Am I going to hate Carnival?

[alli]

Okay, keep you replies as polite as possible.
My husband and I have been on 7-8 cruises(rccl,ncl,princess and celebrity...we are planning a hal cruise in September). Meanwhile, we needed a fast, cheap, get out of town trip and he booked a four day Fascination out of Miami.
I'm keeping an open mind and packing my sense of humor.
Anyone here done Carnival?

[Danno]

If the people I met on the beach in Mexico are any indication...you will hate Carnival. I wonder if they've sobered up yet.

Sorry...you asked.

Dan

CenturyX1,GalaxyX2,HorizonX5,VolendamX1,

Zenith to Bermuda Oct/04
Century to E.Caribbean Feb/05

[jenny368]

My husband and I did this same cruise for our honeymoon in 11/98. This was our first cruise and we loved it. We have since done two more cruises with our kids. Costa and RCI. You will have a blast. Don't let people ruin it for you. We loved the food, entertainment, service and ports (plus no kids was a real plus!) Have a great time.

Jenny
UNTIL OUR BRILLANCE 4/9 CRUISE

http://escati.linkopp.net/cgi-bin/countdown.cgi?trgb=000000&srgb=00ff00&prgb=00ffff&cdt=2004;4;9;17;00;00&timezone=GMT-0500

[teedee]

I've been on a few Carnival cruises and while I prefer Celebrity, I've had a great time on Carnival too. Yes, it's glitzier and more of a party boat, especially on shorter cruises, but the food was good, the beer cold and we had a great time.

Terri

Skyward - 1989
Carnivale - 1991
Holiday - 1994
Fantasy - 1998
Century - 2002
Century - 2003
Jubilee - 7/04
Century - 9/04
Coral Princess 3/05

[woodofpine]

A lot of folks diss NCL too...

Just go with an open mind and fresh vacinations. http://messages.cruisecritic.com/infopop/emoticons/icon_biggrin.gif

[Rich&Natalia]

I'm sure you won't hate it. Just note that shorter cruises attact younger, working people, and also that you may see more kids during the summer.

I think how we enjoy our vacations is a lot like the story below (copied from http://www.godspell.org.uk/writing/travellers.html) :

A traveller, drawing near to a town as he made his way along the road, stopped to ask a farmer who was working in a field by the side of the road, "What are the people like, in this next town?"
The farmer asked him, "How did you find the people in the town you have left? What were they like?"
"Terrible!" said the traveller. "They were such cold people, miserable and mean-spirited, full of bitterness and envy, gossiping and back-biting. I couldn't get away from there quickly enough."
"I'm sorry," said the farmer, "you will find the people in this next town just the same."
The traveller shook his head in disappointment and turned back to the main road, to go further.

A second traveller came that way, and asked the farmer, "What are the people like, in this next town?"
The farmer asked him, "How did you find the people in the town you have left? What were they like?"
"Wonderful!" answered the traveller. "They were warm, generous, friendly and open-hearted. It nearly broke my heart to have to leave them."
"Well," said the farmer, "I'm pleased to say you will find the people in this next town just the same."
And he put down his tools and came to shake the traveller's hand, welcoming him to his new home.



Maybe you will like one cruise better than another, but I don't think you'll hate it. How can you? It's a cruise. http://messages.cruisecritic.com/infopop/emoticons/icon_smile.gif

-Rich

http://escati.linkopp.net/cgi-bin/countdown.cgi?trgb=000000&srgb=00ff00&prgb=0000ff&cdt=2004;10;8;18;0;00&timezone=GMT-0500
'til I'm back on the Galaxy

[Seabee]

<BLOCKQUOTE class="ip-ubbcode-quote"><font size="-1">quote:</font><HR>Originally posted by Rich&Natalia:
shorter cruises attact younger, working people, <HR></BLOCKQUOTE>

What do you mean by "working" people. Is this like the Dems hollering that working people don't get tax breaks? I work my tail off and I doubt I'd ever go on a four day cruise and certainly not on Carnival!

I agree with Danno on this one...heard too many folks coming back from the "Porn Cruise" as it was once called by a friend to say "never again:". I don't know if Alli will hate it but I know I would! http://messages.cruisecritic.com/infopop/emoticons/icon_smile.gif

************************************************** ****
With Compassion for others we build...we fight for peace and freedom

[Ti2m]

I think you will have a renewed appreciation for Celebrity.

How is that for being positive?

Timm

Celebrity Century 2/02
Carnival Spirit 1/03
Celebrity Century 11/03
Celebrity Millennium 1/05

[Lois R]

Alli...I went on a 3 nighter last summer on Soveriegn of The Seas out of Port Canaveral....
I know it is not Carnival but I don't think I will ever do that one again....(not unless someone else is paying http://messages.cruisecritic.com/infopop/emoticons/icon_wink.gif).
In the middle of summer you are going to find....TONS AND TONS of kids...just to make you aware. A shorter cruise is a very reasonably priced family vacation ( the amount of kids).
Now, I always cruise with a good attitudehttp://messages.cruisecritic.com/infopop/emoticons/icon_smile.gif and I had a fairly nice time....the best part was the Private Island.
This ship is old and the cabins (mine) was TEENEY.
Can't tell you about the Fascination as I have not sailed it.
Just thought I would let you know my experience.
3 or 4 nights...definitely a different demographic!

Next up...HORIZON Sept 18th to Bermuda!

See My Century and Mercury Pictures at:
http://community.webshots.com/user/lovescruising

[Rich&Natalia]

I don't think that the demographic characterics noted in my first posting are debated by too many people. By working people, I meant people that have limited vacation days to go on cruises. I think that bringing in Democrats, taxes, and porn into this thread is kind of reaching.

-Rich

http://escati.linkopp.net/cgi-bin/countdown.cgi?trgb=000000&srgb=00ff00&prgb=0000ff&cdt=2004;10;8;18;0;00&timezone=GMT-0500
'til I'm back on the Galaxy

[RCLforever]

She said she was going on HAL in Sept...when is this quick weekend one on Carnival?? I dont think she said when it is....

[janrj7]

Our first two cruises were on Carnival (Jubilee and Holiday) and we enjoyed every minute! Sure there were a few more kids around, but they behaved themselves. The food was very good, the staff extremely friendly and helpful. And you can't beat the price! We'll probably sail with them again some day, though our next four cruises are booked with Celebrity. Have a great time!

