Carnival Liberty Review
Rating by category
Additional details
1. BACKGROUND: This was our 6th cruise (all on Carnival ships), but our first as just husband/wife with no kids or other family members. It was also our first 5 day cruise (all others were 7 days) and our first while school was still in session. Although we've never had major issues with lots of kids onboard during summer months, their absence was still noticeable!
2: EMBARKATION: We drove from San Antonio to Galveston on day 1 and parked at Lighthouse parking, taking advantage of the online discount for reserving ahead of time. The shuttle was quick and employees were friendly and hardworking. They loaded our bags into the shuttle and then unloaded at the terminal, where we were met by a porter who took them inside while we headed to the checkin line -- easy peasy. Having opted for 11:30 am checkin to get onboard as early as possible, we timed our arrival at the terminal for 11:15 to be ahead of the crowd. Our timing was good, but we were stopped from entering the terminal by employees until almost 11:30. But no big deal -- once inside, the process was quick and painless and we were onboard within 20 minutes. Liberty is a "Conquest Class" ship and since we've sailed on the Conquest 3 times, the layout is old hat to us, but it can be a little confusing the first time. If you're new to this class, grab a map on the counter of guest services desk to your right as you board the ship.
3. WEATHER: Day 1 in southern Texas was heavy rain all day, but by evening the rain had stopped and for the remainder of the cruise it was mostly clear and sunny. The ship was a little wobbly during dinner in the aft restaurant at 6 pm, but smooth sailing days 2-5.
Cabin Review
Interior
This is a "Handicap" room, which we didn't need but it was the only cabin left in the 4H category when we booked the cruise just 3 weeks before departure. The location is awesome! In the middle of the ship, close to the Lido activities (just several steps away), close to the elevators (just several steps away), but QUIET! The bathroom is extra large, to accommodate a wheel chair. The only down side for this cabin were the automatic doors. For a guest with a handicap that requires extra time to enter/exit, this is a necessity. Otherwise, it was an annoyance since the cabin door stayed open long after activating. According to the room steward, the auto opening feature could not be deactivated. Nevertheless, a terrific interior cabin that is quiet and in great location on the Lido (9th) deck. Also, other quests are always coming/going to/from the lido deck, so catching an elevator was quick! This was our first interior cabin and after having balcony cabins on past cruises, we were skeptical about an interior one. But we spend so little time on the cabin (just to change clothes and sleep) it wasn't bad at all (and the price is sure better ;-)