Having cruised most years since 2001 (wife was a travel agent) this was the first time for us on Carnival. It was also the first time I really spent time reading reviews beforehand, even after booking.

Now just back on 36 hours since 'debarking' or disembarcation as we Brits would say, I think it's fair to say that pretty much everything I had read before was true. Yes, there are some leaks from air-con pipes or sprinklers, yes, the food in the MDR can be luke warm (but it was mostly delicious), yes the layout is a little confusing (but no big deal) and yes, the Guys burgers are awesome.

The drinks package worked out for us, purchased on the morning of day 2 we consumed some 120+ drinks (not all finished, you don't force down the bad ones when on a package) which would have cost us about £700 at an average (after Spanish tax (10%) and gratuity (15%). With the good Pound to Dollar rate the package cost a little over £500 ($820 for the two for 8 nights) and not having to worry about the cost made it fun trying the cocktails in the Alchamy Bar (amazing) and have that 2nd glass of wine at dinner. Read more