[alli]

The 'quickie' is on May 17th...hopefully not too many kids out of school (yet). We normally do a 7 day cruise around this time and have found the above to be true.
Due to a heavy tax bill (yeah, the hard working folk w/o kids do pay through the nose)and the central a/c being replaced last week, We had to cut back on the vacation thing.
I'm walking into this with my eyes wide open.
Thanks for all the replies.

[Lois R]

Alli...you will probably have a nice timehttp://messages.cruisecritic.com/infopop/emoticons/icon_smile.gif...just remember...you are probably going to compare lots of things--that is human nature!
But it will be like comparing apples to oranges...keep that in mind too http://messages.cruisecritic.com/infopop/emoticons/icon_wink.gif

Next up...HORIZON Sept 18th to Bermuda!

See My Century and Mercury Pictures at:
http://community.webshots.com/user/lovescruising

[ShipsAhoy]

I agree with some of the other post here that the summer and shorter cruise my not be the best choice, however I think you will enjoy the Fascination. We enjoyed our cruise on the Fascination, and we don't do much drinking, it's all what you make of it!!! Have fun!!!

11th cruise Zenith Oct.27 2003
12th cruise Dec. 5, 2004
"Infinitinis to Hawaii and Beyond"

[alli]

Shipsahoy,
When were you on the Fascination? She's an older ship and I've heard tales of wear and tear.
Having said that, Century is of the same age, and we found her to well-kept.

[wv4891]

Hi, We were forced to do a Carnival Cruise a few years ago as our RCCL ship broke down two weeks before our Easter Vacation cruises with our kids, then teenagers. I was worried, having fallen for that Carnival generalization that there is a drunk behind every potted plant (no joke intended). We went on the smokefree Paradise and to our surprise loved every minute of it. It was great to be on a smoke free ship, although I an not a fanatic on no smoking ( I am an ex smoker). Although the ship must have had 500 kids on it we had a great time. The entertainment was far superior to Celebrity's. Overal things were a lot more livier and I did not see any of those drunks that everyone talks about. As an extra bonus point in my mind I could always find my underaged kids in the Disco, along with all the other kids on the ship in that age group. For those of you you have teenages I found this better than to go in search of my kids throughout the ship. Would I do another Carnival Cruise? Probably noy, I have become accustomed to traveling without kids and to the superior product that Celebrity has to offer, or at least I think it has.

http://escati.linkopp.net/cgi-bin/countdown.cgi?trgb=000000&srgb=00ff00&prgb=ff0000&cdt=2004;12;27;17;00;00&timezone=GMT-0700

Celebrity Mercury 12/27/2004

[drk]

I have to chime in here on this one. We (51M and 45F) have been on 5 cruises the past few years with 4 on Carnival and 1 on Celebrity. We enjoyed all of them. The myth that Carnival is a drunken orgy is just that...a myth. In general I would say that Carnival attracts a more extroverted crowd than Celebrity but otherwise not much different.

The Fantasy class ships have a very nice layout in the common areas and their atriums are really impressive. The cabins are fairly spartan however they are large and the bathrooms are nicer than any of the newer ships we've been on.

The food on Carnival is fine. We did think that the cuts of beef were better on Celebrity and the desserts also better. The variety and availibility of food and the 24 hour pizza and ice cream are handy on Carnival.

They are both fine products and with a positive attitude you will have a good time.

This from someone who has been there recently and not just assuming that what they heard is true.

Until the Infinity in July.

Starward 03/91; Dreamward 04/94; Victory 04/01; Mercury 01/03; Imagination 05/03; Paradise 11/03; Legend 01/04; Infinity 07/04

[ACJV]

The food and ships are nice. We have sailed Carnival in the past and enjoyed it . However, in 2000 my daughter graduated from high school and we took our children on Carnival. We were supposed to go on the Paradise, and it became disabled the week we were to leave. We ended up on the Triumph and it was not very enjoyable. The main problem was the behavior of the passengers and their children. Let me just say that the passengers had alot of class, however it was mostly low.
ACJV

ACJV

[espmass]

We have been on Carnival twice, including the Fascination. We much prefer Celebrity but thoroughly enjoyed Carnival. You'll enjoy yourself so relax, stop worrying, and have a good time.

[woodofpine]

As a then Princess only cruiser, I did the 3 day flip on C. Fantasy 10/02 out of P. Everglades, RC's Soveriegn was in port in Nassau also and I looked over thinking she's gotta be better than THIS!

Fascination is a younger sister of the Fantasy class. Bottom line: the 3/4 night cycle of Fascination, Fantasy, and SOS puts a lot of wear and tear on ship AND crew. I sensed the crew was burnt out and the ship really was in need...

But, I enjoyed Nassau greatly (I don't care what anyone says, the surry ride through town then Blue Lagoon dolphin swim was X'cellent). We were moored up with the late now broken Ocean Breeze/Southern Cross, The World, and Galaxy. Due to the narrow harbor entrance, tugs stern haul you into port about a mile past Mick Jaeggers, Geraldine Chaplin, and Richard Chamberlin's homes on Paradise Island.

View it as a quick fix on some crummy mexican horse - but it'll get you there and have fun, laugh, and love that Bahamian water.

[Lsimon]

I'm sure you'll hate it and have a terrible time. So just to help you out you we'll go for you. I know it will be hard to bear such a terrible time, but someone has to do it so we will for you!!

[iowagirl411]

S.O. and I ususlly go Celebrity but I took my daughters on Carnival a while back and we had a fabulous time. They were in their 20's and 30's and I don't think they would have liked Celebrity as much. We try to experience many different things on our land vacations. Why should all cruises be carbon copies? We camp; we do spas; we skydive; we do museums; we do Celebrity; we do Carnival. Variety is the spice of life!

iowagirl411
Century 12/6
http://escati.linkopp.net/cgi-bin/countdown.cgi?trgb=000000&srgb=00ff00&prgb=4169e1&cdt=2003;12;6;16;0;00&timezone=GMT-0500

[NitaBcruising]

alli,
I agree with most of the posters. I have done most of the mainstream lines. I prefer Celebrity and Princess. But, I've done 2 Carnival, one a 5 day out of LA, in the summer, just last year! There were more kids, some were a bit wild, as some usually are! You may be lucky, in May!!! But, I would definately go and enjoy! Thay do have roomy cabins, good food, entertainment, and staff. Not as good of food as Celebrity, but good, none the less. I have to say, I have enjoyed every one of my cruises on every line. In retrospect, I have truly loved some a bit more than others, but loved them all! It's all in what you make of it! Enjoy! http://messages.cruisecritic.com/infopop/emoticons/icon_smile.gif
P.S. Carnival is a bit glitzier than I like. But, I'm not buying the ship, so no big deal!

