I absolutely agree. Bigger isn't better. The Celebration and Mardi Gras are bigger, but it's bigger mostly to accommodate more bara and specialty dining.
As a 65 year old man, I prefer the smaller ships - less walking and fewer crowds. Plus I LOVE the small intimate comedy club. We've done the larger ships and it's a battle getting to see any show or event due to the high number of people on board. We always get to shows at least 30 minutes early....we love the 2nd row!
Why would anyone expect so much out of a buffet? It’s a buffet! I’m sure some are better than others, but I’ve never expected award winning food from a buffet. Also, get to shows early and you can get great seats. Getting there only minutes before showtime leaves you very few options.
The buffet on Carnival has always been subpar compared to other cruise lines and I really feel like it lacked variety. Also, we showed up an hour before the show and still got stuck in the stadium seats. The seating situation is bad regardless because there are so few seats with good views.
Speciality restaurants ($$) always limit you to one of each. It's not main dining room. It's not a cutback. It's always been that way. Same on other cruise lines.
We’ve been on several Carnival cruises and just recently did the Mardi Gras. While I love the newness of the ship, I much rather prefer the Liberty or the Glory or even the Breeze. I like the ease to get around on the smaller ships more than the excel class. We also make a day 1 steakhouse reservation every cruise. It’s more relaxed and you receive a complimentary bottle of wine that day. Our steaks have always been excellent and I personally love the risotto. We’ll be on the Celebration in October - I know I’ll love the ship regardless, but we chose this cruise because of the itinerary. The one thing I do agree with you on is the quality of the buffet. It’s very poor.
I'm about to go on the Mardi Gras! I agree with you on the ships you prefer, Breeze is really fun, best one yet! I also kinda dislike the buffet too, some of the food can be good, but the long lines are a bummer. 😅
The vista class ships aren’t small and are stunning and even have things the newest ships don’t have. This is kinda a bad review of what you don’t ever want to do again on carnival.
I've been on carnival several times had no problem. Secret to the buffet get the time when they first open before the lines get too long. The secret of the shows when the doors open up early and sit in the center part of the theater. Because basically the ship is open most hours. I hope this suggestion help you.
The best steak that I ever had was on a Carnival cruise. 555 steakhouse was delicious. My wife and I have eaten at the Bellagio and Ceasers while in Vegas. We also go to the Broadmoor in Colorado Springs every year. I have tried many steaks in Nebraska and Colorado so I know a little bit about a good steak. If my steak was overcooked I would have sent it back.
Everyone’s experience is different I believe . One persons bad experience can be a great experience for the other. Whatever the case may be , I try to make the best experience as possible. P.s 555 is amazing so is Rudy’s 😃
If you’re complaining Carnival,go try Princess,RCL 3 times,NCL 2 times ,carnival twice and Celebrity, you may have a second thought ,I did all of them after the pandemic,Carnival Celebration was the best.
It’s all very relative. A few of the things you mentioned are just some of those “learn as you go” mistakes. Like it understanding that Carnival may use a different dock then Royal. A little research up front would’ve told you that you were going to a different area. Also there are some perks to other ships outside the XL class. To me I absolutely love the Dream class and sunshine class for the smaller side. Also the spirit class has sort of become the “exploration” ships so go to the smaller more unique ports. So everyone definitely has their preferences but if you’re trying to compare them to the RC ships yes you’ll be very disappointed because they don’t have the same atmosphere or same vibes but that is on purpose. Also Carnival even has a whole brand new class, sort of, with the Venezia and Firenze coming. Definitely still loved your review but would just say even only 4 cruises on a line there’s tons to still learn. I’m about to embark on Carnival voyage 14 and still learn new things that get implemented in future cruises.
I so agree! I love the older ships. The Pride and Legend are my favorites. Went on the Vista last fall and I didn't care much for it. Lots of folks like the older ships.
Ive been on both the Mardi Gras and the Celebration. I enjoy the smaller ships much better. The Pride is my favorite, and we will be on her in July. So excited.
I've been on several Carnival cruises. And you are right Cozumel and Progresso totally sucks. What a waste of time that was. Also, you are spot on regarding the buffet. Totally lackluster. The appealing aspect of cruising is that you really don't need to do much to do a lot. And everything you need is so close, its so low effort. It is possible to take a cruise and relax. 😂
I've been on over 25 Carnival cruises. I think only once have I ever been disappointed in the the steakhouse! I think the food there is fantastic, but it's all a matter of what you like. I actually had the fish the last time we went, just to try it. It was some of the best I've had anywhere!! Also, we've never been limited to just one appetizer. Both my wife and I have always have two each. I've heard as well Carnival is trying to cut back on food waste. Maybe this appetizer restriction is new since the first of the year?? However, I VERY much agree the buffet food has a LOT to be desired anymore. I remember it used to be quite good. But now, many things look good, but aren't nearly as tasty. I wonder if thats more budget cuts as well? I'll go in and make a salad, but that's really all I'll have in the buffet.
The seats in deck 7 right by the glass, right in front of the stadium seats are an ideal place to watch the shows, you are “eye level” with the areal performances, and get a great view of what is happening on stage, and the floor
Just got off Celebration after 8 day cruise to Aruba . Bonaire and Caraccso . Bonaire was my favorite . Great time . Was comped the Seafood shack . Steak house and Emerils . Loved everything except was always hot . Had about 6K on the ship . The food was amazing . At main dining and actually everywhere we were able to get more than one app and entree if we wanted . Pizza at 3 am was great and came home with 5 extra pounds . Did have heartburn though . Drinks and food . Already booked another one . Will be doing Panama Canal on 8 day cruise on the Legend next year . Everyone stay safe on those ships !!
Thank you so much regarding the buffet food, I thought that it was pretty bad! I have been on about 7 or 8 cruises and the last being about 3 months ago & I was totally disappointed with the buffet! The actual ship was the Carnival Mardi Gra!
We have never had a good time at a carnival steak house. We went on the Ecstacy, the Breeze, the Vista, and Mardi Gras. All were not OK. Also, we missed Bolt on the Mardi Gras because of the weather, but we'll try again on the Jubilee out of Galveston.
