Sail Date: March 2016
Destination: Western Caribbean
Embarkation: Miami
We are a family of 4 with 2 teenagers and are platinum status on Carnival. Ok that is out of the way. Our cruise was excellent! I read and hear the complaints about the food the entertainment etc. but if you are considering this cruise ignore them. There are issues but they are all small.
The food was awesome. Yes the portions are less but you can order all you want so what is the difference! The quality is still exceptional and the choices still varied even if they are not as varied as before. Guy's burgers were a major improvement over the old set up and I had one each day. If you went at a time other the noon the lines were fine. The $1.95 charge for tea now is silly but easy to get around by bringing your own tea bags. I am more disappointed with the end of the chocolate on the pillows. Lido deck is Lido for the buffet, Nothing that I would jump up and down for but still quite tasty.
The music and shows were excellent with the exception of the piano bar More were Martin was awful in personality and seemed to play for himself not the crowd. The rock show was as good as any I have seen. The dancing was excellent with even some lyrical added in for good measure.
The staff went out of their way to make certain we had a great time and the Cruise director was everywhere and did a great job. Was also impressed and appreciative of the Easter service that they held.
The ports were also excellent and one of the reasons we chose this cruise. Isle of Roatan is one of the most beautiful places I have ever been to. The sting Rays at Grand Caymen were awesome as well. We also fed wild monkeys in Belize and that was quite the experience to see these amazing animals come out of the canopy.
The ship itself was more subdued then most Carnival ships and was clean and neat. It was obviously not all spit and polish like a new one but was still very nice and a pleasure to be on.
The biggest complaint we had was the faster to the fun people. By gaining a few dollars with this service they caused the platinum and Diamond members to have wait longer for tenders have no room to sit in the lounge and feel much less appreciated. I know of several platinum members who will be looking for other lines.
Lastly I would point out to those who complained about the little cost cutting measures that cruises now are basically the same price as we paid ten years ago. While nobody likes to lose amenities keeping the price low is what we demand so we are getting what we ask for. We highly recommend this cruise to anyone who wants a great value and great time! Less
Published 04/11/16
Helpful? Thank njbeliveau