This is cruise number 12 with Carnival which we have taken more than any other cruise line. Overall, this marks our 24th cruise. We wanted to go on the new ship. We have been on more ships in their first year of service with Carnival than with all other cruise lines combined. Since we live in NYC it is not far to the pier. Embarkation went well. After we checked in there were not enough seats for everyone to sit down on. We boarded the ship quickly then went to our stateroom to put our carry on luggage down. Then we went to the Lido Deck for a bite to eat. Left a message for some friends also going on that cruise tat we met on a prior Carnival cruise. We waited for them and they did show up. We had something to eat then met some other passengers before walking around getting acquainted with the ship.

The Carnival Vista has some problems. First, The Liquid Lounge. On the third floor there are seats that can be moved. In that manner the room could be used for multi purposes. However, that means less seating. Less seating and more passengers means that some will not have a chance to see the show. No place to put a drink. However, there are some fixed seats that can not be moved. When seats are rearranged small seats are often placed behind larger seats which means you get a good view of the back of someone's head. The space overlooking the Atrium is too small for the number of people on the ship. When many people want to see that part of a show you don't get good views. There happens to be shows in the Atrium and there is not a lot of room for people to stand and watch. At least the Carnival Dream had more space and seats for people to sit on. More people capacity and fewer elevators means longer wait for elevators. Also, elevators are too small.

Dining- The food on Carnival ships are the best. The service in the MDR was also good. We liked the food and service so much we chose not to eat at the Steakhouse when it was offered to us. Read more