Carnival Legend Review
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This was my 5th Carnival cruise, and my friend's 2nd one. We've only cruised on Carnival so we can't compare this cruise to other cruise lines. We flew into Tampa the night before the cruise. We stayed at the La Quinta Tampa Bay Airport for $71/night + tax. They had a free shuttle that picked you up from the airport, and they charged $10/person to take you to the port in the morning. We also arranged transportation with them for after the cruise for an additional $10/person to go from the port to TPA. The first shuttle they had leaving the motel for the port was at 11:00am. The hotel was good choice for a one night stay. There was an IHOP next door, and the motel rate included a continental breakfast in the morning. We wanted to buy some sodas and bottled water to take onto the cruise with us and keep in the mini fridge in our room. There was nothing within a reasonable walking distance selling this type of product except the Shell gas station down the street. Their prices were the same as the soda machine that was in the motel lobby! We bought a couple of bottles since we'd already walked there, but save yourself a trip and buy the soda and water from the motel machine if you're interested in taking some on board with you.
Embarkation: We arrived at the port about 11:45, and we were onboard the Legend by 12:15. We left our larger bags with the porters outside. After checking in at the main desk, we were given a group number and directed to a waiting area. Our number was called quickly, and then we were on the ship! We had lunch at the Lido buffet since the rooms weren't available yet, and then we headed to our cabin around 1:30 pm. Our luggage showed up mid afternoon, and we were unpacked and settled in before going to dinner for the early seating at 6:00 pm.
Ship and Crew: We loved the ship dEcor, and we did not find it dark as some others have mentioned in their reviews. The ship looked to be in good repair. Our wait staff in the Truffles dining room, and our room steward did a good job, but we didn't feel like they went above and beyond like we've experienced on some past cruises.