Sunshine Report: Sep 27th, 5 night Bahamas with pics (HMC, Nassau, Freeport)

[CruzinScotty]

After getting our fill of breakfast, we headed back to pack up and check out.

OH - I forgot to mention this. The Best Western is one of twenty local hotels that have a 40% parking discount for the Port Canaveral Cruise Terminal Parking garages! The discounts just keep adding up.

They also have a stay and park program, but I’ve never used that.

You have to get your discount coupon when you check out. At this time, we were checking out of four rooms. The manager was working and asked if everything was OK. We said it was great, except for having to change one room due to a previous smoker. That room was immediately discounted $50. Nice PR move and why we keep going back.

Soon, the cruise portion finally starts! :D

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Edited October 10, 2015 by CruzinScotty

[johnnyf0614]

Can't wait! We'll be on the sunshine out of NYC. Cruised on the Destiny before. Looking forward to your review.

[dmndlil]

Cant wait to read more!!

[Boozebabe]

So, where were we? Oh yes, a wonderful, restful night's sleep.

Yeah.... right, that ain’t happenin’……

There's too much excitement in the air and too much fun to think about to be sleeping. Anyone with me on this? LOL

I was awake at 5:30 and later went for a walk. At 6:20, I went to the boardwalk at the hotel to see if any ships were still coming in. I spy…a whale tail! It’s a distance away, but I think I can make a few details out that it is the Sensation instead of the Sunshine.

When back in the room, I decided to check the weather forecast for this week . There is a system in the Gulf with a 30% chance of developing, and another one east of the Bahamas with a 40% chance. But, there is a high pressure over the Bahamas that would keep everything away from us.

Yea us!

I need to back track a little bit for this next story. Way back - a full year. My last cruise was in Sept. 2014, an 8 night Eastern out of Port Canaveral. I did a trip report and talked a little about the Best Western as I have done this time.

Fellow CC member, fourkittys, posted that she had also enjoyed the Best Western and mentioned the homemade banana bread they have. I've stayed here many times, but I've never had homemade banana bread.

Now, let's go back to yesterday. The buffet pictures did not show banana bread. I asked one of the crew (so ready to be on that ship!) if they had banana bread. She said, "Sometimes we do have homemade banana bread, the boss makes it herself. Today is not your lucky day." Hmmmmm

I kindly said to her, "We're staying another night. Do you think tomorrow could be my lucky day". LOL She said to hold on and went to the back. When she returned, she said the boss would make some tomorrow morning. It goes VERY fast (obviously), and they would make sure to SAVE some for us. Cool!

So, now we're back to the present and arrive at the time we said we would, 8AM. Out comes the boss with the banana bread. She goes from table to table making sure everyone has a chance to get some. We had a few who had not arrived yet, but we were able to get enough for us all (since I did, after all, make the original request).

So, here is the home made banana bread:

In the hustle, bustle world we live in; it's nice to see such nice and dedicated people out there.

Next, The Best Western rights a wrong.

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I too love banana bread. It's what I have almost every morning on Carnival cruises. At least I've had it the last 3x on the Breeze.

[CruzinScotty]

Can't wait! We'll be on the sunshine out of NYC. Cruised on the Destiny before. Looking forward to your review.

 

Happy to have you along. I plan on mentioning a lot of things that I think have changed. Please feel free to jump in if you see any of the "old Destiny". I have one picture later that I heard was an area not re-finished. Let me know if I'm right. :)

[CruzinScotty]

Cant wait to read more!!

 

Thanks, I hope to have a bit more posted soon. It's football season, I'm waiting for half time. ;)

Edited October 10, 2015 by CruzinScotty

[CruzinScotty]

I too love banana bread. It's what I have almost every morning on Carnival cruises. At least I've had it the last 3x on the Breeze.

 

I guarantee you will see more pictures of banana bread. :D

[CruzinScotty]

We drove three short miles to the port. The Sunshine departs from Terminal 6. I really like it, we left from here two years ago on the Dream.

