Embarkation was rather effortless. We arrived at the port at about 12:30, and were onboard within a half-hour or so. However, the personnel who checked us in at the port were not as helpful as they could have been. We wanted to make a last-minute switch of guests between our two cabins. This can be done during the checkin process or onboard. The agent who was helping us appeared new, and asked a supervisor standing nearby (just observing) if she would assist her in handling our request, stating "I have another request for a switch." The supervisor simply replied, "They can do it onboard at the Purser's Desk." When I replied that it would involve standing in a lengthy line (common at the Purser's Desk on the first day of sailing), the supervisor just stood there and repeated her decision. The agent said she had done several that day, but would not feel comfortable doing so by herself, so it was best we do onboard. We have no idea why the supervisor simply refused our request.

Our inside room was fine...typical Carnival layout. Our cabin steward was adequate, although not overly attentive to our room. For example, any items left on the desk/counter area remained untouched. In the past, cabins stewards generally straightened up, putting Capers and other such papers in a pile. This steward did not. But beds were made, fresh towels brought in, etc.

Unfortunately, I found the cleanliness on this ship severely lacking. Likewise, I found many of the crew the same as well. The Lido restaurant, in particular, needs attention. We often arrived to find many dirty tables, or tables without any silverware. Additionally, when there was silverware, it was often quite dirty with food particles, as were the plates. Being very conscious of this, I inspected my plates in the food line, and on numerous occasions, had to discard 5 or more plates in order to find a clean one. This is not acceptable. Read more