Elation v Ectasy

Is there already a post on this on this specific comparison? If not, which one and why?

Ectasy from Charleston 4 nights only stopping in Nassau (3 hrs away)

Elation from Jax 4 nights stopping in Nassau and Freeport (5 1/2 hours away)

They are about the same boat. Been on both since Nov. I like the elation better but only because the weather was so bad on the Ectasy, not the boats fault.

Do both have Alchemy bar?

Do both have Alchemy bar?

Only the Ecstasy got the Alchemy Bar.

Is it worth it to go on Ectasy just for the Alchemy bar?

We also live closer to Charleston, but chose Elation because the port fees were less. The cost was cheaper on Elation and we did the 5 day.

We booked an aft balcony and it was less than an oceanview on Ecstacy last Nov.

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Is it worth it to go on Ectasy just for the Alchemy bar?

For us, it would be a factor. We really spend a few hours there each day - usually we go at 5 for pre-dinner drinks (they also bring out a plate of olives, nuts and cheese at this magic hour) and then return for an hour or 2 after dinner. It is an easy bar to talk to both the bartenders and the other guests - and on these ships right out side the comedy venue, so also convenient for us. The drinks here are better than anything else on the ship.

There are no other specific bars (except Havana and most don't have that) that we gravitate to on these smaller ships as we are not casino players, generally (and even if DH is playing I am guaranteed bad luck). Lobby bar is really the only other main bar for indoor purposes that comes to mind.

Go with the Elation but do the Nassua/Half Moon Cay itinerary. Freeport is a waste of a stop. Sailed her this past March and really enjoyed it.

Is there already a post on this on this specific comparison? If not, which one and why?

 

Ectasy from Charleston 4 nights only stopping in Nassau (3 hrs away)

 

Elation from Jax 4 nights stopping in Nassau and Freeport (5 1/2 hours away)

https://boards.cruisecritic.com/showthread.php?t=2643561

Is it worth it to go on Ectasy just for the Alchemy bar?

I probably wouldn't book a ship without Alchemy. That said if you're a first time cruiser you won't know what you're missing. My first three cruises were on Elation with no Alchemy...and before it had Guy's Burgers and Blue Iguana and I loved it. The photos I've seen of the remodeled staterooms on Elation look nice.

Is it worth it to go on Ectasy just for the Alchemy bar?

It wouldn't be a deal breaker for me, there are other yummy libations to be had on a Carnival ship to make up for in IMO. Don't get me wrong, Alchemy is a nice addition, had some drinks there that were good, just it wouldn't be a factor in picking a ship.

Best thing to do is go look at the photo gallerys on here for both ships and decide which one appeals to you more. They, along with the rest of the Fantasy-class, are pretty much the same ship design-wise, but have different themes and decor.

Also google the menu for Alchemy and see if those drinks appeal to you and if it factors into your decision.

Either ship, I feel would provide a great cruise.

Have done both. Basically the same. I usually go with the best price. but Charleston is closer for me and I usually stay on the boat at Freeport so you would not be missing much there. Actually prefer the sea day to port at Freeport.