I was on the refurbished Radiance September 2022 on a four night cruise. I have no problem with the ships holding less than 3,000 passengers on both my Carnival and NCL cruise; they offer great value. The new mega ships on Carnival, Royal Caribbean, and NCL are always more expensive cruises than on the older ships; you can still have a great time on the older ships which have less options. I will agree the buffet was not good and well below the quality of the buffet on my Norwegian cruise; much better getting breakfast or sea day brunch in the dinning room or going to Blue Iguana if you just want a quick breakfast burrito.
@@allievogs95 I keep hearing this about the Radiance, it can't be a coincidence. I went on the sister ship (sunrise) twice in 2022 and didn't like their buffet either. to me it was more so just the food options they had. they were not appetizing enough for me to even try. however, im one of those people who could eat at blue cantina, guys burger, and big chicken everyday and be satisfied!
radiance was my first ever cruise last july loved her, i will be doing a bahamas cruise this december on the glory the next step up in size from the radiance ironically patron wise its 4 less people but 40 more tons worth of space
We actually enjoy the smaller older ships. We have eaten at the "Steak House" a few times and this must be new. I have always ordered 2 appetizers and then was asked if I may want more.
This video is so dramatic. I just got off my cruise from Carnival. It was so much fun. I had the best time ever! You guys obviously did not show up to the events on time and there's MANY more food options than the buffet.
Don’t get me wrong, we loved our Carnival cruise! Check out a few of our other review videos. Unfortunately, the seating situation is a big problem regardless of how early you get there. The cruise director had to warn everyone to not get physical!!
Just got off the Mardi Gras a couple of weeks ago and agree with all your points. Seating at Center Stage was incredibly frustrating; and the buffet was the worst we have encountered in over 35 cruises. I found your comments on walking into Cozumel very funny, as we made the same mistake a few years ago - we now refer to it as the "Cozumel Death March".
I’m in agreement with the smaller ships. The Elation was the ship that changed my mind. The Mardi Gras will be my first large cruise ship. Early on I found out the food that you purchase is better than the buffet. I love the 555, with the free bottle of wine and knowing how the menu works. Do your research from fellow bloggers and followers responds helps a great deal.
Good info. Can you or someone else tell me the "size/year" threshold? I mean for example like, "newer than 2020 and bigger than 120,000 tons? I've never taken a cruise so all ships seems big to me.
I cannot imagine being able to order more food in the steakhouse. I'm already so full I could pop by the time I get out of there. Agree on the buffet though, way too many better places to eat than to waste a meal there.
Sometimes we like to order an extra side or dessert just to try, especially when we are vlogging, to get the full experience. Definitely didn’t leave hungry thought, I agree lol!!
Carnival has the best free casual options at sea. Guys, Shaks, Blue Iguana, pizza and more can not be beat. Agree the buffet is their weak spot, though the Indian dishes are usually good.
In regards to food and experience yes I critique everything on different Cruise lines.However the food on any cruise ship is better by far than most people eat at home.
After the Mardi Gras March 4-11. I am going on Carnival Freedom. Don't get me wrong, I had a fantastic time on the Mardi Gras but I missed the intimacy of the Conquest class. I think it may be because I'm a solo traveler.
Couldn't disagree with you about the 555 Steakhouse more. Went on the Mardi Gras last year and had a spectacular time. Had no issues with the food at 555 or the selection.
I personally think breakfast in Buffet is the same every morning. Lunch and dinner are good. MDR on the 30 Carnival cruises I've been on I think ive only had 1 maybe 2 bad meals. 555, great steaks, great food. Shows on Carnival...... At least Your not required to reserve the show! And there are different shows every night. I've sailed RCC and NCL but keep coming back TO CCL. I personally like the smaller ships. Sorry to see the Fantasy class going away. If You like the bigger is better then do Yourself a favor and stay on those ships.
Smaller ships definitely have their perks, I just don’t love Carnival’s older and smaller ones. They feel very outdated compared to other cruise lines!!
Thanks for this heads up. I'm a new cruiser and I have nothing to compare anything to so my 1st I wanted to do a Theme Cruise and chose the Carnival Paradise this coming Oct 28-Nov 3 as my 1st cruise ever as it seemed very fun and something I could afford. Now that I'm seeing your video it seems like the older ships (which this one is) isn't worth doing. Well I will see for myself and make the decision and I've heard great things about this ship and not so great things especially about the limited food options on Carnival Paradise. The audience has been of upper ages. I've seen comments on this ship. My group I'm traveling with seems to be of upper ages and a few younger people. I hope it's fun, that's the bottom line. It's Halloween so fun is the key word.
Just got off the Sunrise a week ago. Was a fun cruise. Looked up the dining options on Celebration for next years cruise - both ships have the same menu. You'd think the bigger ships would have bigger meals. They don't. Only difference is its a 7 day cruise on Celebration, lobster is included 1 night. Not offered on 5 days or less unless pay for it.
The best buffet for us so far is in Royal Princess, lots of variety, different cuisines from all over the world, many delicious cakes, pastries for dessert. Their showroom is huge enough, no difficulty finding seats, 2 shows a night & best of all no obstructions!! And the main evening shows are excellent, world class and different type every night; stand up comic, sing & dance variety, guitarist, piano virtuoso & magician, all outstanding!! I've sailed with ncl & rcl before but princess has the best food!
Lessons were learned! But I’m glad you agree about the buffet - it continues to let me down!! Going on Mardi Gras in a few weeks so I’m excited to see how it compares.
We felt the same about F 555. The limited ordering thing for a premium experience was a complete let down. If you bring you kids they don't even get the full menu, they get a watered down version. The fast casual food on the boats is where the action is ate. Buffet is a let down
I agree totally! I get making cuts these days, but I don't think specialty dining is the place to make them. Buffet continues to be blah for me on Carnival.
@Cruiseblog sorry but the Carnival Celebration ship was built in 2021. If 3 years is too old for you, then I think it is not the boat that is aging, but maybe you.😂😂😂
Wow I enjoyed all my specialty dinings that I have done on The Glory Freedom Splendor Spirt and Legend ships so I don’t know if she just had a one time flaw with her food. As for the buffet it’s true but some days are better then others that’s just because my choice of food is different then others who may prefer something I don’t and vice versa so if thats the case I go get a big salad and I will still have a good meal even on The Lido.
