I had NO clue that there existed a cruise line that still allowed smoking in the staterooms. What is this--the early 1970s???? I am severely allergic to tobacco, and I don't have a problem with having smoking areas on board, but I draw the line at folks being allowed to smoke in their cabins--which then gets into the ventilation system and INTO MY ROOM. I had to suffer bloodshot, itchy, burning eyes, wheezing, coughing and an inability to even BREATHE through my nose for the duration of my cruise. All because Carnival allows people to smoke in their cabins. I complained to Guest Services a number of times, and all they could say is "I'm sorry." Well, THAT isn't good enough. I finally got them to bring an ozone machine to my room, and I had to leave the room for an hour each time it was used--VERY inconvenient--and it had to be used 2-3 times per day for the room to be "clear" (and I use that term VERY relatively) of smoke. There is NO EXCUSE for this. I am a paying customer just like the smokers, and I deserve to be as happy and comfortable on MY vacation as they do on theirs. I will NEVER cruise on Carnival again.

There was also practically NOTHING to do on the ship that didn't require paying extra. Personally, I despise casinos--I hate Vegas--and this ship was essentially a floating Vegas, even down to the horrendously ugly decor. SO if that's what you are looking for, go for it. If I had known beforehand what this ship was like, I never would have chosen it. HORRIBLE. The "comedy" shows were awful. They were NOT funny, unless you like comedians who pander to the lowest common denominator. The only actually "fun" things to do were ping-pong and putt-putt, which you can only do for so long before it gets incredibly boring.

That said, the remainder of the staff on the ship were great. We especially loved our Maitre'd and waitstaff at our table (218). Namsi was spectacular. Read more