tea4ular

I love the price point, and have always (ALWAYS) had positive experiences with Carnival.

For the record I've sailed all the majors except Princess (a Carnival company) and Disney.

We purchased the Couple's Spa Pass for our week on the Splendor in October. This is the first time we have done this, and hoping to really enjoy it. How will they know we purchased the pass? I figured it might be by our room card or just giving our room number? Also, I assume that we can visit the spa together or at different times, I hope. Thanks for any input. :)

Be sure to bring a printout of your receipt just in case, but you'll go to the spa and provide your cabin # and sign & sail for access. Yes you can go separately.

Enjoy!

Can you go down there and get the flavored water at all times of the day... or only after a true spa visit?

If you have a spa pass or are in a spa category cabin.

I'm adventurous, but not enough to stay on board, sleeping on yoga mats - I might be ok on a lounge chair somewhere, but I'd probably disembark in Cozumel & fly home - then count my blessings and start looking for my next cruise.

So, my best friend and I tried the Cloud 9 spa cabin when the Splendor first set sail in 2009 (first ship to have Cloud 9). At that time, I had a long-term professional relationship with my TA and he upgraded us as a "gift" - we were hooked from day 1 and find it difficult to even consider a ship without something similar (really!). The location of the cabins is wonderful for us. we aren't big partiers, and the location of the spa cabins are pretty remote, and have very little foot traffic (pretty much only those who "live" in the neighborhood). The decor was serene, and much more zen than any cabin we'd ever had before. The big comfy terrycloth robes were divine. The spa products were lovely (at that time they even included a lavender pillow spray that was heavenly). And then there was the spa itself! We created a daily ritual for ourselves, where we would head to the spa around 4:00 when many were heading "home" to get ready for the evening. We would start in the thalassotherapy spa "pool" (a warmer and much larger jacuzzi type "pool"), and then make our way from steam room (with citrus or eucalyptus essential oils), to the less and less "hot" rooms, until we finally made our way to the heated loungers where we would just melt. Overall our "ritual" would last about 90 minutes. We'd bob and weave back "home" (I say bob and weave, because we were quite relaxed by this time), and take turns showering and hanging out on our balcony in those big comfy terrycloth robes, watching the sun set and coming back to life. For as long as it's been offered we've had "any time dining" and this allowed us to make our way to dinner, when we wanted (or I should say if we wanted!).

When we cruised with Celebrity to Alaska we were on the Mercury (she is now retired) and that ship had a similar spa (complete with the thelassotherapy pool and all) - let me tell you, it added an additional level of delight to that Alaska sailing! We now impatiently wait for another ship with a Cloud 9 or similar spa to sail to Alaska again.

I'm pretty sure I mentioned already that we're hooked on Cloud 9.

For the record, we never spend $ on the ship for massages or other treatments. The Cloud 9 alone is all the relaxation we need.

It's not for everyone, but if you enjoy a good steam/sauna, Cloud 9 is your place, and it cannot be beat.

I would pick the one with a full Cloud 9 spa & spa balcony cabin available - closest thing to what we envision "honeymoon" - quiet cabin location (very little to no foot traffic), Cloud 9 to relax in. Perfect.

I personally love sea days, especially on a ship with a Cloud 9 spa. I don't spend all my time there, but I sure do enjoy it, as well as just being able to enjoy the view as we sail. I don't need any port to be happy.

I just unearthed my journal from Belize, and thought I'd share the portion regarding Cave Tubing in Belize (we were sailing on Magic) -

We had a full day excursion booked through cavetubing dot bz (VS booking with Carnival) and were excited to begin the day. Belize is a tendered port, so there’s some finessing required to get off the ship. Our tour guide said they would wait for everyone who booked the tour however requested we try to be off within an hour of docking. It was a relatively painless experience and excitement was in the air.

When we got to the pier in Belize dot bz was right there waiting for us. They guided us to a shaded area and we had an opportunity to use the restroom before the rest of our small group arrived. I think we were 10-12 in all. A couple of children and the rest adults (we were the oldest). We were escorted to an air conditioned van and off we went!

