Our adventure began after we parked our car in the NY cruise terminal which is located adjacent to the cruise terminal. We paid cash to park as it was expected in advance. We entered the terminal around 10:45 AM, registered and received our sail and sign card. The waiting area had ample seating. Boarding began around 11:30 AM. We took our family photo and proceeded to the lido deck for lunch. The cabins weren't ready until around 1:30, but lunch and all other areas were open to guests. Of course at this point the staff was trying to sell drinks in plastic glasses for about $8.00 each.

The ship was classic Carnival- I had sailed on about 5 other carnival ships prior to the Glory. It was very gaudy and festive. The public areas and the cabins were very clean and well maintained. My sister and I had a really nice balcony cabin- exactly like the cabins I had on other carnival ships- same decor. My brother had his own inside cabin which was very comfortable also. One thing that was chintzy was that the bathrooms had a couple of "free" sample toiletry items. The kind you get in newspapers and magazines. Small plastic wrapped toothpaste, etc. They also gave us one disposable razor. Realistic 2-3 oz sample bottles of toiletries would have been a better option. The cabin steward was excellent- room always clean and comfortable and he wasn't intrusive at all. The cabins do not have a clock, so don't forget your travel clock. I also expected a booklet containing some discount coupons for drinks, pictures and spa services. Most cruise lines give them to returning guests.

The spa was okay. Of course the staff was hawking services, but this is part of the cruise experience, let the buyer beware! The shops were fair- not that much variety that interested us. The $10 watches , and inch of fake gold were popular. Read more