Overall Score
| BERLITZ'S RATING |
| |
Possible |
Achieved |
| |
| Ship |
500 |
292 |
| Accommodation |
200 |
121 |
| Food |
400 |
210 |
| Service |
400 |
244 |
| Entertainment |
100 |
65 |
| Cruise |
400 |
225 |
| |
When introduced, this was the fourth new ship for this very successful cruise line. Its exterior is rather angular, but typical of the space-conscious designs introduced in the early 1980s, particularly by Carnival Cruise Lines, in an effort to maximize interior (revenue-generating) space.
The ship, now over 20 years old, has extremely short bows, and the distinctive, large, swept-back wing-tipped funnel that is Carnival’s trademark, in the company colors: red, white and blue. The swimming pools are smaller than one would expect, but the open deck space is good, provided the ship is not full – when, as with most ships, the deck always seems crowded.
Inside, this ship has double-width indoor promenades and a very good selection of public rooms. The flamboyant interior decor in public rooms is stimulating instead of relaxing, as is the colorful artwork. The interior decor theme is that of New Orleans throughout the public rooms, except for some nautical themes in the Wheelhouse Bar/ Grill. There is a large, very active, and noisy casino.
The party atmosphere is good for anyone looking for a stimulating cruise experience. As is the case aboard all Carnival ships, there is a very wide range of entertainment and passenger participation activities from which to choose.
This ship is a floating playground for young, active adults who enjoy constant stimulation, close contact with lots and lots of others, as well as the three Gs – glitz, glamour and gambling. It is a live board game with every move executed in typically grand, colorful, fun-filled Carnival Cruise Lines style.
This ship should prove a good choice for families with children (there are so many places for kids to explore). There are entertaining shows on stage – good for the whole family.
This ship is fine if you are taking your first cruise, as long as you like lots of people, noise and lively action. Having fun is the sine qua non of a Carnival cruise. Gratuities are added to your onboard account at $9.75 per person, per day (the amount charged when this book was completed); you can have this amount adjusted, although you’ll have to visit the information desk to do so. The onboard currency is the US dollar.
There is absolutely no escape from repetitious announcements (particularly for activities that bring revenue, such as art auctions, bingo, or horse racing. There’s a great deal of hustling for drinks, although it is sometimes done with a knowing smile. There really is nowhere to go for privacy, peace and quiet, but then you should choose another ship for that. Standing in line for embarkation, disembarkation, shore tenders and for self-serve buffet meals is an inevitable aspect of cruising aboard all large ships.
Berlitz Guide © Apa Publishing 2008