We have been on the Mardi Gras and we actually prefer the smaller older ships. The Spirit and Conquest classes are our favorite. The steak house on the Mardi Gras was NOT that good. WE also decided to NEVER eat again at the steak house. The rope course and BOLT were FANTASTIC. Sorry you missed the course!
Just got off the sunrise this morning. It sucked overall. Fahrenheit was a huge let down. Found plastic in my food, wife’s steak was over cooked, lobster bisque was not great, service was terrible, sides were small, my wife and I got our food while my 7 year old sat and waited another 5 mins for hers, food was set down on the wrong table then picked up and brought to ours, took 20 minutes just to get water. Took 5 minutes just to get seated at a table. Service was better at the free restaurant in the back of the ship. So many other issues with the cruise overall.
Hii~I expect I can go for newer and bigger ship too！After Panorama，I wonder if I can go back to Miracle， which was my first and meaningful curise. On the other hand, Carnival can not send Excel class to west bay due to the size of current port, and I cant wait for Jubilee for next year since I will graduate and look for job. Also, I don't often fly, so flying to FL for 4 more hours is a challenge for me. I even felt nervous to fly from SF to Long Beach before. I never try RC, but is that too over to say Panorama is like 2000 ship of RC ? Not every brand can have Oasis class of RC in earlier days. Totally, sometimes, you do not choose the ship, but ship chooses you due to your location and many different reasons.
Very true!! I love the brand new Excel class of ships. I wish Carnival had innovated their fleet earlier to keep up with the industry. I’d be interested to see how Panorama compares!!
I'd love to try one of Carnivals large ships, but being in NC, it's so easy to hop down to Charleston for our cruises. Once Carnival stop sailings from Charleston in 2025 and we're forced down to FL, we will try some of the bigger ships
Most people fail to realize that even though gratuities are automatically placed on your sign and sail receipt, they are NOT mandatory. You can opt out and pay what ever you deem necessary to each worker during your stay instead of letting the cruise line force you to pay a predetermined amount. The cruise lines use the automatic gratuity fee as means to pad their profit margin by not paying their workers a livable wage and to shame their customers into mitigating their unfair compensation policies. Being an accountant for 2 major cruise lines, I know that only 20 - 25% of the pool of gratuity payments actually go to the workers. The rest is kept by the cruise line as miscellaneous profit. So, the next time you book a cruise and see the option to "pre-pay" for gratuities or see it on your final bill, you will know that only a small portion of it is actually going to the worker.
It seems as I am reading comments and it is what it is, the elderly seem to like smaller ships and those younger prefer the bigger and more lavished ships. Not all but most. People are people, everyone won't be happy, enjoy what you enjoy.
I just went on the celebration and wasn't impressed. I prefer the smaller ones. The breeze was one of our best cruises. I'm trying to go on every ship and have one with the legend coming up, horizon next year.
Carnival needs to change up all the entertainment, I went on a few cruises, spaced out about 1 and a half years apart, and all the trivia and games were the exact same!!
The old small ships are my favorite.... Sitting down in the main dining room for dinner is so nice, the buffet is for those who just want to stuff their face. Carnival is a great cheap vacation. We love the private Island, its the best. The other ports of call like Nassau once you have visited for the first time its nice to just stay on the boat the next time you cruise and just relax.
im going to mari gra $15 on a roller coaster thats something new on carnival no other cruises has a roller-coaster but carnival they had step up there game perfectly. yes food may be packked same for other shows unless you get there early find a perfect seating
My first and only cruise in my life was in 2007 when I went on a Carnival Cruise. I really enjoyed myself but for some reason never booked another cruise .. however many people are saying that doing a short cruise with Carnival , is like a big Ghetto .. trashing people etc. Is this true are not? I would like to do a short 4 day cruise this fall out of the east coast but afraid I could be stuck with a bunch of rude, nasty people.
First 8 cruises Paradise-She is in NEED of drydock. Went on Liberty in April and got so high on the weed being smoked EVERYWHERE (disappointed that it was OK? I mean really, right IN front of security-but there was no consequences)-Leaving out this weekend on the Mardi Gras. My hopes are high, But t know it WILL be overpacked. When in Cozumel go to Paradise Beach-AMAZING
While i don't like the small ships due to the lack of amenities, but we sailed on the Mardi Gras. Never again. HATED that ship. While it was gorgeous and food was great, you had to stand in line for at least 30-45 min for any venue because the seating was so limited. Also, while ships like the Breeze, or the Dream, etc have places like Ocean Plaza for dancing to a live band, you don't have that option.
Just got off the Mardi Gras (Feb 25-Mar 4)...Food wise I was disappointed in the MDR and buffet...I actually enjoyed my 555 dinner even though I didn't want more than one app so I didn't have a chance to be denied a 2nd app, but the steak and pork belly were fire...Guys Burgers was the crown jewel of their fast food options with Big Shack a close 2nd...ChiBang was surprisingly better than I thought it would be and Cucina was alright but still better than MDR....I really think Carnival should lose the Dancing/Birthday singing on the MDR so their staff can concentrate more on guest service. The whole FOH team just constantly seemed rushed. Maybe only do it on the older/smaller occupancy ships to upsell those cruises. I know a lot of regular guests that will miss it but it may be an addition by subtraction situation....I enjoyed having a lot of bar options, plus each themed bar had their own specialty cocktails which was a nice touch and gave you a reason to explore every area of the ship....only bad thing is we need another week to see everything on the ship! It is huge! Would do again at some point. My wife and I like to spend a little extra for a suite so we only go maybe once every four years or so. Been on the Breeze and Miracle in the past.
I think that’s a great point about the servers in MDR!! They are trying to entertain as much as they have to serve food and the experience lacks because of it.
