Carnival Cruise Lines - Elation Review

The first cruise we (my wife and I)  took left from Tampa port on Carnival Inspiration.  When I first stepped in to the lobby area, it reminded me of some Hyatt or Hilton hotel lobbies.

There were glass elevators, piano with violin playing, marble floors, very well designed staircases.  The ship at first seemed overwhelming.  This ship was about 854 feet long and had 12 decks I believe.  We were on deck 10, and we had a balcony stateroom.

As soon as you board there is food being served usually on the Lido deck.  Out by the pools the crew is getting ready to start serving hamburgers, hot dogs and french fries for those who want to lay by the pool and eat.

Inside the resturaunts the food was fantastic, there was a buffet style bar, a sub or sandwich bar, desert bar, fruit bar and a pizza bar, your noncarbonated drinks like tea, lemonade, apple juice, coffee, fruit punch and ice water is all free.  There was also a soft ice cream area to make your own cones.  Seating was ample and the view was always pleasant.

Our first cruise was just 5 days, as we were not sure we would like it or not, we went to Cozumel Mexico and the Grand Cayman Island, great prices on lots of things. This cruise was to the Western Caribbean where deals on silver, gold, diamonds, booze and watches can be found.

Carnival does a good job of keeping you busy doing things.  They will also watch your children for you most of the day.  They have a special place where there are no other adults, and the kids can let their hair down with all types of games and special meals.

The Inspiration had a special deck for those who wished to sun bathe birthday suit style.  Of course no teens, children or cameras were allowed.  There were even late comedian shows for adults only.

For us cruising is great, we have been on Carnival Miricle, and Liberty.  We cruised one year with Royal Caribbean aboard the Mariner of the Seas, this ship was about 1042 feet long had putt putt golf, rock climbing and an ice skating rink.

Leaving out of Port Canaveral Royal Caribbean Mariner of the Seas took us to the Eastern Caribbean, where good deals on electronics can be found among other things.

Royal Caribbean Cruise lines owns a private island called Coco Cay, you spend a day there on the beach, parasailing, kayaking, food is grilled and always available.  There are nature trails, and no dangerous critters on the island.

We will be cruising again, I would like to take the Alaskan cruise.

Cruising is the best vacation for your money, that is unless you get sea sick.