Is Carnival that bad?

[pucarter]

To the OP:

 

We are a bit younger demographic (45 and 36), but like you, we had heard all sorts of bad things about Carnival. Since we are suffering from a major case of cruise withdrawal but have limited time, we decided to try CCL and the Elation out of Port Canaveral. They had a fantastic military deal -- less than $240pp (taxes and fees included!) for a 4 day cruise -- we couldn't refuse!

 

Ever since nervously making the booking, I have been impressed with the things that have been said about Carnival, the Elation, and our fellow CCers' comments. Now I am anxiously awaiting our sailing!

 

And one more thing -- none of the other lines we sailed with had a friendly countdown clock on their main webpage that would tell me "Rebeccah, we can't wait to welcome you aboard your funship XXXXXX in XX days" -- I look at that countdown clock every day! So does my DH...

 

So far we are very impressed with Carnival, and will keep an open mind. I'm confident we will not encounter problems, any more so than we would on other lines...

 

Good luck with your decision!

Rebeccah

[Island_Guy]

We paid $700 on HAL, $600 on Princess. We are looking at a 7 day in January on CCL Glory for $429. That's a big difference in my mind.

[Roboat]

We paid $700 on HAL, $600 on Princess. We are looking at a 7 day in January on CCL Glory for $429. That's a big difference in my mind.

 

Well, if it is, as I said, for assigned balcony (not a Guarantee) 7-days, that IS a great price, and I take it back, and I need to shop harder next time.

 

Is it?

[GoinCruisin]

 

A side note - I don't understand so many comments about the great prices on Carnival. We usually book 4-6 months out, and have always found the prices on Caribbean cruises from Florida to be similar on all major lines except Disney. 7-day cruises during the Oct - Jan time frame are usually within $50-100 for a balcony with an assigned cabin, and usually average $700-800 pp, total including all taxes etc. I count onboard credit as a "real" discount. Note that this is from Florida, a VERY competitive market. But what am I missing here? Oh, Celebrity might run another $50 average, but HAL and Princess are very close to Carnival, sometimes lower, sometimes higher.

 

 

I have priced Princess and Celebrity for similar cruises and they are MUCH higher... Including OBC's, for my assigned AFT balcony next month, I am paying $669. Like I said, maybe I'm just unlucky because Princess and Celebrity generally don't come close... I have no desire to cruise HAL yet, so I don't know how they compare.

[Island_Guy]

That price is for an inside cabin. We had an outside balcony on HAL both times, and my wife didn't enjoy it (actually hated it). Everyone says that you never spend any time in you room. That has not been the case when we have been at a resort, but certainly has been true of our cruise experiences. If the little woman wants an inside cabin, that that is where we are headed!!

[Joanportia]

I'm in my fifties, "the new thirties!!!" and have sailed Carnival and Celebrity. I much prefer Carnival!!! Celebrity was too sedate for me...... I've sailed the Victory, Pride and Inspiration. My next is the Destiny. None have let me down yet........but I am not too hard to please. I have traveled a lot, to many countries and types of accomodations. Carnival fits the bill for me and is very affordable!!!!! Give it a shot!!!!

 

 

Joan

 

 

Sail on............................................

[CruiseToBooze]

my parents love Carnival! It's the only line they go on. They love the casino and bingo and the pool and comedy shows. they rant and rave about the Valor. Try that one

[jabberman_76366]

Just returned from the Conquest. First cruise for us. Sailed on 8/27 and back in on 9/3. Excellent service, from every one on the ship.Shows were great, food in the dinning room excellent. No complaints from us. However we did skip Jamacia, due to tropical storm scare. Not many kids, however. The kids that we did see were all involved in Camp Carnival.

[dexter]

First five cruises were on Carnival...then we tried Princess, Celebrity, RCCL and HAL. Carnival equalled or bettered each one in almost every category. Worst food IMHO was on Zuiderdam...snootiest passengers on Princess. Worst entertainment was on Celebrity. I can honestly say the best shows were on Carnival. The dining room food has really improved on Carnival. The best and most entertaining CD's were on Carnival. Best deck party was on Princess. The only negative was the Glory in July when there were just way too many children. This time we are going on Carnival when school is in session (we hope). We leave this Monday on Fantasy.