I truly believe that the MDR an the buffet across the whole entire fleet is a disgusting except for sea day brunch there was some talk a couple of months ago about Emeril lagasse supposed to be training the cooks well I guess that didn't work out I do believe that they should change up the song and dance for the servers cuz that have been old for a long time
I just got home a few days ago from the Alaskan Cruise 🚢 was absolutely beautiful. It was my first cruise sadly we encountered some problems mainly the staff. Worker at the bar knew we where new I was trying to buy drinks for my wife with my money so she could just have fun without using her money asked him how do I pay or switch the card so she don’t have to keep using her keycard and getting charged he says you can pay me cash so I go get cash out the machine come back a different guy waits on us I pull out the cash he says no I can’t accept that so I looked back at the other guy who told me that asked him why he told me to get cash out if you don’t accept it according to what this guy is telling me he denied ever saying that causing a odd situation where his boss had to calm the situation down because I wasn’t backing down I don’t tolerate lying and making me look like a fool in front of everyone just so he could lie and save his job.We soon realized he was trying to pocket the money for himself which I personally honestly didn’t care if he did that put a little money in his pockets they work hard on those ships but the fact he made me look like I was lying so that was the problem I had with the situation and 3 different people heard him tell us to get cash out.Then on my wife’s b day we come back to are room around 9:45pm and it’s flooded asked them 6 times what happened nobody would tell me until I got really mad finally guy says a pipe burst from the plumbing. Then they move us to an extremely loud floor 8 which is right under the breakfest lunch eating area they give us new key cards to are rooms we get up there with clothes and got are hands full carrying crap from are flooded room and the damn key cards didn’t work. So my wife had to go back downstairs and get them to activate them then we get inside are new room and the entire USB light station doesn’t work so we couldn’t charge are phones they had to come back and replace that. Then I got kicked out the gym while I had already been working out for 30 minutes guy claimed I had the wrong style shoes on. I had all I could take with some of there staff I was so pissed so finally I tell them my mom works for carnival and royal carribean which she does she’s a piano bar player and how Im surprised on how I’m not having a good experience with some of the staff here been a rocky start then ohhhh everyone’s tuned changed quick the guy in the gym starts telling me where I can find and get the right shoes and then I can come back and train then they start making phone calls to my room from guest services managers where gonna provide you a free meal anything you want and drinks which they did but man that was really disappointing with some of the staff that it had to get to that point I had just got out the hospital not to long ago from surgery I just wanted a stress free experience on the boat but that didn’t happen .The trip itself the scenery the places we went was absolutely amazing beautiful so I just took in all the positive out of it and enjoyed it but I still highly recommend others to go on this trip guess we where just unfortunate to run across a few bad apples of the staff members but the rest of the staff on the ship where great hard workers nice doing everything they could to help out and provide good services. The places we saw the towns the people where nice at the towns we visited the food gets 5 stars the ship experience give it 3 stars would have gave it 5 stars but encountered to many problems.
Your Cozumel experience was your own fault for not doing the research. And 555 is great-we had a wonderful experience on the Breeze! And Royal is limiting what you can order in their restaurants too.
I’m so glad so many love the huge mega ships. Leaves the smaller more peaceful ones to those of us that love them.
I've been on 35+ Carnival cruises and prefer the smaller ships by far, I LOVE sailing with 2000 people instead of 6,000.
Agree. Spirit class ships are the best overall.
I just got off the Liberty and I think I agree from just seeing pics/vids of the bigger ones.
I absolutely agree. Bigger isn't better. The Celebration and Mardi Gras are bigger, but it's bigger mostly to accommodate more bara and specialty dining.
The legend is my favorite so far. I appreciate this persons opinion but yikes
21 cruises in and I definitely agree with this !!!
As a 65 year old man, I prefer the smaller ships - less walking and fewer crowds. Plus I LOVE the small intimate comedy club. We've done the larger ships and it's a battle getting to see any show or event due to the high number of people on board. We always get to shows at least 30 minutes early....we love the 2nd row!
💯 agree with this
I’ve been on 2 carnival cruises and went to the steakhouse in both. It was amazing! And I was super full both times
Why would anyone expect so much out of a buffet? It’s a buffet! I’m sure some are better than others, but I’ve never expected award winning food from a buffet. Also, get to shows early and you can get great seats. Getting there only minutes before showtime leaves you very few options.
The buffet on Carnival has always been subpar compared to other cruise lines and I really feel like it lacked variety. Also, we showed up an hour before the show and still got stuck in the stadium seats. The seating situation is bad regardless because there are so few seats with good views.
Everything had changed after pandemic.less of everything and more charge.
I totally agree with everything you said, I’ve been on carnival and I liked it
check out a historical moment on our cruise retracing the Titanic!
ua-cam.com/video/BHzr0pVP8jA/v-deo.html
Royal Caribbean has the best buffets I think !!
Speciality restaurants ($$) always limit you to one of each. It's not main dining room. It's not a cutback. It's always been that way. Same on other cruise lines.
We’ve been on several Carnival cruises and just recently did the Mardi Gras. While I love the newness of the ship, I much rather prefer the Liberty or the Glory or even the Breeze. I like the ease to get around on the smaller ships more than the excel class. We also make a day 1 steakhouse reservation every cruise. It’s more relaxed and you receive a complimentary bottle of wine that day. Our steaks have always been excellent and I personally love the risotto. We’ll be on the Celebration in October - I know I’ll love the ship regardless, but we chose this cruise because of the itinerary. The one thing I do agree with you on is the quality of the buffet. It’s very poor.
I'm about to go on the Mardi Gras! I agree with you on the ships you prefer, Breeze is really fun, best one yet! I also kinda dislike the buffet too, some of the food can be good, but the long lines are a bummer. 😅
The vista class ships aren’t small and are stunning and even have things the newest ships don’t have. This is kinda a bad review of what you don’t ever want to do again on carnival.
I've been on carnival several times had no problem. Secret to the buffet get the time when they first open before the lines get too long. The secret of the shows when the doors open up early and sit in the center part of the theater. Because basically the ship is open most hours. I hope this suggestion help you.
Ouch! My heart! I LOVE the Fantasy class and Spirit class.
The best steak that I ever had was on a Carnival cruise. 555 steakhouse was delicious. My wife and I have eaten at the Bellagio and Ceasers while in Vegas. We also go to the Broadmoor in Colorado Springs every year. I have tried many steaks in Nebraska and Colorado so I know a little bit about a good steak. If my steak was overcooked I would have sent it back.
I should have maybe spoken up about the steak being over cooked. Maybe I need to give it another try in the future!
