Carnival Mardi Gras - October 26, 2024

 

Mardi Gras Cruise Review - October 26, 2024 

 

Just The Facts:
Ship:  Mardi Gras, first of Carnivals Excel class @182,000 gross tons. 5282+ capacity.

Captain: Allesandro Iemmi  -   Hotel Director: Hugo Hidalgo    

Ports: Port Canaveral, FL  - Grand Turk, BWI - Amber Cove, DR - Nassau, Bahamas 

 

This is my 9th cruise on the Mardi Gras, my 114th Carnival cruise, and my 216th cruise overall.  I am sailing as a solo guest.

 

Day One -- Saturday --  October 26th, 2024 -- Port Canaveral Embarkation

I left the Florida Villa at  8:45 a.m. to drive to Port Canaveral. I arrived at Park-N-Cruise just after 11:00 am. A very efficient parking company I have used for years and soon I was on my way to the port terminal. I arrived at the pier at about 11:30 and went through port security and checked in fairly quickly. They had priority lines for VIFP guests. I was able to drop my roll-on bag in the cabin by noon. I have a balcony cabin on deck 15 aft of the aft elevator/stairwell. It is very comfortable, especially for a solo. I went up one deck to the Lido and had lunch from Big Chicken.  I had a good MDE (regular chicken sandwich with Pickles & Shaq sauce)  and some Chicken Tenders with Dipping sauce.  It was a very good lunch.  I was able to watch my Sooners playing in Oxford MS and gave highly rated Ole Miss a scare.  After finishing my meal and during half-time I went to my Muster Station 7F to check in and then to my cabin to watch the rest of the football game.  The cabin has a queen bed, a large Sofa (bed), double Wardrobes, a Large screen Television, a Counter & Mirror with a heavy Ottoman Seat, a Small refrigerator, Shelving and drawers, and a small but adequate bathroom with a glass door shower. I ordered the premium WiFi package and the reception was very good.  I was unpacked and fully set up by the time the game finished. Great weather today so I left the balcony open and it was exciting as the Carnival Freedom sailed past us on her way out of port at about 4:00 pm.  I wanted to eat early so I could watch the World Series game two tonight so at about 6:30 I went to Guy’s Pig & Anchor Bar-B-Que Smokehouse. (stock photo-I left my iPhone in cabin) I ordered the Pulled Pork, Brisket, and the premium St. Louis Ribs ($10+ for half rack).  I ordered two sides but they brought all four: Macaroni & Cheese, Onion Straws, French Fries, and Baked Beans.  More than I could eat and the Banana Pie for dessert was also very good as well.   I then retired to my cabin to watch the Yankees vs. Dodgers on my laptop.  One advantage of being an experienced cruiser is that you don’t have to do any ship activities if that’s your choice. I soon fell asleep to the rocking of the ship.

Day Two -- Sunday --  October 27th, 2024 -- Fun Day at Sea

Slightly rocky seas overnight and I slept very well in my balcony cabin. I woke very early, reviewed scores of late NCAA football games, and updated this blog before falling back to sleep.  I had cabin time before going to the Flamingo MDR for the noon Diamond Luncheon.  I had a five-top table with two couples who were fun people.  My cocktail server was busy serving me several Cosmopolitan Cocktails.  I ordered the Prosciutto Crudo appetizer, the Filet Mignon entree, and the Cantaloupe Panna Cotta for dessert.  It was a great meal.  Afterward, I went to the Summer Landing on deck 8 to watch NFL football.  Various areas had various games on big-screen TVs.  I found the Tampa vs. Atlanta game in the cushy seating area.  I was able to get a spot and enjoyed the game.  A different experience with a live crowd.  I enjoyed several Pilsner Urquells as well.  After the game, I went by the Photo Gallery to pick up my Diamond gift, a blue VIFP Beanball style hat, and another Mardi Gras pin.  I did run into Ed Patterson in an elevator, many VIFPs know him as he’s always sailing and a nice fellow.  I won't be the most frequent guest on this cruise as I was on my previous Mardi Gras cruise.  It was back to the cabin for a nap.  I was hearing an unusual noise outside, and I finally figured out that it was The Bolt roller coaster (photo) going by above my balcony.  At about 7:30, I went up one deck to the Lido Buffet for a light meal before the start of the SNF game.  I admit I fell asleep before the ending and the Cowboys lost anyway.  It was a very entertaining day on the Mardi Gras.