Belize is a very lush and tropical country in Central America. English is spoken here and we learned a lot about the country. School is mandatory and it is free. Until the early 1970s the country was known as British Honduras and was a Commonwealth country.They are independent now (since the early 1980s) however Queen Elizabeth II remains as head of state. Everyone we met was polite and thoughtful. Our guides for the day and Vitalino Reyes’ (owner of dot bz) family were just delightful!We drove inland for about an hour as we made our way to the national park and headed to the river where we would be suited up in a helmet with a miners’light, and life vests. From there we walked through the Mayan rainforest for about 25-30 minutes, even walking through the river at one point to get to the other side. The water was chilly, not “cold” but not tropical warm. Unlike some of the other tours we saw, we did not have to carry our tubes during the hike.The forest walk was beautiful and our guides showed us all sorts of things that were exciting, like a leaf that when its stem was broken “bled” a saffron colored sap, which the Mayan used for facial and body decorating. And another leaf/stem that tasted like allspice, and had a numbing effect (medicinal uses).Someone in our group opted for trying a woodland termite. I wasn’t game. Most of the walk (they called it a “hike”) was flat and pretty easy to maneuver – we wore water shoes and were fine. It was mostly shaded which was good because it was hot in the sun.

The caves we went to have archaeological evidence as being used for more than 2000 years by the Mayan for ceremonies and rituals.Initially I thought I might feel claustrophobic however the caves were huge and many stories tall (in some places 8-10 stories tall) and they were absolutely breathtaking. If I had to use one word to describe them, I would use“otherworldly” – we truly were some other place than Earth. There were small waterfalls and hiking trails throughout. The water itself that we floated in was emerald green. We floated along for at least an hour. It was truly magical and you could feel the history and time travel through the caves. At the end we went back in the van and drove to Vitalino’s home where his family had prepared a lovely meal of chicken, coleslaw, rice and black beans for us. Rum punch or soda was also included. I requested a vegetarian plate and they added a lovely salad to my plate. There was a small gift shop and some items were crafted there (not all). We said our good byes and thank you to our cave guides and were driven back to town, in time for the tender back to the Magic – no time to shop though. I would rate this tour 100%. Not one thing could have made it better!

We also went through cavetubing dot bz - they were so nice, friendly, and it was a super fun adventure with them. Mr. Reyes (the owner) and his family were wonderful.. I wouldn't hesitate to book with them again (and for the record, we are 2 women over 50).

What is Sea Scanner, I’ve never heard of it?

It's a site (European) for booking trips. They show every cabin available on every ship for every sailing. The site is easy enough to find if you Google -

It's actually one of the reasons I use sea scanner - they show every cabin available, on every ship. It makes it much easier to find the cabin I want, then I can either call the line, or a TA and get the cabin.

There are 2 things that stand out to me that place Magic above Glory...first Cloud 9 spa. It costs extra (or is included in a spa category cabin) and the walk around deck 5. Both of these make Magic the choice for us. We've sailed on her twice (different itineraries) and love her.

I'm interested to know, where did you shop at?

I don't recall the street names but we walked into town and down some side streets. There were a few little authentic shops with beautiful items. The art was beautiful there too.

We booked "Pilot’s Choice” Glacier Explorer tour with Temsco. Could not have been happier. We were 2 that flew with 4 others, no squishing - we landed and hiked atop 2 separate glaciers. It was majestic!

Our cruise was the first sailing of the season, early May. I brought lightweight tights to wear under my jeans. On the ship (moving) I was glad I had them, interestingly, in land they weren't needed, even in the rain in Ketchikan. Layers for sure, and warm socks. I wore "Totes" rain boots that worked for the entire trip (similar to these: https://www.amazon.com/Totes-Womens-Marie-Ankle-High-Synthetic/dp/B01KP67IHG/ref=sr_1_6?ie=UTF8&qid=1521438995&sr=8-6&keywords=totes+rain+boots)

We found the most authentic art and crafts in Ketchikan - it was a breath of fresh air compared to the other ports (for us).

Can't thank you enough for all this info! Thank you.

Is there anything indoors for outside viewing like a solarium?

Also is there a couple rare for Enclave?

Enclave - It is by the voyage. Limited number of openings. Visit the spa on boarding day, deck 5 forward.

Sanctuary - $20/half day, $40/full day, $30/day if book for the full voyage. It is an outdoor facility with luxury lounges. Probably not very useful for a September cruise. Visit on boarding day.

