Carnival Cruise Lines - Fantasy Review

My husband and I took our first cruise for our honeymoon. Neither of us knew what to expect and were very impressed with Carnival. From turndown service, to personal waiters each night at dinner the staff were wonderful and helpful. We had a blast at their private island - horseback riding and snorkeling, and the staff came onshore to do a BBQ.

Tips: Sign up early for events like snorkerling, parasailing, etc they will fill up!

Buy the unilimited soft drinks at the beginning. Otherwise only water and some juices are free.

Try new food - I hadn't eaten at fancy 5 course restuarants before and often wasn't sure what the food options were. Our wait staff were wonderful at explaining and recommending - and you can sample anything you want (if you ask). From duck ala 'range to filet mingnon and lobster there was always something wonderful on the menu.

Get an ocean view room. We loved being able to look out on the ocean or our port from the room. Its definately worth the upgrade!

Some downsides - Carnival is very family oriented - so be prepared for their to be kids. Not as many as say on a Disney cruise but the onboard pools were often full of kids - leaving little room for adults.

Formal dinner seating is by time - but you get to choose at the beginning of the cruise. And there are other restaurant options to choose from it the time doesn't work for you.