Day Three -- Monday — October 28th, 2024 — Grand Turk, British Overseas Territories

Smooth seas overnight and I slept well. It’s a damp morning so guests are slow to debark for the beaches.  At about 8:30 am I went up to Lido deck and my favorite breakfast on a Carnival ship: The Blue Iguana. I had one Tortilla with two fried eggs, I added Cheese, Pico de gallo, and Salsa. I also had an Arepa and Watermelon on the side. It was fantastic. I did a walkabout on Lido before returning to the cabin.  As the weather improved I had Balcony Time.  I did a little walkabout before going to Guy’s Burgers (photo) on deck 17 at about 12:30 pm.  My first Hamburger since Poland, I just don’t eat as many in Florida as when in Texas.  The Guy’s burgers were good and it was busy.  I think guests came back on board to eat or are eating before they debark…I don’t blame them, I find the pricing here dear.  The sun is out and we can see the beautiful blue water around the island.  I watched some cabin TV, but very limited choices on Carnival.  I’m glad I did the streaming WiFi to watch football & the World Series as I can also watch the News.  I had dinner at the Lido Buffet as it’s World Series baseball.  I have to watch the ESPN Spanish broadcast, but it’s just fine.  The Dodgers won again in a close game over the Yankees that lasted until almost midnight.  A good day on the Mardi Gras.

Day Four -- Tuesday --  October 29, 2023 — Amber Cove - Dominican Republic 

Smooth seas overnight and I slept well. We were docked by our early 7:30 am arrival time and it's another damp morning.I had another very good Blue Iguana breakfast at about 9:00 as guests left the ship.  I had them put my Arepa on the grill, I like it that way and will do so in the future.  I did a small walkabout on the ship and decided to stay onboard.  I did have some balcony time with a good view of the port from the starboard side (photo).  I had a very nice lunch on the aft Lido deck at Big Chicken. Always good but not as rushed as on embark day and fewer guests. The food tasted much better too.  I had some TV time in the afternoon, I’ve been doing a Perry Mason marathon for the past two months and could stream several shows…I’m at the end of Season 4 now.  I enjoy seeing the old cars and the various actors from the early 1960s.  I had dinner again at the Lido Buffet, the food was adequate but nothing special.  I did a walkabout and got a soft serve of ice cream from the Summer Landing area.  I then retired to the cabin to watch Game 6 of the World Series.  Agood day on the Mardi Gras.

Day Five -- Wednesday --  October 30th, 2024 -- Fun Day at Sea

Smooth seas overnight but rocking in the morning hours. I slept very well…fell asleep during the World Series and slept until 8:30 am. Perhaps the best weather of the cruise is this morning so the guests can enjoy the outer decks.  I’m feeling better this morning too, like the weather I felt poorly for a couple of days.  I made it to the Blue Iguana for breakfast, still the best choice IMHO on the ship.  I worked on updating this blog this morning and read the news from home.     I did a walkabout to the casino to cash my remaining chips ($150) and to apply a Carnival gift card to my account at guest services.  I then had lunch at Cucina del Capitano, I ordered two Pasta Bowls: Linguine and Penne with different sauces & add-in ingredients.  They were good and the desert Limoncello Mascarpone Torta was fantastic.  This afternoon I stopped at the Alchemy Bar to have a cocktail with my old friend Maria, it was nice, and while I was there Aleksandra, now a Bar Manager, walked past… nice catching up with her, she’s a long-time favorite.  Some cabin time with Perry Mason before dinner at ChiBang this evening.  I ordered: Egg Drop Soup, Chicken Spring Rolls, Beef & Broccoli entree, Kung Pao Chicken (spicy) entree, and Hakka Noodles.  It was a very good meal.  I watched the exciting final game of the World Series too, Congratulations to the LA Dodgers.  It was a great sea day on the Mardi Gras.

