We were a group of 11- two extended families (all adults now!), from 4 states. We met in New Orleans the day before departure and stayed at the New Orleans Marriott for 1 night. I pricelined it for $65!!!! It was a great place. All the staff were warm and polite. It was in a perfect location to walk around the French Quarter. We had a wonderful lunch at the Acme Oyster Bar with great service and a good dinner at The Palace Cafe' with TERRIBLE service. We had a great breakfast at the Fleur de Lis on Chartres. The best pancakes I have had in a long time!!

We ended up taking a taxi to the cruise dock because it was raining - otherwise we could have walked. Embarkation was AWFUL!! We arrived at noon and waited in line for 1 1/2 hrs before we boarded the ship. Carnival had 1 scanner open for 2000 guests. There was difficulty with line control and some folks took advantage of the confusion and took "cuts" in front of several hundred people who got angry. Tense time. We headed for the Lido deck for lunch and were able to get into our stateroom about 2pm.

At the last minute we upgraded to a suite - the price was right. We loved the room. We enjoy the balcony- Our adult children came to hang out with us. A sofa and chair to sit on was very nice. Read more