We had FTTF, it works well for us. Once we checked in, there are large sitting areas. Platinum/Diamond, wedding parties, FTTF and regular boarding all had their own section. I tried to take a few pictures but was immediately told it was not allowed.

We got to the port very early, before 10AM. But, we decided we'd rather get thru security and the check in process and wait there instead of in our hotel rooms.

One thing we usually do each year is a family group photo. Since we were all at the terminal together, we decided to do this during Embarkation. Another group activity accomplished before we got on ship since.

My watch said 11:37 on the gangway, that gets us on board before noon - I’ll take it!

Let's start with a picture of the Atrium Bar that obviously was not taken on Embarkation Day.

 

 

Next: Let's talk about the decor

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Edited October 10, 2015 by CruzinScotty

[CruzinScotty]

During the massive renovation when the Destiny became the Sunshine, the colors and theme have been given a beautiful update. The cabin hallways have a great tropical vibe. There are a series of four portraits between cabin doors. And, here they are:

 

You can slightly make out the doors where it looks like there are slats, which adds to the ambiance.

 

 

 

 

 

 

So far, looking good!

 

Next: our cabin

Edited October 10, 2015 by CruzinScotty

[CruzinScotty]

Before I show you our cabin let me tell you that my family had four of them. I’m used to the Conquest/Dream classes where the “standard balcony cabins” are all the same. On the Sunshine, there were some differences in each of ours – and two of them were next to each other!

I will say the cabin size is smaller than I was expecting. I've gotten used to the size of the Conquest/Dream class ships, I believe these are closer in size to the Fantasy class? After a little mind-shift, the room really was great for DW and myself.

Here is of our cabin:

 

Please note the new color palate. Nice. There is a flat screen TV and a LOT of storage. There is a reason for this. I'll explain after the next pic:

You can see the slats on the door here much better. Next to the murals, it blends very nicely.

This room can accommodate four people. Our son was supposed join us, but got a new job and couldn't get time off. We had more storage in our room because of the expected higher occupancy.

Also of note: the sofa is smaller than expected. You can see where the 4th bunk would come down from the ceiling. It is regular size. I don't know the arrangement if the sofa is used as a bed, it seems too short to use length wise. Also, if the 4th bunk was lowered - it would be above the person on that side of the king bed.

Here's a pic that shows the extra storage not found in some other cabins.

Also: in our cabin, the safe was in the first of the three closets entering the cabin. It is digital, which is good; and was also in different locations in different cabins.

Lastly - we were in an older/re-finished room. This means we did not have a fridge. We've been without one before; but it's been a while. We did find that we missed it. Other family members did as well to keep soda and wine cool (since adding ice eventually dilutes your drink). If this is important to you, there is a chart floating around in several threads that lists all the cabins that do have fridges.

Next: the bathroom

Edited October 10, 2015 by CruzinScotty

[CruzinScotty]

It’s been over 10 years since I’ve been on the Paradise, but it seems our bathroom was laid out Fantasy class style.

I like the bright blue sink:

The commode is at an angle:

And the shower is a full rectangle. I definitely like this better:

But, the angle of the commode has you with one foot in the shower. To me, it’s a small price to pay for a shower that is more comfortable.

Now, on to the balcony. These are the same size I’m familiar with. Yea! It just so happened that the divider to the balcony next door was open, so I was able to get a nice shot with DW enjoying the view.

This is the fifth time in a row I’ve booked a balcony for three people and the first time there has been three chairs.

Over at Terminal 10, I was surprised to see the Sensation.

I thought it would be docked next to us at Terminal 5. When we left port, I realized they are remodeling Terminal 5. I’m theorizing they are updating for the “dancing of the ships” next year when the Magic takes the Sunshine’s spot; the Valor stays at Terminal 6 and the Victory goes to Terminal 5. If so – yep – they need a bigger terminal for the bigger ship.

Coming soon – it’s time to eat!

