This was our third cruise with the first on Princess, second Carnival. After reading many negative reviews, we were a bit nervous on what to expect. We didn't experience any of the negative aspects of what had been posted. Embarkation and disembark were very smooth with very minimal delays. We had selected two inside cabins (family of 5) as you are only in there to sleep anyway. Square footage was posted when booking so no surprise there. At 6'8" and 350lbs, I could surprisingly have a comfortable shower although the toilet was a challenge. Again, with my size, no surprise there. Our room was always kept clean and turned down in the evening. Our steward was very attentive and tipped accordingly.

We ate most meals at the Marketplace Buffet which had a good variety and always had food available (unlike Carnival where we had to hunt for food at times) We also had Ultimate dinning and Ultimate beverage package which had been thrown in free of charge and actually probably equalled the value of the cruise fare. The specialty restaurants were great (Steakhouse, Italian twice and Teppanaki). Service was flawless, food perfect and even had peanut butter and jelly for my two year old at the steakhouse... perfect. The host even made a duck for her out of a napkin.

Service at bars was fast and courteous. They are busy and not really time to chit chat, again perfect, I'm not looking to adopt, just want someone to get my drink. Our excursions were not booked thru the cruise but were incredible as always and a fraction of the cost the cruise charged. Family portraits taken on board turned out great and we bought them as we were overdue for new ones. Photographers very friendly and knowledgeable. Read more