This was our 5th cruise. We have sailed on Carnival, RCCL, and Celebrity. We stayed the night before the cruise in Miami at the Cambria Suites ( close to the airport). It was excellent and took a shuttle the next morning to the cruise port. Miami cruise port is very chaotic. There were 5 large ships all leaving within the same timeframe. I realize this is not Carnival's responsibility. The best embarkation port is San Juan- Miami is just too congested.
We had a cove balcony which was excellent! close to the water and very relaxing. The staff are amazing- always attentive, and cleaning and very very polite. The food was the best of any cruise I have ever taken. Every meal was excellent- There was a lot of choice and flavour. I fail to understand the bad reviews. There is a lot of activities and something for everyone.
My only concerns were in San Juan ( getting off the ship was a disaster) we lost 1.5 hours due to another ship dropping it's line in the water, which is not carnival's fault but how they handled the delay was unacceptable- San Juan had many ships in port and it was too busy to enjoy- We have been to San Juan many times before and found it far too busy.
wonderful- spacious, clean and close to the water- despite the negative reviews there was no noise from the galley above.
This is a very congested and chaotic embarkation port.
Beautiful beach- walk down the beach to Jack's Shack- It's only a 15 min walk down the beach and much nicer than Margaritaville- You have to see Jack's Shack dog play in the sand-
I have been to San Juan many times- this was the worst- too many ships in port, the streets were crowded and dirty.
Took a cab to Cockelshell beach- walked down the beach to Lion's bar- Best Rum punch and a beautiful day at the beach. Cab driver comes back to pick you up at the agreed upon time.
Golden Eagle Catamaran Sail and Snorkel- FANTASTIC!!!!