My DH and I took this cruise as a birthday gift to ourselves. We have only ever cruised with Carnival and are happy with the quality of cruise experience we receive for the amount we pay. We would rather cruise every year or so on Carnival than have to wait and cruise less often on a more "upscale" cruise line. We are not hard to please but not pushovers either.

I surprised my husband by upgrading us to a balcony room as a surprise birthday gift to him. This was our first balcony as we have always had ocean view in the past. It was wonderful!!

We spent many hours out on the balcony and propped the door open a few nights while we slept. It was such a relaxing sound! I never once smelled the "sewer" smell others have written about and while the ship is older, it is well maintained. We had excellent service from our steward Richard and from waiters Nillson and Julius Cesar . We had anytime dining and loved it. New table mates every night. We met some fascinating people! The new menu was just introduced on the ship a few weeks prior. While there were a few of my favorites missing, there was plenty to choose from and everything was delicious. I don't understand how people can complain about the food being bad on these ships. Someone is waiting on me, cooking for me and cleaning up after me. I certainly don't expect 5star restaurant food when I'm paying $100 /night total for room and board. If I was paying what Disney charges for a cruise I would certainly expect it! Read more