We just got back from a wonderful cruise on the Carnival Fascination. We were skeptical as our cruises before had been Disney and NCL.

Bad start - Booking Issue: I was worried that Carnival's standards might be significantly lower than other cruise lines due to our booking experience. We booked our cruise through an internet agency associated with our credit card. We booked an Ocean View Guarantee room for three people. I understand you take whatever room you are assigned, but I was assured by my travel agent that the room would have a pull down or sofa bed for the third person (my 21 year old son). Well, the original room assigned to me was a double with the intent to bring in a fold away bed. A standard cabin with a roll away taking up the floor space would be too tight for us, so I paid $150 to get the same category room with a third bed. I was a little aggravated as Carnival had three person rooms available. Also, if you book with a travel agent and call Carnival's customer service, they will not even talk to you as per company policy.

Jacksonville Port Hotel: We booked the Hyatt Regency through price line for about $62 with fees. Excellent experience! The hotel has a parking fee of $15 per day if you choose to go that route. The following morning we drove to the cruise port. Read more