Holland or Carnival

[scopewest]

Carnival is not known for "deluxe" suite type amenities. As everyone says, it's a completely different experience. We enjoyed HAL but we also enjoyed our Carnival cruises and would book either line again.

[Firkin]

i done both. no comparison, really. totally different experiences.

what is it that draws your husband to carnival?

We have been on Carnival twice and we both totally loved it. I want to go on Holland 'cause I have never done that. You know with takeing into account tha DH HATES anything new, I think he will like HAL better. And I think he will be surprized, at how much he likes it. This is how I feel ---- I am on a big boat (yeah),on the ocean (yeah) somebodyelse is doing the cooking and cleaning (quadruple yeah) This is hevan.

[Islandbuoy]

We go on HAL when we can, but have no hesitancy to go Carnival as well, depending on cost & itinerary. There are differences--the major ones for us are the lack of a "crows nest" and " nothin doin" b-tween dinner and show on CCL. On the other hand HAL could use some more pool music.

 

We do like getting to know the people serving us on HAL--I guess that's what brings us back.

 

Do not confuse "older" with "sophisticated". I've seen these people start to complain the minute that they get on the ship!

[ginagirl]

Have sailed HAL and Carnival many times and pretty much agree with all previous posts. However, if you absolutely love dining and dancing in a dimly lit, romantic restaurant, with "mostly" excellent food, then you really MUST do the Supper Club on Carnival. At $30 PP, it not only offers a very nice menu, but the romantic setting, including dancing to a romantic combo between courses, is wonderful. But that's something that is of paramount importance to me. You must decide what your priorities are for you. Happy Sailing!!!!:)

[ardentcruiser]

I have been on HAL and Carnival and enjoyed both. HAL is a little fancier and has less lines, but my wife and I really enjoyed Carnival (Triumph). Both have really good food. I don't think Carnival is as bad as people make it out to be.

[Frick_&_Frack]

We've cruised both lines (in addition to others) and loved both. We had no service issues on CCL or HAL (Cat 12 on CCL and SB on HAL). While HAL does have some nicer outside furniture, we were on the Miracle which was recently refurbished and the room was outstanding - new mattress, etc. - on par with the SB on HAL.

 

The lack of "hot" food from Room Service is a bummer on CCL; however, not a deal breaker.

 

We are not terribly active and aren't into any dancing/nightlife - unless it's the casino (don't do the shows, etc.) but each line has their unique qualities that we loved.

 

For reference, I'm 42 and DH is 59.