We read many reviews about the Sensation before booking. Some of the negative reviews were not happy with the crew, food or the condition of the ship. We were very pleased with our experience on the Sensation with only a few complaints. First, for the most part, the crew was very professional, worked hard and were very friendly. The wait staff, room steward, and bartenders most often remembered our names, greeted us in a friendly manner and worked hard to meet our needs. Entertainment was excellent but not always appropriate for the whole family. The comedians were good. The family acts were very appropriate, but the acts were the same every evening. The staff worked very hard to keep the ship clean and tables cleared. They were cleaning carpets and the decks throughout the cruise. Food was very good. It was best in the dining rooms and at the grill near the pool, although not as good in the Lido Buffet. The ship is dated, but they do a good job keeping it fresh and clean. It is a smaller ship. I thought for a first time cruise with a family, it is the right size. Our room was always kept very clean and was large enough to accommodate the four of us. We only had a few complaints: First, Some of the shows were not appropriate for families even though this seemed to be more of a family cruise. Second, the pool was very small and packed; it would have been more enjoyable with more games and activities. Overall, I would recommend this ship to families and first-time cruisers. Carnival works very hard to make this a very special vacation for a family!