My review of the Carnival Legend 2/3-2/10/08

[Mysterest]

My wife and I vacationed on the Carnival Legend on Feb. 3 2008 to the Western Caribbean. We have been on 5 other cruises, mostly Princess and Royal Caribbean. In 2006, we were on the Crown Princess and we liked it so much, we did that same exact cruise, six months later. My older brother, who has cruised Carnival several times, recently took the Crown Princess cruise and came back saying that Carnival was much better than Princess.

We left from home and parked our car at JFK in NY. It was Super Bowl Sunday so there was no traffic that morning. The airport was mostly empty and everything was a breeze. The flight on Delta was a direct flight to Tampa, and getting from the airport to the pier was very organized and enjoyable. The lines were long but they moved quickly.

We were on the ship and went up to our room. We usually take an inside room because my wife cannot sleep if there is any light. The room was very small. Barely enough room to move around with our 3 suitcases in the room. The closets had hangers, but not enough of them. The bathroom was the same as every other ship we’ve been on, so we didn’t have a problem there. Our cabin steward was very good and kept the room tidy. We were disappointed there was no small refrigerator in our room. The brochure stated that all cabins had them. We were on Verandah deck which was quite. I liked that you were able to check your billing on the TV in the room.

We went to the Unicorn Café for lunch and I will say that the lunches on this ship were real good. There were always a variety of foods to choose from.

The pools on the ship we small compared to what we’ve experienced on the Crown Princess but similar to Royal Caribbean. You basically stand around in the water with other people standing around you. The pools are not made for swimming. The adult only pool had good music, but many smokers in the area.

We had the early seating for dinner, and found that to be a problem on the days we were not at sea. We would get off the ship in the morning, be out all day, and come back to the ship around 3 O’clock with an appetite. After eating that late in the afternoon, we weren’t hungry for dinner at six. We like flexible dinning but it wasn’t offered on the ship. On the nights we didn’t have main dinning, we found the buffet upstairs to a huge disappointment! There was only one type of meat offered with some sides. The only other choices were a grilled chicken breast or a hamburger. Usually, when we cruise, if you choose NOT to go to the main dinning room, the buffet has mostly the same menu. This ship did not, and that was one of the two things that made this our first and last cruise on the Carnival Legend.

The shows in the theatre were great. We really enjoyed the shows every night, especially the midnight comedy shows. The production shows were also wonderful. We normally avoid the casino because of all the smokers so I can’t say much about that, but it looked like a fine operation.

I was surprised at how many places on the ship that DID ALLOW SMOKING. Most of the bars allowed smoking and although the Firebird lounge was a non smoking venue, some people occasionally “snuck” a cigarette during the Karaoke shows.

The ports were all great, especially enjoyed Grand Cayman where we did the Stingray City tour with Captain Marvin. Paradise Beach on Cozumel had poor snorkeling but it was a nice beach. Food and drink at Paradise Beach was very reasonable. Belize was a rain out, so we just walked along and went into the shops. I was surprised to see that they sell prescription medications over the counter. The water at the dock area was very dirty and I was informed there were no beaches to be reached by taxi. Only boat excursions were available. I tried to get transportation to Goff’s Kay but was only offered boat tours to Kay Caulker which was more money. We just went back to the ship and stayed by the pool.

Roatan Island was what made this cruise all worth while. We hired a Taxi and went to Tabayana Beach/ West End. It was fantastic! The best snorkeling I’ve ever done! Very clean beach, even the water where the ship docked was crystal clear!

I am starting to believe that it is NOT the Cruise Line, but the individual ship that affects people’s decision on what their best cruise experience was. Also, it is important to realize other people’s priorities are a big factor in what they find to be enjoyable. My wife and I are more interested in the water activities and the entertainment. My brother’s focus is more food, midnight buffet, Ice Cream and shopping. Overall, I would say we did enjoy our vacation but I think we got spoiled by the bigger ship we were previously on and had high expectations for the trip.

 

Anyone who reads this is free to add their own impression, I welcome all comments.

Thanks,

Tom

[TennisLover]

I am starting to believe that it is NOT the Cruise Line, but the individual ship that affects people’s decision on what their best cruise experience was. Also, it is important to realize other people’s priorities are a big factor in what they find to be enjoyable.

