Top Notch Cruiseline

As a person that believes that cruising is the best way to travel, I struck gold with this particular sailing. Each port was amazing. The most memorable was the San Juan port. I enjoyed the rich history with every step on the cobble roads, the beautiful art decor on the various buildings. my family of 4 took a short taxi ride ($3 ea- $12 total) to the Fort and walked back to the the cruise ship (approx 20-30 min slow walk). Be mindful they have a free trolley to take you around the areas but it is hard to find a seat for 4. There is a souvenir shop in town that sells affordable items ($2.99 shot glasses, 4 for $10 magnets). The other ports were great as well. The DR port showed to be pricey for excursions inside the gate (Taxi charge $70 rt to go to the local beach, outside the gate it charged $40 rt for the same green shirt taxi service, yes they wait for you). One thing i found out later is the Carnival cruise ship does a price match guarantee for the same excursions. Check with guest services on the ship for more details. St. Thomas was fascinating as well, the port has a lot of shops to venture into right  outside of the ship gate with a small trolley to take you to the shops (less a 5 min walk). We walked to the local stores to purchase souvenirs. Make sure you have your photo ID and ship card for the US ports. The non US ports you just need your sail and sign card. The Grand Turk port has an amazing scenic view. The beach is steps away from the ship. In fact you are swimming in the same area as the ship. The Amber Cove sign side of the beach has very rocky waters (rocks and stones in the Water). Although they offer free beach chairs and beach tents. The water waves were great but the rocks were treacherous. The Welcome To side of the pier has the beach chairs with umbrellas ($25 per set). Although this side is less rocky and more people are in this area, they have small fish swimming with you in the waters. Margaritaville was a great location at the port with a swimming pool. As well as a local shops at the pier, only one shop was duty free, All others had a tax attached. There were no locals at the port that had discount excursions. In fact, the Carnival cruise representatives were the only excursion reps at the port. The Cruise Director, Dr. E was amazing, I promise you will be singing the good morning song by day 3. The shows on board were spectacular, great choreography. This ship really caters to fun, from Dinner (Big G is a great waiter) to the ocean camps. My 7 and 12 year old was always in camp. My 7 year old cried because she had to leave camp to eat dinner.  The NBA play offs were at the Casino tv's and the red frog pub. Explore the entire ship. They have multiple food places on the ship (Salad bar, BBQ stand) included in your rate. Amazing food options. I have already booked another cruise.