We really had a good time and the ship was just fine. I wish Carnival offered some cruises out of Jacksonville heading to the north (like Canada and northeast US).
Embarkation
5 out of 5
Extremely well organized at the port. Very considerate of a family member with back problems and allowed us to move farther up in line and we didn't request this. Check in process was very efficient and staff was friendly.
Ship experiences
Food and Dining
4 out of 5
The food was really good. Rather than preparing a large amount of food and having it sit out and lose quality, the staff seemed to prepare foods more in batch amounts. Food service was limited during off times except for pizza bars, deli line and a pool area food line. The food was very fresh and hot, however, patience was needed due to long lines at times and slow service. Sometimes when food ran out, the server would leave the line for significant time periods to get more food. BUT, I would rather trade food freshness and slower service in preparing foods to order rather than having food on demand that has lost integrity from sitting out too long. There were a couple of annoying food service employees that snatched away the food that would have been discarded anyway at the end of serving times. It seemed rude to pull away the pans when a few straggling people who came to eat were denied food when they had returned from excursions or activities. We then had to wait at least 15 minutes in the deli or pizza lines. On one occasion, however, there was an employee who stood in line with a sign "line closed" to designate the end of the serving time. This was helpful and at least gave an indication of when the time was up so we could make an alternate decision. Our family loved the food choices at the dining room evening meals. Salmon tasted great along with vegetables, vegetarian entrees, and salads.
Onboard Activities
4 out of 5
I liked the fitness center and steam room. I also enjoyed line dancing. Our family just chose to relax and really didn't take advantage of too many activities.
Entertainment
4 out of 5
Service and Staff
5 out of 5
The waiters and housekeeping for our room were wonderful. They greeted us by name every day and were very conscientious in meeting our needs.
Ship Quality
5 out of 5
Yes. When passengers were slobs and left a mess, it seemed to be immediately cleaned up by staff.
Cabin / Stateroom
5 out of 5
Good value for basic inside room and efficiently designed so we were able to store our stuff. Housekeeping lady was wonderful and friendly.
Ship tip
Make sure you are aware of port parking fees beforehand so you won't be surprised.
We live in Jacksonville area so this port was convenient. Parking at the port was pricey though. Somehow, we missed the fact that we would be charged approx. $80 per vehicle to park during the cruise. We brought 2 vehicles and were shocked. IF YOU LIVE IN JACKSONVILLE, CONSIDER GETTING A RIDE OR LOOK INTO ANOTHER LOT NEARBY IF THERE'S ONE AVAILABLE.
Glass bottom boat ride was too pricey considering scratched and dirty glass on boat bottom that did not permit a good view. Very few fish were seen----I saw way more fish when I went out swimming with my own goggles! One employee's rudeness who was guarding a bridge access to the beach did not allow our family (one of us was 71 years old with back issues) to cross the bridge, claiming there was a crowd of people were coming in opposite direction, yet there were no people coming. She offered no explanation and was very rigid and this seemed unnecessary and irritating.
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