Nita

[Princess-of-Quite-alot]

I did both a 3-day and 4-day Carnival cruise. I would not recommend the 3 day..it is over the weekend and it is not the kids who are wild..it's the stupid adult drunks who yell and scream outside the hallways at night. (Carnival did give me shipboard credit and a discount on future cruise after I complained) The 4 day was great....a wonderful quick getaway and for usually a very good price! I recently saw a 4 day advertised for $169! One more thing...try their chocolate cake at dinner...it's the best! (Any cruise is good where they make my bed, feed me and entertain me!)

Celebrity Century 5/8/04 -Western Caribbean
http://escati.linkopp.net/cgi-bin/countdown.cgi?trgb=000000&srgb=00ff00&prgb=9400d3&cdt=2004;5;8;16;30;00&timezone=GMT-0800

Carnival Ecstasy 2/04 - Baja
Tahitian Princess 2/03- French Polynesia
Sea Princess 7/02 - Alaska
Carnival Ecstasy 5/02 - Baja
Royal Caribbean Monarch 10/00 - Southern Caribbean
Carnival Elation 10/99 - Mexican Riviera
Royal Caribbean Monarch 1/97 - Southern Caribbean

[alli]

Princessofquitealot-
You're going on my favorite ship CENTURY! Thanks for the info on Carnival...Ill just be happy not to be working on our short trip.
While on Century check out the t-pool. We also tried the spa treatment that involved a mud rubbing treatment for two(under $100.00)and loved it!
I would go back to the Century a third ime, however, they stay with the same shows and that became a bit boring.

[Princess-of-Quite-alot]

It's good to try different ships.... it seems like Century is everyone's favorite ship! Me thinks me gonna like her lots!! We have planned to relax in the T-pool every evening before we retire. Have fun on Carnival...it's alllll good!

Celebrity Century 5/8/04 -Western Caribbean
http://escati.linkopp.net/cgi-bin/countdown.cgi?trgb=000000&srgb=00ff00&prgb=9400d3&cdt=2004;5;8;16;30;00&timezone=GMT-0800

Carnival Ecstasy 2/04 - Baja
Tahitian Princess 2/03- French Polynesia
Sea Princess 7/02 - Alaska
Carnival Ecstasy 5/02 - Baja
Royal Caribbean Monarch 10/00 - Southern Caribbean
Carnival Elation 10/99 - Mexican Riviera
Royal Caribbean Monarch 1/97 - Southern Caribbean

[tlmlb]

Carnival cannot compare with Celebrity; low expectations is the key...and then let them overdeliver.....4 nights is just too short, i like quick getaways but don't really associate them with a cruise; more of a go to a resort and stay...Vegas, ps, etc....

[annee1967]

I love Fascination, even though I've only done the 3-day! I miss it and looking forward to going again real soon, but I have a Disney cruise planned for later this year, maybe I can squeeze in Fascination for December http://messages.cruisecritic.com/infopop/emoticons/icon_smile.gif

The things I love about Fascination are: the free soft serve vanilla ice cream, available almost 24 hrs. a day, karaoke, the comedians, the spa, the whirlpool in the spa is not so crowded, the gym, the staff, fellow guests, hamburgers, chicken sandwiches by the grill, fries, pizza, etc. The rooms are spacious, clean, and beautiful, Not much of a dining room fan for fancy food, that's where Celebrity excels! The dining staff on Celebrity is the best!

Hate to admit it, but on my first Carnival cruise, I went with low expectations and was oohing and ahhing all the way!!! It more than exceeded my expectations! I gave Carnival a glowing review!

Just recently took a Celebrity cruise and the food on Carnival is more than comparable, definitely more dining choices than Celebrity!

I love both Carnival and Celebrity!!!

Have fun!!!

Celebrity Century 5/26/01
Carnival Fascination 10/11/02
Carnival Fascination 1/24/03
Carnival Fascination 6/6/03
Princess Sun 8/25/03
Royal Caribbean Sovereign of the Seas 12/12/03
Celebrity Galaxy 2/20/04
http://escati.linkopp.net/cgi-bin/countdown.cgi?trgb=000000&srgb=00ff00&prgb=ff0000&cdt=2004;2;20;17;0;00&timezone=GMT-0500
Southern Caribbean

[annee1967]

I agree with Lois.

Sailed the 3-day Sovereign of the Seas and the room was tiny, smelly, and old with a filthy bedding that I requested to be changed! Heard so many people raving about Royal Carribean, I had to try it and was so disppointed http://messages.cruisecritic.com/infopop/emoticons/icon_frown.gif

Prior to boarding, I had my room decorated with flowers and a $30.00 Bon Voyage package from the ship to pretty up my room. The decorations looked like they were only worth about $5.00 and the flowers were smaller than I imagined, although they did last long. Hint: buy flowers onboard as they are much cheaper! Carnival and Princess do great jobs in room decor!

Anyhow, I was in a back room somewhere. The service was all right. The food was okay. I did love the lasagne. Free vanilla soft serve was excellent when the machine was working.

Overall, the food tasted better than on my recent Galaxy cruise because RCI had more dining choices.

The best part of my Royal Caribbean vacation was definitely the private island - totally LOVED it!!!

Celebrity Century 5/26/01
Carnival Fascination 10/11/02
Carnival Fascination 1/24/03
Carnival Fascination 6/6/03
Princess Sun 8/25/03
Royal Caribbean Sovereign of the Seas 12/12/03
Celebrity Galaxy 2/20/04
http://escati.linkopp.net/cgi-bin/countdown.cgi?trgb=000000&srgb=00ff00&prgb=ff0000&cdt=2004;2;20;17;0;00&timezone=GMT-0500
Southern Caribbean

[Rustynail]

I've sailed on both Carnival (Legend) and Celebrity (Century) and didn't really see a vast difference. Food, service and entertainment was fantastic on both lines.

