Carnival Sunshine Review
Don't understand all of the negative reviews!
Rating by category
Additional details
We booked this cruise with my family (total of 11 people, kids ranging in ages from 7-17) to celebrate my dad's 70th birthday. I was so nervous after reading all the negative reviews; however, we decided to book anyways because we liked the itinerary and the fact that the ship was refurbished. I have been on 8 Carnival cruises and this was my favorite ship to date. I don't know what all the complaints are about!
The sports deck was awesome for the kids. Water park quality water slides, great water play area for the littler ones, a fun ropes course that had a beginner and advanced option, large chess/checkers games, Twister game, basketball, foosball, pool tables-you name it. It was always fun and busy on this deck and my family enjoyed it a ton! We also enjoyed the fun putt putt course. It was better than other ships we have been on. Loved the big screen by the pool. Watched football games on it as well as a couple movies. The pool wasn't huge but are they ever on cruise ships? It was good enough.
The 3 story serenity deck was beautiful. It had areas near the busy Lido deck where you could see the action or more serene hammocks and seating in the back. Also had its own pool, hot tub, and a bar. The Guy's hamburgers were amazing. I've never seen my family eat so many burgers, it was pretty much a daily event. The BlueAguana Cantina and the Havana Bar was delicious too! We had no complaints about the food options on deck or in the Main Dining Room. Our wait staff in the MDR was extremely attentive and wonderful!
Cabin Review
Balcony
Cabin had a stain on the floor, not a huge deal. Always clean, and enjoyed the balcony. Close to the bridge so the captain was waving at us a lot, which was fun. Felt a lot of motion in this cabin but had heard it was due to Christmas winds, and we felt motion all over the ship. This was the only thing we didn't enjoy, but we didn't let it ruin our fun time!
Port Reviews
Port Canaveral (Orlando)
Easy to get on board!
Amber Cove (Puerto Plata)
Would love to go back one day. Ended up booking a tour when we got off the boat and didn't feel like we utilized our time wisely. Beautiful port!
St. Thomas
Absolutely one of my favorite places. Stunningly beautiful! Booked a private excursion with Over the Line Charters and went snorkeling as a family. Hit some great spots, saw a sea turtle! And ordered pizza from a boat in the middle of the ocean, Pizza Pi. So much fun!
San Juan
Got a private taxi tour off the boat. Visited the oldest fort in America--super cool! Enjoyed our tour very much of the city and fort!
Grand Turk
One of my favorite ports to just relax on the beach. Absolutely stunning water. Had our own snorkel gear and did some great snorkeling right off the beach!