Always enjoy cruising! We continue to explore different ships and destinations. Love the Caribbean.
Embarkation
4 out of 5
We cut it too close this time. We flew into Ft. Lauderdale and had purchased the Carnival transfers to the Port of Miami. Good thing we did because we were some of the last passengers to board before sailing. Porter service had ended so we had to carry on our own baggage which only presented an issue when we couldn’t get an elevator.
Overall, embarkation was fast and we didn’t have to wait for our luggage to be delivered to our cabin.
Ship experiences
Food and Dining
4 out of 5
We started out with Anytime Dining and then transferred to Late Dining, so our wait staff would remain constant. Service was attentive but we perceived staff was challenged - under staffed. Assortment, quality, and quantity of food in MDR was good. We’ve always enjoyed Port of Call recommendations.
Fahrenheit 555 Steakhouse
5 out of 5
We enjoyed the Steakhouse eating there twice this cruise. Atmosphere, service, selection, quality, and quantity were excellent! The restaurant opened up to the piano bar and our dinner entertainment was top notch.Try the smoked oysters. Presentation only increased ones appreciation for the actual dish. Truly amazing!
Cucina del Capitano
5 out of 5
Had a free lunch special which was delicious.
Lido Marketplace
4 out of 5
Grabbed some meals and ice cream here when enjoying the days at sea.
BlueIguana Cantina
5 out of 5
Love the breakfast burritos made to order.
Guy's Pig & Anchor BBQ Smokehouse Brewhouse
5 out of 5
Always good assortment of BBQ.
Guy's Burger Joint
5 out of 5
Have always enjoyed the burgers and fries.
Onboard Activities
4 out of 5
Pool, hot tubs, and Serenity Deck - all good for relaxation during days at sea.
Used the Sky Coaster once - make sure you have closed toed shoes and empty your pockets.
Casino - always enjoy playing. This trip had a drinks on us package and really enjoyed.
Entertainment
4 out of 5
Enjoyed the comedy shows - always one of our favorites
Saw 1 stage show but rough seas curtailed dancing. Music was still good.
Enjoyed violins in the atrium.
Service and Staff
4 out of 5
Again, staff did a great job but we perceived they were short staffed.
Sandi, our room steward, was exceptional. He took time at the beginning of our cruise to align with our expectations. We were never disappointed! He never failed to greet us by name and always confirmed everything was good for us.
Other cruisers in our group were less happy but Carnival accommodated.
Ship Quality
4 out of 5
Layout and design are good and we’re becoming more familiar the more we cruise.
We like the Alchemy Bar and it was more forefront than on other ships making it less desirable.
Ship’s common areas were clean and well-maintained.
We enjoyed our deluxe ocean view room in the middle of the ship on deck 1.
Cabin / Stateroom
5 out of 5
We had a deluxe ocean view room on deck 1 in the middle of the ship. The deluxe room has an extra bathroom with sink and tub. Room seemed larger than a normal ocean view room.
Room’s location made it perfect for Port of Calls access.
Sandi, our steward, kept our room spotless and comfortable.
Ship tip
The Horizon has smart elevators. Read the instructions before using to make your life easier on your cruise; otherwise, you may be frustrated with their performance.
We rented a van for about $100 and drove from one end of the island to the other. I was completely surprised by the desert-like landscapes.
Visited 1 secluded beach, stone formation with great view, light house, and another beautiful larger beach close to resorts.
Wonderful to explore the entire island.
We purchased an excursion to Altos de Chavon and river boat cruise. Bus ride to replica of 16th century Mediterranean village overlooking lush river. Huge stone amphitheater. Nice art shops. Old chapel.
Our guide and his helpers were great. He was passionate about his homeland.
Local rum with coke was free flowing on the river cruise! Fun but crowded on large pontoon boat. Still had a good time.
We purchased the sunset harbor tour. It wasn’t clear from the description that it was actually a boat cruise through the harbor and along the coast. Great excursion!
Learned about the local harbor and history. Saw some beautiful resorts along the coast. Had a great sunset and view of the Horizon at night.
Locals drinks and appetizers provided and were included in a very reasonable package.
Enjoyed Margaritaville! Their pool, bar, music and overall atmosphere was fun. A young cruiser entertained us with his dancing.
Beach was beautiful. Time there was too short to see or do much at all.
Hit a few shops on the way back to the ship.
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