We cruised the Carnival Legend out of Tampa on 2/27/11. I went with my girlfriends, there were five of us later deemed "The Margarita Girls". We arrived in Tampa on 2/26 and spent the night at the Embassy Suites with a federal govt/military discount. I believe it was $152 or so which was a great deal considering you get happy hour with snacks and drinks included and a delicious hot breakfast the next morning. We took a taxi to the Embassy Suites which was $5 per person, however, very crowded with all of our luggage. On the date of sailing, we took advantage of the Ship or Shore shuttle owned by Bob Gulino (813-741-3222 or www.sostampa.net). You could pay $10 each way or $20 round trip and they will come back to get you and take you to the airport. This is a bigger van with plenty of room for luggage so it was very comfortable. This company

had terrific customer service skills, they helped everyone out of the van and loaded and unloaded all luggage. Highly recommend this company. We arrived at the port around 1130, embarkation was very smooth, there were lines but they went fast. Our cabins were not ready until 130 so everyone went to the lido deck and unicorn cafe which was a DISASTER. There wasn't an empty seat in the place and instead of people eating and then finding some place else to sit after they were finished eating they stayed in there taking up space which was very thoughtless and rude in my opinion.

Cabins: Plenty of space for us. Since we had two rooms, we asked to open the balcony divider. Went down and signed a waiver and they opened it the next day so it was terrific chatting every night on our extended balcony. Our stateroom steward, Rommel, was a sweetheart and made sure our room was always in tip top shape. Read more