!!! BREEZE !!! Western Caribbean ^_^ The Ultimate Review and Complete Pictorial Guide

[cruisingis1]

I tried to watch the 2nd video of the singing waiters in the MDR singing the sad song but it says you removed the video. If it was the same song they sang the last night of my Breeze cruise in December of 2012, it had tears running down my face and I had a happy but tearful parting with the very special people I met at my assigned table for that week in the Sapphire Room. I am still very upset at myself for losing the email address of a couple people at that table.

[gambee]

My bad, fixing broken link to nostalgic singing waiters video.

 

 

Here is the Correct Link!

 

 

 

[gambee]

You are INCREDIBLE!!!!!!!!! Amazing review and pictures. So talented:D:D

Cannot wait to see the "scores":rolleyes:

Will we see them tonight?

Pleeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeease say YES!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!:D

 

I am working on it, it should be up in a few :)

 

 

 

 

I tried to watch the 2nd video of the singing waiters in the MDR singing the sad song but it says you removed the video. If it was the same song they sang the last night of my Breeze cruise in December of 2012, it had tears running down my face and I had a happy but tearful parting with the very special people I met at my assigned table for that week in the Sapphire Room. I am still very upset at myself for losing the email address of a couple people at that table.

 

Thank you for the heads up about the video, just fixed it on the post above this one.

[cruisingis1]

My bad, fixing broken link to nostalgic singing waiters video.

 

 

Here is the Correct Link!

 

 

 

 

 

Thank you! And yep! That is the song. Just 5 seconds into video and it got me choked up again! LOL, what a Wuss! Thank you again for all you've done for us. I sincerely hope you enjoyed the Breeze as much as I did. I'm going again next year for BC8 and I have the same Cove cabin I was in last time. I will hopefully see more of your reviews. But you need to enjoy the cruise first and reviews come afterwards! Thanks again.

:D:D

[gambee]

 

Conclusion, Rating and Final Thoughts

 

 

 

 

 

Food 8/10

 

Scoring the Carnival Breeze is extremely hard for me, because I found that the ship was all over the spectrum. The ship had the most amazing options for lunch, I mean on a sea day intensive cruise there is no doubt this is the ship you want to be in. From Guy’s burgers, Blue Iguana, Cocina de Capitano, Tandoor, American, BQQ, Pizza, chocolate buffet, asian noodles and more, AND ALL FOR FREE!. If you don’t find anything in that list that you would enjoy, I really don’t know what to say. Not only are there a lot of options, but the lunch food is excellent!

 

The for a Fee restaurants are among the best I had at sea, and yes I know I compared the steak house to Murano on Celebrity. I kid you not that steak was absolutely fabulous and the lobster was so succulent, my mouth is watering just thinking about it. That restaurant hits a home run in my book. The sushi is also divine, the tuna dip tasted fresh and full of flavor, and the shrimp tempura roll was just exquisite.

 

On the other hand the MDR for dinner is just not up to par with the rest of the food offered on other cruise lines. They really need to rethink the concept or maybe improve the quality a little more. I think my final score is fair when adding all the pros and cons. I scored Breakaway the same and I also only ate in the MDR once. They are of course different ships, but overall it is a fair Score for the Breeze. Maybe the new menus would improve the score? I am not hard to please, trust me. Give me tasty food and I am happy, maybe the new menus accomplish just that.

 

 

Cabin 8/10

 

The cabin decor was very basic and simple, not quite my style. The same goes for the bathroom decor, it just looked kind of blahhhh. I also hated the fact that they are still using curtains vs a door for the shower. I honestly think that in the long run it is more economical and hygienic to use a door. The other downside was the balcony door, I did not care much for that style, much rather a sliding door. The doors on the Breeze are loud and very hard to keep open for those of us who enjoy sleeping with the door open.

 

On the bright side, the room is considerably larger than X, NCL and RCCL, that alone is a huge selling point for me. Size does matter ;), lol, no for real, size is important specially when traveling with a large group. And while this time around I had all that extra space for myself, this could be very convenient when I am with mom and possibly a new bf, hopefully ;-).

 

Another killer point is that for some reason I think this is the most storage I have ever seen in a room. Granted I never used not even one drawer, but there was so much storage in that room that I could see 4 people fitting their cloths comfortably for a 6 day cruise. Again space and size, make up for a blandly decorated room.

