Overview We are a retired couple in our mid 50's. This was our 8th cruise, 1st two on Carnival, next 4 on Princess grand class ships, and last one on RCI Navigator of the Seas. We had been hesitant to go back on Carnival fearing they had probably cheapened their cruises, but liked the price and itinerary since we had not yet traveled to St. Lucia or St. Kitts, so decided to take a chance.

Our 1st two cruises were in inside cabins, and we have since switched to balconies. Don't need a suite, but if the weather has the potential to be decent we have to have a balcony to enjoy a glass of wine and a good book overlooking the water.

Embarkation Arrived at Ft. Lauderdale Airport at 12:25pm, and caught a quick taxi to the airport ($20 with tip.) We had to wait in about 3 different lines to board the ship, and in all took about 1 hour. Funny thing was we were in line with another couple (much younger) who after talking for 40 minutes or so indicated they were in an aft extended balcony, as we were. Turned out they were next door to us. Didn't see them a lot during the cruise, but always friendly when we did bump into them. They both ended up being in the Legends show at the end of the cruise (as Garth Brooks and Britney Spears.) Both did a great job. Embarkation process took about an hour, and then got on ship to explore and have a quick lunch. Read more