[marty30907]

We paid $700 on HAL, $600 on Princess. We are looking at a 7 day in January on CCL Glory for $429. That's a big difference in my mind.

 

My DW and I sailed on the Glory Dec 05 and found the ship to be beautiful, clean, and a great crew. My DW is 59 and I am 51 and we will be sailing on our 5th Carnival ship Mar 07. We seem to fit into the product that Carnival is providing and we have enjoyed all of our cruises.

 

Go and have a great time!

[Johnsy81]

Each cruise line offers a slightly different product, and each class of ship offers a different environment or "feel." When we cruised on Carnival years ago, we chose a time with lots of children (early August). Unfortunately, we didn't realize what we had done until we were on board. The children ruled the ship and all we could do was chalk that cruise up to experience. We weren't happy with the service in the dining room but think that our wait staff were new to the ship which is not necessarily the fault of the cruise line.

 

If a travel agent is steering you away from a particular cruise line, make sure they fully understand what you are looking for in a cruise. Our agent pretty much knows our likes and dislikes, and would discourage us from Carnival. She has not said anything negative about the line but knows that what it has to offer passengers is not what we're interested in.

 

If you read through most of the cruise line boards, you'll find folks who love that particular line and others who "would never sail on it again." I have found that expectations set the stage for your overall experience. And, it becomes difficult to look at your first time on a particular line when you've sampled other lines - human nature almost always prompts comparisons. The best thing you can do is to research the ship and itinerary carefully, taking into account both the positive and negative messages from past cruisers.

 

As an aside: we just came off QM2 and happened to eat lunch with an older couple (I would guess they were in their early to mid 60s). They were not happy with Cunard or the QM2 (this was their first experience), and kept saying "Royal Caribbean this and Royal Caribbean that." They didn't like the food, and didn't like the evening activities. DH and I, on the other hand, were in Heaven on this ship. The beauty of cruising is that there are many lines and ships to choose from - pick the one that works for you (and your pocketbook) and try to get a sense of what to expect before you go. I can't imagine anyone having a bad time on a cruise so I'm sure you'll have a great time no matter what you decide. Good luck with your decision.

[KBfromNC]

We are relatively new cruisers, and have been sampling various lines. We have been on Celebrity, HAL, Princess and MSC, and have enjoyed each line, perhaps for differing purposes.

 

Every one tells us to avoid Carnival at all costs. We are looking for a cruise this January, and I am tempted by the prices of Carnival, and I have to wonder if they really are that bad.

 

A little about us... we are in our early 50s, and relatively active. The older passengers on some of the lines have been annoying in their complaints and requests. Let's be reasonable: you can't serve dinner to 700 people at the same time and expect restaurant quality food. You can't pay $800 for a cruise and expect to be waited on like it's the White Star line and it is 1924. On the other hand, I would rather put up with the old folks than people with small children on a cruise.

 

We enjoy the ship more than we do the ports. Through the years, we have pretty well seen all of the Carribean, so another day shopping in St. Thomas is not as enjoyable as sitting quietly on the deck and reading a book. We enjoy the casinos, perhaps a little too much, and usually are there until closing, then to a buffet and off to bed. Up at 10 or so for breakfast, and relaxation.

 

So there you have it... are we Carnival people? I know the reponse I would get if I posted this in a HAL or Celebrity board, but I thought I would ask those that might be Carnival fans..

 

Thanks for your thoughts!

 

It has been MY findings that the cruise lines I have been on (NCL, RCCL, Carnival) are all similar in ways~

I know some will say the one line is WAY better than the other.....IMO its all a personal opinion......

Of course sometimes you may find the food on one line a little better, the shows on another line better etc.....

Carnival has always been a pleasure to cruise with. Their Lido deck food was good, shows are excellent IMO and dining room is fine~

Unless you are hell bent on wall rock climbing or ice skating or golfing on board than consider Carnival~ you will have a wonderful time~

Good luck to you~ I say give it a try~ Everyones experience is so different with ANY vacation~

;)

[crusinpsychRN]

Who owns which cruise line?

[DqALEX]

We are relatively new cruisers, and have been sampling various lines. We have been on Celebrity, HAL, Princess and MSC, and have enjoyed each line, perhaps for differing purposes.

