My wife and I recently cruised along with her family of ten. This was my first cruise while my wife has also cruised on the Carnival Conquest. The cruise was at full capacity, with over 4,400+ passengers along with 1,600+ crew members. Although the ship is one of the biggest in Carnival's fleet, it was extremely crowded. Many times we were stuck in crowds because of the lack of space in the lobby and shop areas. Along with the crowds came the large amount of young teens. We are both teachers and we are used to unruly teenagers, but too many kids were roaming and running all over the ship after 8pm.

The ship did provide many opportunities to get away from everyone. The Serenity adult-only deck was a solace away from noise. The Spa and Sports deck was another highlight and the fitness center was great.

Dinner service was slow and stiff. We ate late dinner in the Northern Lights Dining Room. The crew was over-worked and it showed. The dinner "showtime" became annoying as the cruise continued. Read more