Edited October 10, 2015 by CruzinScotty

[TLC535]

Thanks for asking. I live in-land from the coast; but close to Charleston. My house is fine as is most of my friends and co-workers.

 

There are two things going on in our area. The flooding caused damage to some local roads and has been flooding off and on over many other roads for days. This has caused massive traffic jams. IE. I don't have damaged or flooded roads on my way home, but my 3 mile, normal 7 minute drive, yesterday took 30 minutes. The second issue is the water from the Midlands (middle part of the state - in and around Columbia) is heading down many different rivers to the ocean. The governor flew over them and said they can see the water heading our way. We don't yet know the effect of this.

 

Thanks for thinking of us; I feel bad for those more greatly effected.

 

They say we had enough rain in 3-4 days to end the drought in California. Mind boggling.

 

 

Glad to "hear" y'all made it thru ok...we too live in the Charleston area (N. Charleston - Ashley Phos./Windsor Hill area) and had much the same...road/yard flooding but nothing inside thankfully, unlike some in the area & mid-state that have had so much devastation....craziness :eek::eek:

 

Enjoying the review and looking forward to our turn to check her out the end of May :D

[TLC535]

I thought it would be docked next to us at Terminal 5. When we left port, I realized they are remodeling Terminal 5. I’m theorizing they are updating for the “dancing of the ships” next year when the Magic takes the Sunshine’s spot; the Valor stays at Terminal 6 and the Victory goes to Terminal 5. If so – yep – they need a bigger terminal for the bigger ship.

 

They are also getting it ready for the Oasis of the Sea to be home ported @ PC next fall ;)

[missdebi]

Loving your review... Leave on 11-8 doing the same itinerary.. We are booked at La Quinta which also offers the 40% savings for port parking. We are going down 2 days pre cruise to relax some in Cocoa Beach. It might just be me I do have some eye issues but I am having a hard time with the green writing .. it comes out kinda blurred.. is it just me?

[momof3cruisers]

Following along. Loving the amount of pictures!

[CruzinScotty]

Glad to "hear" y'all made it thru ok...we too live in the Charleston area (N. Charleston - Ashley Phos./Windsor Hill area) and had much the same...road/yard flooding but nothing inside thankfully, unlike some in the area & mid-state that have had so much devastation....craziness :eek::eek:

 

Enjoying the review and looking forward to our turn to check her out the end of May :D

 

Glad to hear you made it through as well as we have. The Midlands did get the brunt of this. Though there are some localized pockets where some streets had a few flooded houses as you well know. They don't call us "the Low Country" for nothing. ;)

 

They are also getting it ready for the Oasis of the Sea to be home ported @ PC next fall ;)

 

I mis-wrote above. The Valor should stay at Terminal 10, which used to be a Royal Caribbean terminal. Their new terminal is open. There's a picture coming up during Sail Away.

[CruzinScotty]

Loving your review... Leave on 11-8 doing the same itinerary.. We are booked at La Quinta which also offers the 40% savings for port parking. We are going down 2 days pre cruise to relax some in Cocoa Beach. It might just be me I do have some eye issues but I am having a hard time with the green writing .. it comes out kinda blurred.. is it just me?

 

Glad you are enjoying. Have you stayed at the La Quinta before? If not, it's next to the Best Western. So, it's closer to the pier and still close to the Publix shopping center, etc. Great location; I hope you enjoy it.

 

I wanted to try a different color for the report. Light blue didn't work, green seemed to be working; but I'll go back to the original blue since that's that standard.

 

Following along. Loving the amount of pictures!

 

As I was reviewing the photos I have loaded to post, I realized just how many of them I have. Be careful what you ask for. ;)

 

I should have more posted today. We need to see some cruise ship food porn. :D

Edited October 11, 2015 by CruzinScotty

[CruzinScotty]

Before we move on, let me mention that we all know food is very subjective. I’ll give you my thoughts on some items; just remember your taste may vary.