Day Six -- Thursday --  October 31st, 2024 — Halloween — Nassau, Bahamas  

Rocky seas overnight and I slept well. It started as a clear and bright day in Nassau as I ate outdoors again at the Blue Iguana.  My plan for the day was to eat at Fish Fry, an area of fresh seafood restaurants for lunch so I had a relaxing morning on board.  The MSC Meriviglia one of my favorite ships docked alongside of us.  At about 11:15 debarked into the NEW Nassau.  For many years the area had deteriorated so much that most experienced guests never bothered to get off the ship.  A reconstruction of the docks and port area is finally complete and the results are amazing.  A museum and stalls reminiscent of the original Nassau with bright colors await you in the new dock area.  A new boardwalk goes along the shore to a new music venue and the previously restored new Grass Market.  A very large clean and secure area for ship guests. As it was now overcast and cool I decided to walk the long mile.  You walk along Shoreline dive past the British Colonial Hotel, The Margaritaville Resort, old Junkanoo Beach, and the newer West Junkanoo Beach, then cross the commercial Port road into Fish Fry with dozens of Restaurants and Food Shacks.  I usually eat at Goldies one of the originals, but stopped at Two Brothers the other very popular full-service restaurant.  It’s very clean and well-dressed waiters with a nice menu.  I ordered the Fresh Catch of the Day meal, a whole fried or broiled fish with sides.  It was good but next time I’ll try the basic Fish & Chips…easier to eat,  I would say that Goldies has better fish and Two Bothers has better service,  I planned to taxi back, but I walked it again stopping at the Beach and for an Ice Creme near the resorts.  I checked and it was over 13,000 steps so good for me.  Recovery time on the balcony and cabin until dinner (photo).  I ate at Cucina del Capitano at about 7:00 pm, I expected a long wait, but it was not busy at all due to lobster in the MDR.  I ordered: Arancini (3), Nona’s Meatball (1), and the Spaghetti Carbonara entree. And the Lemon Tart for dessert.  It was good.  After dinner, I did a long walkabout to all the various bars to see guests in their Halloween Costumes…I would say about a third were costumed and some were very elaborate.  Many cabin doors were decorated as well.  Itw as a great day in port and Halloween on the Mardi Gras.

Day Seven -- Sunday —  November 1st, 2024 -- Fun Day at Sea

Smooth seas overnight and I slept well and late as planned. I skipped breakfast, also as planned, and did some online business until about 11:30 when I went to Deck 8 for my noon lunch reservation at Bonsai Teppanyaki.  I prefer this to the other premium restaurants on the ship as you get a meal and some theater.  I had a nice table and Ryan was the Chef.  I had all the appetizers: Teppanyaki White Shrimp, Pork Belly Yakitori, Spicy Tuna, and Miso Soup.  My entree was a Lobster & Filet Mignon combination, and the assorted Tray of Desserts including Green Tea Ice Creme.  It was a great meal.  I did a walkabout the ship and enjoyed some cabin time in the afternoon.  I skipped the Diamond/Platinum party but used my drink voucher later in the evening. Before Big Chicken closed @ 5:00 pm I had my usual MDE and Chicken Strips as my dinner this evening.  Always good.  I then had some Balcony time and enjoyed my Pilsner Urquell beers that I had left over from my bucket of beers on Sunday…great weather and very enjoyable.  At about 7:00 pm. I went to the Fortune Teller Bar to see Dajana Blagojevic who I saw earlier in the day on my walkabout.  She prepared for me some excellent cocktails.  Nice experience.  I did a final walkabout before retiring to the cabin to do preliminary packing and update this blog.  It was a great final sea day on the Mardi Gras.

Debarkation -- Saturday -- November 2nd, 2024  -- Port Canaveral, Florida 

Smooth seas overnight and woke much too early. I was up by 4:45 a.m. and I finished my packing process. At about 6:40 am I went down to deck 6 and the Diamond meet area and they were already moving off the ship so I just joined the line and was off and through Facial Recognition by 7:00 am.  The Park-N-Cruise Shuttle bus had me at my auto by 7:15 am.  Amazing.  I was home at 10:00 am. including stops for Fuel, Groceries, and Car Wash.  Easy debark.

HIGHLIGHTS

Diamond Luncheon

Bonsai Teppanyaki

New port of Nassau

Good Fast Food: Big Chicken, Guy’s Burgers

Pig & Anchor BBQ

MSC Seashore Cruise Review - September 1, 2024

MSC Seashore Cruise Review  -  September 1, 2024

Just the Facts:
Ship: MSC Seashore
Captain: Pietro Maresca (Italy)  Cruise Director: Nathaniel James Khan (England)
Ports: Port Canaveral, USA - Ocean Cay, Bahamas (overnight) - Cozumel, Mexico - Costa Maya, Mexico

I’m cruising as a solo on this 7-day cruise. This is my 3rd cruise on the Seashore, my 22nd cruise on MSC, and my 215th cruise overall.  I do have Diamond status, the highest of the MSC Loyalty Club levels.

