We went on a Carnival Cruise several years ago and I swore I'd never go on another. This trip was for my son's senior spring break and I have to admit I would now go on another. The pool was extremely crowded and I was a bit disappointed that Royal Caribbean's policies are adhered to hit or miss. The Solarium is not maintained as adult only as many children and teens continued in and out. The main dining room in the evenings was wonderful, however, the mornings I was very disappointed in. My son was made to go back and change his shirt because he had a tank top on (not trashy looking or words or old). However, females with bathing suits, strapless, and half dressed were admitted in. Seemed to be sexist and double standard to me. On formal night two in our party chose not to participate and dined elsewhere however, there were people in jeans and even bathing suits in the main dining room. Again, policy is hit or miss in being followed.
Our next problem came when we were scheduled to leave on a shopping excursion with the Port Shopping Expert. We found out that in order to return to our original excursion we would need taxi fare. We then went to use the ATM at guest services only to have the ATM advise we needed to contact our Financial Institution. Upon calling international we found that nothing was wrong with our cards. Guest services then told us to go to the Casino to get a cash advance. We then found that it was closed and we then missed going on the shopping excursion. Guest services the next day advised us that the ATM was not working yet no sign was placed on it nor did they compensate us for our monetary losses. The only other negative I will share is that we purchased quite a few pieces of jewelry on board and will not do that again. One watch the battery was dead so we were told they would not replace it and when I got home the back came off of the watch I purchased. My son purchased 2 watches which were slightly big and when asked if they would take a link out he was told they did not do that yet my friend purchased a watch and the sales lady took a link out of hers and made sure it fit properly. Although we had these negatives I will say the food was wonderful and the evening staff in the dining room was great. We had two teenagers with us who had a wonderful time and had plenty to do which allowed me to relax a great deal.
We had the most wonderful porter Daniel who we looked forward to seeing each day. Our cabin was great. Daniel made sure our cabin was always inviting and we loved our towel animals. He bonded with my son and we hope to see him again in the future. He was a great value for Royal Caribbean.
Parking was a bit expensive but worth using the valet service. We did not stay in Tampa long as we visited my grandparents so I really don't have much to say about Tampa.