Since I learned so much from the thoughtful information posted by previous cruiser's on this site, I felt compelled to lend my humble opine.

My last Carnival Cruise was over ten years ago on the Ecstasy, and really was less than stellar. Average food, average service, and being herded around the boat like kindergartners from what I recollect. Well, Carnival has come a long way since. My voyage on the Conquest was a family sojourn, with my family of four, my brother's family of four, along with my parents. By now, everyone has read the detailed reviews, so I will try and keep it concise with a few salient new insights.

Embarkation...boat was late getting in therefore embarkation started around 1 pm....go see the opera house in Galveston if this happens to you, air conditioned, costs around $4, and good 30 minute diversion. Also, a Starbucks is in walking distance of the port. Oh, they won't let your kids stick their tongues out for their embarkation id photo's (yeah, I know everyone was wondering about that). Read more