 

Every one tells us to avoid Carnival at all costs. We are looking for a cruise this January, and I am tempted by the prices of Carnival, and I have to wonder if they really are that bad.

 

A little about us... we are in our early 50s, and relatively active. The older passengers on some of the lines have been annoying in their complaints and requests. Let's be reasonable: you can't serve dinner to 700 people at the same time and expect restaurant quality food. You can't pay $800 for a cruise and expect to be waited on like it's the White Star line and it is 1924. On the other hand, I would rather put up with the old folks than people with small children on a cruise.

 

We enjoy the ship more than we do the ports. Through the years, we have pretty well seen all of the Carribean, so another day shopping in St. Thomas is not as enjoyable as sitting quietly on the deck and reading a book. We enjoy the casinos, perhaps a little too much, and usually are there until closing, then to a buffet and off to bed. Up at 10 or so for breakfast, and relaxation.

 

So there you have it... are we Carnival people? I know the reponse I would get if I posted this in a HAL or Celebrity board, but I thought I would ask those that might be Carnival fans..

 

Thanks for your thoughts!

It is so bad that if you already have your tickets, you should just mail them to me

[clgcrusier]

I've only been on 2 cruises, and one coming up, all Carnival. On the Valor (beautiful ship!) this past spring, we were on during spring break, and I have to say that we had no problems with kids or college-age kids! It's a huge ship, and there are so many quiet places as well as busy places, you will be sure to find lots of things to do that will suite you. Very good food, many, many choices of things-if you prefer top-notch dining, you can make reservations for their supper club. I didn't try it but I have heard nothing but wonderful things about it. I'm not sure if they have that on Glory-I would assume so, but I know most of the newer ships do. Sensation was wonderful, too, but that was a 5-day and as stated above, a little more partying going on. Staff was wonderful-they are so good at memorizing you, your likes and dislikes, and making your trip a joy.

 

We (my friends and I) are forty-ish in age, and love to do fun things also, but still need to have space and quiet time away from the hustle of all the activities. We had absolutely no trouble finding that, even with 3,000 people onboard! I really think you will really enjoy yourselves and be back on Carnival again!

[Cotton]

[quote name='crusinpsychRN']Who owns which cruise line?[/quote]

[B]Carnival Corporation owns:[/B]

[B]Carnival [/B]
[B]Princess[/B]
[B]Holland American[/B]
[B]Cunard[/B]
[B]Costa[/B]
[B]Windstar[/B]
[B]Yachts of Seabourn[/B]
[B]P & O[/B]
[B]and 4-5 obscure lines.....[/B]

[Mirage2005]

Yes, in my opinion it is that bad. Avoid it at all costs. It's not worth the savings. And since you are experienced cruiser, you will be disappointed. Trust me. My first cruise many years ago was with Carnival. Thru the years we have cruised, Celebrity, Norweigian and Royal Caribbean. This past cruise was really, really bad. Carnival even offered each of us a $50.00 credit on our next cruise. As if we would take them up on that.
NOT! Sick with the cruiselines you mentioned, especially since you enjoy staying on the ship. We couldn't wait to get off the ship. Never again.

[Mirage2005]

[quote name='firstplacechef']Island Guy, I was just wondering the same thing. Same age and I agree with your statements about food quality, etc. My DW &DD are doing a quick get-away this December on Carnival that comes to just 85.00/per person per day (got a great deal)! What is there to complain about that! We love X and RCCL but our usual cost for them is over 150/pp-pd! Didn't care for NCL as much.

Now, I am not into the hairy chest contests, or the other "fun" contests, but just give e a quiet corner on sea days and I will be fine.

I believe a cruise is what you make it. As long as it is clean, good service and good food, I'm happy! Scott[/quote]

Then avoid Carnival. They do all that stupid stuff. Carnival is geared much more towards the younger crowd, in my opinion. As far as being the most popular cruise line, I'm wondering if they include their sister partners, i.e., Princess for one. Even my travel agent does not recommend Carnival. I made the mistake of booking through an online service. Should have listened to my TA.

