My family has recently returned from sailing to Canada on the Carnival Destiny. We wanted to submit a review since usually the only reviews are from complainers.
Let me start by saying that overall it was a nice experience. There were problems but most of them were not Carnival's fault. They related to other passengers, the port we left from (New York) and the weather.
The set up to board at New York was a mess. We probably would still do it again because it is within driving distance and that saves air fare.
Boarding was relatively quick and easy. Once on board I was surprised how quickly our luggage arrived. We decided on a monday to go on the cruise and left that saturday so this was a last minute thing and we booked an inside cabin. Since we have always had an outside cabin, I wasn't expecting a lot. It was better than expected. If you need to save a few dollars, go for the inside. If the couple of dollars is going to make a difference of weather you go on a cruise or not, go and get an inside.
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The room was clean and as always with Carnival, lots of closet space. We took a trip around the ship and were pleased. On our last cruise we had the best cabin steward, this wasn't the case this time. His name was Kim and if you get him, plan on picking up after yourself. He got the recommended tip but nothing more. (My husband and I tend to tip very well, so he really missed out.)
We took our nine month old daughter with us and the crew treated her like a queen. Some of the passengers were complaining about all the kids. HERE IS A CLUE PEOPLE: IF YOU DON'T WANT TO BE AROUND KIDS, DON'T TRAVEL ON A "FUN SHIP" DURING SUMMER. There are going to be kids. Da! Camp Carnival was good but very limited for our daughter's age group. I will be sending Carnival some E-mail with suggestions. Use the babysitting available (for a fee), it was great and our daughter loved it.
The food was good and our waiter and assistant waiter couldn't have been better. (They really enjoyed their tip envelope). They went out of their way to make things comfortable for us even with an infant.
The entertainment seemed a little slim but what we saw was very good. Great comedy acts on Carnival.
Order a roast beef sandwich from room service. It was better than at the deli. We did have some problems getting our room service but only for breakfast.
Public areas could have been cleaner but were not filthy. Public restrooms left a lot to be desired.
We are setting sail again in Sept. on the Victory and I'm looking forward to an even better time. We know what to expect with a baby on board and new ships are always great. We had some minor problems but again few of them were Carnivals fault. If Carnival continues to offer cruises out of New York and Newport News they can expect to see a lot more of us. You can't beat the value for your money and you have a chance to party it up or relax. It's all available.
One last note. Do treat yourself to a day at the spa. Have your hair done or relax with a massage. Price really are not that bad and the service is excellent.
