Carnival came through on what we knew would be a nostalgic farewell cruise as this sailing was one of the last with the full 10 member Carnival Ship's Orchestra and full stage shows. We're going to miss the raising and lowering of the orchestra pit when Carnival downgrades their entertainment fleet wide. Kudos to CD Brent Mitchell who spoke well of the orchestra during their appearances, the brass section stood out and the sets were fun and drove the energy for both cast and guests. The Ticket to Ride show had guests on their feet and wildly waving the glow sticks passed out by the cast. The Playlist Productions can't hold a candle (or a glow stick for that matter) to traditional orchestra based entertainment.

There was a large group of college age passengers aboard who obviously wanted to hit the late night lido Pizza Pirate and management was responsive to a request to staff this outlet appropriately for the volume of business. This responsiveness resulted in remarkably short wait times for the delicious thin crust pizzas served up hot and lots of yummy sounds were heard by the late night crowd. The pepperoni was the clear favorite with us.

This sailing offered an overnight stay in Puerta Vallarta and passengers could come and go as they pleased. We elected to overnight ashore in the Old Town Romantica District at our favorite condo/hotel resort and were welcomed back like old friends. The charm of Old Town makes it on this traveler's top five list of must visit ports. Read more