This was the first cruise for my brother and his wife. We chose this one because they didn't have time for a longer one and it was convenient leaving from Los Angeles. Embarkation went very well compared to our last Carnival cruise. We were assigned a specific time and had a very short wait. We had outside cabins, which were large enough with plenty of storage, Our steward was excellent, keeping our ice pail full and our room clean and tidy. He was friendly and always greeted us by name. We appreciated receiving two large bottles of water in our room since we are returning passengers, and we pre-purchased water for my brother's cabin for a very small charge. My brother paid extra for an upgrade which put them near an open area which had a very loud celebration for Mardi Gras one night and kept them awake. Our room on deck 5 was quiet.

We enjoyed great service in the dining room but found the food average, except one night when we paid $20 for excellent steak and lobster dinners. My brother loved the chocolate melting cake, and I think he had it every night, sometimes along with another dessert. The buffet was also average, not as good as Princess and HAL for example, but we usually found something we enjoyed. My husband and brother loved Guy's Burgers (although I thought they were a little greasy), and I particularly liked the fish tacos at the Blue Iguana.

The entertainment was not really to my liking, with Divas and Rock of 70s and 80s. I recognize that the dancers were very energetic and skilled, but the music wasn't my favorite. There was not much that interested me during the day, but I love to sit looking out on the water or reading or visiting, so I was able to entertain myself. My brother enjoyed the casino. Read more