First-timers Delight

Carnival Elation Cruise Review to Mexico

Cruises: 1 cruise (first)
Review: 1
Helpful Votes: 38

Overall rating:

4 out of 5
Verified Review
Carnival Elation

5 Night Baja Mexico (San Diego Roundtrip)

Sail date: May 12, 2008

Ship: Carnival Elation

Cabin type: Inside

Traveled as: Singles/Friends

Reviewed: 14 years ago

Review summary

This was my first cruise and I was very impressed with the Carnival Elation. It was so well maintained - kept very clean - especially for being 10 years old. The cabin was kept neat and clean by our room steward, though the decor is dated the beds were very comfortable and we found room to store all the over-packed items we brought. The dining staff were great, saw to our every need and made sure no one ever went hungry. Food was good and sometimes great but be sure to listen to the waiter's recommendations to ensure a pleasant meal. Buffet line was good - some better than others - and enough variety to never eat the same thing twice if you didn't want to. On board activities were entertaining though we didn't make it to too many evening performances - Stewart the cruise director and his assistant Marky-Mark made the trip memorable and even entertained us with their announcements. Excursions were over-priced for what was provided but as first-timers we didn't know any better. Cabo was beautiful and the weather couldn't be better on the port days - Ensenada was busy and La Bufadora is a must see...just for the experience. Overall the cruise was a success and I enjoyed the floating hotel convenience with good food, great support staff and comfortable accommodations - would do it again!

Ports of call

Ensenada, Mexico

3 out of 5
We did the tour to the blowhole off the boat (saved some money) and it really is the only thing to do. The drive is @ 45 minutes out of town and you pass through some sad-looking places to find some beautiful coast. Tour people were very friendly and gave good guidance on what vendors had better stuff (La Bufadora is surrounded by flea market/vendors). Buyer beware if looking to purchase pharmacueticals - stick with recommendations or just don't do it.
Don't Miss: La Bufadora - The Blowhole

Cabo San Lucas, Mexico

3 out of 5
We did the Chileno Bay snorkel excursion from Carnival and it was NOT worth the money - the contractor was great and the boat was great but water was not snorkelable (too choppy with 4 ft swells). Take a boat cruise and enjoy the scenery as the water is beautiful and the shoreline photogenic. Didn't explore the town as it seemed very resorty.
Don't Miss: Tour of the coastline by boat

Pros: Carnival Crew & Staff were so friendly and helpful

Cons: Paying for soda

Recommends Carnival Elation? Yes!

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