite. It was so relaxing and beautiful. I expected overcrowding and there were a lot of people but they were not all in the same place at the same time...except at lunch time. However, even then it was fairly spread out since some people ate and then went back to the beach...some waited to eat until later. It worked out great. On Princess Cays, nearly all the shops did not take cash...only your sail and sign card. I prefer cash, but it was safer and simpler so it grew on us. The shows were fun. We only glanced at the casino walking by it. The cigarette and cigar smoke was too overwhelming. It permeated through that entire quarter of the ship. There was a 21 and over only area on the aft of the ship which was really nice early in the morning and at night if you want to just sit and watch the water (or any time of day, really...it was quiet back there mostly). I didn't care for Nassau much. It's very much a big city but we had a friend who lives there who got us on to a private beach so that was nice and relaxing. The water was beautiful and clear (both Princess Cays and Nassau). We snorkeled and saw quite a few colorful fish and even a baby stingray. Overall, this was one of the best vacations I've had in a long time. It was nice not to have to pull out your wallet every time you wanted something to drink or eat. Shows were free. We spent very little. We would definitely do another cruise with Carnival. It was the absolute best. My husband even wants to go on another one....and he is not a vacation person so it was a true win-win. Thank you Carnival!