If you are a Carnival cheer leader, don't bother reading this because I intend to be balanced. Did I enjoy the cruise, Yes I did.
What was good: The port stops (Catalina and Ensenada were great). The crew was friendly and helpful. The kids club was good. There was a magician in the MDR that made table visits and was great for the kids and even some adult diners. Our Waiter also tried some magic acts. The wait staff was very friendly and tried a lot. The ship was very clean and well kept.
What was not so good: The food (possibly the worst cruise food that I have ever experienced in over a hundred cruises. While I don't know this for a fact, the eggs in the buffet tasted like powdered eggs and I hear several comments from other cruisers about them. Fresh fried eggs were available at the grill but the omelets seemed to use the same "egg" mix. Dinner in the MDR, the food was less than inspiring, came often cold and in one instance the alligator fritters came under cooked and still doughy. Although our server was very friendly/helpful, he seemed to be inefficient. One Night we had ordered two appetizers and an entrée. After asking several times about the second appetizer, he finally brought it with the entrée. Our room steward was nice and friendly but we ask for a feather pillow. After checking with his boss he informed us that none were available. One other major problem that would not affect another cruise was the embarkation. Our cruise was right after a charter cruise and our boarding was delayed until 1:30 and some didn't board until way late. Carnival knew this in advance but didn't bother to inform us in advance so that we could have arrived later. It's not really fun standing around outside in line at this port.
Lines and waiting area are outside. Security only accommodates two lines.
For Mexico, this town feels very safe with plenty of nice shops and good little restaurants. Inexpensive bus transportation to and from town.
This is a tender port but a very nice little town.