There are 13 price grades. The price you pay will depend on the grade, size and location you choose. The standard outside-view and interior (no view) cabins have decor that is rather plain and un­memorable. They are marginally comfortable, yet spacious enough and practical (most are of the same size and appointments), with good storage space and practical, well-designed no-nonsense bathrooms.

However, if you have a queen-bed configuration instead of the standard twin-bed layout, note that one person has to clamber over the bed – an ungainly exercise for those of a heavier build.

Anyone booking one of the outside suites will find more space, whirlpool bathtubs, and some fascinating, rather eclectic decor and furniture. These are mildly attractive, but nothing special, and they are much smaller than those aboard the ships of a similar size of several competing companies. A gift basket is provided in all grades of accommodation; it includes aloe soap, shampoo, conditioner, deodorant, breath mints, candy, and pain relief tablets (albeit all in sample sizes).

If you book accommodation in a suite (Category 11 or 12 in the Carnival Cruise Lines brochure), you automatically qualify for “Skipper’s Club” priority check-in at any US homeland port – useful for getting ahead of the crowd.

Room service items are available 24 hours a day, although in standard cabins, only cold food is available, while those in suite-grade accommodation get a greater range of items (both hot and cold) to choose from.

Berlitz Guide © Apa Publishing 2008