My wife and I have been on 6 previous cruises (5 Carnival, 1 Royal Caribbean), but an 11 year hiatus finally ended with this trip to Key West/Cozumel. We took our 10 yr old granddaughter, her first, but now its the only way she wants to travel. Best investment=Faster to the Fun. We registered at 10:40AM and were on board with luggage at our room (ready) at 11:25, first beverages by the pool at 11:45. Well worth the $50. Walking to the kids slide area, our granddaughter stopped dead in her tracks, started running and screaming..literally, another girl from her class at school was on board! She had no idea. My wife said, "Well, we'll be by the pool and see you Friday morning". Made the trip even better.

Carnival still does it right. Great staff, clean cabin and public spaces, but the food at the buffet was between good/average. Biggest problem was that nothing seemed hot, just barely warm, regardless if you were there when they opened or not. Only 1 dinner in the main dining room and it was very good.

Attempted to sign our granddaughter for some kids programs but never got passed the staff member in charge that day. He must have been their only choice, as he was simply rude and you could tell he did not want this assignment. We just said maybe later and left. Read more