Sunday, September 1st / Port Canaveral / Embarkation / Day 1 

I have an assigned 3:00-3:30 pm Boarding time so planned accordingly and left the Florida Villa at about 11:45 am for the drive to Port Canaveral. I arrived at Park-N-Cruise at about 2:00 pm., closing time and was the last person on the last bus.  I did not realize that they closed that early, but a very efficient parking company that I have used for years. I was immediately on my way to the port terminal. I arrived at Pier number 10 at about 2:15 grabbed my bag and went up one level to port security and through quickly. All card lines were open without a line and I went directly to a check-in counter. Very smooth process when arriving later and I was able to go straight to my cabin arriving on Deck 10 at 2:35 p.m. I have a balcony cabin located almost all the way aft, actually near the aft Panoramic Lifts. It is very comfortable, especially for a solo. The cabin has a Queen bed, Wardrobe, Large screen Television, a Counter/dressing table with mirror, a small stocked Refrigerator, Shelving, and drawers inside the wardrobe, a Couch, and a small but adequate bathroom with a solid glass door shower.  At about 4:10 pm I went down to my Muster Station and checked in, thankfully you can check in casually and not as a mass hoard (MSC was last to update the streamlined system). I ordered the premium WiFi package and the reception in my cabin was good. They are strict about one device…and you can not change from a Laptop to an iPhone. We sailed away at about 5:00 pm and I watched from my balcony.  The Carnival Vista sailed just before we did. I have a 7:30 dinner assignment in the Tribeca Dining room (MDR), located on deck 6 aft it was a solo table with four guests this evening.  Dinner and service was good. For dinner, I ordered the Tomato Basil Soup, two very nice Shrimp Cocktails, and the Roast Beef entree with horseradish. For dessert a wonderful Crema Catalonia. After dinner, I had reservations for the 9:30 Production Show: Journey.  Unusual to have one on the first night.  It was good with a theme of travelers from Ireland across Europe by train,  Music and Dance from Ireland, France, Spain (photo), and Italy.  Memorable was Danny Boy, the French Can Can dancing, theme from the Godfather, and Conte Parte.  After a walkabout back towards the cabin I then watched the end of the USC/LSU football game, LSU let us down (I’m now an SEC fan now that my Sooners are in the SEC). It was an easy embarkation day.

Monday, September 2nd / Ocean Cay Marine Reserve / Day 2

Rolling seas overnight with enough movement for a very enjoyable night's sleep. The bed is very comfortable with good pillows: one soft and one firm. We were docked at about 7:00 am and it was a beautiful day. They have begun construction of the second pier, another building, and another beach area all easily visible from the ship. I went to Deck 5 Central Park MDR for breakfast at about 8:45 am and had a shared table. I ordered a Fruit Plate, Danish, Eggs Benedict with a side of Bacon, and hash brown potatoes. I was served Hot Milk which is not always easy to get on other cruise lines but very common on MSC. No usual Monday morning business activities as today is Labor Day so I enjoyed cabin and balcony time. At about 3:00 pm I went up to deck 16 to eat: Pizza (photo) and a very nice Salad with Roast Beef, also Bread Pudding for dessert. MSC is well known for their great Pizza.  I’m not going to get off the ship today so I walked about the upper deck to get a better view of the island. The water here is beautiful and the Palm trees look better with every visit. This stop will only improve over time.  I watched two old 40s-era gangster movies on TCM this afternoon. At 7:30 pm I went to the MDR for dinner, three at the solo table this evening.  I ordered: an Italian Wedding Soup, a Shrimp Cocktail, the Broiled Swordfish entree, and Appel Strudel with Vanilla Sauce and Ice creme for dessert.  Service was good and fast this evening.  Only a short walkabout for me before returning to the cabin.  I watched the 2nd half of the NCAA football game, then the abbreviated Light Show on the island…I assume because of construction.  It was a very relaxing day on the Seashore.

Tuesday, September 3rd / Ocean Cay Marine Reserve  / Day 3 

We were docked overnight and I slept well although I woke early. I had a casual morning updating this blog and doing some online work on this first business day of September. I had a TCM Alan Ladd Movie Day watching three westerns. I had a break at about noon when I went up to the Lido Buffet on Deck 16. The aft Panorama Elevators are perfect for getting from deck 10 to 16. We sailed away from Ocean Cay at about 3:15 pm into some cloudy weather. This is the Captain's Night so several functions in the early evening. I went to the Dining room for the Gala Dinner, I ordered: Eggplant Parmigiana, Shrimp Cocktail, the Filet Mignon entree, and Baked Alaska for dessert. It was a very nice dinner again with great service. I went to the Production show: Encore (photo), which featured songs from Broadway Shows, including Chicago, Hairspray, West Side Story, Les Miserables, Phantom of the Opera, and more. Very entertaining, the photo is of the female lead singer, she was excellent. I returned to the cabin and set out my room service order before retiring. It was an interesting day on the MSC Seashore.

