We had Fun and it was a memorable experience for our family. I am not complaining but I hear there is better out there for families. I am told Carnival is the cruise line for the masses. Singles, couples, etc.
Embarkation
4 out of 5
Everything was very organized, some missing guidance for baggage drop. Watch out for the baggage handlers asking for tipping money!.
The embarkation on the other ports is very organized and expeditious.
Ship experiences
Food and Dining
4 out of 5
All the restaurant were immaculate, everything is like like a luxury type restaurant. The Food was great in all aspects. So, if you consider eating a sport, this would be the Olympics!
We were a party of 5 and had assigned sitting on a table for 4. They did not even contemplate the idea of changing us; even though I paid for the most expensive cabin in the ship.
Onboard Activities
3 out of 5
All the activities on the ship were Okay. It was what expected, some areas crowded. Some areas are blocked off for adults only (that's fine) but on the other hand, the adults are not blocked off the children areas (I mean adults drinking inside the pool were children were). The area were children are; are used by irresponsible parents to leave their unruly children bother everyone else without supervision (This is not Carnival's fault).
Entertainment
4 out of 5
Average. If you are a single couple it would probably be more fun.
Children's Programs
5 out of 5
The staff on the Children are (Club Ocean) were excellent. Kudos to "Mermaid" Thanks.
Service and Staff
3 out of 5
I have to give props to all the staff that works on the ship. They are all foreign and work long hours everyday and are away from their homes a long time. They do their best and at times a lot of them miss on the details. (The devil is in the details) So my review goes to their supervisors which do not take the time to check on those details. Remember, this is a massive, repetitive operation, they should have the details fine tuned. How about Silverware on the room service; or the room service menu in the cabin (The most expensive cabin in the ship) or leaving the breakfast room service ticket hanging in the door even though it was left at 11:30 pm the night before. Just some examples.
Ship Quality
5 out of 5
The overall look and feel of the ship is "Fancy" in every aspect and is always very well maintained.
Cabin / Stateroom
5 out of 5
The cabin was excellent, there were only two "Captain's Suite" in the ship. Is like a small apartment. The cabin had two fold out beds on the wall, plus a pullover sectional couch and a king bed in the bedroom. If you are family, you could fit about 7 people in there.
Ship tip
Don't pay for an expensive cabin, unless you have like 6 or 7 people it may be more advantageous. You will only use it to sleep. Use your money to spend on board and buy things you may want.
From the "Premium" point of view I give it 3 stars. They should consult with Delta premium clubs to update the premium lounge. Is only chairs separated from the crowd. That's it! The rest of the process was good, no delays.
Average! If you do an excursion, be ready to be "herded" . There is truly not enough time to do much. maybe snorkeling or something like that but anything you do, by the time you get off the ship, get bused to wherever you will only have 2 hours of anything at most, before you have to get back. Just go shopping for trinkets at the port.
Nassau was better port. If you do an excursion, be ready to be "herded" Lots of walking!. But don't try to do more than one thing. The dolphin experience was the most memorable my children had during the whole cruise. Then we had a little bit of time to do beach, but not much.
You were told correctly...Carnival caters to singles, couples, families with affordable rates and a "fun" atmosphere. Some people enjoy that while others loathe it. Higher end cruise lines take some of the fun out and replace it with a more subdued atmosphere. Depends on what you like and what you are willing to spend.
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