4 Night Catalina & Baja Mexico (Los Angeles Roundtrip)
Sail date: April 01, 2019
Ship:
Carnival Inspiration
Cabin type: Inside
Cabin number: U77
Traveled as: Family (older children)
Reviewed: 5 years ago
Review summary
Wish this cruise was a full day longer with more time in destination ports. Very good overall cruise that can be taken in conjunction with theme park visits (Disney, CA Adventure, 6 Flags, Universal, Knott's, etc.).
Embarkation
5 out of 5
Fast, streamlined and easy process. We drove our RV down from Washington state. It was difficult to get confirmed parking information since no one ever answered our calls. Ultimately, we were able to park in the Queen Mary parking lot. Better website information, closer oversized vehicle passenger dropoff locations, power hookups for RVers would have made the experience much better in our situation, but once parked, unloaded, and at the Carnival check-in point, the process was very easy.
Ship experiences
Food and Dining
4 out of 5
Food options and menu selections were very good. The 24/7 pizza place had 6 or so options and always seemed to have lines and a minimum10 minute wait. The same was true for the ice cream station. The salad bar, sandwich, and burger stations were very good. More time for breakfast at debarkation would be appreciated. Alcohol prices were higher than expected and could be lower. Pop should be included instead of using a "nickel and dime" approach. Juices and teas seemed very watered-down.
Onboard Activities
4 out of 5
Putt-putt golf, ping-pong, and shufgle-board were fun, and we used the walking track. The kids used the pool and tube slide.
Entertainment
4 out of 5
Comedians, musicians and bands were good. Stage shows were funny and entertaining.
Children's Programs
3 out of 5
My 13-year old daughter enjoyed her club and instantly made friends that she hung-out with during the cruise. My 16-year old son went to his club, but no one showed-up, so something better needs to be available for the high school age kids.
Service and Staff
5 out of 5
Ni, our room steward, was outstanding! She always called us by name, greeted us, asked if we needed anything, and provided exceptional service. Very impressive!
Ship Quality
4 out of 5
Good overall. Some of the steel structures had some rust. Some of the varnished britework was peeling and in need of refinishing. But, overall, the layout was good, and staff were busy cleaning and taking care of their assigned duties.
Cabin / Stateroom
5 out of 5
Clean and comfortable. The bed was a little too firm, but the stateroom and bathroom were decent-sized. Bathroom outlet needed to be changed as electrical cords kept falling out.
Ship tip
The onboard points seem to be quickly consumed by all of the fees and charges. Also, better excursion deals can be had locally than by saving and applying points.
We went on the Catalina city tour. It was interesting and informative and had some great views. There was also some time for shopping, but Carnival should really lengthen the time in port so cruisers can spend more time ashore exploring. Just not enough time.
Good trip out to La Bufadora, but not enough time. Rigo was a funny and informative tour guide. There are some really good tour values through Las Dunas Tours, but bring U$D cash because they do not take credit cards. At La Bufadora, the street vendors are relentless, and they charge to use the bathrooms. Fish tacos, margaritas and sweet breads are a must.
More time for breakfast would be appreciated (even if you're up, packed and ready to go). Very glad for the much improved customs clearing process without having to fill out purchase declarations forms.
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