Boarded the Carnival Breeze for 8-day Southern Caribbean cruise from 11-19 May 2013. This was our 4th Carnival cruise and 5th overall (once on RCL). Booked originally a balcony on Deck 9 and then as prices dropped upgraded to Spa Balcony on Deck 11. Strongly recommend using Early Saver rates with Price Protection if you book early like we did. Ended up with almost $900 onboard credit by watching prices over the 7 months from booking to sailing. With that being said, probably will not book Spa category again. Unless you are really into getting your steam on, not necessarily worth it although loved being on Deck 11. Cabin size was same as regular balcony.

Embarkation was very easy. We were off hotel shuttle and with Sail and Sign cards in-hand within 15 minutes. Onboard 20 minutes later. Extremely efficient. First impressions of ship remained throughout the cruise. Big, clean and beautiful. Having cruised on the Dream previously, we were familiar with this class of ship, but the improvements with the Fun Ship 2.0 program are very nice including Guy's Burgers, Blue Iguana Burrito Bar, Red Frog Pub and Bonsai Sushi. We enjoyed all of the above at some point. Especially liked the Bonsai Sushi which although was an additional surcharge was well worth the small price for some very high grade sushi. Also liked the Red Frog Pub which provided a nice relaxing environment and an additional entertainment venue with live music every night.

Food overall was good, not great, but good. Asked for and received late dining which we prefer. Seated at a 12-top and made some quick friends. Service at dinner was up to the usual standard, although did not make the connection we usually do with either the wait-staff in the dining room or our cabin steward. Not sure if this is due to a greater workload on their part since they were always hopping or maybe it was us. Nonetheless, no complaints about the quality of service. Ate in the steak house on one night, but the experience was not as good as the Dream in our opinion. Venue seems smaller and more claustrophobic. Located aft on Deck 5 just forward of comedy club. Good news is no basketball pounding on ceiling. Guy's Burgers was popular and good as was Blue Iguana Burritos. At both eateries, you can add as much or as little as you want in regards to toppings/condiments from a large selection. Enjoyed the much under rated Tandoori Grill at the aft pool. Good Indian curries and salads. Also had lunch at the Italian restaurant which was good for lunch, but doubt I would pay the upcharge for dinner. Read more