This was our first ever cruise. Driving 10 hours to Galveston from Missouri, we arrived the night before departure just so we wouldn't be over tired! Embarking was a breeze! We arrived a few hours before 1 and waited inside for the lines to open and we onboard the ship in time for a late lunch! We we astonished by the massiveness of the ship. Conquest was one of Carnivals' biggest ships and is also one of their newer ships. Of course, one cannot get into their room until closer to departure since the cabins still need cleaning, but we were able to leave our carry-ons in our rooms after 3 p.m. We spent the remainder of the embarking time roaming the ship and looking around, finding our dinner table, scoping the view from every deck, and of course, snacking on some ice cream! Upon leaving the port, we practiced our lifeboats and wearing our lifevests! It was a breeze as we were actually unsure we were actually moving! Smooth sailing to start~although rough seas came at dinner! I can't remember much else about dinner that night, but that my tea glass kept sloshing! By morning, I managed to overflow the shower into the bathroom floor and still was able to watch my orange juice slosh at the breakfast table. Whew~Off to the store to purchase some Dramamine! Ok, better! This was a day at sea~Although it was still a little windy and chilly to hang out on deck and not too much to do inside. More exploring. I found the Internet Cafe and sent the kids a quick email. Not too long though, minutes were expensive! Magic show that night was very interesting.

By Tuesday, another day at sea, we had smooth seas and warmer weather! It was then after lunch on the Lido deck that we found our favorite place to sit and relax. Outside the main deck doors, next to the purser and the excursions deck was a quiet deck, with lounge chairs and hardly any people. We quickly snatched up a few of the chairs and laid them by the railing where we could here the splashing of the waves, feel a occasional mist or two, and best of all, we were still able to hear each other as we talked! tuesday evening was formal night and we decided to dress up and try for some pictures! Next day was filled with an day at port to Jamaica. Although probably not one of the safest places, the beach we went to was extremely nice and beautiful. Next day was at port to Grand Cayman Islands. What a beautiful and safe place. Fantabulous snorkeling! Great shopping! Last port day was at Cozumel. We rented a scooter that day and drove around the island. Great fun...except for shopping because the people wouldn't leave you alone! Last day at sea, Saturday, was spent lounging around and soaking in the sun the last day aboard the CONQUEST. Evening there were goodbye dinners and a seminar about hour to disembark.

We decided to do the self-disembarkation since we needed to get on the road as soon as possible to be able to get back to Missouri by early evening. That meant that instead of setting out or suitcases the night before we had to wait in the lobby with ALL OF OUR BELONGINGS and embark as soon as customs cleared the ship. Lots or work (especially if you over-packed like me...and probably not advisable if you have small children along!) and pretty tiring but needed if you are in a rush!We were off the ship and to our car by 8:30...good timing!