Camp Discovery is for children ages 3 to 12 and fully toilet trained. Two years old is too young, but the parents my be able to use the facility with the child.

No really hidden spots on the Royal Princess. The ship does not have a full promenade, but there are 4 outside decks on deck 7, two mid-ship and two aft with comfortable lounge chairs. The starboard aft deck has a smoking section.

Take a look:

Piazza, deck 5 contains

International Cafe - No charge for food, open 24 hours. Nice selections.

Espresso Bar, Espresso drinks - there is a charge, think about the coffee card.

Gelato Bar - There is a charge

Vines wine bar

Piazza, deck 6 - Alfredo's, no charge, open 11am to late evening, walk in sit down waiter served pizza, calzones, salads, antipasto, and other selections, great for lunch and/or dinner.

Piazza, deck 7 - Crooner's, Great place for drinks, evening piano entertainment. Ocean Terrace Seafood Bar - menu priced sea food bar.

Wheelhouse Bar deck 7 - Watch the Princess Patter for the Pub Lunch held on some sea days, no charge

Deck 16 - Horizon Ct./Bistro buffet. Open 6am to 11pm, never closes during that time. One of the largest selections around. Made to order omelettes in the morning. All kinds of selections from grilled veggies, Asian, theme days, taco bar, salads, on and on. Walk through the entire place before making a selections. Outside tables by the Lido Pool and on the Horizon Terrace. Check out the Crab Shack ($29) held some evenings in the buffet seating area.

Hello, the Sanctuary is adults only and its pay per day or half day. Relaxing place with loungers and snacks for you. Its a nice place to just relax and leave everything behind. Quite Tranquil.

Is it a solarium style? My husband loves a solarium.

Thank you.

Welcome to Princess.....While some lines are skimping on cabin service now (Carnival only services once per day) at least for now Princess still provides turn down service in the evening too.

Thank you.

Actually Carnival has instituted the choice system, morning, evening or both. I don't know how these rumors get started, but if you talk to those of us that sail Carnival, that's been all of our experience. We always request both and it is never an issue. :)

If the child is not completely toilet trained the pools are off limits. Princess doesn't allow swim diapers or anything of that sort.

As it should be! That's not an issue for us, he won't be swimming. We're heading to Alaska so he won't need to swim.

Thank you.

I've been cruising since 1972 (PO Orsova), and my husband since 1997, we've tried nearly every major cruise line except Princess and Disney.

Last night we placed deposits on Royal Princess Los Angeles R/T to Alaska for their Sept 2019 sailing (no flying for us, we're less than an hour from the LA port!).

I am very excited to branch out and try something new. I love (dare I say adore) the Cloud 9 spa on the few Carnival ships that have it. I see the Royal has a similar spa Enclave. I've seen photos and searched high and low but don't seem to be able to figure out how that pricing works. Is it by the day? Journey? Can anyone shed some light?

And what about that Sanctuary? What is it exactly? And how does that pricing works. Is it by the day? Journey?

Whoops, forgot this...we'll probably be traveling with another family that will have a toddler (he'll be 2 when we sail) - can anyone shed light on the "kids club" for toddlers?

The cruise lines always make me laugh with how little they actually tell you about public spaces, they give just enough to make you have questions!

Are there any cool "hidden" spots on this ship? Carnival has some really interesting "hidden" decks on some of their ships if you know where to look for them.

Any "do not miss" this on the ship? I've done the Alaska cruise before (2010), so I'm really looking for info on the ship.

I'd love to hear anything and everything.

Thanks in advance. :D:D

In case anyone wondered I'M the one who comes on board with 4 "Please do not slam your door; simply hold it until it closes. Thank you." notices. I have only had to place 2 in mailboxes for it to stop.

Where can I get some?

I make my own. I decorate them so they don't appear menacing, even tho deep down I am really ticked off! :cool:

In case anyone wondered I'M the one who comes on board with 4 "Please do not slam your door; simply hold it until it closes. Thank you." notices. I have only had to place 2 in mailboxes for it to stop.

We may be in the minority but we've enjoyed the library on every ship we've been on. No, we don't spend hours there, but enjoy some time there. One of the nicest was on a HAL ship. I will mourn the loss.

It was awesome on Magic - it let me stay in touch with family & friends, posted my daily journal & a few pics (yes my family & friends enjoy it) - mostly used FB.