This was the first cruise for myself, my husband and my teenage daughter. We didn't know what to expect but had heard horror sthe tories on this very site about every aspect of cruising. The Carnival embarkation process in Long Beach was very organized and moved as quickly as can be expected when there are more than a thousand people to check in and all that luggage to stow aboard. We were warmly welcomed aboard the Pride, a delightful, clean and well-maintained ship.

Our stateroom was surprisingly large and the space well-planned. We had a balcony room and we thoroughly enjoyed the balcony. My daughter was delighted by the towel animals.

All of the food was good and plentiful. I didn't encounter a single crew member who was unfriendly or unhelpful. Steve, the Cruise Director, was very funny and lots of fun when he led various activities. Read more