NO SUNSHINE ON CARNIVAL

After speaking to many of my customers who have recently just come back off the Carnival Sunshine, I am disheartened to say that not one of my customers enjoyed the ship. Even after its multi million refurbishment earlier this year.

Its true to say that we all have an opinion when it comes to cruising and can spend many hours discussing own experiences with other cruisers but it seems the opinions on the sunshine remain the same.

Dressing down seems to be an understatement on Carnival and I am sure the majority of you have experienced the undertone of the American dress code but it seems maybe a step too far on this particular ship. I do admit that I myself was on the Carnival Sunshine in July and after spending an hour in my cabin struggling  to get into my now tight cocktail dress , I came out of the cabin saw all the shorts and T shirts and immediately scurried back into my cabin and changed into something a lot more casual. I guess alot of us British customers still like to dress up and make that one of the highlights of cruising.

Unfortunately it wasn’t just the dress code my customers didn’t appreciate , it was the size of the pool area, and too be honest it is only very small, but I guess in Carnivals defence they have the on board water park for children to play in and ‘Serenity’ the Beautiful Adults Only area with cascading waterfalls and intimate cabanas for you to enjoy. I guess when Serenity became full to bursting where were adults to go then?, to the small pool area I guess.

I found the speciality restaurants amazing though and the best I have ever experienced and I have been on many 5 star cruises, The  atmosphere in the Italian with the waiters and waitresses singing and having you joining in while you were eating made a pleasurable change to the more formal dining options and great for families. The steakhouse restaurant was fabulous, with the lobster bisque and cheesecake big enough for 4 delectable.

I have to be honest and say that as I respect all points of view , I feel some of the comments were a little harsh, Carnival is not a 5 star ship and nothing like many cruise lines you may well have experienced,  it is a fun informal relaxed ship that gives you the feeling of home. No airs or graces on this ship just sit back relax have fun and enjoy with no expectations.

I had many  pleasurable experiences on this ship and would very much recommend it if you just want an easy laid back break away. The sunshine will soon be shortly heading back to the Caribbean as it leaves European waters so I guess it will be mostly filled again with American customers and maybe that where she needs to stay.

If you have cruised with Carnival or even the Sunshine yours thoughts and experiences would be appreciated.

Holly