Nebraska? Anything special about Nebraska steak? Asking cuz I live there
Nebraska and Colorado don’t have great steaks. It’s about what the beef was fed not where it’s raised. Your opinion is a joke.
@@EzeAsuoha Omaha Steaks are delicious and some of the best in the world
Have you ever eaten at the Broadmoor?
I enjoyed this vlog. You told me things I’ve never heard before. I love the originality and truthfulness.
Everyone’s experience is different I believe . One persons bad experience can be a great experience for the other. Whatever the case may be , I try to make the best experience as possible. P.s 555 is amazing so is Rudy’s 😃
Might need to give it another try!! It's hard not to have a great time on a cruise :)
I agree
If you’re complaining Carnival,go try Princess,RCL 3 times,NCL 2 times ,carnival twice and Celebrity, you may have a second thought ,I did all of them after the pandemic,Carnival Celebration was the best.
Check out our full review of Celebration on the channel! We loved so many things about it!!!
Celebrity Edge was amazing!!
It’s all very relative. A few of the things you mentioned are just some of those “learn as you go” mistakes. Like it understanding that Carnival may use a different dock then Royal. A little research up front would’ve told you that you were going to a different area.
Also there are some perks to other ships outside the XL class. To me I absolutely love the Dream class and sunshine class for the smaller side. Also the spirit class has sort of become the “exploration” ships so go to the smaller more unique ports. So everyone definitely has their preferences but if you’re trying to compare them to the RC ships yes you’ll be very disappointed because they don’t have the same atmosphere or same vibes but that is on purpose. Also Carnival even has a whole brand new class, sort of, with the Venezia and Firenze coming.
Definitely still loved your review but would just say even only 4 cruises on a line there’s tons to still learn. I’m about to embark on Carnival voyage 14 and still learn new things that get implemented in future cruises.
That’s a lot of complaining! Thank goodness I haven’t had the bad experiences that she had!
I so agree! I love the older ships. The Pride and Legend are my favorites. Went on the Vista last fall and I didn't care much for it. Lots of folks like the older ships.
That’s what I was thinking 😮
New cruisers who vlog....gotta love them and their opinions.
💯
Ive been on both the Mardi Gras and the Celebration. I enjoy the smaller ships much better. The Pride is my favorite, and we will be on her in July. So excited.
I've been on several Carnival cruises. And you are right Cozumel and Progresso totally sucks. What a waste of time that was. Also, you are spot on regarding the buffet. Totally lackluster.
The appealing aspect of cruising is that you really don't need to do much to do a lot. And everything you need is so close, its so low effort. It is possible to take a cruise and relax. 😂
I've been on over 25 Carnival cruises. I think only once have I ever been disappointed in the the steakhouse! I think the food there is fantastic, but it's all a matter of what you like. I actually had the fish the last time we went, just to try it. It was some of the best I've had anywhere!! Also, we've never been limited to just one appetizer. Both my wife and I have always have two each. I've heard as well Carnival is trying to cut back on food waste. Maybe this appetizer restriction is new since the first of the year??
However, I VERY much agree the buffet food has a LOT to be desired anymore. I remember it used to be quite good. But now, many things look good, but aren't nearly as tasty. I wonder if thats more budget cuts as well? I'll go in and make a salad, but that's really all I'll have in the buffet.
The seats in deck 7 right by the glass, right in front of the stadium seats are an ideal place to watch the shows, you are “eye level” with the areal performances, and get a great view of what is happening on stage, and the floor
Just got off Celebration after 8 day cruise to Aruba . Bonaire and Caraccso . Bonaire was my favorite . Great time . Was comped the Seafood shack . Steak house and Emerils . Loved everything except was always hot . Had about 6K on the ship . The food was amazing . At main dining and actually everywhere we were able to get more than one app and entree if we wanted . Pizza at 3 am was great and came home with 5 extra pounds . Did have heartburn though . Drinks and food . Already booked another one . Will be doing Panama Canal on 8 day cruise on the Legend next year . Everyone stay safe on those ships !!
Thank you so much regarding the buffet food, I thought that it was pretty bad! I have been on about 7 or 8 cruises and the last being about 3 months ago & I was totally disappointed with the buffet! The actual ship was the Carnival Mardi Gra!
The buffet has always been bad on Carnival in my experience! At this point, I am just wanting to avoid it at all costs lol.
We have never had a good time at a carnival steak house. We went on the Ecstacy, the Breeze, the Vista, and Mardi Gras. All were not OK. Also, we missed Bolt on the Mardi Gras because of the weather, but we'll try again on the Jubilee out of Galveston.
I was on the refurbished Radiance September 2022 on a four night cruise. I have no problem with the ships holding less than 3,000 passengers on both my Carnival and NCL cruise; they offer great value. The new mega ships on Carnival, Royal Caribbean, and NCL are always more expensive cruises than on the older ships; you can still have a great time on the older ships which have less options. I will agree the buffet was not good and well below the quality of the buffet on my Norwegian cruise; much better getting breakfast or sea day brunch in the dinning room or going to Blue Iguana if you just want a quick breakfast burrito.
I agree totally! The buffet continues to disappoint and, at this point, I avoid it entirely!
@@allievogs95 I keep hearing this about the Radiance, it can't be a coincidence. I went on the sister ship (sunrise) twice in 2022 and didn't like their buffet either. to me it was more so just the food options they had. they were not appetizing enough for me to even try. however, im one of those people who could eat at blue cantina, guys burger, and big chicken everyday and be satisfied!
I will be on the Radiance in December and it is perfect for a quick 3-4 day
radiance was my first ever cruise last july loved her, i will be doing a bahamas cruise this december on the glory the next step up in size from the radiance ironically patron wise its 4 less people but 40 more tons worth of space
We actually enjoy the smaller older ships. We have eaten at the "Steak House" a few times and this must be new. I have always ordered 2 appetizers and then was asked if I may want more.
I don’t mind smaller ships on other cruise lines but Carnival’s older ships feel so outdated to me compared to other cruise lines!’
This video is so dramatic. I just got off my cruise from Carnival. It was so much fun. I had the best time ever!
You guys obviously did not show up to the events on time and there's MANY more food options than the buffet.