There were no rowdy drunks on either of our experiences. I personally think Carnival gets a underserved bad rap for the partying ways of their passengers.

A drunk is a drunk is a drunk regardless of the line. College spring break excluded of course.

Rusty

http://www.animatedgif.net/animals/dogs/stikdog_e0.gif

CARRIBEAN PRINCESS JAN 2005
http://escati.linkopp.net/cgi-bin/countdown.cgi?trgb=000000&srgb=00ff00&prgb=ff0000&cdt=2005;01;22;17;00;00&timezone=GMT-0500

CARNIVAL'S LEGEND JAN 2003
CELEBRITY'S CENTURY DEC 2003
http://www.animatedgif.net/animals/dogs/cflbird2dog_e0.gif

[reggierail]

If I had to choose between cruising on Carnival and being in Bakersfield(mid 90's today), I'd take the cruise. http://messages.cruisecritic.com/infopop/emoticons/icon_razz.gif

Reggie http://messages.cruisecritic.com/infopop/emoticons/icon_biggrin.gif

http://escati.linkopp.net/cgi-bin/countdown.cgi?trgb=000000&srgb=00ff00&prgb=CD20CD&cdt=2004;10;17;17;00;00&timezone=GMT-0500
Rhapsody 10-17-04

http://escati.linkopp.net/cgi-bin/countdown.cgi?trgb=000000&srgb=00ff00&prgb=CD20CD&cdt=2004;12;06;17;00;00&timezone=GMT-0700
Mercury 12-06-04

Monarch - Sometime soon



Viking Serenade 1998
Viking Serenade 1999
Voyager of the Seas 2000
Viking Serenade 2001
Majesty of the Seas 11-2002
Norwegian Sea 11-2002
Vision of the Seas 11-2002
Mercury 5-03-03
Monarch of the Seas 6-09-03
Mercury 10-12-03
Monarch 11-17-03
Monarch 1-19-04
Monarch 3-29-04

God bless the USA and all freedom loving people. May God protect all those who fight and die to protect those freedoms.

[ShipsAhoy]

Alli we were on her in 1997 so it could very well be in need for repairs.

11th cruise Zenith Oct.27 2003
12th cruise Dec. 5, 2004
"Infinitinis to Hawaii and Beyond"

[TaznBugs]

WE were on the sensation and when we got off everyone said the only to get me back on afun shipwould be for free or at gun point and it better be a big gun http://messages.cruisecritic.com/infopop/emoticons/icon_mad.gif

Jim
SEABREEZ 98
OCEANBREEZ 99
MAJESTY 2000
SENSATION 2001
CENTURY 2003
CENTURY JULY 10 2004

[NitaBcruising]

A hint for not being by the cabins with kids? Just make sure when you book, that there are no quad cabins near you. It works, to a certian point. Some put teenagers in an inside, across from their outside. I've had kids noisy nearby, also. But, once when our door was knocked on late, we looked and it was an adult! DH said I should have followed them to their cabin and knocked on their door at 6 am!!!

Nita

[Cloud9]

We've done Carnival and had a wonderful time, I never saw anyone drunk or rude. We saw more staggering older people on Celebrity! I think the Martini Bar is the colprit! (sp?)

http://users.skynet.be/gedi/emoticons4u/angels/teu37.gif http://www.emotipad.com/newemoticons/Blush2.gif http://home.ix.netcom.com/~import1/_uimages/dihebrew.gif
http://escati.linkopp.net/cgi-bin/countdown.cgi?trgb=000000&srgb=00ff00&prgb=ff00ff&cdt=2004;5;16;16;00;00&timezone=GMT-0500&nbsp;Until no one's home

Carnival Fantasy 12/01
Celebrity Galaxy 10/02
Celebrity Horizon 9/03
Carnival Miracle 5/04 http://www.addis-welt.de/smilie/smilie/diverse/79.gif

[brn2crz]

[QUOTE]Originally posted by drk:
I have to chime in here on this one. We (51M and 45F) have been on 5 cruises the past few years with 4 on Carnival and 1 on Celebrity. We enjoyed all of them. The myth that Carnival is a drunken orgy is just that...a myth.

While your statement may hold true to some of the newer,bigger ships,with longer sailings.
It is no myth that the 3 & 4 days sailings are largely "party" atmosphere.Period.

[Princess-of-Quite-alot]

I have been on 3 Carnival cruises, and only the 3-day had the drunken idiots yelling in the hallways during the night. On top of that, there was pot smoking in the hallways, and the crew was loudly cavorting at 2am in the employee stairwell across the hall from our room! The other 2 cruises were as civil as any Princess or RCCL I had been on. The cheaper weekend cruises do attract a younger crowd looking to party and let loose. (Not to say all young people are partiers either!)

Celebrity Century 5/8/04 -Western Caribbean
http://escati.linkopp.net/cgi-bin/countdown.cgi?trgb=000000&srgb=00ff00&prgb=9400d3&cdt=2004;5;8;16;30;00&timezone=GMT-0800

Carnival Ecstasy 2/04 - Baja
Tahitian Princess 2/03- French Polynesia
Sea Princess 7/02 - Alaska
Carnival Ecstasy 5/02 - Baja
Royal Caribbean Monarch 10/00 - Southern Caribbean
Carnival Elation 10/99 - Mexican Riviera
Royal Caribbean Monarch 1/97 - Southern Caribbean

[gene624]

I suspect that you will enjoy your short Carnival trip, but it will make you appreciate HAL or Celebrity or RCCI.
Gene in Birmingham

[rftsr]

My 2 cents:

Carnival is my second favorite cruiseline, Celebrity being number one of course. I've only done 7 day trips. The food is good, the staff fabulous, and nobody throws a party better! The crew is great... down to earth and nice to talk to.

It's a nice change from the formality of Celebrity, and an incredible value. I had no expectations when sailing Carnival and really was pleasantly surprised. It's better than RCCI (food sucks), better than Princess (food and staff REALLY suck)!

If you have the right attitude Carnival is really a fun cruise...so enjoy!!!

