We picked this cruise for the itinerary. Never had been on Carnival before, but have sailed NCL and Princess. We were very happy with this cruise. This is the first cruise we have taken where the Room Steward called us by name. We had a balcony cabin, which was larger than either NCl or Princess. It was just 2 of us so we had lots of space for our things. Embarkation was a breeze. We got to port about 11:30 and on the ship by 12:00. We were told our room would not be ready until 1:30. We went to Lido deck and had lunch. Afterward we explored the ship. Went to our room at 1:20 and it was ready. The whole ship was in great shape. The crew were constantly cleaning and painting. The food was tasty but not as diverse as on other cruises. We ate in the MDR for 4 nights. The waiter knew our names there also. We had anytime dining, yet they always tried to sit you with the same waiter. The first night we waited maybe 10 minutes for a table. The only other night we had to wait was the first formal night. We were given a beeper and waited maybe 15 minutes. Sometimes we ate with others and sometimes just the two of us.

Lots to do on the ship. They had 2 great comediennes. They would have a late show for Adults only. Great Piano Bar. Also had a nightclub that played a lot of Motown-which we loved. Trivia contests were fun. They had a casino, which took my money-oh well.They also had a miniature golf course which was fun. We used the slide, but never watched any movies on the big screen. Couple of complaints, our shower always overflowed, drain very slow. Told the steward but guess there was nothing he could do. Went through a lot of towels!!!!!! Also the layout is confusing. There is no promenade that goes completely around the ship, just on one side and then you have to go through the middle to get to the other side. Also sometimes to get places you would have to walk through a dining room, unless you wanted to go up and down stairs. Not a big deal, just different than other ships I have sailed.

We did go to the SunKing steakhouse, which was phenomenal. The waitstaff was like 2 to a table. The food was wonderful. I had the fillet and could not finish it and my husband had the Surf and Turf. He said it was the best steak he had ever eaten. Read more