Best cruise, and vacation ever! We had a wonderful time and couldn't have been happier with both the Carnival Vista and her crew members; they really went out of their way to remember our names, our preferences, and make it the most memorable experience with Carnival yet. I'm so glad we have 2 more already booked...and looking at a 3rd!
Embarkation
3 out of 5
This was honestly the worst part of the trip due to the previous sailing being delayed arriving into port. Things happen so we weren't going to let it deter from our vacation, but more communication and organization would have been appreciated. It was chaos with people crowding everywhere with nobody knowing what to do. Once we were actually checked in and let into the terminal itself things were very organized, smooth, and quick to get us all onboard.
Ship experiences
Food and Dining
5 out of 5
WOW! We loved nearly everything. We met some amazing bartenders and had really good drinks. The food was all spot-on, especially Blue Iguana Cantina and Fahrenheit 555 steakhouse. Guy's burgers & BBQ were both enjoyed. The dining room was good for both dinner and brunch.
Onboard Activities
5 out of 5
Tons to do on this ship! Everything from lounging in peace, to the IMAX movie theater and Thrill Theater. The casino was smaller and smokier than expected, but we still had fun and played a few times. We never had a chance to try the SkyRide or waterslides, but they both looked fun.
Entertainment
5 out of 5
IMAX movie theater, Thrill Theater, and the 18+ comedy show were all great! The comedian was absolutely hilarious.
Children's Programs
We don't have children.
Service and Staff
5 out of 5
Impeccable...no better way to put it than that. The bartenders and our steward were among the best we've ever experienced.
Ship Quality
5 out of 5
Carnival has done a really nice job on these new Vista-Class ships in the overall design and layout. Easy to get around and plenty of space to just relax and get away from the crowds.
Cabin / Stateroom
5 out of 5
We loved our Havana Cabana, and the private Havana area! The room had good storage and was plenty usable. Very minimal foot traffic outside the room (hallway and patio both). Privacy was fine. The room had plenty of lights. Outlets and USB ports both available on the desk. Mini-fridge worked well.
This port really shocked us on how much we liked it! Beautiful scenery and very friendly people. We did the Bamboo River Rafting excursion through Carnival and it was fantastic.
Glad we came and saw it, but doubt we'll make an effort to go back. We walked around port, went to the beach, then headed back to the ship after a few hours. Tender ports always seem like a let down.
One of the nicest and most fun ports around! Plenty of good shopping, restaurants/bars, etc. We went to Nachicocom all-inclusive beach which was nice, but not overly amazing (seaweed & slow service, but the restaurant was really good and bartenders friendly). We also did massages on the beach which was great b/c they have a small air conditioned hut which was quite comfortable.
We were off the ship before 8am...you just can't beat that! So much better experience in the terminal getting off than we experienced getting on. Galveston's cruise terminal is improving each year we visit.
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