 

This is exactly right! It really depends on what your favorite part of cruising is... excellent perspective.

 

I also loved Roatan and am sorry you got rained out in Belize. The cays were awesome there too!

 

From a fellow Long Islander (is it snowing where you are yet??).

[TennisLover]

oh no

double post

[pacerzfan]

Thanks for your cruise perspective.

[Fire14]

I am booked for the Legend for March 16th

 

I rather think it depends on what you want from the cruise. As far as the room being small we booked an extended balcony, so I doubt we will have a problem. Not to mention I don't plan on spending much time in there other than to sleep. As far as the hangers, I always bring my own. I can live without a fridge. The pools I think all depend on the time that you go. When I was on the Mariner of the Seas, there were always people in the large pools at certain times of the day and they were as you described. If you went later in the day there was plenty of room. I am also very glad to hear that the buffet and dining room do not serve the same things. I tend to be on the picky side and when there was nothing inthe dining room that I would eat, I was still out of luck when it came to the buffet.

 

I am in for the adventurous tours. I live less than 2 hrs from a beach so water tours aren't my kinda thing.

 

I am worried though that I have also been spoiled by a bigger ship, I have been on the glory twice, and the mariner once. We will see though. Thanks for the review.

[kinggartk]

I am booked for the Legend for March 16th

 

I rather think it depends on what you want from the cruise. As far as the room being small we booked an extended balcony, so I doubt we will have a problem. Not to mention I don't plan on spending much time in there other than to sleep. As far as the hangers, I always bring my own. I can live without a fridge. The pools I think all depend on the time that you go. When I was on the Mariner of the Seas, there were always people in the large pools at certain times of the day and they were as you described. If you went later in the day there was plenty of room. I am also very glad to hear that the buffet and dining room do not serve the same things. I tend to be on the picky side and when there was nothing inthe dining room that I would eat, I was still out of luck when it came to the buffet.

 

I am in for the adventurous tours. I live less than 2 hrs from a beach so water tours aren't my kinda thing.

 

I am worried though that I have also been spoiled by a bigger ship, I have been on the glory twice, and the mariner once. We will see though. Thanks for the review.

 

I have heard that the Spirit Class (Which Legend is a part of) is a very popular ship with Carnival Regulars. It is not as big as the floating cities we see now, but hear it is very popular.

 

Don't be worried...A bad day of Cruising beats a great day at work every time.

[sunshin9]

I am riding the Legend out to sea for Christmas. I totally agree that it depends on what you are into. If I want to shop for what I call, crap, you can do that at home at a flea market. I look at it as I am paying for the experience that I can not experience at home.

[CruisinMenika]

Would you be able to tell me what the production shows were?

[emjay]

I totally agree that you should compare the ships and not the cruiseline. I have been on some ships that I really loved and others I don't care to go back on all within the same cruiseline. The Legend was not one of our favorites either but it seems to always get good reviews. Carnival is still our favorite even though I didn't care for that particular ship.

 

I wish more would think along these lines rather than comparing the different cruiselines.

[prttygirlmss]

I am booked for the Legend for March 16th

 

I rather think it depends on what you want from the cruise. As far as the room being small we booked an extended balcony, so I doubt we will have a problem. Not to mention I don't plan on spending much time in there other than to sleep. As far as the hangers, I always bring my own. I can live without a fridge. The pools I think all depend on the time that you go. When I was on the Mariner of the Seas, there were always people in the large pools at certain times of the day and they were as you described. If you went later in the day there was plenty of room. I am also very glad to hear that the buffet and dining room do not serve the same things. I tend to be on the picky side and when there was nothing inthe dining room that I would eat, I was still out of luck when it came to the buffet.

 

I am in for the adventurous tours. I live less than 2 hrs from a beach so water tours aren't my kinda thing.

 

I am worried though that I have also been spoiled by a bigger ship, I have been on the glory twice, and the mariner once. We will see though. Thanks for the review.

Please post a review when you return. I was considering the Legend as well. However, I am like you and have sailed on The Mariner Of the Seas and afraid I might be spoiled. Although, I like to try different things. That is why I decided on The Legend. Have a great cruise.

[Fire14]

Please post a review when you return. I was considering the Legend as well. However, I am like you and have sailed on The Mariner Of the Seas and afraid I might be spoiled. Although, I like to try different things. That is why I decided on The Legend. Have a great cruise.

