We originally booked this cruise for last July but due to cancer had to cancel. I didn't buy the insurance that time but Carnival was very understanding and we finally got our cruise last week. We drove to Baltimore from northern Virginia and the cruise started on Mothers Day. How appropriate as it was filled with lots of mothers whose loving children bought them the cruise. Old they may have been but full of energy for sure! The embarkation went very smoothly with the only wait because we arrived too early due to traffic concerns which didn't present a problem. We went straight to the buffet and enjoyed a good lunch. Our cabin was roomy enough and the service was invisible but very good. Our dining area was right next to the aft window which was a great view! Service and food was always terrific throughout the cruise. The shows are worth attending, comedians always funny, and my wife even won a few hundred on the slots. We went to the Karaoke but a bunch of almost professionals had taken it over so we moved on to the dance hall where the old folks were having a blast line dancing the night away. We went to David's, the high cuisine steakhouse and enjoyed it a lot. We also did the behind the fun shipboard tour and that was very worthwhile. One warning, nothings free except the food, the sunbathing and the great and friendly service. Photos ran over 20 bucks a shot, drinks are expensive but not excessive as only a dollar more than the local restaurants and most everything extra came at a price. You don't have to buy any of this stuff though so it's OK. The Piano Bar was very good with excellent sing-along musicians most nights. We enjoyed our excursions though be cautious to allow yourself beach time as excursions do take up time. The people on this cruise and especially the staff were always friendly and nice. None of the complaints I read about came to pass on this cruise for sure! Our first cruise and we'll be back for more in the future!