It is what it is. My advice to anyone going on Mardi Gras or any ship during COVID-19? Bring your patience. The way it was done on this particular instance left something to be desired. But I'm sure it's not the way it has been done from the start.
Ship experiences
Food and Dining
4 out of 5
Here is where Carnival can learn going forward. Bigger is better, if bigger is done right. Strategic location of venues is critical. Street Eats is in a terrible location that does not emphasize what it is. It is highly unused and lacks function. The better play would have been to add Blue Iguana Cantina Bar to offset Red Frog Tiki. Especially when RFT is extremely busy. The Watering Hole seems to be an afterthought and is rarely used. Pig and Anchor should remain a free dining venue. Nobody going forward is going to pay for substandard barbecue. Keep it free and make up the difference in drinks. This should apply across the fleet. It, along with Piazza Panini, Guy's Burgers and Blue Iguana should be part of late night dining. Only having a pizza option leaves much to be desired. Grand Central atrium and the French Quarter are absolute wins. Emeril's Bistro will not last once the novelty wears off. Much like Carlos' Bakery on NCL. It's just not worth the money. The increase of more smaller, intimate dining in main dining rooms is a plus and should be maintained. Some bars did not have soda. That is inexcusable. Pay soda dispenser is a extremely terrible idea. It hardly worked and the soda was flat.
Onboard Activities
3 out of 5
Bolt, though novel, is both a help and a hindrance. High winds or inclement weather hamper it's ability to operate. Plus, the ability to ride at will is extremely limited, as reservations supercede walk-ups. This needs to be rectified at some point. The rest of the outdoor venues are fine. Limelight Lounge and Punchliner are too small. Too much trivia and not enough other non physical activities. Carnival Kitchen is absolutely great and is a fantastic concept. Summer Landing is a great venue rain or shine. This should be continued.
Entertainment
4 out of 5
The ability to have shows in the Atrium is a definite plus and should be continued. Broadway Beats needs a bit of a revision. Center Stage cast could use some stronger singers. New Age string trio are absolutely fabulous! They are a must see and hear
Children's Programs
3 out of 5
Only teen club was open as far as I know. Not many kids on this particular cruise. But my teen son did enjoy the two days he went to there.
Service and Staff
4 out of 5
Definitely lacking in spots. Particularly the Palm dining room and the Grand View bar. Housekeeping was also a bit slack. But overall not bad.
Ship Quality
4 out of 5
Layout was fine. Location of some venues are very questionable. Ship was cleaned very well. All venues very well maintained.
Cabin / Stateroom
4 out of 5
Had an interior cabin. Bathroom was small but the shower was well designed. Closet space was good. However, they had placed the spare bedding in one of them. That took up a bit of space.
Ship tip
It definitely is not the all night party atmosphere. From the outside it is a great looking ship. The inside is a much more contemporary look. Reminded me of NCL. I can definitely see the type of cruiser they are aiming for. Getting away from the "party" atmosphere.
Love the review. While I haven’t been on this ship I have always thought layout wise many ships could have a much better layout with eateries. Most things are jammed together and it makes zero sense. I agree with Pig & Anchor and also noticing you can’t get soda in some areas. So weird!
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