I most certainly will. I wasn't overly thrilled with the Mariner, I prefer a Carnival cruise anyday. And thanks, hope you enjoy yours as well.

[Ltvscout]

I'm not sure what the OP is talking about regarding cabin sizes. Carnival has some of the largest non-suite cabins in the industry. He was talking about loving the Crown Princess and always getting inside cabins. He complained that his cabin on the Legend was small. The Crown Princess inside cabins are 160sq ft. The Legend insides are 185sq ft. What am I missing here?

[FrannyK]

I'm not sure what the OP is talking about regarding cabin sizes. Carnival has some of the largest non-suite cabins in the industry. He was talking about loving the Crown Princess and always getting inside cabins. He complained that his cabin on the Legend was small. The Crown Princess inside cabins are 160sq ft. The Legend insides are 185sq ft. What am I missing here?

 

When we were on RCI's Explorer I knew our OV cabin would be smaller in square footage than we were used to on CCL; yet, everyone in my family thought the RCI cabin was larger than we had had on Carnival. I think sometimes it is just the layout of the cabin and placement of furniture that makes the difference.

[FrannyK]

Thanks for your review--I appreciated your honesty :) I'm interested in what you had to say about Tabayana Beach In Roatan. I thought I read over on the Roatan boards that you had to go through the ship excursion to get there--that you couldn't go there on your own? Could you clarify that for me? I'm so happy to hear the snorkeling was so great there! How was the food/bar service, restrooms?

[benicehavefun]

You are exactly right! I have been on the Glory (Conquest class) after being on the Miracle (Spirit class) and I don't like the bigger ships - just something to experience/learn/know that is very individual. I love the ease of navigation of the Spirit class and the roomy, relaxed feel of them.

Thanks for your 2 cents!

Lisa:p

[Ltvscout]

When we were on RCI's Explorer I knew our OV cabin would be smaller in square footage than we were used to on CCL; yet, everyone in my family thought the RCI cabin was larger than we had had on Carnival. I think sometimes it is just the layout of the cabin and placement of furniture that makes the difference.

Ah, yes. I forgot that layout of the cabin can make a difference in perspective.

[Mysterest]

Hey, Fellow Long Islander! South Shore; Nassau/Suffolk Border. Just a wet snow that was gone by this morning!

[Mysterest]

Would you be able to tell me what the production shows were?

 

I'm sorry, I can't recall the names of the productions. The last night was were the guests joined the singers and dancers and did the songs of Elvis, Ricky Martin, Madonna, Aretha Franklin, Sinatra, and Garth Brooks.

The other production had a Movie theme and the multimedia presentation was fantastic.

I am trying to post the pictures I took on "webshots" under the user name Mysterest. I also have my Royal Carribean and Punta Cana pictures there. You can get a sence of the productions from my pictures.

[Mysterest]

I'm not sure what the OP is talking about regarding cabin sizes. Carnival has some of the largest non-suite cabins in the industry. He was talking about loving the Crown Princess and always getting inside cabins. He complained that his cabin on the Legend was small. The Crown Princess inside cabins are 160sq ft. The Legend insides are 185sq ft. What am I missing here?

 

It may have been where my room was located. On legend it was 7261 on the Verandah Deck behind the Atrium. On the Crown Princess it was Lido deck near the laundromat. In the future I will try staying on one of the lower levels; my room on Legend may have been smaller than the norm.

[Mysterest]

Thanks for your review--I appreciated your honesty :) I'm interested in what you had to say about Tabayana Beach In Roatan. I thought I read over on the Roatan boards that you had to go through the ship excursion to get there--that you couldn't go there on your own? Could you clarify that for me? I'm so happy to hear the snorkeling was so great there! How was the food/bar service, restrooms?

 

When I got off the ship, we hailed a Taxi (minivan) with another couple from Maine. The driver charged us $20 each round trip and stayed with us the whole time. When we arrived we parked and walked quite a distance past a few resorts. However, we were NOT allowed to use any of the facilities. We couldn't even buy drinks at the bar. I'm not sure what the folks from the ship paid, but they had yellow bands. In the afternoon, my wife used the bathroom with no problem, but in the morning the other gentleman we were with was harrassed about using the bathroom.