[midnightblue]

I know that I am going to get beat up for this reply, but I have to be honest. We just got home yesterday from a 10 day cruise on the Celebrity Galaxy. It was fantastic.....But our previouse Carnival Cruise was more fun. My wife and I are both in our mid 50's and we are not drunks, we just like to have fun and we enjoy the company of young people. The entertainment on Celebrity was excellent but geared for an older crowd. We like to snorkle and Scuba Dive and para sail and some of our excursions were cancelled at the last minute because there were not enough people interested. If you are young or think you are young I would say that you will enjoy Carnival much more. But again I must say Celebrity was fantastic. One of the draw back of going on a ship with an older crowd is, they tend not to get up and move around a lot hence you can never get a place to sit down, they sort of hog up all the good spots. Except in the clubs they are usually empty. OK I appologize to my fellow Galaxy Mates I know that you will hate us for these comments, but we still had a lot of fun and love you all

Carnival Victory 4/14/02
Celebrity Galaxy 4/16/04

[lornadoons]

Carnival was okay for our family of 4. We went on an 8 day Christmas cruise on the Spirit which was brand new at the time. We, as a family decided to book this only 2 weeks before we went. We found the crew and employees at embarkation extrememly helpful... we had a few problems from the start. However, days at sea were lacking with activities and we, as well as many, many others complained about this. Maybe it was this particular ship. I also noticed that many, many people chose not to dress up for Christmas day which I found surprising. Lots of jeans and t shirts for such a holiday.

[schinz]

I have to chime in. my wife and I are 38. we were on the galaxy last October and have booked the Summit this October. I have to be honest also and say this. Prior to last year we had been on 7 other cruises and six out of the seven were on Carnival. We travel with my parentsand Grandparents so we range in age from 38 to 82!! I will tell you with 100% honesty that we never had a Carnival Cruise that we didn't like. If you wanted to go to bed early <My Grandmother> you did, if you wanted to do the congo line on Lido deck at midnight <MY GRANDFATHER!!>, YOU DID. Carnival is a more lively active line but it didn't mean we couldn't ever relax when we wanted to! We never went in the summer or over kid's vacations, although I can say we have been on several cruises with lots of kids and, like another poster said, we simply had a good time and didn't worry about them. Too many people fret and worry about a kid making too much noise, etc. The cruise eis what you make it. Carnival's entertainment is second to none and their food was just a notch below Celebrity. Having said all that, we love to relax and found the Galaxy the best cruise we had ever been on, even though the first on Celebrity. We have booked the Sumit in October because it is 10 days and has the itinerary we love. But if Canival had an 11 night with the same itinerary we wouldn't have thought twice about taking Carnival again!

[yanceycruiser]

Alli,

You've heard about every type of opinion ranging from the terrible to the great. Let me sum it up for about half these posters. You will have a great time. Don't even try to compare one to another. We've been on NCCL, RCL, Princess, and yes the once dreaded Carnival. Our last cruise was on Carnival and I swore I would never do one based on what we have heard. Our friends from Canada talked us into taking the Carnival Pride last year and we had a great time just like we did on the other cruise lines.

When I was on the Carnival cruise critic board, I continued to hear so many negative things about Carnival that I was beginning to regret booking her. However, several posters convinced me that a cruise is what you make it.

Have fun!

Yanceycruiser

Dreamward 1/95
Norway 1/97
Grandeur of the Seas 1/99
Grand Princess 2/01
Carnival Pride 2/03

http://escati.linkopp.net/cgi-bin/countdown.cgi?trgb=000000&srgb=00ff00&prgb=000080&cdt=2004;08;22;17;0;00&timezone=GMT-0800

Until the Infinity on
August 22, 2004

[alli]

Again, thanks for all the replies and opinions.
Keep them coming!
This is all a moot point anyway...I'm booked and paid in full...however it's great to hear all of your experiences.
Maybe this trip I'll finally right that review I swore I'd write on the last 8.

[NitaBcruising]

Alli,
Please do! It would be interesting, after all this discussion, to see what you really think!

Nita

[celbercrz333]

Alli,
Sounds like you are going on our cruise earlier in the year. We are doing Fascination in the Fall from Miami to Nassau. Let me know how you like it.
--Joanne
Celebrity Zenith 10/2003
Fascination Fall 2004

[LMKohler]

Nita -- someone actually knocked on your door???????????? I can't believe that!

Schinz -- we are taking our third Summit cruise next year -- you will love her.

My husband and I have only been on RCCL (SOS) and Celebrity. It was interesting to hear about how old SOS is becoming. It was our first cruise she holds a special place in our hearts. However, the last five cruises have been on Celebrity.

I hate to bring this up -- but the main reason we won't try Carnival is (in our opinion only) their safety record. They seem to have had more problems (i.e. fires, breakdowns) with their ships. I know Celebrity has had it's share of problems as well with pods.

Anyway -- I'm sure you will have a great time --just being on a cruise, any cruise.

[woodofpine]

My point is that Carnival probably has the broadest qualitative spectrum in the industry. And the extremes are probably more radical on ships doing the shorter cheaper itineraries.

Carnival has some very fine interesting new ships and some really worn lesser old ships. In my single experience, the galley prepared some really excellent dinner items, and served some stuff at breakfast that would be shameful at a Wafflehouse. It was hard to believe the stuff came from the same kitchen.

The passengers were of every sort including a couple of real characters; one that was a dirty version of the guy on the album cover of Jethro Tull's "Aqualung" (yeh - worse! A what bridge did they find him under (?) guy)

It was interesting in that way and you can't beat Bahamian water so - have fun!

[nealberk]

Based on total numbers, Carnival has had more of the over 60 crowd than any other line including HAL. With that said, Carnival used to be "party boats" back in the 70's and that is where they made their initial money, but over the years Carnival has tried to push hard for a more civilized crowd. They no longer push the drunken brawl cruises and are trying hard (and have mostly suceeeded) in killing that image in favor of a lively but respectable image.

It is a lot like comparing Vegas to Reno. Totally different atmosphere and I do have a preference but both have their good points.

