DH and I along with our another couple took this same cruise out of Baltimore last year. I reviewed the cruise at that time. However, we created a new memory and experience the second time around so I felt it was worth reviewing again.
Baltimore is an easy to port to sail from - very efficient and easy to get to. This year, there was a delay in the return of the previous cruise so we were delayed getting on the ship. The Port personnel were prepared for the circumstance and despite the long wait to embark, everything was smooth.
The highlight of our cruise was the Chef's Table -- well worth the $75/person. We signed up as soon as we boarded the ship for Tuesday night (offered only twice during the cruise and no more tha 14 people for each offering). Vivek, the Executive Chef at the time (he is now on his vacation), came to our table in the dining room on Monday night to introduce himself and tell us what a wonderful experience we will have.
Carnival Pride Cabin 8208 - nice balcony; good location. Near the MidShip Elevator; under Mermaid's Grill. We didn't hear anything from above us nor did we hear any elevator noise.