Just off Sunshine 7/28 to 8/1 from NYC

[jpurdy]

Embarkation: We arrived about 11:00 AM, parked the car with no issues. We went to the VIFP area that was separate and had assorted juices, coffee, etc. We checked in quickly and boarded immediately with FTTF passengers.

 

Went straight up to Lido and enjoyed lunch. TIP: If you like a quieter atmosphere, proceed to back of ship, walking through the elevators on Deck 9 to the Havana Bar area. Here, you can have the pasta bar and the stir fry at lunch for no additional charge. There is a large seating area here and a bar, drink stations, etc. It was cooler there and much quieter with the great view of the ship's wake. We ate here every meal. You can also eat dinner here from the buffet even if you don't pay the extra fee to have the sit down dinners from the aforementioned restaurants. Sit in the center area by the bar, not where passengers are seated for those areas. This is our favorite area of the ship. FYI: We always ate in the buffet. We noticed that the buffet offerings have decreased quit a bit. We never went hungry, but it was noticeable. The pizza is really good. We aren't fine diners, but I did like the pizza a lot and there are 5 choices I think.

 

We tried Serenity for adults with the beautiful waterfall/swimming area a couple of times. Embarkation day was so hot, we couldn't stand the heat. The bar was very late setting up and they seemed frazzled. We tried to use the bar again later in the cruise and it was ridiculously busy and people were complaining. We left and went to another part of the ship. It always seemed quite full.

 

We enjoyed the casino, which is large in our opinion. The smoke was BAD. I really wish they would ban it everywhere. We tried to stay in the center of the casino which did have an A/C blowing, but everywhere else and the bar was loaded with smokers. I truly feel bad for any employees who must inhale this second hand smoke.

 

We had a balcony cabin on deck 6, mid-ship. Our steward, Adi, was phenomenal. Quiet, very pleasant and bent over backward for us. He brought us a refrigerator (without us asking) for our wine, etc. So sweet. Our cabin was very clean. I must say that the last day of walking up to Lido Deck and seeing all of the towel animals was so touching for me. I can't imagine how they find time to do this and it just spoke to me. The smiles from everyone walking onto the deck was so heartwarming. Wouldn't it be wonderful if we all made the world a better place by doing something nice for one another? Are you listening Donald Trump?

 

1st day at Sea: We enjoyed trivia (I am a proud owner of a ship on a stick!) all day, the casino and relaxing.

 

St. John: We walked around, toured a loyalist house, and had a couple of drinks at O'Leary's bar. Really nice day.

 

2nd day at Sea: Pretty much the same as 1st day. We did see the shows. I think Carnival is alittle too ambitious with their song choices. The singers try so hard and props to them, but trying to belt out songs isn't necessary for a good show.

 

I do want to give a huge shout out to Cruise Director Emma. WOW. She is a breath of fresh air. Carnival take note: pay her more, ALOT more. She is genuine, approachable and seems to be everywhere. We have been on 20+ cruises and none have come close.

Do not miss the 80's party the last night in the Atrium.

 

Debarkation: We chose self assist as we only have carry on luggage and it was painless and quick. We were off the ship by 8:00.

 

Seas were like glass and we had a totally relaxing vacation. Happy to answer any questions.

Edited August 1, 2016 by jpurdy

[NYcruzzer]

Welcome home. Nice fair and balanced review. I've done the 4 and 4 night Canada itinerary numerous times. Always had a great time. Going on the 7 night Canada/New England cruise 9/3 Cannot wait to sail !!

[beachnsnowbunny]

We did the 4 night on June 30th. Our day in St.Johns was rainy and foggy but we had a great time. Completely agree about Emma.😁 She is Fantastic and soo much fun. We will definitely sail with her again.

[Clarea]

Appreciate the feedback.

[riclop]

Thanks for the review.

[cruisincastro2012]

thanks for the review. Cant wait to go on her in October with my husband. We have always done the Caribbean cruises so this is our first in this area.

Very excited!!

[kc320]

Thanks for the review! I am looking into this cruise for next Oct...and am eagerly reading all I can about the ship & cruise ports...where in NY does the ship sail from? Trying to get an idea on airfare....

[cruiser fanatic]

Great review.

Edited August 2, 2016 by cruiser fanatic

[peachcreamsicle]

This may be a dumb question, but how was the parking situation at the port? I am booked on the Sunshine and trying to decide whether to book flights or drive. Would I have to arrive early to ensure that I can get parking?

[Jamman54]

Thanks for the review! We'll be on her in September & October. Can't wait!

[beachnsnowbunny]

This may be a dumb question, but how was the parking situation at the port? I am booked on the Sunshine and trying to decide whether to book flights or drive. Would I have to arrive early to ensure that I can get parking?

 

I wouldn't worry about finding a spot. The lot is huge and we have never seen it full. Only thing is it is expensive at $40 a day.

[jpurdy]

This may be a dumb question, but how was the parking situation at the port? I am booked on the Sunshine and trying to decide whether to book flights or drive. Would I have to arrive early to ensure that I can get parking?

 

We try to get there at 11 or so, but we saw a couple arrive VERY late...in fact we left at least 2 hours past sail time. I think they were waiting for this couple and they parked in the lot next to the ship. It only matters if more than 1 ship in port. Check the port web site and you will know how many ships in port on the day you sail.

[AHS123]

 

 

Wouldn't it be wonderful if we all made the world a better place by doing something nice for one another? Are you listening Donald Trump?

 

Happy to answer any questions.

 

What's the problem with Donald trump? I bet he would enjoy a Carnival cruise.

[rainbowflag]

What's the problem with Donald trump? I bet he would enjoy a Carnival cruise.

 

Trump will have lots of time for a Carnival cruise after November.

[cincicruisers]

Thanks for sharing your review.

[piorio54]

Where did you park? Doing the same cruise on 10/8.

Thanks!

[Cr2zCr8zy]

Welcome home. Nice fair and balanced review. I've done the 4 and 4 night Canada itinerary numerous times. Always had a great time. Going on the 7 night Canada/New England cruise 9/3 Cannot wait to sail !!

 

I will be cruising with you on the 3rd!! 30 days to go.. :D

[rjrpar]

What's the problem with Donald trump? I bet he would enjoy a Carnival cruise.

 

 

The world will be a better place only when some of the major problems, caused in recent years , are solved. Being nice is not the solution.

[jpurdy]

Where did you park? Doing the same cruise on 10/8.

Thanks!

 

We parked right at the pier. So easy off Henry Hudson Parkway. Clear signage. Kind of expensive to park, but we love getting on and off the ship so quickly.