This was my third time on this ship....Not because of it's greatness, but because of convenience....For a quick 4 day cruise for locals in the Tampa area other areas of Florida, I find it to be a great value...but, if you must spend money to reach port...try another ship out of Miami or Ft. Lauderdale...There is quite a bit of entertainment...service was less than fantastic and the food was disappointing...nevertheless, it served its purpose by allowing rest and relaxation...For those that like to work out, it has a GREAT gym with new equipment.....read more about the art auctions below...I went with my 13 year old daughter. She had a great time with Circle "C". They have activities on board exclusive for multiple age groups...Camp Carnival for the little ones...Circle C for 12-14 and Club O for 15-17....From what I can tell, kids have a great time on this cruise..and parents really enjoy the effort Carnival makes to keep the kids entertained. However, for the 12-14 age group Carnival allows them to come and go as they please. This was my first time cruising with my daughter and I regret not getting a long range walkie talkie....I spent too much time worried and looking for my daughter. If your teens are always where they say they will be, then you are lucky..for those of us not so lucky, I suggest GETTING A WALKIE TALKIE before you go on the cruise...it will ensure you have a good time as well as your teen.

If you are a cruise novice, they have art auctions on board..put on by Park West (google them)...I had looked them up a while back and did not find good things....Please see

http://www.nytimes.com/2008/07/16/arts/design/16crui.html?incamp=article_popular Read more