Carnival Elation Review
Exceeded Expectations - Great Value and Fun
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We drove from Chicago to New Orleans and stayed the evening before the cruise at the Hilton at the Convention Center because of its proximity to the cruise terminal. It wasn't easy but we were able to walk (with roller luggage) from the Hilton to the cruise terminal via the RiverWalk Mall. The Hilton is a beautiful hotel and it was bustling with guests in town for the Sugar Bowl.
We hadn't cruised Carnival since our honeymoon (1989) and so we were not in their computer system as past Carnival customers. We emailed then a picture of us on the debarkation ramp in Puerto Rico on the Jubilee and they eventually gave us the discount!
We knew the Elation was an older and smaller ship then some of the other cruises we have enjoyed but figured with two teenagers, it would be fun (and the prices were very competitive). We booked late (around Thanksgiving) but were able to get two interior cabins next to each other on the Empress deck. The furnishings and bathroom fixtures were a bit dated but clean and functional.
Cabin Review
Interior
E11 and E15. Interior rooms with two twin beds. Large closet and good size bathroom. Furniture and bathroom fixtures a bit dated but clean and functional. Toward the front of the ship on the Empress deck. Quiet - no engine noise or anything like that. Flat screen TV with fair number of satellite channels.