This was not our first cruise. Check at Jaxport was reasonably smooth. Some elderly check in staff were a little impatient. We were able to board ship a full hour before the advertised boarding time which was nice. When boarding there were crew members everywhere wearing red shirts with "ASK ME" printed on the front. Actually they were stationed throughout the vessel. Very helpful. A buffet was available on the Lido deck for lunch - very pleasant with a good selection including a grill for hot dogs and hamburgers prepared when ordered. Seating was inside or on deck.

The ship itself is quite clean but clearly showing it's age. The decor in most public areas including the dining rooms is very tacky and artless. Other Carnival ships are much more tasteful. Cabins are clean and comfortable. I never once saw our room steward but the room was always perfect. The in - cabin safes are a plus.

The dining rooms are cramped. It appears that 12 diners are placed at tables with room for ten. Tables are very close together. Dining room service was excellent and very cordial. Food was average. The big aggravation is you cannot dine without a photographer in your face - in fact that's the case almost all the time on board. Read more