My husband and I wanted a short break to get away between work commitments, and this was our first cruise on the Carnival line because it was the only cruise that suited both of our available dates for travel. We booked a suite at the back of the ship (8268) because it had a huge balcony, and we like relaxing out there.

We had priority boarding which made getting onto the ship a breeze. We had no line just before midday and walked straight up to the counter, had our photos taken, cleared security and boarded in less than 15 minutes. The fastest board time ever!

We loved the beautiful classic wooden decorative features aboard the ship. My husband described it as pirate ship-ish, and that does suit it well. I adored the winding glass staircase between deck 9 and the specialty restaurant- Nouveau, though my husband refused to look down while he was on them, as he's not fond of heights. You can see all the way down to what I believe was the 3rd floor. Read more