[Princess-of-Quite-alot]

Hey..I like Tull! Thick as a Brick ROCKS! http://messages.cruisecritic.com/infopop/emoticons/icon_biggrin.gif

Celebrity Century 5/8/04 -Western Caribbean
http://escati.linkopp.net/cgi-bin/countdown.cgi?trgb=000000&srgb=00ff00&prgb=9400d3&cdt=2004;5;8;16;30;00&timezone=GMT-0800

Carnival Ecstasy 2/04 - Baja
Tahitian Princess 2/03- French Polynesia
Sea Princess 7/02 - Alaska
Carnival Ecstasy 5/02 - Baja
Royal Caribbean Monarch 10/00 - Southern Caribbean
Carnival Elation 10/99 - Mexican Riviera
Royal Caribbean Monarch 1/97 - Southern Caribbean

[NitaBcruising]

LMKohler,
Yes, someone knocked on our door and several others. I wouldn't have realized what it was, if the people across from us hadn't opened their door, too! But, it was several cruises ago, and can't remember for sure if it was a Carnival or another line! So, no knock on Carnival here, just a comment about the rude behavior of an ADULT!
We were also on SOS for our first cruise. It was great fun, got us hooked! But, the cabin was sooooo small, that we haven't booked but one other cruise with RCI since. That is also because their newer ships, with bigger cabins, are somewhat geared for families. Families have kids!!! Just for that reason alone, we choose other lines over Carnival and RCI. I don't mind kids, but prefer not too many!

Nita

[Barb C]

We had a problem with rowdy behavior on the Zenith (of all ships!) in August (just one night though - on the way back). Now, the Zenith is my favorite, but I will never cruise in August again. Not to Bermuda, not to the Carribean, it's just too crowded. And yes, the rowdies were all ages, shapes and genders. We just gave them REALLY DIRTY LOOKS and of course, they stopped. Only kidding, it went on for a while, someone else called security but it really didn't help. They finally moved on to annoy someone else -- I did want to follow them and get rowdy outside their cabin door at 7am.

[frequenttraveler]

I think all ships offer something different. It depends on what you are looking for. I have been on 5 Carnival and liked them all. I have been on 6 Celebrity and loved them all. Just do it and have a good time.

[choochoocruiser]

I have been on 5 cruises-3 Royal Caribbean, 1 Celebrity and unfortunately, 1 Carnival. I tell people I would never go on Carnival again, even if they paid me. It fully lived up to it's reputation. drunks yelling and screaming and throwing up in the hallways all night long, etc, Never again.

[lucyjohnz]

3 of our 7 cruises have been on Carnival. While they're not our favorite, they're cheap and provide good value. Last Spring Break, we did a 5-day cruise on the Jubilee out of Galveston - we can drive there easily from Ft. Worth. I went with very low expectations. They were met on the condition of the ship - pretty worn. However, they were exceeded on the evening dining room meals - they were wonderful and our dining staff was great. We enjoyed the ports. So, we had a good time in spite of the worn ship, the cheerleader and dancing groups on the ship and the horrible buffet food.

I think you'll have a good cruise and it won't be the He** other people say it will be. One thing about Carnival - lots of activities all the time. That's something we missed on our one Celebrity New Year's cruise.

Lucy

[Princess-of-Quite-alot]

Hey, my daughter's (well-behaved) friends have danced on those cruises!!!

It's a shame the cruiseline does not monitor the hallways on those short cruises. One would think the cabin stewards could call in to management and nip the problem in the bud. It would definitely help their reputation! It's too bad some people think they can act any way they want just because they are on vacation. After my rowdy Carnival cruise I also said I would never do that again, but the deal I got was just too hard to pass up, and we ended up having a fine time. I would go on Carnival again...especially if my kids came along. For one reason, they just love the 24hr ice cream & pizza!

Celebrity Century 5/8/04 -Western Caribbean
http://escati.linkopp.net/cgi-bin/countdown.cgi?trgb=000000&srgb=00ff00&prgb=9400d3&cdt=2004;5;8;16;30;00&timezone=GMT-0800

Carnival Ecstasy 2/04 - Baja
Tahitian Princess 2/03- French Polynesia
Sea Princess 7/02 - Alaska
Carnival Ecstasy 5/02 - Baja
Royal Caribbean Monarch 10/00 - Southern Caribbean
Carnival Elation 10/99 - Mexican Riviera
Royal Caribbean Monarch 1/97 - Southern Caribbean

[jerin]

Any cruise has to be better than no cruise!! http://messages.cruisecritic.com/infopop/emoticons/icon_biggrin.gif

It sounds like you're going in with the right attitude. I doubt that your Carnival cruise will be much like being on Celebrity, but that doesn't mean that you won't have a good time. Going to Vegas is fun, going to Paris is fun. They're just different, that's all!

http://cruise-forums.com/countdown.php?month=01&year=2005&day=15&hour=16:30
Century Western Carribean 1/15/05

[Princess-of-Quite-alot]

Going to Paris in Vegas is fun too! http://messages.cruisecritic.com/infopop/emoticons/icon_razz.gif

Celebrity Century 5/8/04 -Western Caribbean
http://escati.linkopp.net/cgi-bin/countdown.cgi?trgb=000000&srgb=00ff00&prgb=9400d3&cdt=2004;5;8;16;30;00&timezone=GMT-0800

Carnival Ecstasy 2/04 - Baja
Tahitian Princess 2/03- French Polynesia
Sea Princess 7/02 - Alaska
Carnival Ecstasy 5/02 - Baja
Royal Caribbean Monarch 10/00 - Southern Caribbean
Carnival Elation 10/99 - Mexican Riviera
Royal Caribbean Monarch 1/97 - Southern Caribbean

[woodofpine]

And Vegas isn't an explosive growth place 'cause they're doin' something wrong - commercial/market-wise...

After all C. bought HAL Princess Seabourn Costa etc. not the otherway around...

But! The Global Village ain't always so great - pollution in Nepal, democracy in Iraq...

[donnaw]

Attitude is key. If you expect Celebrity then you will be disappointed. If you expect to go and let your hair down and relax for a few days then you should have a great time!

We did this weekend cruise last March and here is a link to the review:


Fascination 03/03 (http://www.cruisecritic.com/memberreviews/memberreview.cfm?EntryID=1655)

We are actually in the process of looking for another one since only a couple of comp days left, but some pretty heavy work schedules are getting in the way of planning anything. Might be Fascination but beware of the brownies. I gained more weight on a 3 day cruise than on the 11 day cruise!

Have a great time!

Horizon's First Balcony 3/04

http://community.webshots.com/scripts/editPhotos.fcgi?action=viewall&albumID=125594606

Donna

Cruise Total: 8 Dawn Princess 12/8/01, Dawn Princess 8/19/02, Celebrity Century - 1/04/03, Carnival Fascination 5/2/03 Celebrity Horizon 3/1/04

[This message was edited by donnaw on 04-28-04 at 07:43 PM.]

