Because of our Platinum status we had VIP check-in and debarkation privileges.

Embarkation: From parking to on-deck in the Lido for lunch was 20 minutes. They changed the parking at the port. You now get a ticket, drop off your luggage across from the terminal building, park, then pay after the cruise. We were able to check in at 10:30, but we arrived at 11:00. First impressions: Great! Doesn't jump out at you like the normal Carnival ships. Nice dEcor and pretty conservative.

Food in the dining room was good, not great - good. We decided to do the "Anytime Dining" this cruise and it worked out very well. Met some very nice people. Food arrived hot sometimes and usually prepared the way we ordered. Lobster and shrimp were not over-cooked this time. The lobster is normally like rubber. Food on the Lido Deck: Good selection. The PASTA BAR was wonderful! The Linguine with the Clam sauce and Shrimp added was excellent. I had it 3 times! The WOK was just OK. There were lines, but not too long. I agree with others that you should not let your first impression on Day One influence you for the rest of the cruise. On the first day, there is nothing else for guests to do but go to the Lido deck and cruise the ship. My biggest complaint would be at night. There are no "lite bites" - only burgers, hot dogs, and pizza. A lot of people don't want this type of food late at night. Something could be done in this area. It would not be difficult to put out small sandwiches and such. Of note, we had dinner one night on the Lido deck. First time ever! Never again! It was terrible - not what I expected at all. Read more