I just returned from a carnival cruise to the Bahamas/Grand Turk aboard the Carnival Victory. I have never used the Port of Miami before so I didn't know what to expect. I had a great time despite some of the disappointments. I know that Carnival tends to be a more affordable option but I just don't think its worth it in the long run. I am going to list my complaints in categories:

Unorganized!: I don't think I have EVER seen such an unorganized process for leaving the ship to get to the piers on port days. We were fortunate that our first excursion was later in the morning so we didn't have to wait long when we got to Nassau. The day we got off at Grand Turk was RIDICULOUS. There were no numbers...no waiting in the auditorium but instead we filled the floor above the gangway shoved together blocking other persons cabins. We arrived before the other Carnival ship but were not allowed to get off until AFTER the other ship.

Service/Food: Worst on ANY ship I have been on. We did not leave port on time. While our room was sufficiently cleaned we never met our cabin stewards. We had two people assigned to our table for dinner. There was no one waiting to fill your glass. I had to ask for bread most nights. Very disappointing when you are used to the great service we have received in the past. I am pretty sure they were understaffed. The quality of the food was mediocre. I think I enjoyed two of the meals at night and the taco I got on Mexican night. Even the pizza was so thin it was more like a pizza chip. On Carnival's private island, I avoided one of the tables as BIRDS were EATING off of the food! Thirsty and want something to drink on the island? Enjoy your "Dixie cup" sized paper cup. I mean really? Even the fruit didn't taste fresh at times. We were finding a seat one afternoon at the back of the ship there were many dirty tables. We sat down expecting someone to quickly come and clean them. One hour later or so...someone came. Read more