Don’t get me wrong, we loved our Carnival cruise! Check out a few of our other review videos. Unfortunately, the seating situation is a big problem regardless of how early you get there. The cruise director had to warn everyone to not get physical!!
I agree with you
Just got off the Mardi Gras a couple of weeks ago and agree with all your points. Seating at Center Stage was incredibly frustrating; and the buffet was the worst we have encountered in over 35 cruises. I found your comments on walking into Cozumel very funny, as we made the same mistake a few years ago - we now refer to it as the "Cozumel Death March".
You should give the steakhouse another shot. I live in vegas and have eaten at the top steakhouses. The filet I got at Fahrenheit 555 was just as good
I was disappointed but might need to give it another try! I’ve heard good things and I did enjoy the fine-dining type experience.
I’m in agreement with the smaller ships. The Elation was the ship that changed my mind. The Mardi Gras will be my first large cruise ship. Early on I found out the food that you purchase is better than the buffet. I love the 555, with the free bottle of wine and knowing how the menu works. Do your research from fellow bloggers and followers responds helps a great deal.
Is the conquest good? I’m thinking about getting on that one next year
Does everyone get a free bottle of wine? Or is this just for special offers or something?
Good info. Can you or someone else tell me the "size/year" threshold? I mean for example like, "newer than 2020 and bigger than 120,000 tons? I've never taken a cruise so all ships seems big to me.
I cannot imagine being able to order more food in the steakhouse. I'm already so full I could pop by the time I get out of there. Agree on the buffet though, way too many better places to eat than to waste a meal there.
Sometimes we like to order an extra side or dessert just to try, especially when we are vlogging, to get the full experience. Definitely didn’t leave hungry thought, I agree lol!!
I have sailed out of Long Beach to Mexico twice. I loved my cruises both times.
Carnival has the best free casual options at sea. Guys, Shaks, Blue Iguana, pizza and more can not be beat. Agree the buffet is their weak spot, though the Indian dishes are usually good.
The casual food is the best at sea for sure!! I should try their Indian dishes at the buffet!!
In regards to food and experience yes I critique everything on different Cruise lines.However the food on any cruise ship is better by far than most people eat at home.
What is the new ship that they had come out in 2004. I can't remember what the name was and that was my first cruise.
After the Mardi Gras March 4-11. I am going on Carnival Freedom. Don't get me wrong, I had a fantastic time on the Mardi Gras but I missed the intimacy of the Conquest class. I think it may be because I'm a solo traveler.
Hopefully it don’t set fire like ours
3:03 You show a soda stand. i haven't seen these in the buffet before. How did that work with the soda plan?
Great video! Thank you very much for sharing!
Thanks for watching!!
I enjoyed my cruise! Not sure what ship you were really on. The only thing it did a little on the old side
Couldn't disagree with you about the 555 Steakhouse more. Went on the Mardi Gras last year and had a spectacular time. Had no issues with the food at 555 or the selection.
That's a great plan IF YOU HAVE UNLIMITED MONEY! ICON COSTS FOR A 1 WEEK CRUISE ARE OVER $3,000/PERSON!
I personally think breakfast in Buffet is the same every morning. Lunch and dinner are good. MDR on the 30 Carnival cruises I've been on I think ive only had 1 maybe 2 bad meals. 555, great steaks, great food. Shows on Carnival...... At least Your not required to reserve the show! And there are different shows every night. I've sailed RCC and NCL but keep coming back TO CCL. I personally like the smaller ships. Sorry to see the Fantasy class going away. If You like the bigger is better then do Yourself a favor and stay on those ships.
Smaller ships definitely have their perks, I just don’t love Carnival’s older and smaller ones. They feel very outdated compared to other cruise lines!!
Thanks for this heads up. I'm a new cruiser and I have nothing to compare anything to so my 1st I wanted to do a Theme Cruise and chose the Carnival Paradise this coming Oct 28-Nov 3 as my 1st cruise ever as it seemed very fun and something I could afford. Now that I'm seeing your video it seems like the older ships (which this one is) isn't worth doing. Well I will see for myself and make the decision and I've heard great things about this ship and not so great things especially about the limited food options on Carnival Paradise. The audience has been of upper ages. I've seen comments on this ship. My group I'm traveling with seems to be of upper ages and a few younger people. I hope it's fun, that's the bottom line. It's Halloween so fun is the key word.
Super practical and helpful info!
Thanks for watching!!
Just got off the Sunrise a week ago. Was a fun cruise. Looked up the dining options on Celebration for next years cruise - both ships have the same menu. You'd think the bigger ships would have bigger meals. They don't. Only difference is its a 7 day cruise on Celebration, lobster is included 1 night. Not offered on 5 days or less unless pay for it.
We’ll be going on the Vista in November. Good info to know
Thanks for watching Debbie! Enjoy!!
I went on a smaller ship this past fall, wasn’t many people, and way less kids running around, I thought it was great
We were able to order 2 appetizers and 2 sides in the steakhouse on both Mardi Gras & Celebration.
The best buffet for us so far is in Royal Princess, lots of variety, different cuisines from all over the world, many delicious cakes, pastries for dessert. Their showroom is huge enough, no difficulty finding seats, 2 shows a night & best of all no obstructions!! And the main evening shows are excellent, world class and different type every night; stand up comic, sing & dance variety, guitarist, piano virtuoso & magician, all outstanding!! I've sailed with ncl & rcl before but princess has the best food!
Carnival is great for what they do. Could be cleaner. Enjoyed the entertainers and $3 double deals
Well this is all on you because I was on the mardi gras and everything was good except the lido deck buffet 😂
Lessons were learned! But I’m glad you agree about the buffet - it continues to let me down!! Going on Mardi Gras in a few weeks so I’m excited to see how it compares.
Best dining option by far on any line is the Salad bars on the spirit class buffets.
We felt the same about F 555. The limited ordering thing for a premium experience was a complete let down. If you bring you kids they don't even get the full menu, they get a watered down version.
The fast casual food on the boats is where the action is ate. Buffet is a let down
I agree totally! I get making cuts these days, but I don't think specialty dining is the place to make them. Buffet continues to be blah for me on Carnival.
Kids are only $10-$12 for the steakhouse… probably why its a watered down menu. 😅
Makes sense to me - the worse the "included" food is at the buffet, the more you spend in fast casual dining. It's business.
