As a veteran cruiser and someone who is very laid back, adaptable, unstuffy, and so on, this is the first ship in all the cruises I have taken that disappointed me. Don't get me wrong...there were some pleasant surprises to offset this cruise...so let me explain...
The terminal in Miami is very nice. First time, I cruised out of this port. Mainly have sailed out of Ft. Lauderdale and heard the Miami terminal was a mess...nothing could be farther from the truth! We were on the ship in less than 30 minutes!
This was my first cruise with Carnival and booked a balcony guarantee (8A) and was bumped up to a 8C. I must say, the stateroom was one of the best I ever had in this category. Putting the bed near the window and balcony door was a stroke of genius. To lie in bed and see the ocean in the morning...nothing like it! PLUS it creates better traffic flow in the cabin with the couch and tv in the middle section of the cabin allowing two people to maneuver without getting in each other's way. The bathroom was ample...shower a little tight but manageable. Cabin stewards were terrific, attentive, friendly and offered great over all service.
Great layout to the balcony stateroom. Shower was tight. Lots of hidden storage throughout the stateroom and nice furniture on the balcony.