 

 

Cabin TV System & Internet 7/10

 

The TV system needs to be re-thought in my opinion. It would be great if the movie channels would always have a movie on and not a bunch of commercials. Maybe less news channel and more fun channels would be a great addition. I did like that they did show some newer movies like the “Lego movie, and Frozen” so movie selection was not that bad, the only problem was that there were long gaps with nothing to watch.

 

The internet was always strong and actually very fast. Midway through the cruise I figured that my email app was not functioning properly and once I figured that out I noticed I could be in and out under one minute.

 

 

Pools, Jacuzzis & Adult Only Area 8/10

 

Scoring this is kind of complicated. But I will try to be fair with it, honestly I think 2 pools are not enough for ship this size, but that seems to be a trend now days. Thankfully it is very rare that I use a pool on a ship, so no issues there for me. But as pointed out by other readers, the pools are really overcrowded. Reminds me of Norwegian Breakaway... Quite honestly I think this will become more of an issue in new vessels as capacity keeps increasing, and the same amount of pools are maintained.

 

The adult area is very nice and actually a nice size with everything fully padded and relaxing, but for me personally it is pretty much useless because of the lack shaded areas. Thankfully the lanai offers shaded jacuzzis but you just have to move around and play with the suns location. Not something I was thrilled of, but on the bright side there are plenty of large jacuzzis on this ship with a total of 8 of them. I never encountered problems finding one and the closing time is at midnight. I was pretty content with that.

 

 

Activities (for Adults) 10/10

 

If I gave the Breeze anything lower than a 10 here I would just be lying. This ship has something happening at all hours of the day! Not to mention, contests, rope course, mini golf, pool tables, water slides, water park and so much more.

 

It was ridiculous there was always something going on, and this ship is by far the ship that I noticed had the strongest positive energy out of all my cruises. Activities won’t be an issue when you go on the Breeze, it is a very active ship!

 

 

Shows 9/10

 

I am proud to say that this is the first ship that I actually review shows on. Before this one I have gathered the scores from other in my group, but for the first time it was me who experienced the shows. I loved the Hasbro show and I even enjoyed the other shows very much. Like I said Carnival is the only company who has managed to keep awake during shows. The only reason I am not giving carnival the full 10 points here, is because they should do something about that poorly decorated stage. It takes a lot out of the show, and nicely decorated stage could add a lot to the currently very energetic and fun shows.

 

 

Bars & Lounges 7/10

 

There are plenty of bars on the Breeze and service is fast. The main issues is that like NCL they count their liquor, I am not a fan of that. Also the bars seem to have a generic list throughout the ship. I tend to score ships higher here if they have special bars like the Allure rising tides bar, or celebrities amazing martini and molecular bar. But carnival really did not anything that stood out to my eyes as unique and impressive.

 

 

Ship Decor & Elegance 7/10

 

The ship decor is not bad, it is just bland in my opinion. While there are a few areas that stand out and gorgeous, the overall ascetics of the ship are just ok. I will not go further into details as this is something personal more than anything else. But I scored it in accordance with what I thought was right, just about average, nothing special. But then again you don’t sail the Breeze for elegance, you sail her some something much better than that ;)

 

 

Unique Area - Lanai & Waterworks & divided food court 9/10

 

I recall NCL claiming that Breakaway had a first in the industry with the Water Front, but you know in reality I think that Carnival beat them to it with the Lanai. And I absolutely loved this area on the Breeze because of the shaded jacuzzis and plenty of lounges to chill and relax.

 

Waterworks is fun for all, it is actually a really neat area that I wish I had enjoyed more. This is a great area for kids.

 

And I think one of the most unique things about the Breeze is how they divided the buffet area into mini stations. This is just perfect to spread crowds and to really get to experience different types of food throughout your cruise. I loved it!

 

 

Service 10/10

 

I have to say that I cannot give Carnival anything lover than a 10. While I did experience a couple of slow dinners, we never waited for a table. Everyone on board was a pleasure to deal with, I have never felt like this on a ship. Well I lie, Disney also did an amazing job in this department. But you have to give it Carnival, they really make you feel welcomed and they make you want to come back. The staff and crew aboard the Carnival Breeze is absolutely fantastic! Well done!

