This is a review of our October 2-9, 2011 cruise aboard the Carnival Conquest, roundtrip from Galveston, TX to the Western Caribbean. We are Josie & Al, semi-retired Realtors from Houston. The cruise was our ninth together in just over four years, my first with Carnival in about a decade. Weve sailed primarily with Princess and Royal Caribbean, the former being our cruise line of choice. This trip wasnt extensively planned. We just wanted a quick getaway, and Carnival made us an offer we couldnt refuse under $400 for seven nights was tough to pass up. My reviews tend to be long, so please bear with me. Each component is rated from one to five stars.

Embarkation **** Pretty much the usual a bunch of folks coming and going, long snaking lines that moved relatively quickly, considering the number of people. Baggage porters were readily available. We arrived just after noon, and were aboard within a half-hour. The cruise was sold out.

The Ship *** The Conquest is the first of its namesake class (sister to the Glory, Valor, Freedom and Liberty), launched in 2002, refurbished in 2009 and save for a little rust here and there, its in really nice shape. The architectural designs of Joe Farkas can be a bit over the top but its a cruise ship, not our living room. The Lobby (Deck 3) and Atrium (eight decks high) are particularly impressive. Read more