This was my 4th Carnival cruise and my mate's 1st. It was WONDERFUL to depart locally rather than drive to Miami. Embarkation and debarkation was a breeze! I have always chosen to book "inside guarantee" and gambled on being upgraded and this time hit a home run as we were upgraded to an outside ocean view cabin. Room service was excellent as was the room steward's service.
It had been several years since my last cruise and I noticed many changes and positive improvements with Carnival. One of the positive changes is adding gratuities to your sign and sail account.
Every Carnival employee was friendly and courteous, it was amazing, why people in the everyday workplace can't be as friendly working!