I didn't expect a short cruise on Carnival to be able to compete with longer cruises on the more prestigious lines. I was wrong. Carnivals short cruises to Ensenada and Catalina out of Long Beach are wonderful fun adventures, terrific inexpensive values and extremely convenient for anyone who lives in Southern California. Long Beach only has the two short cruise ships and the Long Beach Port Garage isn't 50 yards from the boarding area. Boarding takes a fraction of the time of longer cruises and no time at all with a $50 Faster to the Fun upgrade that misses all lines. The Playlist theatre shows are as good as any line and with a Catalina Jewel concert scheduled, this ship rocks! There are so many kids, the pools are crowded, but there are more private spas and areas for adults. Ensenada and Catalina are both well managed and welcoming ports of call with nice shore excursions. For a long weekend or short week, what's not to like?

My cabin was a stern facing ocean view. Stern views are expensive on most lines, balconies or suites. This was a spacious ovean view with a large window for a fraction of the cost. And heres the best secret for single cruisers, Carnival sold me this cabin for the single price, half the cost of a cabin on most lines.