 

Wednesday, September 4th / Day at Sea / Day 4 

Smooth seas overnight and I slept very well. At about 8:00 am. my Room Service was delivered, I ordered Hot Milk, Danish, Fruit Plate, & Special K cereal.  Very convenient.  At 10:00 am I went to the Brooklyn Cafe Lounge for the Diamond  Guest Reception. I had to call Guest Services to get the info as I was issued a blue card and not a black card that I had corrected after the party.  I like this location better than the previous Cabaret location. I was served an Aperol Spritzer straight away, then two Hugo Spritzers, so the party was on.  They had a piano player and a Tango Dance routine by a couple from Argentina as entertainment.  The Cruise Director introduced the Senior Officers as well as the Captain of the Ship (photo).  As the event was finishing they forced the pre-prepared cocktails on those guests that remained so I helped them out by having a couple more of Aperol Spritzers. The party continued. I then went to Guest Services and picked up my correct Black Card then back to my cabin…very soon they were knocking on my door with a bottle of Prosecco, a Chocolate Ship sweet, and Petit Fours.  So the party continued.  At 12:30 pm I went to the Butcher's Cut Steak House (with a glass of Prosecco) for lunch.  The manager seated me so I was able to get my usual request approved straight away…I order two appetizers and no dessert.  I had the Burrata & Beets, Shrimp Cocktail, and a Filet Mignon entree.  This was a real filet, not the shoulder-cut beef they passed off in the MDR last night, and perfectly prepared—a great lunch.  I then soon retired to the cabin for a wee nap.  In the late afternoon, I did some online business and booked an excursion for tomorrow in Costa Maya.  I did go to dinner in the MDR  it was Caribbean Night, but I didn’t care for my appetizers or the meatloaf entree.  The Key Lime Pie was good though.  I had reservations for the Divas Show in the theater but passed and retired early and enjoyed a Coca-Cola and Western movie on TCM.  It was a good sea day on the MSC Seashore.

 

Thursday, September 5th / Costa Maya, Mexico / Day 5

Calm seas overnight and I slept very well. We arrived several hours early by 7:00 am and only two ships today: Ourselves and the Harmony of the Seas. I again had a nice room service breakfast then at about 9:10 am and left the ship and walked down the long pier to meet my excursion. I’m doing the Bacalar 7 Colors Lagoon tour today. We took a very nice bus on an 80-minute drive to Columpio Rancho Encantado on the Balacar Lagoon. We relaxed around the pool as we waited for our Pontoon Boats. They had my favorite Mexican Beer so I enjoyed a couple of Bohemia Cervezas. We were soon loaded on the Pontoon, perfect for the shallow water sites we will visit. We sailed by Fuerte de San Felipe de Bacalar (the fort) and then visited Cenote Negro before anchoring in the shallows to allow for swimming. We sailed by Cenote Azul and Isla de los Pájaros (Bird Island) before stopping at the second swimming location. We then returned to the Restaurant/Resort for a nice Mexican Buffet lunch. It was over two hours on the fresh water lagoon overall (photo). The bus passed through rain as we were returning to Costa Maya. When we arrived it was clear but there were very few guests…they all had returned to the ship when it rained so it was very easy to get through the usual gauntlet of vendors. I was back in the cabin by 4:45 pm. I planned to relax and skip dinner but the menu appealed to me so I went to dinner at 7:30. I ordered: Escargot, Beetroot Salad, Shrimp Cocktail, the Steak Diane entree, and the Tapioca with Mango dessert. A large number of guests were dressed in white for tonight's White Night party.  I returned to the cabin to watch the NFL Kickoff game between the Chiefs and Chargers.  It was great excursion day.

 Friday,  September 6th   /  Cozumel  /  Day 6

Smooth seas overnight and a good night's sleep. I woke at about 7:30 a.m. and we had been docked at Puerto Langosta for a while. At 8:45 I went down to the MDR for breakfast before they closed at 9:00 am.  I ordered three fried eggs with Toast, Ham, Bacon, Grilled Tomato, and Scalloped Potatoes.  Also Tomato Juice, Hot Milk, and Water.  It was a good and hearty breakfast.  After I walked down to Deck 4 and the gangway and was off and walking into town, I like docking at this pier, so much easier for the things I usually do when in Cozumel. My first stop was at the San Miguel Archangel Church, the second at Antonio’s Barber Shop for a haircut just as he opened at 10:00 a.m. Another good haircut too. The third stop is at my Cozumel HQ: Woody’s Bar & Grill. I had table 7 with a nearby fan, electrical plug, and view of the Ship. The good WiFi, Live Entertainment by Michael, great Mexican Coca-Cola, fair (not made to order) Guacamole, a Chimichanga, and Bohemia beer were all nice on this luckily breezy day. The day seemed a bit off though, not many tourists, and the time change. I casually began walking back to the ship earlier than usual. I did stop at the Thirsty Cougar on the Malecon as a break on my walk (photo). I made it back on board before 2:00 pm and refreshed and relaxed until sailing away at about 5:00 PM.  The seas are rolling more than any other time this cruise evening.  Nice ride.  This is one of those days that I’m glad I have a 7:30 dinner time. Dinner was very good, I ordered: Stuffed Mushrooms, Shrimp cocktail, the Penne all Amatriciana Pasta entree, and Coconut Cake for dessert. After dinner I retired to the cabin to watch television, overall another great port day in Cozumel.