@Cruiseblog sorry but the Carnival Celebration ship was built in 2021. If 3 years is too old for you, then I think it is not the boat that is aging, but maybe you.😂😂😂
Was on the mardi gras on the 2nd September it was fantastic great cruise 6th cruise with carnival x
I'm gona have my 5 carnival cruise on the carnival splendor
I walk right past the buffet and go straight to the sandwich station. Best Cuban I’ve ever had!
Wow I enjoyed all my specialty dinings that I have done on The Glory Freedom Splendor Spirt and Legend ships so I don’t know if she just had a one time flaw with her food. As for the buffet it’s true but some days are better then others that’s just because my choice of food is different then others who may prefer something I don’t and vice versa so if thats the case I go get a big salad and I will still have a good meal even on The Lido.
I really enjoyed Bonsai Teppanyaki and also Emeril's, along with all the casual dining places and SeaDay Brunch!!! Definitely didn't go hungry.
We have been on the Mardi Gras and we actually prefer the smaller older ships. The Spirit and Conquest classes are our favorite. The steak house on the Mardi Gras was NOT that good. WE also decided to NEVER eat again at the steak house. The rope course and BOLT were FANTASTIC. Sorry you missed the course!
Just got off the sunrise this morning. It sucked overall. Fahrenheit was a huge let down. Found plastic in my food, wife’s steak was over cooked, lobster bisque was not great, service was terrible, sides were small, my wife and I got our food while my 7 year old sat and waited another 5 mins for hers, food was set down on the wrong table then picked up and brought to ours, took 20 minutes just to get water. Took 5 minutes just to get seated at a table. Service was better at the free restaurant in the back of the ship. So many other issues with the cruise overall.
My experience with the steakhouse was amazing on the Horizon and the Mardi Gras
Hii~I expect I can go for newer and bigger ship too！After Panorama，I wonder if I can go back to Miracle， which was my first and meaningful curise. On the other hand, Carnival can not send Excel class to west bay due to the size of current port, and I cant wait for Jubilee for next year since I will graduate and look for job. Also, I don't often fly, so flying to FL for 4 more hours is a challenge for me. I even felt nervous to fly from SF to Long Beach before.
I never try RC, but is that too over to say Panorama is like 2000 ship of RC ? Not every brand can have Oasis class of RC in earlier days.
Totally, sometimes, you do not choose the ship, but ship chooses you due to your location and many different reasons.
Very true!! I love the brand new Excel class of ships. I wish Carnival had innovated their fleet earlier to keep up with the industry. I’d be interested to see how Panorama compares!!
I'm done with Carnival...last cruise on the Carnival Breeze out of Galveston was awful. From the food, to the pool deck, and beyond. Nope.
Thoughts on Carnival Horizon?
I'd love to try one of Carnivals large ships, but being in NC, it's so easy to hop down to Charleston for our cruises. Once Carnival stop sailings from Charleston in 2025 and we're forced down to FL, we will try some of the bigger ships
They're stopping Charleston?!
@@ras8534yes. The port authority did not renew the contact. 2024 is the last year Carnival is sailing out of Charleston
I heard they're going to try to get a port in Mt Pleasant . Hope it goes through
i been on abt 8 carnival cruises and i love big ships as well i rlly love the horizon tbh my fav ship the mardi gras was also pretty good
if you purchase a 18 oz cowboy steak - what else do you need!
We were on Celebration's inaugural cruise and seating for the first couple of performances of the Greatest Circus was insane.
I couldn’t believe how insane it was! The cruise director had to remind everyone not to get physical!!
Docking in Cozumel is never a set deal... depends on which ships get in first...
Thanks for the info.
I loved the celebration I just went on sunrise and hated it celebration was so nice and had way more to do
Most people fail to realize that even though gratuities are automatically placed on your sign and sail receipt, they are NOT mandatory. You can opt out and pay what ever you deem necessary to each worker during your stay instead of letting the cruise line force you to pay a predetermined amount. The cruise lines use the automatic gratuity fee as means to pad their profit margin by not paying their workers a livable wage and to shame their customers into mitigating their unfair compensation policies. Being an accountant for 2 major cruise lines, I know that only 20 - 25% of the pool of gratuity payments actually go to the workers. The rest is kept by the cruise line as miscellaneous profit. So, the next time you book a cruise and see the option to "pre-pay" for gratuities or see it on your final bill, you will know that only a small portion of it is actually going to the worker.
Thank you for that information.
Besides the ceiling height and decor what were your issues with the order smaller
It seems as I am reading comments and it is what it is, the elderly seem to like smaller ships and those younger prefer the bigger and more lavished ships. Not all but most. People are people, everyone won't be happy, enjoy what you enjoy.
I'm in my 30's and prefer smaller or mid size.
I just went on the celebration and wasn't impressed. I prefer the smaller ones. The breeze was one of our best cruises. I'm trying to go on every ship and have one with the legend coming up, horizon next year.
Carnival needs to change up all the entertainment, I went on a few cruises, spaced out about 1 and a half years apart, and all the trivia and games were the exact same!!
Never been limited on anything at Fahrenheit 555 for my last 3 cruises maybe it’s the server?
The old small ships are my favorite.... Sitting down in the main dining room for dinner is so nice, the buffet is for those who just want to stuff their face. Carnival is a great cheap vacation. We love the private Island, its the best. The other ports of call like Nassau once you have visited for the first time its nice to just stay on the boat the next time you cruise and just relax.
This seems to be such an amazing place. Experiences like this is why I also love making videos. Keep up the great job. Subscribed!
Thank you so much!! ❤
im going to mari gra $15 on a roller coaster thats something new on carnival no other cruises has a roller-coaster but carnival they had step up there game perfectly. yes food may be packked same for other shows unless you get there early find a perfect seating
Going on a Cruise in may I went last year in may carnival horizon
My first and only cruise in my life was in 2007 when I went on a Carnival Cruise. I really enjoyed myself but for some reason never booked another cruise .. however many people are saying that doing a short cruise with Carnival , is like a big Ghetto .. trashing people etc. Is this true are not? I would like to do a short 4 day cruise this fall out of the east coast but afraid I could be stuck with a bunch of rude, nasty people.