 

 

 

Total Score and Conclusion 83 out of 100

 

I LOVED THE CARNIVAL BREEZE!!! So now I will come out and say it. I have been purposely delaying traveling in Carnival, why? Well, numerous reasons, bad reviews, bad media, skeptical of the product and other reasons along that train of thought. I have to say that I was pleasantly surprised by their product. The Breeze is an amazing ship, and one that I want to sail again. Most likely doing the southern Caribbean cruise with my mom, she has always wanted to sail that itinerary.

 

There is so much that this ship has to offer, that 6 days are just simply not enough to experience it. I fully endorse the Breeze, what an amazing experience that I had. And whats more important is that I want more of it, not many ships can claim that from me. I think it is mainly a combination of price vs experience, it is just a very good product for the price paid.

 

Just something to note is that I review ships, not cruise lines. Cruise lines variate greatly from ship to ship, so that is why I am recommending the Breeze. I am not sure how I will do on a smaller older Carnival ships, but I guess Ill have to try out and see how it goes. I will say that I am not particularly a fan of Carnival’s decor on the older ships, but I have now traveled enough not to judge by how a ship looks. After all that is only 1/10 part of my review score ;), there is so much more than that to make a cruise an amazing one.

 

If you have been thinking of trying out Carnival, but you’re skeptical about them, here is my suggestion for you. Go ahead and book a cruise on the Breeze, it is very likely that your experience will be a great one just like mine. You know what they say never judge a book by it’s cover.

 

 

 

Just a quick recall of scores

 

Disney Dream 89%

Allure of the Seas 86%

Breakaway 78%

Silhouette 77%

 

What you really have to realize here is the Breeze managed to deliver a 83% at a fraction of the cost of my Allure of the Seas cruise. That in itself speaks magnitudes, mainly because of the accessibility of the ship and the ability to sail more often that I would on the Allure.

 

I can come out and say that the Breeze is the first ship that I would be interested in sailing again. I am not entirely sure why, but I can speculate. For starters I want my mom to try out the ship, because I know she will love it. Another reason could be because of all the different itineraries available and some of which we have yet to try. And add to that a reasonable price and you have a product that screaming at me for more! more! more!

 

Currently we are playing with the idea of a MSC Divina cruise for August, but I will say that I much rather be aboard the Breeze. But the prices are just not there for that week, MSC has some unbeatable prices right now. But we will see how everything develops, nothing is written on stone.

 

 

Thank you everyone who was a part of this review.

 

I really appreciate everyone taking the time to read and comment throughout the review. I had a lot of fun with this review and trying out Carnivals flag ship.

 

Critics will come and go, and we are each entitled to our opinion. But this critic is here to stay, and I want to personally thank Carnival for a great vacation, and the opportunity for more of them in the future.

 

 

 

 

Until Next time! ^_^

 

 

 

Dedication

 

 

 

This review is written in the Honor of Grand Mother amazing's life! She has been an amazing woman who struggled to raise 5 wonderful children, who I now adore so very very much. I can not say this enough, family is everything, and God has provided me with the most phenomenal family of them all. My grand mother is such a great person, I want to thank her being there my entire life and for helping my mom to raise me.

 

Unfortunately it has come time to say goodbye to the very root of our family. I ask you to keep us on our prayers and thoughts. I am truly sorry to end an amazing review this way. But I have never shied away from sharing my life you all. And after all this review is a dedication to her long and prosperous life.

 

God bless you all, until next time.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Edited May 30, 2014 by gambee

[ilovetexas]

Gambee,

 

Thank you so much for your wonderful review. I'm sorry to hear about your grandmother and will remember her and your family in my prayers.

 

God Bless.

[#55worktoplay]

Gambee, I have read all of your reviews, thank you! I have even shared your cruise blog with my non-cruising friends to entice them to join me sometime, the reviews have all been truly wonderful. I missed your mom on this one though and I was reading along hoping you were going to join Karaoke again and sing to us albeit I guess you didn't have enough to drink ;) That time made me laugh out loud.

 

Sorry to hear that you have had to make decisions that were life altering and you are now a single gay guy (too bad you weren't a single no gay guy and about 20 yrs older I may have to join you on one of your cruises :D:D:D Just kidding I am an old married woman...Now seriously, just from joining your reviews I can tell you are a wonderful human being and I love your style and how good you are to your mother it is so nice to see and I LOVE your accent! Gambeesmom, you have raised a good boy- something to be very proud of, which I know you beam with pride.

 

Lastly I will say a prayer for you during your difficult time.