 

Saturday, September 7th / Day at Sea / Day 7

There were some rolling seas overnight, just enough rocking for a good sleep. I had a relaxing morning then went up to the Buffet for the first time at about 10:30 am for breakfast. I had Eggs, French Toast, Ham, and Bacon with milk and sat on the bump out with a view aft. Beautiful weather today and I did a short walkabout (photo) before cabin/balcony time. Today is NCAA SEC College Football Day for me.  I had the cabin set with snacks and began with the noon game between Texas and Michigan.  Then the 3:30 kickoffs.  At about 4:30 I went to Hola! Tacos & Cantina, the Tex-Mex restaurant on deck 8, and the All-you-can-Eat menu ($17.99). I ordered almost everything on the menu.  I ordered: the Signature Guacamole (2), Pico de Gallo (2), Queso Fundido, Tamales (2), Chicken Enchilada (2), Pork Enchilada (2), Chili Con Carne, and the best items on the menu…the Street-Style Soft Tortillas.  My favorites were Al Pastor (2) and Carne Asada (2).  In retrospect, I would do more soft tacos and less entree enchiladas.  A lot to eat.  This was my third visit in three cruises and the best restaurant on the ship in my humble opinion.  My big game, Oklahoma vs. Houston had a 7:45 kickoff.  The WiFi was streamlining well and I could get both the SEC Network as well as the Oklahoma radio broadcast.  The game was much closer than anyone expected and Oklahoma was lucky to pull out a victory.  It was a long but fun football day with excellent food. 

Sunday, November 8th / Port Canaveral / Debarkation
Fair seas overnight and I slept well. We arrived on time and were docked just after 6:00 am. I finished packing and waited until I actually saw guests on the gangway at about 7:00 a.m. and luckily got an elevator and joined the line. Thanks to facial recognition we were soon on the street. I was on the parking shuttle bus before 7:30 and on the road by 7:45 a.m. Went through the carwash in Lakeland, stopped for groceries, and was home at about 10:15 a.m. Easy Peasy.

Ship
Maiden Voyage: 2017 I Gross Tonnage: 153,500 tons
Passenger Capacity: 5179 | Crew: 1413 I Length: 323 meters/1060 ft
Max Cruising Speed: 22 knots I Avg Speed 21 knots
Installed power: Diesel (40,000kW) I Propulsion: Twin propellers
17 passenger decks Builder: Fincantieri
Godmother: Sophia Loren

Cabin
I had cabin 10276 a starboard side balcony located on deck far aft with a long walk to the main aft elevators, but close to the aft Panoramic elevators . Storage is fine if solo. The toilet seems smaller perhaps because the glass shower doors restrict movement. The cabin has a push-button safe, twin/king beds, a large padded headboard, two small nightstands, wall-mounted wall lights, a large mirror, a small stocked refrigerator, a small table/bench (unusual), and a nice TV with interactive features. My cabin steward was very good.

Dining / Food
The dinners in the MDR are very good, and the service and settings were wonderful. I love the tablecloths. Our wait staff were excellent, very pleased with the service. The buffet food was good to very good. Not as many selections as in the past, but the food variety was fine. Favorites: all the Pizza, all the Pasta, Guacamole, Hamburgers, and Salad Bar. I only did one premium specialty restaurant: The Butcher’s Cut for lunch and it was very good.

Comments - MSC Cruise Line
MSC is very different than the usual American cruise lines and if you're looking for the same experience it will be much different. You may like the differences or you may be very unhappy with the differences. As an experienced cruiser, I love different. If you don’t like change or are not flexible you will probably NOT like sailing a European cruise line. Following are my observations on sailing MSC: 

MSC Pluses
Beautiful Public Rooms, Good MSC Production Shows and entertainment, Quality and Beautiful Themed Bars, Nice Cabins, Hot Milk readily available on buffet and MDR, Attentive bar servers, and Good MDR Breakfasts.  Tablecloths.

Changes since Covid
Announcements are now only in English
Fewer children since they changed the ‘Children sail free’ promotion.
Many more American guests result in more: Scooters, Wheelchairs, and complainers.

