It was not a perfect cruise. A little too cold in the ports for this Arizonian to swim and sun at the beach - but many did! The pools and spas onboard were heated and there are wind breaks. But it was a smooth cruise and many times you could hardly tell that we were moving. The staff onboard was excellent and was always trying their best with little exception.
I realize I prefer summer or fall for cruising, but this was my birthday cruise and it was mostly right on with my expectations.
Pamela Ray
Embarkation
4 out of 5
Paid for shuttle through Carnival to take us from MCO to port, they left before 1:30 and our delayed arrival time. Lost the money we paid and had to pay for taxi to ship. Porters were gone, no help for our luggage, and wheelchair assistance. Once inside the building though, everyone was helpful and courteous, and the process was smooth
Ship experiences
Food and Dining
4 out of 5
The variety and presentation was great. The taste was bland and lifeless, dressings were weak, no spices. Surprised me with the chef that they have onboard. Three very outstanding dishes were the 2 rib dishes and the lamb. I could have had those every day in the main dining room. The steakhouse was superb (extra cost) and the Panini and Pizza place were also very good.
Priyesh and Kitut were our waiters in the main dining room (early seating) and they were friendly, courteous, and did their very best to make our dining experience the best and most that it could be. Very watchful towards our needs. Knew our names and preferences by the 3rd day. The entertainment at dinner was cute, and reminded me of my first cruises with Costa many years ago. ( I do miss the fancy food displays, midnight buffets, and ice carvings though). Decor was nice and soothing, and we never felt rushed, even when we came in late and were the last ones out before the next seating.
Onboard Activities
4 out of 5
No real ADA accommodations for the coaster or waterslide stairs. Not able to experience that. It looked like a lot of fun. Serenity was very nice, but staff was very lax in allowing younger children into the adult spas and pool. Enjoyed the spa time, but never did find the thermals suites and was not offered the use of the amenities after my treatments. Lots of areas to get "away" from music and noise and be able to quietly read in a lounge chair. Wait staff was always available easily for drinks of all kinds.
Entertainment
5 out of 5
I truly enjoyed the violinest trio and followed them aroound the ship every night to hear them play. They need to be a regular! They were always full.
Stage shows were entertaining, some needed more practice. Comedy acts were good and the PG or R rating was helpful. Did not really watch the outside activities, but it seemed to be very popular judging by the noise!
Children's Programs
No children with me
Service and Staff
5 out of 5
This was one of the best ships crews that I have encountered. They were pleasant, always courteous (except for porter during embarkation and debarking) and went out of their way to help with our wheelchair needs. I can't speak enough good about our waiters (see above) and our room steward was on top of things also. Tried daily to keep us in ice! Not always successful, but he tried! Guest Services was also very accomodating and helpful, especially in getting the electronics set up so we could see a menu, or get directions to where we were going.
That was the one bad thing about the trip NO WRITTEN MATERIAL. Everything needed to be done through the app, and my 82 y.o mother cannot read that small a print on her phone - neither can I!. Written detailed map of the ship and the menus would have been very nice. And then room service would not have had to repeat their menu to us daily.
The wheelchair pushers were also very pleasant and never seemed to mind having to take us from one end of the ship to the other. There were many, and they all deserve a big thank you for their efforts to not make us feel like a burden or chore.
Ship Quality
5 out of 5
Cabin / Stateroom
5 out of 5
A little too narrow, but the balcony made up for a lot! I was able to stay outside in evening and even slept out there a couple of nights for a while. VERY RELAXING. Sound proofing was good.
Ship tip
Know that cash is still used on board for tipping, and that all receipts do include an initial 18% gratuity. I missed that part the first 3 days. They add the overall tip requirements to your sail and sign card a couple of days before the end of the trip.
Took a taxi tour of the island as all the tours included beach - again too cold and windy! But just taking the taxi around the island was fun and there were several stops along the way. DO stop at the rum factory if you can - the chocolate rum is out of this world!
Not that she will see this since this appears to be the travel agency crosspost, but sounds like an overall nice trip. We did miss the map and complained in our review to Carnival.
Appreciate your detailed review. We were able to request a printed menu in the dining room (not a lot of help afterwards but you might need if for your next cruise). Glad you enjoyed your cruise.
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