[Pandora2im4]

It's definately what you make it. Took the Imagination several years ago, but during President's Day week, when a lot of schools were not in session. If I remember right, of the 2000 passengers, over 400 were under the age of 18. The teenagers were great, the younger kids were fine, but for the 7-12 age group, it was like "parent's day off". You couldn't use the pool or the hot tub because it was just too darned crowded, and of course many of them were experimenting with language and behavior that would have horrified their parents. Also I wasn't in love with the food. I like to cook myself, and as it was my first cruise, I decided that people confused quantity with quality.

The service (room, bar, waitstaff, etc.) was excellent. The ship was immaculate. There was always something to do. I think that over the 7 day period, I might have slept a total of 20 hours, so I wouldn't miss anything. Had an excellent time, and since then, have just adjusted my vacations to miss school vacations.

Every cruise line has it's niche. Carnival specializes in entertainment and activities, and is probably the best at their price point.

Imagination 1997
Galaxy 2001
Summit 2001
Majesty 2003
Summit 06/04/2004
Pride 01/16/2005

[woodofpine]

http://messages.cruisecritic.com/infopop/emoticons/icon_smile.gif

[AQHAFAN]

Some are missing the question here.
The question was about a 10 year old ship,on a 4 day sailing.You cant compare that to Carnivals,or any lines newer ships.

http://heathersanimations.com/Animals1/uma01.gif

[alli]

Aqhafan,
You're reading and math skills are excellent. Not only did you read all my posts.....but you figured out what I wanted to know.

All of these posts reflect what I've always thought about a cruise(or perhaps on a deeper level), life. Jump on board with you're bags packed (sense of humor in the carry-on),keep on open mind, and if things don't work out...make lemonade....you know the rest.......

[Princess-of-Quite-alot]

<BLOCKQUOTE class="ip-ubbcode-quote"><font size="-1">quote:</font><HR>Originally posted by alli:
Anyone here done Carnival?<HR></BLOCKQUOTE>

If this was the original question, which it was, then Aqhafan missed the question as well. The only correct answer then would be to answer yes or no. So, I say YES! http://messages.cruisecritic.com/infopop/emoticons/icon_wink.gif

Celebrity Century 5/8/04 -Western Caribbean
http://escati.linkopp.net/cgi-bin/countdown.cgi?trgb=000000&srgb=00ff00&prgb=9400d3&cdt=2004;5;8;16;30;00&timezone=GMT-0800

Carnival Ecstasy 2/04 - Baja
Tahitian Princess 2/03- French Polynesia
Sea Princess 7/02 - Alaska
Carnival Ecstasy 5/02 - Baja
Royal Caribbean Monarch 10/00 - Southern Caribbean
Carnival Elation 10/99 - Mexican Riviera
Royal Caribbean Monarch 1/97 - Southern Caribbean

[woodofpine]

http://messages.cruisecritic.com/infopop/emoticons/icon_biggrin.gif

[TaznBugs]

Let me explain what happend on the sensation it was NOT a drunk or loud pass. it was the lack of service the staff was very unhappy and they showed it by doing a VERY POOR job i.e. my group sat in one of the bars and could not get served until we went to the bar and got our own drinks !!!the rooms were clean but just there was no and I mean no amm.in the room if we wanted anything it took hours to get it if at all . I like to party so a party ship was why we booked that trip it wasn't a party when the crew is not happy the cruise is not fun !!!!

Jim
SEABREEZ 98
OCEANBREEZ 99
MAJESTY 2000
SENSATION 2001
CENTURY 2003
CENTURY JULY 10 2004

[abczyx]

Alli,

There have been so many replies already but I think I may have something to add. I was on the Carnival Fantasy in 1995 for a 4 day cruise. At that time the Fantasy was 5 years old. Our sailing was on May 14 (Nassau, Freeport) similar to your date of departure.

I think the sailing date is extremely important and during this cruise we had a great, fun but subdued crowd. As much as I enjoyed the Constellation last week, it had more kids and especially teens who were the only downside to this cruise (some areas had spring break last week, Mass?).

Overall, Celebrity is a better product but the question is, is it better value? That depends on the individual. You're going at a good time, enjoy the short break.

[1stimekruiser]

Alli,
It really depends on your preferences and taste. I have been on 2 Carnival cruises and the two were very different. My first one was nice and the 2nd one made my husband and I decide to try Celebrity instead. My husband and I are in our late 20's early 30's and make a very comfortable living. Our work is very stressful so when we go on a cruise we expect nothing but the best. We want to be pampered in every way, we even go the extra mile and always book a large suite. Carnival does not cater to people like us. There is no extra special attention as one might expect, not only in a suite, but overall. Carnival tends to interrupt a lot with activities as well which I don't care for. An example being, on my last cruise all I wanted to do was sit by the pool in the sun listening to the band, but I only got to enjoy maybe 3 minutes of it before they did this loud obnoxious golf game at the pool. In only my 2 cruises with Carnival, I have noticed many inconsistancies and the attitude of, "we have your money now so who cares". To sum it up, Carnival was very casual and I got not nearly the amount for my $4000 as I understand I will be getting with Celebrity.
Here is a link to my last cruise with Carnival and it will explain my decision to change:

Carnival Legend Cruise (http://messages.cruisecritic.com/2/OpenTopic?a=tpc&s=927093444&f=969097554&m=9243082357)

http://escati.linkopp.net/cgi-bin/countdown.cgi?trgb=000000&srgb=00ff00&prgb=0000ff&cdt=2004;10;02;17;0;00&timezone=GMT-0500
Until the Celebrity Century!!!

Carnival Legend 10/2003
Carnival Sensation 11/2002

[yanceycruiser]

Alli, I believe you've got it!

Yanceycruiser

Dreamward 1/95
Norway 1/97
Grandeur of the Seas 1/99
Grand Princess 2/01
Carnival Pride 2/03

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Until the Infinity on
August 22, 2004

[born2crooz]

Just reading the Celebrity boards as I am planning a cruise for my wife and 2 small children. Wanted to see how Celebrity's children's programs are.

