The last time I went on a cruise, I was sporting alternating pink- and purple-colored braces on my teeth and spent most of my time in the teen club sipping virgin strawberry daiquiris. So when Carnival Cruise Lines invited a group of travel agents to try out their brand-new ship, the Carnival Splendor, I couldn't help but say, "Anchors aweigh!"
The Carnival Splendor is the newest, largest, and most innovative ship to date for the cruise line and boasts state-of-the-art onboard amenities like a top-deck mini golf course, a luxurious spa with a Thalassotherapy pool, a big-screen, open-air theater, a Twister waterslide, and the Serenity adults-only lounging area. I was treated to a balcony cabin for my two-night cruise out of San Francisco, and most of the wining, dining, and amenities were included so we could really enjoy the ship.
And I'm here to say, cruising has come a long way, baby. Today's ships offer such diverse amenities that everyone can indulge in their idea of fun. For me, that meant mornings on my private balcony, and long afternoons in the Serenity adults-only area, relaxing on a plush lounger, staring at the million-dollar view. In the evening, I preferred to sip wine and hang out with friends in the quieter areas of the ship. But classic cruise fans need not worry. The beloved hallmarks of the industry were still present--the buzzing casino, the bass-thumping nightclubs, the kids and teens clubs, the show lounges, and the piano bar.
And one of the most exciting innovations was the food. As a San Francisco resident, I can be a picky eater, accustomed to the freshest fruits and vegetables, the flakiest of pastries. Now, foodies don't have to starve at sea. The Carnival Splendor has a specialty restaurant called The Pinnacle that costs a mere $30 extra and was worth at least double that. My dinner featured an amuse-bouche of fresh pea soup, an exquisite salad, a perfectly cooked steak, and a whimsical chocolate dessert prepared four different ways, Top Chef-style.
Plus, I discovered an awesome global food station at the Lido Deck buffet and could have happily dined there every day of my sailing. Throw in lattes from a real coffee bar, free 24-hour room service, and even sushi and canape stations, and I was one happy (and full) camper.
The only problem I encountered during my sailing was not Carnival's fault. Poseidon was not onboard with my plan for a relaxing weekend and churned up a massive storm that even the ship's stabilizers could do little to combat. (Travel tip: Cruises out of San Francisco are almost always rocky. You've been warned.) But the Carnival Splendor will be stationed in SoCal, cruising from Long Beach to sunny Mexico, so this shouldn't be a problem for the vessel in the long run.
Comments
Mar 27, 2009
Whenever I contemplate of going for a cruise, I always asked myself what to do in the middle of sea for days? I often checked out with fridens when they are back from their cruise trip on how they have enjoyed so that I can have an informed choice.
I understand there are lots of amenities and activites one can enjoy all day long. Also, especially the good food.
You have given a good suggestion on how to spend a productive day. Morning on your private balcony, long afternoons in the Serenity adults-only area and finally in the evening, hang out with friends.
A suggestion worth considering. Thank You.
May 05, 2009
I an effort to combat the Swine Flu virus, Carnival has diverted the Spendor north. The current itinerary includes Astoria, OR, Vancouver, and Victoria. Travelers that may not be familiar with the Pacific Northwest will want to prepare differently for their trip. The usual itinerary visits Mazatlan, Puerto Vallarta, and Cabo San Lucas. These waters are usually much smoother than the Pacific Northwest. Traveling north will include rougher seas and much cooler temperatures.
Carnival has made an effort to notify all of its' travelers of the changes. However, for some reason, there is a large population of those people that have not been notified.
Carnival has 16 boats that sail to destinations in Mexico. All of those boats have stopped traveling to Mexico until June 15, 2009. Anyone booked on a Carnival cruise needs to check the itinerary as soon as possible.
If you are booked on a Carnival cruise you need to check with Carnival as soon as possible.
Aug 21, 2009
I haven't heard good things about Carnival. I have sailed on Disney and will go on Nerweigan next year. I'm picky. i want to have a good time and if a cruise line receives a lot of bad reviews (like Carnival), I won't go on it.