You can see my pictures soon at webshots.com

[Sandi149]

the Legend has fridges in all the cabins, including the insides. The OP probably didn't notice it because it looks like a cabinet. I was on the Legend although in a balcony cabin. But from what I have been reading on here and this is from the Carnival website FAQ.

 

All staterooms will have a stocked minibar. The items will be replenished twice daily as the items are consumed and charged to the guest's Sail & Sign Account along with a 15% restocking charge. If the guest wishes to have the minibar permanently locked, they must contact the Information Desk. The minibar service will be locked on the night prior to debarkation. Offered on the following ships: Spirit, Pride, Legend, Conquest, Glory, Miracle, Valor and aboard the Triumph and Victory in category 11 and 12 suites.

The minibar will be stocked with premium liquor, wine, beer, soft drinks and a variety of sweet/salty snacks.

[FrannyK]

When I got off the ship, we hailed a Taxi (minivan) with another couple from Maine. The driver charged us $20 each round trip and stayed with us the whole time. When we arrived we parked and walked quite a distance past a few resorts. However, we were NOT allowed to use any of the facilities. We couldn't even buy drinks at the bar. I'm not sure what the folks from the ship paid, but they had yellow bands. In the afternoon, my wife used the bathroom with no problem, but in the morning the other gentleman we were with was harrassed about using the bathroom.

You can see my pictures soon at webshots.com

 

I think I will book through CCL then. We normally do excursions on our own, especially w/the teens along -- we like having our own time schedule. The only exception is Jamaica where I just feel safer taking a ship excursion. But, it looks like the Tabayana Beach CCL excursion has no time limit---you can leave to go back to the ship when you want. So that will work well for us. Looking forward to snorkeling there! Thanks for all the info, it's been such a help :)

[Ltvscout]

It may have been where my room was located. On legend it was 7261 on the Verandah Deck behind the Atrium. On the Crown Princess it was Lido deck near the laundromat. In the future I will try staying on one of the lower levels; my room on Legend may have been smaller than the norm.

Here are the specs for that room from cruisedeckplans.com. According to this, you should've had a mini-bar (fridge) in there as well. They're kind of hidden located behind a cabinet door.

 

Cabin 7261 (4D IST4) 185 sq ft

Beds: twin/king-2 uppers rab:0

View: no window or balcony

TV; telephone; 110 AC current; individual climate control; hair dryer; wall safe; minibar; 3-closets; shower; chair and coffee table.

 

Like someone else said, the layout of the cabin may have been better on the Crown giving the appearance of a larger room.

[terrib1964]

I think I will book through CCL then. We normally do excursions on our own, especially w/the teens along -- we like having our own time schedule. The only exception is Jamaica where I just feel safer taking a ship excursion. But, it looks like the Tabayana Beach CCL excursion has no time limit---you can leave to go back to the ship when you want. So that will work well for us. Looking forward to snorkeling there! Thanks for all the info, it's been such a help :)

 

Did the Carnival excursion to Tabyana beach in Sept, and it was only about $35 per person...worth it to have the amenities that go along. However...once AT the beach, you can rent snorkel equipment there for $15 per person, which was cheaper than to book THAT through CCL. And, yes, there are shuttles that run back and forth to the ship about every 1/2 hour throughout the day, so you are free to return to ship whenever you are ready.

 

The OP is correct...the snorkeling here was amazing!

[FrannyK]

Did the Carnival excursion to Tabyana beach in Sept, and it was only about $35 per person...worth it to have the amenities that go along. However...once AT the beach, you can rent snorkel equipment there for $15 per person, which was cheaper than to book THAT through CCL. And, yes, there are shuttles that run back and forth to the ship about every 1/2 hour throughout the day, so you are free to return to ship whenever you are ready.

 

The OP is correct...the snorkeling here was amazing!

 

I'm a bit confused (doesn't take much :)). Does the CCL $35 charge include snorkeling or not? If it does that means the remainder ($20) is for use of facilities and transportation I assume. I understand shuttles run every half-hour or so back to the ship but what about from the ship to Tabayana--does everyone have to leave the ship at a specific time? I am so happy the snorkeling will be great--our teens will be thrilled. We always had great snorkeling in Cozumel (Chankanaab) but our last snorkeling excursion was to Trunk Bay in St. John and it was the worst!