Planning a Mediterranean cruise is very difficult, especially if you've never been to Europe. So I searched the internet, scanned library shelves and spoke to those who had been there to determine the best itinerary, best cruise ship and, of course, best price. After my research, I honed the list down to Celebrity, RCL and Carnival. We picked Carnival for two reasons - itinerary and price. Carnival was the only itinerary that began and ended in Rome. My research told me you spend nearly ½ a day getting to and from the port to Rome. So, how much of Rome could you see in ½ a day. And, of course, the price was nearly $900 per person less than the other cruises. So we chose Carnival. Needless to say we were a little leery what with Carnival's reputation, less than stellar reviews, and a prior bad experience. But, based upon the fact that we wanted to stay in Rome after the cruise we picked Carnival rationalizing that, "after all its just a floating hotel," and "if we don't have to shop for it or cook it, how bad could the food be?" Well, I have to tell you I was shocked. It was, by far, the best cruise experience we have ever had. The food was outstanding, the service second to none, and the entertainment the best this side of Las Vegas. Bottom line - I would not hesitate to cruise with Carnival again. Here are the details:
TRAVELING TO ROME/CIVITAVECCHIA: Needless to say the flight was arduous - nearly 12 hours from Cleveland, Ohio on a modified cattle car (767) with food that was fit for a ______. The movies were so good they helped me sleep which is unusual because I normally need to stay awake and help the pilot fly the plane. We arrived at Rome's airport at 7:30 am Rome time. Getting through the airport, claiming our luggage and getting through immigration was surprisingly easy. Coordinating with our ground transportation was not. They were late and with 19 in our group, all with three pieces of luggage a piece, we looked like the second armored division deploying to Italy. Well our transportation arrived about 20 minutes late (after a hectic call) and we had a lovely ride to Civitavecchia, about 1 hour from the airport. One recommendation - Use Carnival's transfers. Their representatives are in the baggage area directing you to their ground transportation. Its worth the extra few dollars.
EMBARKATION: We arrived at Civitavecchia and were greeted with porters who took our luggage and directed us to the registration desk where our boarding documents were processed quickly. We were directed to the boarding area where we took our first of many pictures, boarded the ship and proceeded to our first meal (of course). The remaining part of the day was spent exploring the ship and relaxing at the pool. With this ship you need to get the "lay of the land." As with most cruise ships many of the decks are cut off where you need to go up or down a deck or two to go forward or aft. By the second week we almost had it down. Our luggage arrived in plenty of time for us to unpack and enjoy some sushi before we showered and got ready for dinner.