My son is going off to college next month so a cruise seemed appropriate. We were both first time cruisers and were unsure. We had heard stories both ways good/bad. We found out we both love to cruise! I am already planning to book another next summer break.
Embarkation
3 out of 5
Going through the check points and getting on the ship was fast and simple. Luggage handlers were quick to grab your bags. However getting dropped off was unpleasant because it was very crowded and they bottlenecked the cars. Expect long delays.
Ship experiences
Food and Dining
5 out of 5
We went to the main dining dinner on the first night and I wasn't impressed. Luckily there were plenty of options for all. Make sure to get the BBQ on sea days. My son loved the burger place and ate there often. Buffets are normally not my thing and I didn't expect to like it but this one I found quite tasty. It is worth it to pay a little extra and try the specialty or sea food restaurants. Order some drinks with the food they have a variety!
Onboard Activities
5 out of 5
We didn't do the pools since our excursions were snorkeling and Kayaking. The young kids seemed to be enjoying themselves there though. We did do the waterslides and both were a blast. The fitness center was top notch and a great way to wake up after long nights. We never got to the bike or rope course because there was so much keeping us busy. We hardly slept.
Entertainment
5 out of 5
The first stage show was very enjoyable especially after a few cocktails. The other one I saw I did not care for and left early. That turned out to be a good thing because we saw a little band playing at the ocean plaza bar and they were my favorite music to watch for the rest of the cruise. The two comedians were top notch. We sat in the front row and got heckled. A memory for my son and I forever.
Service and Staff
5 out of 5
The room steward kept the room well kept and was always polite. The first day the bartenders weren't polite but that changed and I never felt that way again. The staff are instructed to be very quiet but they are all about service and will clean your table or pick up your plate the second you are done. I wondered how happy they were but figured they had good times when their shift was over. The entertainment staff is a very happy bunch though. Andy the cruise director did a good job and connected with all personalities.
Ship Quality
5 out of 5
I really like the ship and its layout. I avoided the casino but heard they are putting in a smokeless one. The ship is always clean and things are well kept up.
Cabin / Stateroom
5 out of 5
The cabin was comfy although we were not in it much because there is much to do. The balcony was great to sit and enjoy a coffee or just relax.
Cabo is a great fun town but almost doesn't feel authentic. The people and the restaurants do though. We ate at Captain Tony's and it was delicious and they sang which was fun. We did the Aqua Trio and I would not recommend it. The captain of the boat was great and we had a fun ride. Sal was the guide though and was unprepared and hardly paid attention. That was all they had. We did Kayaking in Ensenada and they were all about safety as in this expedition you probably are not getting rescued. Their equipment was cheap and the mask never fit right.
We did the Kayaking at the Bufadora and it takes you on a tour on the way. Our guide was fun to listen to and we got to see the city and farmlands on the way. Once there they were well organized and friendly. The kayak was nice and easy to do even in the ocean. After the excursion we went downtown and haggled for souvenirs which was fun. Got some cool crafted art for good deals which already look great at home. The people there are so nice and I enjoyed talking to them and drinking their tequila. I wanted to stay longer.
Disembarkation was hectic at first as everybody was everywhere with their luggage. But after we were herded down the stairs and elevators the process was smooth.
Awesome review! 😊 I love the Panorama! If you go again, you’ve got to try the Sky Bike ride - it’s a blast, and with great views from up high! My friend & I wanted to do the Kayak to La Bufadora, but it got canceled due to bad weather. Nice to hear that you enjoyed it - I’ll definitely try booking it next time. Thanks!
Enjoyed ur review and im so very happy ur first cruise experience was one to remember. Carnival gets such a bad rap for a few bad 🍎 but im glad u took a chance. Ive experienced a few cruiselines and i absolutely love Carnival the most bc of the people, the crew and they just know how to let their hair down, relax, and most importantly HAVE just the right amount of FUN. Welcome to cruising 🤗🤗🤗🤗🤗🤗
Welcome to the wonderful world of cruising. Appreciate your feedback. Glad you and your son enjoyed your first cruise. Hope there are many more in your future.
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