 

Thanks Again - hope to meet you, Mom and Sarah on a cruise some day.

[princessismycat]

Awesome review...can't wait for my sailing in July!

 

I am so sorry for the loss of your grandmother. You are in my prayers🙏

[renza]

Simply amazing. Thank you

 

 

Sent from my iPhone using Forums

[scottsgal]

Absolutely wonderful review Gambee. Very sorry about your grandmother.

 

Breeze is my favorite ship out of 20 cruises on all the major lines - she's just a wonderful ship with so much to offer. Your review brought back great memories we had on her.

[Bostonjetset]

Thanks again for the fabulous review Gambee! I too, hope my bf and I get to sail with you some day; you seem like a lot of fun! Maybe on the QM2?!? You haven't tried that one yet! HAHA

 

I'm sorry to hear about your grandmother. It is hard to say goodbye to a cherished person in one's life; just always remember the good things about her and keep them close to your heart :)

[rocky55]

Thank you Gambee for another amazing review. I always get so sad when they are over!! Almost like I was on the vacation with you and now it is over. You write so beautifully!! I do have one question for you, there is a billionaire from Australia trying to make a replica of the Titanic, would you go on that if it is built?

 

 

Sent using the Cruise Critic forums app

[tattoos]

Hugs and kisses, Gambee!!

 

Rose

[ferfoodle]

My sincerest condolences to you and your family in your loss.

 

Thank you for a wonderful and detailed review. Someday I hope to sail her or her sister the Magic, but that is still a ways off - but might have to the move the time frame up after finishing your review.

 

Take Care!

[toto6]

Amazing as always!! You and your family are in my thoughts and prayers. May your heart feel comfort from all the wonderful memories.

[jaxkai]

thank you for the great review and sharing your humor and stories with us, its very appreciated. thank you for giving carnival ships the same care and detail that you have given other ships you sailed.

 

bless your heart and your mothers my thoughts go out to you!!!

 

and ps. all carnival travelers should know you bring the bungee cord to hold your door open at night when you arent supposed to :)

 

warm wishes

[riclop]

Gambee sorry about your loss and my prayers to you and your family and thanks for once again doing a fantastic job on your famous reviews. Go on the Divina its a beautiful ship, better than any others we have been on as far as being beautiful and clean and the shows are the BEST at sea. Enjoy my friend.

[TracieABD]

Hi Gambee-

It took me 4 nights, but I finally finished your review. Thank you for sharing so much of yourself in your documentation of your cruise. It was wonderful to "sail" along with you.

 

I teach college- So I feel qualified to grade you...;)

 

For the review and all of the lovely photos- you earn an A+.

 

Excellent work! Nicely done...

 

I will be looking forward to more of your reviews in the future-

 

Tracie-Lynn

 

PS I will keep you and your family in my thoughts. I am sorry for your loss.

[perfect match]

Great review, Gambee! Thank you so much for sharing it with us. I know you put a lot of time and effort into your reviews, so I want you to know how much I appreciate that. Maybe some day I'll be lucky enough to be able to cruise with you in reality, not just virtually.

 

I am so sorry that it is time for you to say goodbye to your wonderful grandma. My thoughts and prayers will be with you and your family during this difficult time.

 

Nancy

[BugsyCruiser]

My friend so sorry for your loss. I will keep you and the family in my thoughts and prayers

[S.C.]

Another great review!

 

I'm so sorry for your loss Gambee

[Lipz]

Gambee,

 

As I read your review many different thoughts and comments I wanted to make came to mind. Although this happens every time I read one of your reviews, it was especially true for this one since we were on the same sailing and we're able to meet through our awesome roll call events. In fact I just knew at the conclusion of this read I would have so much to say, but now that I am done only one thing comes to mind and it's the only thing left to say....

 

Thank you for sharing this gift you have of documenting your cruise experiences with us. Although many may do it, you do it well.

[PrettyHazardous]

Amazing review Gambee! I loved your dedication family is everything!

 

 

Sent using the Cruise Critic forums app

[marty1950]

Gambee, Thank you for all the great pictures and videos. I know we all get true answers on all our questions about cruising on ships we are thinking about cruising on. Also my thoughts and prayers are with you and your family, Your great memories will carry you through this sad time. God bless you and your family. your friend Gary

[cruisingis1]

Wonderful review. Wonderful Dedication. Thoughts are with you , your Mom, and your family. Take care.