Carnival Elation Review
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Additional details
Wanting to return to Half Moon Cay, we booked this cruise. We sailed on the Elation 2 years ago out of New Orleans to Cozumel, and the old girl was showing her age. Her recent drydock and redo did wonders. The updates have made a huge difference in her appearance and amenities.
Embarkation in JAX was smooth and easy as usual. FTTF really comes in handy by the way. The hotel we stayed at informed us they had a shuttle which was half the price as Carnival's. We arrived at the port at 1030am, and we're on board by 1115am, after a very short wait to get the ship ready for the first group of people to board. I can't compliment the embarkation crew enough. Excellent folks.
Dining was good. I've ordered the flatiron steaks on 3 different ships, and everytime it's like chewing a flip flop. It just must be the cut. I won't bother again. The prime rib on the last night out you could cut with a soup spoon, and cooked perfectly. Wasn't impressed with the burrito bar, but it might just be my preference for hard shell tacos, not soft. Noticed an increase in quality for Tiffany's as well. Breakfast has really been improved. Guy's Burger Bar, who can complain? Service in the MDR was exceptional as usual.
Cabin Review
Balcony
We upgraded to one of the newly added balcony rooms. We had originally booked an oceanview, as the only balconies were suites at the time. We got one of the last ones available and it was an aft balcony. Nice room, and the new linens and decor were exceptionally nice. The a/c worked flawlessly and the only issue was a slow draining sink. Not a true issue. Out cabin steward I Dewa was amazing. Our room was spotless. On Friday we had a rough sea day and the ship lurched one way, and I another and an tnrore picture of water flew out of my hand all over the room. He had it cleaned up within minutes. The new mattresses are very comfortable. And by new standards, these Fantasy class bathrooms are HUGE.