Carnival has not disappointed us, but gotten better each year. We enjoy the NYE cruise, the celebration at midnight, the friendly staff and worry free vacation. We can't wait to book the next one.
Embarkation
5 out of 5
We stayed in a suite, so with priority embarkation, you just walk right on. I keep forgetting there is no need to check bags, since your key cards are outside your door, but luggage came quick this time.
Ship experiences
Food and Dining
5 out of 5
Food was excellent, so was the staff. Love how friendly Carnival employees are. MDR didn't disappoint. Buffet was great. Love Blue Iguana for breakfast. MDR waitor, Rupert, suggested a wine package, which was great. 3-5 bottles for a discount to be used for the entire cruise, especially since we only drank at dinner.
Onboard Activities
4 out of 5
Slides keep the kids occupied. Loved the Hasbro events too. My 5yr &8 yr old loved camp, the older one (10) did not. Used the fitness center just once, but was adequate. Mini golf is better than Elation.
Entertainment
5 out of 5
Shows were new this year, loved the motor city ( a little impartial since I am from metro Detroit). Missed the Divas show. The Violin Duets were amazing. Piano Bar was entertaining too!
Children's Programs
4 out of 5
Little ones loved it, older one did not. Camp Ocean is smaller on this ship that Elation. Staff was extremely friendly.
Service and Staff
5 out of 5
Carnival has the best staff. Everyone has a smile on their face and always asks how you are doing and if you are having fun. Having sailed NCL between a couple Carnival cruises, it is a huge difference.
Ship Quality
4 out of 5
Layout is simple, easy to maneuver. Never feel like you are battling through crowds to get from Point A to B. Ship was clean throughout. Having read lots of reviews I was nervous, since we had been on Elation twice before. This ship does show its age more, however it didn't get the same dry dock that Elation had in 2017. Never noticed a smell, bring a air freshener if you are worried. Otherwise no complaints.
Cabin / Stateroom
4 out of 5
Love the Extended Balcony Grand Suite. This year, we traveled with friends and our rooms were next door. Carnival opened up our balconies, which was amazing, especially since NCL wouldn't when we had two balcony rooms for our family of 5 in March. Just had to ask guest services. Ship showed age, like slight mirror erosion at edges, carpets wear and tear, but nothing that affected us.
Ship tip
Do research before booking. If you want a new boat with all the bells and whistles, do not book this cruise and then complain about it later. However, for a low cost, 5 day simple trip, this is a favorite of ours. PS, we love the self service laundromat on Carnival!
Rented two cabanas this year. Again, nervous after the mixed reviews. They give you floats, snorkel gear, food, drinks, towels, chairs. The Cabana has AC, plugs, a fridge, a table with 4 chairs, 4 loungers and umbrella. On the cruise, you get to pick your cabana. Pick 8, 9, or 10. Close to bathrooms, bar and steps to a great little beach, with Sandy bottom, snorkeling, and not far from lunch. So glad we did it. They drove us there in a golf cart and we stayed all day, since we could get the kids some relief from the heat and sun throughout!
Terminal workers are friendly and is a great port to get in and out of. We came in a day early. Went to Jax Beach, had some great meals, and met up with friends.
Priority debark is nice. A little unorganized as different staff gave is different information, however we were off the boat quickly with no major issues.
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