Highlights of the Cruise
Balacar Excursion in Costa Maya
Hola! Tacos and Cantina
Port Day in Cozumel
Production Shows
Butcher’s Cut Steak House

Celebrity Constellation Adriatic Cruise - July 26, 2024

 

                                       Celebrity Constellation Adriatic Cruise - July 26, 2024

Just the Facts:

Ship: Celebrity Constellation- 2002 - Weight: 90,940 tons - Capacity: 2,170 passengers 

Captain: Christos Trifyllis (Greece), Hotel Director: Cameron Robertson (Scotland),  Cruise Director: Ernest Marchain (USA)

Ports: Ravenna Italy - Trieste, Italy - Dubrovnik, Croatia - Zadar, Crotia - Split, Croatia - Kotor, Montenegro - Salerno, Italy - Civitaveccia, Italy

 
The DW and I are cruising on this 10-day cruise sailing from Ravenna Italy. This is my 2nd cruise on the Celebrity Constellation (Connie), My 4th cruise on Celebrity, and my 214th cruise overall.  They do honor my D+ status from Royal Caribbean as an Elite+ on this sailing.  We just completed 12 days in Europe which is reviewed in the previous blog submission (back one).

Day One  -  Friday, July 26th, 2024 -- Embarkation - Ravenna Italy 

We woke at about 7:00 am in the City of Ravenna and enjoyed a nice breakfast in our hotel restaurant. It was then just a short wait for our 9:45 Shuttle (€15pp).  We were at the  Cruise Terminal at about 10:15 am and dropped luggage, went through  Security, and checked in by 10:30 am. Then just a half hour wait before boarding the ship at about 11:00 am.  It was a very easy process all morning.  We dropped our carry-on bags in the cabin on Deck 9, picked up our  Cabin Cards, and then went up to Deck 10 and the Sunset Bar.  We had some Diet Coca-Cola and complementary Procescco when a bartender remembered me from my previous cruise on the Connie.  We sat facing aft enjoying the Sea Breeze ... we then both ate Salad & Pizza from the Oceanview Cafe (Lido Buffet).  They had Bread Pudding in the desert area, it was good.  We did our Muster Station at about 1:00 pm then went to the cabin when they officially opened.  We have a nice extended  Balcony Cabin near the aft elevators that makes it easy to access both the Sunset Bar and the Oceanview Cafe.  The cabin was nice and cool with adequate storage for two people.  We began set up and were pleased to see our luggage delivered between 2:00-3:00 pm. All is well for our vacation from our vacation.  We relaxed all afternoon and watched the 5:00 pm sail away from our balcony.  At about 6:30 we went up to the Oceanview Cafe for dinner.  DW got an assortment of Hummus and some fresh Vegetables.  I had a nice mixed vegetable Stir-fry plate with Beef & Chicken.  I also sampled the Lamb with Mint Jelly and the Tilapia.  The Dessert Station was decorated with a Cake (photo) and the Flan was good as was a bowl of Ice Creme.  Everything was quite good.  We did a short walkabout and retired early for Cabin Time.  This has been the easiest day of our trip to date.

 

Saturday, July 24, 2024  /  Trieste, Italy 

Smooth seas overnight and I slept very well in our cool room.  We were docked when I woke and we have no specific plans for this port as we were here recently on MSC.  I went up to the Lido for a freshly made omelet at about 9:00 am.  We went off the ship at about 10:30 am and walked to Piazza Unità d’Italia a huge square overlooking the sea, surrounded by grand buildings & cafes, with a landmark fountain (photo taken from balcony). We walked to other Piazzas did some shopping and stopped for a refreshing Coca-Cola. We returned to the ship just after noon to avoid the day's heat.  We had a nice buffet lunch upon return…it was Italian food day and we enjoyed cabin time the rest of the afternoon.  At 5:00 pm the Elite Guest “happy hour” began and we went to the Sunset Bar for complimentary drinks.  My favorite Celebrity bartender Made was there, it was good to see him again.  Of course, I enjoyed the special drink he made for me on my February cruise in my personal silicone beverage glass.  DW enjoyed Summer Sangrias.  We stayed the two hours plus enjoying: Cocktails, the sail away from Trieste, and the Jazz entertainment that started @ 7:30.  We had Pizza as snacks and then had dinner later while listening to music.  I had Kung Pao Chicken, Veges, and a small Salad. For dessert a selection of items including a nice Panna Cotta.  It was a great evening at the Sunset Bar as was seeing old & new friends.  

