Great for a family vacation. Plenty of things to do for all interests. I would suggest this ship to anyone unless they need the elevators and can't take the stairs, just being honest. We will most likely do this cruise again, just not from this port. Getting to and from the port isn't as easy as Miami or Ft. Lauderdale so when you think you are saving a few bucks on the cost, just figure out how much it is round trip to the port and back to the airport. Plenty of hotels in Miami/Ft. Lauderdale that offer free shuttles to and from the port when you stay there the night before. We would consider this departure port again if it did a southern literary. We would also like to see a stop at Carnival's private island. We would also like it if your drink package works on the beach like Royal does at Perfect Day at Cococay. Just my opinion, but again I would suggest this ship! It was fun.
Embarkation
5 out of 5
I arrived in the middle of the boarding times noon(ish) and was through security and on the boat in about 20 mins after being dropped off. If you have all the required docs and Verifly, it was a very smooth process.
Ship experiences
Food and Dining
4 out of 5
So many options and we didn't have time or enough stomach space to try them all. With that said, the buffets were not up to par with other cruise lines and the main dining fell into the same category. I would say that Chi-Bang, Pig & Anchor, and the Italian options were outstanding. We also did the hibachi which had an additional cost. I would skip the main dining and buffet as there are far better options that are included.
Onboard Activities
5 out of 5
I'll start by saying that Bolt should be included, period. The waterslides, pools, mini golf were all hits with our family.
Entertainment
4 out of 5
Kendal Fire was an awesome cruise director and brought the party to life everywhere she was. I would say a number of the fun squad members did the same, Robby, Spicy G, and Shamz all stood out from the crowd for sure. Love and Marriage, Family Feud,, and Deal or No Deal were hits. The magic show and Vodoo Moon were not for us.
Children's Programs
5 out of 5
Our kids asked to go every single day after we let them go a few days into the cruise. They loved arts and crafts, getting their faces painted (every night), making bracelets/necklaces, and playing video games.
Service and Staff
5 out of 5
Everyone was very friendly.
Ship Quality
4 out of 5
The elevators were a mess. Long waits and people getting angry with other passengers "stealing" them. Simply put, the elevators were too small for the size of this ship. Overall the ship layout was different but in a good way. The ship was easy to navigate. Not sure I would have put guest services in the middle of everything though, seemed like an odd location.
Cabin / Stateroom
4 out of 5
We had a family of four in this stateroom. It did its job but it was a little tight. I couldn't imagine having teenagers share a room with us as there wouldn't be enough space. The room was clean, and the balcony offered great views while everyone was getting around or to sit and relax before bed.
Ship tip
Be prepared to take the stairs more often than not.
You'll need to pay to visit a decent clear water beach. The free beaches within walking distance of the ship aren't anything you'll want to spend the day at. This port is super aggressive in selling you everything and having "no change"... long story short, stay on the boat unless you are doing an excursion or walking to Margaritaville for the day.
Everything seemed new, no beach without paying to go somewhere but the pool and ziplines were nice. The shops were much cleaner than some other ports. Since there wasn't a beach, we opted for an excursion (Ocean World w/dolphin encounter). Next time we are doing the waterfalls as our kids weren't old enough this time around.
The beaches right off the ship are what they put in the advertisements. Clear water, plenty of fish and the Mardi Gras in the background of all your photos. Margaritaville pool was also a lively place and the shops weren't full of aggressive salespeople, very laid back.
Quick and Easy! However getting into a private shuttle we purchased... wasn't easy at all. Carnival needs to fix this as getting a private shuttle was far cheaper than the bus to the airport.
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