This was the first cruise for my boyfriend and me. We were very excited about it. Overall, we had a good time, but we probably won't do it again. Here's why...
Day 1: We drove from Fort Worth and arrived in Galveston on Saturday. We stayed at the Howard Johnson about 4 miles ($13.00 taxi ride) from the Carnival Pier. We choose this option because we didn't want to rush on Sunday or try to find a parking space at the pier; Howard Johnson lets you leave your car there if you stay a night. So we got up around 8am ate some breakfast at the continental bar, courtesy of HJ, and called a taxi to pick us up at 10am. The taxi driver pulled right up to the front of the terminal and handed our bags off to the porters waiting. I tipped the driver and the porters (this ensured they didn't lose our bags!) Once in the terminal things went smoothly. I figured the terminal had this down to a science since they do it every week. After two separate lines, we were on the boat in about an hour. It pays to get there early, I think, but if you show up around 2 or 3 you'll have little worry. Either way, you'll get on the boat with minimal wait. Once onboard it's a buffet free-for-all. The Cezanne (deck 9, Lido) is where everyone is sent. You can eat to your hearts content while waiting for your stateroom to be ready. You have to remember that a group of passengers just disembarked not 1 hour before you boarded. This cruise ship is constantly turning passengers. So the rooms are not ready when you board. We waited about 2 hours for them to allow us to go to our room. It actually works out good this way because it gives you time to explore your new environment. Trust me, for first time cruisers, you will be lost! Be patient, you'll figure it out by the 6th day. We got to our room at 2:30 and were immediately impressed by the size, storage, and bathroom accommodations. The shower is small but wonderful. The beds and pillows are very comfortable. About an hour later we moved on to explore more of the boat. So much to see! It's a beauty! We found a coffee bar on deck 5 and sat down to enjoy a latte (not free). We did the spa tour because we wanted to see the fitness center. Avoid this tour. All the so is try to sell you on every service. Our luggage arrived around 7:30pm. Just in time for dinner at 8pm. I recommend the late seating. You'll be happy you have the extra time before dinner. We ate at the Monet dining room 5 of the 7 days. The food is great. I have no complaints what so ever.
Day 2: Full day at sea. Everyone flocked to the lido deck (where the pools are) to sunbath. My boyfriend and I did not. We choose to relax in the shade on the lido deck enjoying our breakfast and coffee. We did alot of people watching during the cruise. Two things: there are alot of people on this boat (most with kids), but if you can find areas away from the crowds, then you won't notice the number of guests. It is a big boat! Also, the kids are usually allowed to run wild through out the boat. Bring your patience if you're not used to children and teens running amuck. We were still getting used to the size and where everything was. The Caper, printed daily, is very helpful in finding things to do. It gives you a chronological run down of every event on the boat. There is always something to do. You could wear yourself out trying to get it all in. We did.