We have been taking two cruises a year on various lines but had never cruised Carnival. I'd heard it was great but I was not expecting a "Celebrity" level of service. Funny how so many lines offer huge discounts but not Carnival. I'd first booked nearly the same cruise on Princess at 1/2 book price. Carnival on the other hand seems to price fairly and offer slight upgrades.

We got to San Diego early. Good thing. The port is small and with security, hard to get into. We were there at 1 p.m. and no lines, easy in. Our cabin was on the very back of the ship. I have always requested the back of the ship. We love the wake. The room was nice and very clean. Our friend was right below us in 5270.

This was my second West Coast Mexico cruise and you have to like being on board. It's really three days down and back. That brings up my first WARNING. YOU ARE NOT IN Acapulco for two days. We booked and many others I talked to read it as arrive at 1 p.m., spend the night and leave the next day at 2 a.m. WRONG! You will be getting off the boat after 2 p.m. (3 p.m. local time...dark at six) and leaving that night after midnight. Three quick hours of Acapulco sun! Many like us almost booked a hotel room for the night. Read carefully the days. $20.00 round trip (he waited) taxi ride to the cliff divers. Go to the restaurant. Two drinks, table and show for $12.00 ea. Read more