We took this weekend 3 day cruise with friends who were celebrating their anniversary. We live outside of Los Angles so this was very convenient. My wife and I had been on the "booze cruise" about 8 years ago on the Carnival Paradise so we had an idea of what to expect. But I had no idea what we were in for on the Imagination. Boarding went very smoothly which is big advantage at Carnival Cruise terminal. Our normal routine is to enjoy the pool until we leave port. When we got to the pool it was green- not inviting at all and we didn't go in. The next day in Ensenada after walking through town we went back to the ship again to enjoy the sun and the pool and it was closed! No reason was given other than it was closed until further notice. It opened on the day at sea but we watched the water turn green again. Very disappointing. Drink service at the pool was terrible. Didn't see waiters for 45-60 minutes at a time. Most of the time I had to wait in a 3-deep line to get to the bar to order our drinks. We didn't find the staff to be very engaging as on other cruise lines. People we met on the cruise said they found the Carnival Inspiration to be much better. Food was average and service in the dining rooms was good. On the positive side the ocean view room we had was great- nice size and big window. Disembarkation was great- use the Self Assist option and stay on the Empress deck and you will be the first group off.

If we take this cruise again don't think it will be in the Carnival Imagination.