Carnival Elation Review
Rating by category
Additional details
Overall, we had a great trip! No major issues that ruined our fun. The only issues we ran into were on the second day of our cruise. The service in the Imagination dining room was insanely slow and items that were "to order" were served incorrectly. Thankfully mistakes were corrected but it is worth noting. I had heard the previous cruises had been rough trips and had unhappy cruisers, so I'm sure the crew was tired and they seemed it. They work so hard to make us happy, so it made sense. By the next day, service was to what we are used to and we were happier. The shows and entertainment was really good. This trip we decided to leave our kids home, but they would've had a blast. The ship definitely was in need of maintenance mechanically. The first night we hit rough seas and the ship was sounding rough. It is a 22 year old ship, so I wasnt surprised and stuff happens. She is scheduled for dry dock in March and she really deserves it.
Cabin Review
Interior
Overall our cabin was great! However, as a porthole room, it is important to note that if you book this room specifically, it is as far forward as you can get on the ship from. You will be located directly behind where the ropes are launched when in port. It was very loud! So if you are cruising to sleep in, don't book this cabin. Go further back. There was also a crew passage door right next to our door and as early as 6:30, you could hear them going in and out. Also, if you're prone to sea sickness, definitely do not book. For us it was mostly ok. Both of us are usually up early, between 4:45 & 5:15 back home, so a 7am sleep in once noise started was fine for us. Otherwise, the cabin was perfect for us. I love the nook by the porthole windows was super cool. We displayed our towel animals on it!
Port Reviews
Amber Cove (Puerto Plata)
We didn't leave port; however, we had a great time! Lots of shopping and fun at the pool to be had. I was able to walk around with a glass of wine and shop. Winning! Husband wasn't thrilled, but happy wife, happy life! ;) They also had a hidden gem... Nathan's Hot Dogs! I hadn't had one in years and it made my day.
Grand Turk
We enjoyed this stop as well. Apparently we were the first cruise in a while to make it there in a while according to the crew, so that was a plus. We cannot wait to go back and see more bc it was and short stop and not enough time.