This was my 2nd cruise, but my husband's first (and his first flight). We went alone for our 10th wedding anniversary. My husband was very skeptical, as he has never really gone a vacation like this. We had a WONDERFUL time, and he is ready to book another cruise! I will review the ship to the best of my ability and include things that I looked for in the reviews I read. I hope it will help you with making your selection/decision.

Booking the cruise and flights: After selecting the cruise line and itinerary I wanted I searched all of the internet travel agencies and Carnival to book. I chose to book my cruise online, as they had the best overall deal, down to the trip insurance. I also chose to book our flights, separately from the cruise, through Orbitz. Being that my husband was a first time flyer we wanted a non-stop flight, this will not be guaranteed when booking flights along with cruise. I am glad we did this because I was able to purchase our tickets for $139 PP roundtrip. The price of booking with the cruise was more than double this amount.

We flew from Charlotte, NC to Ft Lauderdale, FL (FLL). Our flight was on time and we arrived at FLL at 9:45 am. Our bags came out within 15 minutes. I wasn't sure how to get to the ship and what time we could board (according to the paperwork it was 1pm, but I have always heard that you could board earlier.) I saw a counter that Carnival had at right at the baggage claim, so I asked the clerk what time we could board she told me they call her when they are ready, but she thought it would be around 11 am. We grabbed a bite to eat and at 11 we checked back with Carnival and we were ready to go! Read more