We are a group of four, DH,DW DS and his girlfriend. This was our eighth cruise, and the girlfriends first. We have previously sailed Holland America, Norwegian, and Princess Cruise Lines. Our Western Carribean cruise on the Carnival Legend 12/27/2009 was "Excellent". We were fortunate to have sunshine and relatively calm seas the entire week. Having CCL (Carnival Cruise Line) shares we were able to take advantage of the On Board Credit of $100 for a 7 day cruise with Carnival. The OBC was easily obtained after final payment was made. We flew into Tampa the day before and stayed at the Embassy Suites Downtown. It is a good location, with included breakfast, manager's reception, and within walking distance to Channelside Terminal 2 pier. We took advantage of being next door to St.Petes Forum and attended a Tampa Bay Lightning hockey game the night before the cruise. A few blocks west of the hotel is a Publix grocery, that we also took advantage of for stocking up on supplies.

Embarkation was easy and orderly. We were on the ship just after 12 noon. Our room #5131 had an extended balcony. A sofa bed and bunk that pulled out from the ceiling. It was clean, adequate and very quiet. Our cabin steward Herald was outstanding with his service, and always interested in polite conversation. We were able to meet up with Rodney, our room steward from our previous cruise, we exchanged some small gifts and very pleasant conversations also. Both gentlemen were exceptional.

We chose Your Time Dining as it works best for us. A table was always readily available for us. We did dine with others, and DS and his girlfriend on occasion and the conversations were also pleasant. The food was good and the service was always great. On two special evenings we dined at the Golden Fleece Steak Restaraunt. The food and service was excellent. We did order the Deluxe wine package and it was a real treat. Breakfasts were ordered most of the time through room service, and enjoyed on the balcony. We usually don't enjoy buffets so we try to stay away from them as much as possible. Read more