Just back from the Bahamas on first Carnival cruise. Have been on Princess, Royal Caribbean, and Celebrity before and wanted to share my impression of the Fascination. I shared stateroom with my Mother (her first cruise ever), my sister, her DH and 2 adult children who are avid Carnival cruisers, and my BIL's parents and brother - a nice group of 9 ranging in age from 20 to let's say mid 70's.

NIGHT BEFORE CRUISE: on recommendation of CC Boards drove to Jacksonville and stayed at the Holiday Inn / Blount Island which was TERRIFIC! Excellent, clean rooms at very reasonable rates. Had a hot breakfast bar too - not ideal but a good start for the day. They also offer parking package with to and from shuttle service which saves you a little from the $15.00 per day charge to park at port. However, you may have to wait a little bit for shuttle. Hotel is only 1/2 mile to port - awesome. I'd stay there again.

EMBARKATION: Got to port riding with my sister (they had stayed with the in-laws who live nearby) at 10:30 am. Once we were permitted to park we were promptly greeted by valets who carried baggage for us (tip accordingly). We got thru security with some carry on's and that went smoothly. People were friendly and helpful. Word of advice - have your SIGN AND SAIL COMPLETED AHEAD OF TIME - we breezed thru check in but I saw some did not! Had to wait approximately 30 minutes sitting in chairs after all that til we could board ship which ended up being roughly Noon. Went to eat on the Lido deck - food was good and dining room clean. Wait staff cleaned up promptly once plates emptied - and sometimes wanted to take before you were finished. Read more