First 8 cruises Paradise-She is in NEED of drydock. Went on Liberty in April and got so high on the weed being smoked EVERYWHERE (disappointed that it was OK? I mean really, right IN front of security-but there was no consequences)-Leaving out this weekend on the Mardi Gras. My hopes are high, But t know it WILL be overpacked. When in Cozumel go to Paradise Beach-AMAZING
very helpful info. thanks!
While i don't like the small ships due to the lack of amenities, but we sailed on the Mardi Gras. Never again. HATED that ship. While it was gorgeous and food was great, you had to stand in line for at least 30-45 min for any venue because the seating was so limited. Also, while ships like the Breeze, or the Dream, etc have places like Ocean Plaza for dancing to a live band, you don't have that option.
I absolutely love all the Carnival ships and disappointed in this video. You just dissed a lot of viewers for what? Your rant was lame.
Just got off the Mardi Gras (Feb 25-Mar 4)...Food wise I was disappointed in the MDR and buffet...I actually enjoyed my 555 dinner even though I didn't want more than one app so I didn't have a chance to be denied a 2nd app, but the steak and pork belly were fire...Guys Burgers was the crown jewel of their fast food options with Big Shack a close 2nd...ChiBang was surprisingly better than I thought it would be and Cucina was alright but still better than MDR....I really think Carnival should lose the Dancing/Birthday singing on the MDR so their staff can concentrate more on guest service. The whole FOH team just constantly seemed rushed. Maybe only do it on the older/smaller occupancy ships to upsell those cruises. I know a lot of regular guests that will miss it but it may be an addition by subtraction situation....I enjoyed having a lot of bar options, plus each themed bar had their own specialty cocktails which was a nice touch and gave you a reason to explore every area of the ship....only bad thing is we need another week to see everything on the ship! It is huge! Would do again at some point. My wife and I like to spend a little extra for a suite so we only go maybe once every four years or so. Been on the Breeze and Miracle in the past.
I think that’s a great point about the servers in MDR!! They are trying to entertain as much as they have to serve food and the experience lacks because of it.
I truly believe that the MDR an the buffet across the whole entire fleet is a disgusting except for sea day brunch there was some talk a couple of months ago about Emeril lagasse supposed to be training the cooks well I guess that didn't work out I do believe that they should change up the song and dance for the servers cuz that have been old for a long time
Great tips!
I just got home a few days ago from the Alaskan Cruise 🚢 was absolutely beautiful. It was my first cruise sadly we encountered some problems mainly the staff. Worker at the bar knew we where new I was trying to buy drinks for my wife with my money so she could just have fun without using her money asked him how do I pay or switch the card so she don’t have to keep using her keycard and getting charged he says you can pay me cash so I go get cash out the machine come back a different guy waits on us I pull out the cash he says no I can’t accept that so I looked back at the other guy who told me that asked him why he told me to get cash out if you don’t accept it according to what this guy is telling me he denied ever saying that causing a odd situation where his boss had to calm the situation down because I wasn’t backing down I don’t tolerate lying and making me look like a fool in front of everyone just so he could lie and save his job.We soon realized he was trying to pocket the money for himself which I personally honestly didn’t care if he did that put a little money in his pockets they work hard on those ships but the fact he made me look like I was lying so that was the problem I had with the situation and 3 different people heard him tell us to get cash out.Then on my wife’s b day we come back to are room around 9:45pm and it’s flooded asked them 6 times what happened nobody would tell me until I got really mad finally guy says a pipe burst from the plumbing. Then they move us to an extremely loud floor 8 which is right under the breakfest lunch eating area they give us new key cards to are rooms we get up there with clothes and got are hands full carrying crap from are flooded room and the damn key cards didn’t work. So my wife had to go back downstairs and get them to activate them then we get inside are new room and the entire USB light station doesn’t work so we couldn’t charge are phones they had to come back and replace that. Then I got kicked out the gym while I had already been working out for 30 minutes guy claimed I had the wrong style shoes on. I had all I could take with some of there staff I was so pissed so finally I tell them my mom works for carnival and royal carribean which she does she’s a piano bar player and how Im surprised on how I’m not having a good experience with some of the staff here been a rocky start then ohhhh everyone’s tuned changed quick the guy in the gym starts telling me where I can find and get the right shoes and then I can come back and train then they start making phone calls to my room from guest services managers where gonna provide you a free meal anything you want and drinks which they did but man that was really disappointing with some of the staff that it had to get to that point I had just got out the hospital not to long ago from surgery I just wanted a stress free experience on the boat but that didn’t happen .The trip itself the scenery the places we went was absolutely amazing beautiful so I just took in all the positive out of it and enjoyed it but I still highly recommend others to go on this trip guess we where just unfortunate to run across a few bad apples of the staff members but the rest of the staff on the ship where great hard workers nice doing everything they could to help out and provide good services. The places we saw the towns the people where nice at the towns we visited the food gets 5 stars the ship experience give it 3 stars would have gave it 5 stars but encountered to many problems.
Which Carnival ship was this?
Your Cozumel experience was your own fault for not doing the research. And 555 is great-we had a wonderful experience on the Breeze! And Royal is limiting what you can order in their restaurants too.
Cozumel was a learning lesson for sure! I had no idea there were so many different places for ships to dock. Thanks for watching!
❤
Just got off carnival radiance today, and yesterday the boat started flooding the second and first floor elevator full of poop water
Ewww 😮
Like one year ago I got off freedom in may fire
I appreciate the review
We too love the smaller ships. Trouble is there are not many of them left.
Our steakhouse trip was really really good on carnival😊
I didn’t like the Celebration; it was just too big for me. It was wayyy too loud and noisy.
Your name is literally Karen spelt Karyn of course u didn't like it and thought it was noisy, call and ask to speak the manager while ur at it 😂
The oldest & smallest ships are the BEST! I hate the big ships - too many people, too crowded. I'll stick with the Sunshine and the Elation!
So negative, I loved 555 it was amazing, and the hate on the buffet, expectations are too high.
Carnival vista March 25th first cruise
Have a great time!
Carnival Vista was my first cruise. Won the free cruise and flight at a casino. Had a great time.
Love this, thanks