[wentworth]

[quote name='Mirage2005']Then avoid Carnival. They do all that stupid stuff. Carnival is geared much more towards the younger crowd, in my opinion. As far as being the most popular cruise line, I'm wondering if they include their sister partners, i.e., Princess for one. Even my travel agent does not recommend Carnival. I made the mistake of booking through an online service. Should have listened to my TA.[/quote]

Not sure which ship you were on but our experiences on Carnival have
been just the opposite of what yours were. We are in our mid 50's and
have cruise 6 times on Carnival, 7th one coming up. Carnival is geared
toward all ages and we were able to find quite places when we wanted
and fun spots and activities other times. If you don't wish to participate
in the "stupid stuff", you certainly are not required to. We didn't.

How many time have you actually sailed Carnival?

[pucarter]

[quote name='DqALEX']It is so bad that if you already have your tickets, you should just mail them to me[/QUOTE]


THAT was the funniest thing I've read in days! :D :D :D

[bflowngs]

My wife and I are both 55 and sailed on both the Glory and the Sensation. We tend to be a bit critical about our cabins, food, and entertainment. The food in the restaurants on both Carnival cruises were better than most than we would get at local restaurants. You also cannot beat the deli and pizzeria. My wife always gets a slice as soon as we board!!

We have not been disapointed in Carnival. We cruised on RCL last year and were very disappointed in the quality of their food. I also didn't care much for their entertainment.

They did have a men's best legs contest, which is very much the same as the hairy chest contest.

Their ship's decor was more to our liking as it was more traditional. Carnival is more glitzy.....but that really doesn't bother us either.

My wife summed it up.....why pay more money for a cruise when you are going to the same ports anyway??? We are certainly looking forward to our next cruise on the Triumph in March.

[MarylandLady]

No -- not at all. However, I cannot compare to other cruise lines since I LOVE Carnival. I am in my mid-50's, started cruising with Carnival when I was in my 30's. Loved it then -- love it now. My sister is over 60 and loves Carnival and she was comparing food, entertainment, and overall enjoyment to Celebrity. In fact my sister and I will be on the Legend in October and I was just on the Valor (with my DH and GD) in July.

Try it -- you really have nothing to lose! ;)

[EngIceDave]

As with a lot of things travel related, it's all about attitude.

If you are a detailed fussy personality who is looking to be waited on hand-and-foot, served 5-star meals and have a personal wiper in the toilet, Carnival is not for you.

Carnival is not a "party boat" as some believe it is, but it is geared more towards "active adults." That can also include families.

If you're allergic to children, you might have a seizure or two on Carnival, but not constantly. Contrary to what some portray, a Carnival ship is not a giant daycare center. There may be a couple dozen kids on a ship, but chances are you won't see them unless you go kid hunting.

If you are looking for a floating adults only retirement village, Carnival is not for you.
If you are still young on the inside, willing to laugh at yourself and with others, overlook minor inconveniences from time to time and just "go with the flow," Carnival is for you.

"Stick in the Mud" is not a moniker that fits Carnival

The food is good to excellent, the ships are clean, the entertainment is good, drinks are cold and the ports are in the same place as for other lines.

Bottomline?
Carnival isn't for old farts

Are you an old fart?

[MarylandLady]

You said it much better than I could EngIceDave.

Good reply!:D

[LHP]

[quote name='MarylandLady']No -- not at all. However, I cannot compare to other cruise lines since I LOVE Carnival. I am in my mid-50's, started cruising with Carnival when I was in my 30's. Loved it then -- love it now. My sister is over 60 and loves Carnival and she was comparing food, entertainment, and overall enjoyment to Celebrity. In fact my sister and I will be on the Legend in October and I was just on the Valor (with my DH and GD) in July.

Try it -- you really have nothing to lose! ;)[/QUOTE]

Maryland must produce some wonderful folks. On one of hubby's cruises back in the 80's when he was still single...there were 2 older sisters (both were widows and lived side by side) from Maryland that sat at dinner with his group of wild "20 something" guys. They all had a great time. These sisters ended up knitting an entire wardrobe for our son when we married and had our first little one .... and I had never even met them. We kept in touch for years, but they have since passed on.

Fortunately, before they passed, we were able to see them for the day, when we took a vacation up to that way. That was years after the cruise.