Now, on we go!

[CruzinScotty]

It’s time for lunch and there’s no place better to start than an area new to the Sunshine and Carnival: The Havana Bar.

When the Sunshine was re-done, the rear pool on the Lido deck was closed in to create this area. I have several “Sunshine Perceptions” here:

One is that it is a nice addition with a great layout. I agree with this. Here is one picture, there will be a few more later:

Next, I heard it’s usually pretty empty here until the end of the cruise because it’s kind of hard to find. On this count, I’ll say……..the secret is out! We got there early thanks to FTTF, but by the time we left; it was pretty full. It is quieter back here, which is still a nice benefit.

Lastly, I heard they have a small selection of Cuban food at the bar. Since it’s time to eat, let’s look at the selections:

There are Cuban sandwiches on the left, followed by two kinds of meat empanadas, and then a dessert empanada. They also had sauces to add. Each item is labeled and some changed from day to day:

Today, I chose the chicken empanada with garlic aoli sauce and the coconut empanada:

I thought both of these were very good. The coconut was a little dry, it needed a sauce. I didn’t realize at the time, but I’m guessing the Guava Mint sauce might have been meant for this empanada?

 

Next: there’s more to lunch – what do YOU usually have the first day???

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Edited October 11, 2015 by CruzinScotty

[Justyman87]

What do I have is a loaded question. Usually everything on the buffet. Lol.

[CruzinScotty]

Here is the menu:

I usually order The Ringer, with an extra onion ring.

The line wasn’t short the days I was there, but it did get long at times.

Here are some of the goodies you can add:

A couple more shots in this area:

 

Oops, no more pics this post – see the finished product next!

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[CruzinScotty]

So, here’s my Double Ringer:

 

It was great! I’m hungry for one now.

Next, on to the dessert selections of the day:

And my choices:

We have a Strawberry pop, Mango Merengue Pie, chocolate cake (a little spongy), and Caramel Cheesecake. I think this might be the same one offered at the Sea Day Brunch.

In a bit, it’s time to work off lunch and do some exploring.

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[CruzinScotty]

What do I have is a loaded question. Usually everything on the buffet. Lol.

 

Too funny! With so many options and a shorter cruise, I only got a couple of items from the lunch buffet.

[CruzinScotty]

I bet you won’t think of these as toys, but – hey; let’s just roll with it. :)

There are several of these new handwashing stations on the Lido Deck.

You put your hands in and they get a nice soap and water massage!

Also, towards the back of the Marketplace, near the Deli; you no longer need a bartender to get a beer. Just grab a glass, swipe your cabin card and you're all set:

As we continue forward on the Lido, you’ll see the first of many pool area pics:

It’s not too busy yet; people are still boarding and eating.

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[CruzinScotty]

So, with the Sunshine’s rehab; above the Havana Bar, a new water park/family fun area has been created. Here are a few pics:

 

 

Here, I must say, is an example of poor signage on Deck 10 aft:

This door DOES go to Camp Carnival. But, we wandered to Deck 10 the first time from mid ship and couldn’t figure out how to get to the rear elevators from the waterpark area. We found out later that THIS is the door you go thru.

“Sunshine Perception”: I’ve heard people mention that because they added cabins to the ship, that the elevators service was bad and it was the worst they’ve ever seen on Embarkation Day.

Here’s what is saw:

On Embarkation Day, every cruise ship has some elevators closed to deliver luggage. So, on every cruise ship, the elevator service is slow the first day. But it gets better. I will say, that on the Sunshine, on Embarkation Day alone, the elevator service did seem slower than on other ships. Slow, yes, horrid – no. Did it ruin our day? Not a chance! Our ship was sold out, the elevator service the rest of the cruise was just fine.

Continuing on, we went looking for tonight’s menu, with no luck. But, I did get a few pics of the aft Sunrise Dining Room

We headed back to the room to unpack and relax a little before the Muster Drill.

Coming soon: leaving port