First timers (Me, husband, and 17 year-old daughter)

Carnival Inspiration Cruise Review to Mexico

Cruises: 1 cruise (first)
Review: 1
Helpful Votes: 36

Overall rating:

4 out of 5
Verified Review
Carnival Inspiration

Sail date: September 11, 2015

Ship: Carnival Inspiration

Cabin type: Oceanview

Cabin number: M138

Traveled as: Family (older children)

Reviewed: 9 years ago

Review summary

First timers here and when we first booked it, we didn't what to expect. Our ship was set to depart at 5:30 PM, so we got there an hour and half prior. Parking was completely full except for the last top level with several open spots. As we boarded the ship, we saw that there was a lot of people already enjoying the pool. We realized that you could actually board the ship earlier (like at 11:30 AM). Something to remember for next time.

We stayed on the Main floor wondering if we should have booked a better room. For us, it didn't matter what floor we stayed on because we were always out and about the ship. Although, the ocean view is a must because I can't stand a room without a window to look out. There was a lot of food and the dining experience was good. The pool was pretty small but I enjoyed lounging in the sun. The DJ was right next to the pool and playing some great tunes (it can get loud though which is fine). During our trip there was a lot of young crowds and bachelorette groups. Those with little ones just need to be aware that adults will curse. There is a wet slide play area for the little ones to enjoy. I've also seen arcades, golfing, shows, and babysitting areas for kids to enjoy.

Things to remember: (a) Everything gets charged to your room key card which is connected to your credit card or prepaid cash, (b) have dollar bills ready if you want better service for drinks and room service, (c) always check the currency rate for pesos. When in Mexico, I found that it was better to use pesos instead of dollars because they tend to charge you higher in dollars, (d) always bargain for a cheaper deal when in Mexico, (e) try to go to every event provided. You have 3 days to do so. Eventually, you'll end up returning to a spot that you enjoyed the best. Ours was the Piano Bar (Rhapsody) with Elizabeth...she was fun!

Exiting the ship was confusing.  I was waiting for our floor to be called on and it never happened. So we just left and it took 50 minutes to exit the ship. I think next time I will select the option to do the Relax Disembarkation. 

Ship experiences

Food and Dining

3 out of 5

Onboard Activities

5 out of 5

Entertainment

5 out of 5

Children's Programs

5 out of 5

Service and Staff

5 out of 5

Ship Quality

5 out of 5

Cabin / Stateroom

5 out of 5
I had no problems. Although, I wish I was closer to the main elevator (I think around M60 rooms).

Ports of call

Long Beach (Los Angeles), California

3 out of 5
Parking was hard to find on a Friday. Get there early.

Ensenada, Mexico

5 out of 5
Pesos were better to use than dollars since they tend to overprice you.
Was this review helpful? 36

8 Comments

cinfelts    9 years ago

we leave on 10/26, we live 2 hours way and we are leaving at 9am, let the vacation begin

CharmsSteffani    9 years ago

Next time, have breakfast before disembarking. You enjoy your meal while the chaos clears out! :)

nyx7979    9 years ago

The time they start to board depends on when they get everyone off the ship from the previous cruise.

nyx7979    9 years ago

From what I have read on forums the FTTF people get on between 11 am and 12 noon, and then others can start boarding.

mrhackman    9 years ago

how early?

JusMe    9 years ago

Glad you enjoyed your first cruise.   I like this ship for quick get away.   I always try to be at the port at about 11:00 so I can check in,  have lunch and relax.   It is the first day of your vacation may as well enjoy it on the ship.  For departure I take my luggage with me up to the Lido and have a relaxed breakfast while everyone tries to rush off the ship.  At about 10:00 it is shorter lines to get through customs and the parking lot has less traffic.  

TitusWoman    9 years ago

we are always there early and are one of the first on the ship

nyx7979    9 years ago

I wouldn't recommend waiting that late to embark in the future. Everyone who is sailing needs to be checked in usually 90 to 60 minutes before sail time as the cruise line's have to submit a list of all passengers to the Coast Guard at least 60 minutes before sailing. You may be refused going on board if you miss the deadline. I'm glad you made it and had a good time.