AtomicCruiser

I have done 27 Carnival cruises out of Galveston (yes, I am Diamond). Embarkation is usually much better handled than debarkation. I place this difference on Port staff versus ship staff. Even on a Journeys cruise on the Dream in November (roughly 1200 Diamond and Platinum), embarkation was rather smooth. However, we have experienced true nightmares regarding debarkation. It is sad for me to say, but I think a very large part of this is rude and selfish passengers. The crew gives plenty of instructions and makes plenty of announcements. But many passengers just don't follow them. It becomes a "me first free for all." I frequently see "non-priority" and able-bodied people blocking disabled people (wheelchairs) from getting on elevators. I was on the Vista in October. As Diamond, I was to meet in the forward restaurant by 7:30am. We left our cabin (Deck 7) at 6:45. Until we could make it to the lobby, it was past 7:30. The elevators, stairwells, and hallways were packed with people that would not be called for maybe an hour or more. The crew began debarking the Diamonds and Platinums. We were stuck for another half hour. I know new travelers whine that we get "privilege." But we earned and paid for that privilege. This is something Carnival really needs to control.

Was on the Dream in November. The lobby had 30 or more guests waiting at Guest Services to be assigned a cabin. Some were not pleased with the assignments. However, this was a Journeys cruise, with almost a thousand Diamonds and Platinums.

Cruised on Vista 9/9-9/16/2023. Shows in the Theater were generally at 7pm or 7:30 for early show, and 9pm or 9:30 for late show.

I am sorry, but I am at a loss understanding why commentors are stating this has to do with Covid. I am a Carnival Diamond (recent). The Platinum and Diamond "lounges" were less filled (i.e. more social distancing) than the normal holding area for boarding. And, "Faster to the Fun" sat in the general boarding as well, just called to board sooner. So, folks, I can see reducing venues due to staff shortages, or reducing some other perks. But this is just not making sense to me at all. Where you sit, and when you are called to board, does not tie into Covid protocols.