This was our first Carnival cruise and it was just as good as nearly all our others. We booked because the price was right. I have hesitated to book Carnival in the past due to its ‘party-boat’ reputation. We are in our later years and have been-there-done-that. There was indeed heavy drinking and loud shipmates, more than other cruises, but it was not an issue due in part to a good cabin location.

The Sensation is a smaller and older vessel and has no ‘wow-factors’, still it’s enjoyable and a pleasure to be on board. However, a little more due diligence to cleaning and polishing is warranted. Our only real complaint and disappointment, and some f&b manager should really take note; the bussing/clearing of dirty tables on the Deck 10 Lido dining areas was consistently horrible.

The food and cabin accommodations exceeded expectations. The food was very good and our cabin comfortable (the beds were great), just as good as many other pricey cruises. Overall, the crew got it done and done right but genuine smiles were few and far between. Read more