We chose this cruise because it was a short cruise that met the needs of our traveling friends, and left from close to their home. Carnival Liberty had the best Cruise Critic reviews of any 4-5 day cruise out of Port Canaveral about the time we needed. The ship was a very pleasant surprise. The decor was quite unique (sort of a real carnival motif) and it was a refreshing change from the ultra-modern looks of many newer ships. It was immaculately maintained, and looked like it just came from dry dock (cabins and public areas). Even with a younger crowd for spring break, it did not seem crowded or noisy (except see cabin rating). Food was surprisingly good in selection and taste in the sit down restaurant. The breakfast buffet was easy to navigate, but was very ordinary. Use the service restaurant for breakfast if you want a good variety. The lunch buffet options were superb satisfactory (deli, pizza, burgers, burritos). Never had a problem with finding a seat at the buffet (or at the pool or in the theater).

Embarkation was the best of any line we have traveled with. Since Liberty does not have a stop to pick up room cards (they are delivered at the cabin), it took less that five minutes from clearing security to being on board - without any "special status".

The only negative that dropped a star was the inconsistent services in the restaurant. Of four evening dinners, coffee was not offered at two. Once it was not supplied even after we asked. A real black mark was that the servers at several meals required us to use the same silverware for all courses. When you are home, do you use your appetizer fork for entree and dessert? Be ready to do so on Liberty, particularly at breakfast. Read more