BACKGROUND INFORMATION: 5th Carnival Cruise for my wife and I, who are in our late 40s. Two previous cruises on Norwegian. All previous cruises, except for our honeymoon in 1987, were with our children, so this was our first "empty-nester" cruise. Our most recent cruise was on the (then) smoke-free Paradise in 1998. After planning this cruise for six months and reading all these mostly negative reviews, we almost dreaded seeing how far down the toilet Carnival's ships and service had gone in 12 years. Not to worry--we were so pleased with the cruise and everything associated with it.
We had several goals on this trip: First, eat no hamburgers or pizza. We have those available at home. Second, don't use the elevators at all. We need to burn calories. Third, get a good workout in the gym every day. We succeeded on all these goals. I still gained five pounds, but DW managed to keep her smokin' hot figure. We knew we took a risk by scheduling a cruise in the height of the hurricane season, but the low fare was irresistible. Good gamble. The weather was great, with just some occasional showers.
TRAVEL TO PORT/EMBARKATION: Living in North Georgia, we wanted to drive to Mobile the day before. We took advantage of the Renaissance Riverview's Park&Cruise package. Great hotel, and right across the street from Veet's, a local bar with a great live band. The place was hopping, even on a Sunday night. The shuttle service to the port was prompt and carefree. Embarkation lines were long, but moved quickly. As long as you have your documents ready and sign the "I am not anticipating death from a communicable disease this week" form somewhat truthfully, you are headed up the gangway quickly.