1st Cruise Experience

Carnival Elation Cruise Review to Mexico

Cruises: 1 cruise (first)
Review: 1
Helpful Votes: 44

Overall rating:

3 out of 5
Verified Review
Carnival Elation

4 Night Baja Mexico (San Diego Roundtrip)

Sail date: July 20, 2009

Ship: Carnival Elation

Cabin type: Oceanview

Traveled as: Family (older children)

Reviewed: 15 years ago

Review summary

Thank you to the staff for answering many questions, as the "Welcome aboard Info packet from Carnival" could not be downloaded. Apparently Carnival is aware and trying to correct the problem as Carnival is no longer mailing the "paper" brochure. It was good to be informed of the list of fees and additional charges. We used as many prepay as we thought we'd use and definitely avoided the end of cruise "billing statement shock" many of our fellow travelers experienced. It would have been more fun to spend the evening in Catalina Island as we were advised to return to the ship before dark for safety reasons in Ensenada. Our schedule was 9-4 in Catalina and 10-9 in Ensenada. On board activities were enjoyed by many. The evening shows were great and different each night. The food was plentiful and good, but our group preferred the all inclusive in Mexico (past vacation) for variety, options and taste.

Ship experiences

Food and Dining

3 out of 5
We were told at the onset we could order additional items at dinner, but the one time we tried were told by the waiter that it couldn't be done, only to watch the waiter bring the same food to an adjoining table. Waiter explained the other table had pre-ordered second helpings with their first order. The next night we "pre-ordered" no problem. Just another "who knew" rule. :)

Entertainment

5 out of 5

Children's Programs

5 out of 5
Loved how the staff interacted with various age groups.

Service and Staff

5 out of 5
I'd say the best for the rest of the crew, but the dining staff was okay only.

Ship Quality

3 out of 5
Lots of things to do, but crowded.

Cabin / Stateroom

5 out of 5
Our staterooms were very clean and accessible.

Ports of call

Ensenada, Mexico

5 out of 5
For safety we were cautioned to return before dark.
Don't Miss: La Bufadora (just be ready for the hawkers)

Catalina Island, California

5 out of 5
Best food of the trip - Mi Casita in Avalon
Don't Miss: Glass bottom boats are fun.

Pros: The stateroom, gym and ship facilities were excellent

Cons: Only place to "get away" from the masses was your stateroom

Recommends Carnival Elation? Yes!

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