Great transatlantic cruise. It was an older crowd so we fit right in. There were several "journey" activities that only happen on longer Carnival cruises. For instance, my husband went head to head with Andy our CD in an ice cream eating contest (soft serve, no hands) and lost by a whisker. Enjoyed the more laid back vibe on the longer cruise.
Embarkation
5 out of 5
We used a shuttle service from Orlando to the port. They pulled right up to the terminal, we grabbed our luggage, and were whisked through Port Canaveral. We had passports and were on the ship from the bus in 15 minutes.
Ship experiences
Food and Dining
4 out of 5
We ate most nights in the main dining room and were usually pleased. Entrees were usually good and we enjoyed the broad variety of appetizers offered--we would always get two a piece. Was only disappointed with the quality of dessert once. Service sometimes was slow but we could tell that was due to kitchen issues, and wasn't our server's fault. Service was excellent.
Brunch was always good as was breakfast in the main dining room. The lunch buffets were hit or miss (never had dinner there, so can't comment on that), but there's always Guys Burger which are consistently excellent. The Blue Iguana Cantina was excellent as well. We also had a lunch from the Seafood Shake and the Shushi that costs extra and agreed the extra was worth it.
We ate two nights in the steak house. Great steaks and appetizers. The first night our server wasn't the friendliest and the second night we had another who was so personable that we hope to go back next time we are on the Freedom and ask for her again.
Onboard Activities
4 out of 5
We enjoyed the adults-only pool many days as well as the forward hot tub. The fitness center was nice, though got a little warm in there at times. We enjoyed the captain's reception (free drinks)
Entertainment
4 out of 5
Good musicians, a couple great comedians, a couple okay ones and one bad one. The stage musical productions were excellent. Enjoyed Dirty Dancing on the Lido deck--the Dive In movie.
Service and Staff
4 out of 5
I think our room steward was a bit of an introvert, but kept things clean. We saw the room steward from down the hall more often and enjoyed talking with him. Dining room servers were excellent (we had early seating so same servers every night).
Ship Quality
4 out of 5
We like the layout of the Conquest Class of Carnival ships and sail them frequently. Freedom was on her way for dry dock to get some renovation done, so not really fair to say much about her condition. We will be back on her in February and looking forward to seeing the changes.
Cabin / Stateroom
4 out of 5
This was a generously sized ocean view with a full sized couch. Typical bathroom. Everything worked, plenty of storage. We like the location close (but not too close) to the elevators and stairs; we would just run up one flight and would be right there at the MDR for dinner.
Ship tip
Don't be afraid of a longer cruise...we enjoyed our sea days just as much as our port ones. Of course we had calm seas and really warm weather for a fall cruise.
Just a short walk off the pier into town. We did a segway tour which we enjoyed very much and we are in our late sixties! Nice place to just walk around and felt very safe.
This is a significant stroll into town and the line was long for the bus so we just hung out near the pier and did a little shopping in the port shops.
Thank you for the detailed and honest review. I would like to sail a transatlantic voyage someday and this review helps. Cheers to many more amazing cruises! 🥂🛳️🏝️
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