5 day Paradise or Sensation?

[dolphinlover1]

We're trying to pick between the Paradise (Grand Cayman & Cozumel) or the Sensation (Nassau, Half Moon Cay, Grand Turk) in February. The Sensation is about $175 more than the Paradise. We want to spend a couple of days on the beach before the cruise. Since one is out of Tampa and the other out of Miami, I'm not sure which one would be the better option. What are everyone's thoughts?

Edited November 11, 2015 by dolphinlover1

[elainmir]

Do a bit of research and see if any ports really interest you! I'm hooked on Grand Cayman,it's probably hands down my favorite port ...you must do the deluxe stingray excursion..it was awesome! Cozumel is also a favorite port..but I also am a rare bird who likes Nassau and Grand Turk also...( maybe it's anyplace that's not work I love ROFL) Don't listen to peeps who down a port..we all have likes and dislikes..I've heard so much negative about Nassau and I like the port...I'm glad I didn't listen and went. Things I like you may not but at least give it a chance and see if YOU personally like it. In Nassau I'm hooked on Pirates Ale Brewery.. do yourself a favor and see the whole island when you go..take their buses..see local stuff...not just touristy stuff..you'll be glad you did..enjoy it..make it what you want.. I have never sailed the Sensation but I've sailed the Paradise this last July. I loved it..I'm going in January again..neat little ship!

[ooomwizard]

Fantastic snorkeling in Grand Cayman right near the pier, and it's free! Even rental equipment available. But, go for the short drive and enjoy more vacation time! Have fun!

[GranysT]

Hubby and I just did a B2B on Paradise, end of Sept. We had been on several sister ships, but not Paradise before. She was, IMO, one of Carnival's prettiest ships. Grand Cayman is a tender port, but a beautiful port. One of my favorite's.

I'm not familiar with any beaches around Tampa, maybe someone else can tell you if there are any. Miami of course has South Beach. Nice, but very commercial.

Since you are coming in 2 days early, maybe you could think about staying at Port Canaveral. There is Cocoa Beach there, plus lots of hotels, restaurants, and shopping. Also Cape Canaveral is great day visit. Port Canaveral is about a 2 hr drive to Tampa.

What ever you choose, have a great cruise.

[cruizinrican]

The Sensation has one more port and I like these ports better. Besides I like cheaper!

[SkyMaster]

The ships are VERY similar, so for me it'd be "Paradise", with what I consider the better ports, and the better, easier embarkation port. Lots of nice beaches on the West Coast of Florida, including Clearwater Beach. ;) I don't think you'd go wrong choosing "Paradise". :cool:

 

"SKY"

[dolphinlover1]

Thanks everyone, we have decided on the Paradise, can't wait!