This was my second time on the Paradise and I was pleasantly surprised at some improvements! I feel that the ship looked like it had some work done since my last cruise on it two summers ago. I thought the atrium and hallways looked quite nice. This ship is older and has the dark woods that are just nicer than the bright colors. I cannot praise the crew enough! We immediately had that warm and friendly welcoming feeling from each crew member that we encountered. This was a birthday celebration for my best friend of 44 years! The cabin decorations and chocolate covered strawberries were perfect! Di our cabin steward tended to our every need and was such a bright sunshiny face each day!

Calvin the CD was top notch! He was so friendly and entertaining. I guess because of the size of this ship, you get to interact with crew a little more intimately. All of the shows and comedy shows were very good and worth attending. Never one to get excited about Carnival food...I have to say that this is where I was really surprised. We actually enjoyed every meal in the dining room and the "my time" dining is such a great idea!

Our only disappointment was that our original excursion was cancelled. It was a priority for my friend to snorkel as she has never had this opportunity. I explained this to the shore excursion desk but I guess she did not know her tours well enough. There is nothing that I hate more than getting off the ship and being hoarded with a bunch of shipmates to a beach party!! Worst excursion EVER and contrary to what the desk told us...NO SNORKELING! So this was a very very disappointing part of our cruise. Isla Passion is a beautiful spot, but this just is NOT what I like to do on a cruise. Not a total deal breaker, I have learned that I will have to be even more specific at the shore excursion desk if this ever happens again.