Had a great time on the Carnival Sensation Jan 13-16, 2011. Traveled with my three children aged 13, 11, and 6. They all had a great time, too! My youngest did participate in some Camp Carnival activities and BEGGED to go back for their late night parties (fees apply for that service, from 10pm-3am) but since I didn't have another adult with me and she enjoys things such as the shows on board I kept her with me in the evenings.
This is the first time I have taken the kids with me on a cruise, but I would do it again.
Cabins were smaller than some I've been in , especially for 4 people, but that is not such a big deal on such a short cruise. I had trouble figuring out how to adjust the room temperature (it is a vent in the ceiling) but our steward helped out. Layout of ship is great. Plenty of activities to keep everyone busy!
I thought the location was fantastic. Cabin was okay for one adult and 3 kids but we were on top of each other a lot. There is actually a trundle bed for a 5th occupant but we'd have to occupy the room in shifts for showers/changing if we had a 5th! Beds comfy, ample closet space and hangers for a short cruise. Typical cabin bathroom. For me, with kids old enough to go do their own thing, the location couldn't be beat! It is right under the arcade, camp carnival, the Fantasy theater and dining room, and not far from the Lido deck.