First Cruise with pre-teen children

Carnival Conquest Cruise Review to Caribbean - Western

Cruises: 2-3 cruises
Reviews: 7
Helpful Votes: 147

Overall rating:

4 out of 5
Carnival Conquest

7 Night Western Caribbean (Galveston Roundtrip)

Sail date: March 13, 2011

Ship: Carnival Conquest

Cabin type: Inside

Cabin number: 6341

Traveled as: Family (young children)

Reviewed: 8 years ago

Review summary

We weren't sure exactly what to expect on our first cruise.  We booked two side by side interior cabins. But with the kids only being 9 and 10 years old, we did not feel comfortable leaving them alone in their room at night.  We did try to get them to participate with the Camp Carnival kids activities but they were not interested.  This limited our late night adult activities.  We greatly enjoyed our itinerary to Jamaica, Grand Cayman and Cozumel.  Of the 3 total cruises we've done since this one, that is still my favorite itinerary.   The ship was a bit tired and needed some attention.  Frayed carpet or areas that needed some paint.  We were certainly wow'd by the size of the ship.  You can always spot the first time cruisers when they step foot on the ship for the first time.  Entertainment, food and service was great.  Be aware that between November and April, the port of Galveston is often plagued by fog which causes delays in the ship arriving back to port on time. 

Ship experiences

Food and Dining

5 out of 5

Onboard Activities

5 out of 5

Entertainment

5 out of 5

Children's Programs

3 out of 5

Service and Staff

5 out of 5

Ship Quality

3 out of 5

Cabin / Stateroom

5 out of 5
Interior Cabin was clean and perfect for just 2 people.

Ship tip

Prepay your gratuities and be prepared for the onboard expenses. Make sure to book at least one meal in the specialty restaurant. It is definitely worth the upcharge.

Ports of call

Galveston, Texas

5 out of 5

Montego Bay, Jamaica

3 out of 5

George Town, Grand Cayman

5 out of 5

Cozumel, Mexico

5 out of 5

Traveler Photos

Hell, Grand Cayman Top deck is popular Waterslide Top Deck activities Yellow boat is called the Vomit Comet Turtle Farm, Grand Cayman
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5 Comments

bill545    8 years ago

I see you sailed Conquest before it went to Drydock for the 2.0 in 2012. That could explain the tired look. It's a shame the kids didn't give the camp a shot. Looks like you still enjoyed and that's what counts.

jallaway    8 years ago

Now I see.  You go to cruiseline.com and your review has a title.  This is bonkers.

sunshine220    8 years ago

The camp is the best part for kids just make them go they had parties and dances video games no reason to not want to be there next time don't bring them

marksetgo    8 years ago

I know some of carnival's ships seem tired looking. But I so love the old style of gaudy that carnival used to use. I will miss them someday when they are gone. I have been on Carnival's newest and oldest ships. I have had a blast on all of them. Tired or new. I have seen some ships that have really needed updates, however I had just asuch fun.

jallaway    8 years ago

I gotta ask. You have previous cruises on your profile, but you said this was your first? And you commented on fog in November, but you sailed in August? I'm soooo confused

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