Embarkation: Drove down from Montreal and stayed one night at a "Park, stay and fly" which went very well and was worth the price.
Service: That was the greatest part since my wife suffers from a severe nut and pea allergy so eating out can be a challenge. However ahostess would come to my wife every night and she could pre-order her next day's meals which would be made fresh and safely for her. That great service calmed my wife and I greatly and allowed her to have a great time and enjoy great food.
Activities: Lots to do and see. I appreciated what I read on other reviews: A cruise is what you make it to be. Since the weather wasn't great we had to do other things to have fun and there is a lot to choose from including some fun shows at night.
Stateroom: We took a balcony and absolutely loved it(will actually never go without a balcony). Great size, very enjoyable. Awesome to be able to out on your balcony have a coffee and watch yourself travel on the ocean.
Review: Nothing will ever be perfect(especially the weather in January) but, for the price, carnival delivered great service and food and a fun time for us first-time cruisers.
Took a taxi (4$/person) to cabbage beach. Beautiful beach and we had great weather.