We saw a Smithsonian channel segment on new ships with Vista included. We live in Dallas so Galveston was convenient.

This ship is bigger than other Carnival ships we have sailed on but it doesn't seem large inside. The atrium is a much documented problem. It is small, mostly bar, three stories with glass railings and bar stools at the railings to look down and watch-- what? In fact, this whole ship is to sit, drink and watch someone else do something and be told you are having fun doing it. I had the soda package and got great service with it.

Our spa balcony cabin was like any other balcony, glass window/single glass door to outside. The robes provided were frayed at the necks and belts. Only two elevators go Deck 14 but also go to all decks so it is impossible to get an elevator. You walk up and down to 12 to gain access to all elelvators.The private stairway from Deck 14 to spa was nice but there was a peculiar odor on the stairwell. The spa is a hugh disappointment. The "thermal pool" is a rectangular hot tub approx 6"by14" with benches and jets down one side so you sit lined up with other passengers like ducks in a row. Holds about 6. We sail Norwegian with their great spas and were aghast. There are 8 or 9 heated lounges, far too few for the ship spa population. Saunas and steam rooms were okay. One has switch for different steam smells but it never worked. WORST OF ALL, personnel do not come and go in the spa area and passengers have loud conversations with many guffaws, pass cell phone pictures back and forth with comments, and two gentlemen had a very loud thermal pool conversation about deer getting into their yards, trapping, killing and dressing the deer--for all within forty feet to endure. No relaxing music, no aromatherapy and no "quiet" signs posted. No monitoring of what is going on in the spa area. Don't waste your money on the "pseudo spa." Read more