Overall I had a good trip except for the food. I've taken over 10 cruises with Carnival and always enjoyed myself, solo, family or friends. The Dream Studio was used this sailing and a previous one to highlight special occasions, well worth every penny!
Embarkation
5 out of 5
Since we arrived late from FLL we literally walked onboard with quick flashes of our documents that were pre printed.
Ship experiences
Food and Dining
2 out of 5
This pains me to write this, the food options were not up to par this sailing. For 2 days there were no vegan/vegetarian options on any of the buffets. Sushi place was good but that costs extra. Dinner always had salmon on the menu, 1 night of sea bass and 1 night of lobster tail. That was it. Made a special request of spaghetti with garlic butter for lunch, out comes very bland rigatoni pasta with not a drop of garlic. The Coffee Bar didn't have almond milk all week.
Drinks on the other hand were 5 star rating, especially the Alchemy Bar.
Though the food wasn't great, the service and staff deserve 5 stars, they don't cook the food so I don't blame them at all. I do appreciate them asking about my dining experience while onboard and said they would let their supervisors know.
Empire Restaurant
3 out of 5
Great staff, food not so much this time
Onboard Activities
5 out of 5
There are always things to do on Carnival ships, especially with Camp Ocean! My daughter (3yo) loves it so much she cries when it's time to leave.
Service and Staff
5 out of 5
Empire Staff, especially Henry and Faith! Henry helped when I had the stroller, even pushed the stroller to and from the table since my hands were full...with a drink! I saw Faith a lot within the dining room and buffet area, she would ask people about their experiences. Leticia, whom we met for brunch was extremely kind and helpful. There are so many people on this sailing who deserve kudos. Kenette at the Coffee Bar, if you need a shot of espresso along with a beautiful smile and great vocals then start your day with her! It always amazes me how the staff quickly learns your name and requests by day 2.
Ship Quality
4 out of 5
I've been on this ship over 10 years ago, I see that Sprit needs a little upgrading. Be careful on late nights winding down the stateroom hallways due to some sharp turns. Some of us joked that they should have mirrors like parking garages in the corners so you don't walk into people, a stroller, a wheelchair or room steward cart. Common areas were always clean. There's always an issue with the ice cream/yogurt machines, I'm not sure how to improve that. Between kids, inconsiderate adults, their dirty hands and wasted cups sitting next to the machine(if ice cream wasn't ready some would leave their trial cup right there) it's always a mess.
Cabin / Stateroom
4 out of 5
Balcony with obstructed view. Seeing the top of a life boat is ok with me! Also seeing them test the boats during some port calls is comforting. Good size bathroom with 6 shelves for toiletries. My other 2 issues were in the bathroom and the extra blanket under the sofa. Can tell no one used the glasses in the bathroom due to the layer of dust and the comforter was obviously used before my arrival and not cleaned. Vernan took care of it immediately.
Room location was ideal for me getting to Camp and Coffee Bar. The elevators are close enough yet not too close where you can hear people or the dings of the floor announcement.
When you come to the Caribbean, especially a Spanish speaking country, I'd expect to hear Spanish music. Didn't spend much time at the pool area next to the ship because of the music. I've been to the D.R. many times, I was ok with leaving the port yet didn't do so this time because the kid wanted to go back to camp on the ship
The buffet consisted of hamburgers, hot dogs, jerk chicken, sides and fruit. In other words, nothing for the vegetarians except the rice and beans. Enjoyed the actual beach area which was clean
If you can, take your luggage off with you! With 1 large suitcase, a stroller and 2 small bags it was easy getting off the ship. I've also done the assisted disembarkation in the past which is also good. Just be prepared to search for your luggage in the holding area once you're off the ship. With tons of black suitcases make yours standout to find them quickly.
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