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Carnival Splendor Cruise Review to Mexico

Cruises: 2-3 cruises
Reviews: 0
Helpful Votes: 30

Overall rating:

4 out of 5
Verified Review
Carnival Splendor

7 Night Mexican Riviera (Los Angeles Roundtrip)

Sail date: May 15, 2011

Ship: Carnival Splendor

Cabin type: Oceanview

Traveled as: Family (young children)

Reviewed: 13 years ago

Review summary

The Carnival Splendor was a fairly new ship and was well-maintained. The decor in the main lobby was a bit gaudy, but you get over it quickly. We had an oceanview cabin on level 1 near mid-ship, so we had a great view of the ocean at all times. The rooms were large enough for 2 adults and a child. There was an extra seating area in the room which converted to another bed. The bathroom was decent in size and everything worked fine. The ship offered a wide range of amenities, although not all seemed to be widely utilized. Since Carnival caters to family travelers, there were fun things for all members of the family to do. There was a spa at the top level, with an adjoining, generously equipped gym. There was Camp Carnival where you could leave your kids (segregated by age groups to cater to each group), and of course, there were at least 3 pool areas, and a number of jacuzzis around. The ship also offered an area for mini-golf, a water slide, a water park, and a basketball court. Too bad the Pacific winds tend to be quite cold (we traveled in May), as we could only get limited use of these outdoor activities because of it. Overall, the trip was highly enjoyable. The crowd at the Splendor was a mixed bag, with people from all ages, so if you expect a quiet cruise, this is not it. However, if you want variety, and activities, this ship is for you.

Ship experiences

Food and Dining

3 out of 5
The Splendido buffet area offered an abundance of food (what else do you do on a cruise but eat!)! However, after 7 days of cruising, it can get pretty tiring (can't they mix it up with some ethnic foods too?). I highly recommend going to the Pinnacles Steakhouse. I had an excellent rib eye there. For $30, you get a 4-course meal of starters, salad, steak, & desserts. That's quite a deal considering the cost if you go to a Morton's or a Ruth's Chris, and the steaks were on par with these places.

Entertainment

3 out of 5
The shows were highly entertaining and the sets got pretty elaborate. They're Vegas-style song and dance shows, although they also had stand-up comics and karaoke.

Children's Programs

3 out of 5

Service and Staff

5 out of 5

Ship Quality

5 out of 5

Cabin / Stateroom

5 out of 5

Ports of call

Puerto Vallarta, Mexico

3 out of 5
Larger city than Cabo San Lucas. The city tour was interesting and includes a trip to a Tequila factory (what is a trip to Mexico without tequila?). We took our little son on the Pirate Ship Adventure. I thought it would be cheesy, but it was actually quite fun. The ship takes you to a private beach where you can snorkel, kayak, boogie board, etc. All is inclusive of the price. Our whole family had a blast.
Don't Miss: Pirate Ship Adventure - if you have kids

Cabo San Lucas, Mexico

3 out of 5
Cabo was quite hot (in the mid 90's), so walking around can get draining. Don't go to the restaurants lining the marina as they're tourist traps and they charge you tourist prices. Go 1 block off the main strip and you'll find more authentic, cheaper food.
Don't Miss: El Arco - take a water taxi or tour and visit the famous Arch

Pros: Lots of activities

Cons: Expensive drinks!

Recommends Carnival Splendor? Yes!

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