For all of you who think Carnival is a "budget line" I've priced out the Century, a Royal Caribbean ship and a Carnival ship. For a basic oceanview cabin, guess who the LEAST expensive is???? Celebrity!! It's about $2100.00 for the 4 of us (cruise only). Carnival is about $2,600.00 and RCI about $2800.00.
For that price, I may just have to give Celebrity a try!!

Who would have ever thought that Royal Caribbean would be the most expensive of the bunch?? Norwegian is about the same as Celebrity.

Now, keep in mind, that if all I've heard about Celebrity is true, $2100.00 is a STEAL and worth EVERY penny. Although the kids programs and entertainment are betteron Carnival (I've heard from passengers cruising both lines), the food, decor and service seem to be better on Celebrity.

Watch out Celebrity buffs! There may be a lot more converts out there and we'll be sailing with you!!

Ecstasy,E.Caribbean Oct.1993
Holiday,W.Caribbean Jan. 1995
Festivale, S.Caribbean Feb.1996
Sov. of the Seas, Bahamas Jan.1998
Ecstasy, Bahamas Mar. 2000
Victory, Canada, Jun. 2001
Sensation, W. Caribbean, Jun.2002
Paradise, E. Caribbean, Apr. 2003
Triumph, E. Caribbean, Apr. 2004


http://www.mycruisepartner.com/images/ships/ships23image1_th.gif

http://d21c.com/AnnesPlace/Summer3/Ship.gif

[JNLROSE]

Ya know what? I NEVER post on a Carnival thread but since it is on the Celebrity board, I am gonna put my few cents in!

I love to cruise, I also love to cruise at high end! Having said that, if anyone, and I'm not saying God, gave me some lemons, you can be damn sure I could make lemonade out of them!!! Make what you will of whatever you choose to do! No matter the line or the cost, you will enjoy if you choose to do so, if not----THEN THE HELL WITH YA! Have a whatever trip!

Rosie
E-mail me <a href="mailto:JNLROSE@AOL.COM">here</a href>

http://escati.linkopp.net/cgi-bin/countdown.cgi?trgb=000000&srgb=00ff00&prgb=0000ff&cdt=2004;11;26;17;0;00&timezone=GMT-0800
CELEBRITY MERCURY HERE I COME!!!

[Princess-of-Quite-alot]

Rosie,
You seem a bit feisty tonight. Floors got you down? Wasssup? http://messages.cruisecritic.com/infopop/emoticons/icon_confused.gif

Celebrity Century 5/8/04 -Western Caribbean
http://escati.linkopp.net/cgi-bin/countdown.cgi?trgb=000000&srgb=00ff00&prgb=9400d3&cdt=2004;5;8;16;30;00&timezone=GMT-0800

Carnival Ecstasy 2/04 - Baja
Tahitian Princess 2/03- French Polynesia
Sea Princess 7/02 - Alaska
Carnival Ecstasy 5/02 - Baja
Royal Caribbean Monarch 10/00 - Southern Caribbean
Carnival Elation 10/99 - Mexican Riviera
Royal Caribbean Monarch 1/97 - Southern Caribbean

<a href="mailto:PrincessOfQAL1@aol.com"> Click here to email me

[nealberk]

<BLOCKQUOTE class="ip-ubbcode-quote"><font size="-1">quote:</font><HR>Originally posted by born2crooz:


Watch out Celebrity buffs! There may be a lot more converts out there and we'll be sailing with you!!
<HR></BLOCKQUOTE>

That is the problem with being right and telling everyone else about it. Soon your quiet "special treat" becomes too popular for its own good....

[Seaya39]

Alli,

Just one more opinion...

I just got off a 3 day Carnival cruise on the Ecstacy on April 26th. Although the ports are different -Long Beach to Ensenada, I suspect the atmosphere will be similar. We were celebrating a friend's 40th birthday and had a great time. Yes, the ship was tired and the cabin needed some sprucing up, but the dining room was excellent, the slots were kinda loose and the ship had quite a mixture of age groups aboard. I probably wouldn't pick it for a longer cruise, but as a quick get away it was a blast!!

Beth

[Rustynail]

I'd sail Carnival anyday of the week. Thena gain I'd sail anything that floats anyday of the week except Sunday's of course.

Rusty

CARRIBEAN PRINCESS JAN 2005
<IMG
Roll Call.... click here to join the fun! (http://messages.cruisecritic.com/2/OpenTopic?a=tpc&s=927093444&f=4763056957&m=475109651)
</applet>
CARNIVAL'S LEGEND JAN 2003
CELEBRITY'S CENTURY DEC 2003

[emilysmom]

http://messages.cruisecritic.com/infopop/emoticons/icon_biggrin.gif I haven't yet experienced Celebrity yet but will be going on the Zenith in June.

Our first was on the Carnival Legend and we loved it!! It was an eight day cruise and the entertainment couldn't have been better.

Our second was on the NCL Dawn. Hated it. Entertainment was mostly at night. No kareoke during the day, pool games were never announced, just boring in general. Staff was rude, rude, rude!

I think you'll like Carnival!

Countdown to Bermuda on the Zenith
http://escati.linkopp.net/cgi-bin/countdown.cgi?trgb=000000&srgb=00ff00&prgb=00ffff&cdt=2004;06;26;16;30;00&timezone=GMT-0400

[Bridge Maven]

I cruised Carnival once and would never sail on that line again. Kids were running all over the ship with parents nowhere in sight. It was difficult to find a quiet spot in a public area for conversation. Food was mediocre at best and waiters were too overworked to provide good service. With that said,it had an ongoing party ambiance which some people enjoy.

"Leonardo da Vinci" 1976
"Sovereign of the Seas" 1999
"Destiny" to Canada 2000
"Infinity" to Alaska 2001
"Millennium" 2002
"Century" 2003
"To be announced" 2004

[rita.bartgis]

We've sailed Carnival 3 times. Each time the ship was less than a year old. Carnival Spirit - Alaska, Victory - New England and Conquest - Caribbean. We have been very lucky I guess. No problems had a great time. However, each time we sailed we went when kids would be in school. Made a BIG difference.
We are moving up this year to the Connie Sept 7 transatlantic this year. Can't wait!

[alli]

Thanks for all your replies...I leave in about a week....So, the packing has started...not much time to read these boards.

[mango14217]

You can have a wonderful cruise on any ship if you're there with people you care about.

http://home.flash.net/~mwyatt/bearfish_1.gif