We are Diamond on Royal and Platinum on Carnival so we enjoy both cruise lines. For the ship and food there is no comparison to Carnival at all, Royal wins everytime. Carnival we like the atmosphere and from Florida we like all the ports better on Carnival. So 2 different cruise lines. I will say Royal has a better loyalty program being Diamond. Carnival’s Platinum isn’t near as good.

Embarkation: we drove in the day before and stayed at The Galviz, historic hotel for history buffs. Pay the 1st night valet $18 and you get to leave your car all week and they have a shuttle to and from the port. It is secure parking. We got there by 11:00 am and were on the ship by 11:00 am.

Room: 1316 Junior Suite 10th floor 3 or 4 doors from back elevator. Personally the front of the ship makes me sea sick so we like the back or mid ship close to the elevator. Walk in closet, bathroom with actual bathtub ( no jets), sink, toilet, they do provide sample size toiletries but won’t last all week. King bed, 2 night stands with reading lights, sofa, chair , chair with lighted mirror. Only 2 plugs by the lighted mirror so no plugs in the bathroom or by the bed. If you have a cpap machine please bring new extension cords ( not to be deemed a hazard) so it can reach across the room. Balcony had table with 2 chairs and 2 loungers. 6 drawers and it does have a small safe in the room. Keep the “do not disturb “ sign everytime your in your room outside. When u leave put “ make up room”. That way the steward knows your in your room or gone, he won’t knock or bother you. Out of all the cruises we have done nothing has ever been taken from our room. Read more