Day 3  -  Sunday, February 28, 2024  -  at Sea

Smooth seas overnight as we sailed south in the Adriatic Sea.  I slept well and late, going to the buffet at about 9:15 for breakfast.  It was busy I guess everyone slept in this morning.  We did our initial walkabout this morning, the DWs first time aboard…she loves the size of the ship. I do too.  At about 12:45 we went for lunch in the San Marco Dining Room (MDR).  I had a Cobb Salad, NY Strip Steak, and Apple Strudel.  This is our first time in the MDR and I doubt we visit much as DW prefers the Oceanview Cafe for better vegetarian choices.  The sea has become a beautiful blue and is very calm. This afternoon we watched two great movies: Six Minutes To Midnight and Fishermen’s Friends.  Since our cabin is so close to the Sunset Bar I would go up and get drinks and return for movie time.  Then at about 7:00 pm, we went up for final cocktails and then dinner in the Oceanview Cafe.  It wasn’t busy, there were almost more crew than guests tonight.  The feature singers sure looked sharp tonight sitting nearby.  DW loved the Vegetarian choices and I had Nachos, concocted by myself with Chips, Beans, Melted Cheese, and Guacamole.  Then later I had a nice Beef Bourguignon and Salad.  For dessert, DW had Ice Creme and I had a selection of various goodies.  After dinner, we watched another movie: The Sapphires before retiring.  It was a restful movie day on the Celebrity Constellation. 

Day 4  -  Monday, February 29, 2024  -  Dubrovnik, Croatia

There were smooth seas overnight and I slept very well, I woke early and watched us sail into Dubrovnik at about 7:30 a.m.  I then went up to the Lido Deck for a nice breakfast consisting of an Omelet, Hash Browns, and Bacon.  At about 8:00 am we got off the ship and met our driver Josh for a Private Tour to the neighboring country of Bosnia-Hertzigovena.  Our first stop after crossing the border was Kravice Waterfalls, it’s certainly a popular place in the area, but I was not that impressed.  Too many people made it hard to enjoy.  It was very impressive in its way, it did remind me of Turner Falls in Oklahoma.  Our primary stop was at Mostar and the famous Stari Most or Mostar Bridge.  We had three hours scheduled to visit.  Our first stop was at Restaurant Šadrvan rated the top restaurant in town, it doesn’t have a Bridge view, but the food was amazing.  I ordered the Bosnian National Plate.  It was amazing, it had: Japrack, Dolma, Bosnian Cookies (all meat), Small Sausages, Cevap, Duvec, Boiled Potatoes, Rice, and Sour Creme.  It was a lot to eat and very good. I did my best we were there for an hour. The DW found a nice embroidered traditional-style top and a nice knickknack for the Granddaughter while shopping in the old town area.  We then went down to the riverbank for some photos of the historic old Bridge (photo).  The original Stari Most Bridge was commissioned by the Ottoman emperor Süleyman the Magnificent in 1557 and completed in 1566.  It was destroyed in the Bosnian War in November 1993. A project, overseen by UNESCO, was undertaken to rebuild the Stari Most using the same materials and techniques used in the original bridge. Reconstruction began in 2001 and was completed in 2004. The Stari Most and the historic center of Mostar were inscribed as a World Heritage site in 2005.  We returned to the ship at about 6:00 pm and made it in time for the Elite Happy Hour.  DW had Pizza and a Salad for dinner, I just had a snack after my big meal earlier.  We then retired to the cabin early.  It was a very unique excursion to Bosnia.

 

Day 5  -  Tuesday, February 30, 2024  -  Dubrovnik, Croatia

We were docked overnight in Dubrovnik and slept well.  I went to the Lido Deck for a nice breakfast and then at about 8:50 am we left the ship and took a Taxi to the walled Old Town. It is our third time to visit and we have walked the famous Walls so our goal was to tour the interiors of several Palaces today. We entered through the Pile Gate and were soon on the beautiful Placa marble main street. Not too crowded initially so we started ASAP at the smaller 16th-century Sponza Palace and visited the UNESCO-listed Dubrovnik State Archive with documents from as early as the 11th century. Also, there is the Memorial to the Fallen of the recent 1991 war. The next stop was the Baroque St. Blaise Church located across the street. The primary museum of Dubrovnik: the Rectors Palace was next. Built in the 15th century the large palace has served as many venues including Government, Resident, and Public. Great period history exhibits and displays can be seen here. The final stop was the impressive Cathedral. We also did a walkabout seeing the old Port area and several side streets with shops and restaurants. It was by this time very crowded and getting hot so we returned to the Pile Gate area and took a taxi back to the ship. We had a light lunch in the Ocean View on Lido Our cool cabin was welcoming so we watched some TV during the afternoon. In the late afternoon, the weather cooled off so it was balcony time for sail away and sailing by the Adriatic islands of Croatia. I enjoyed my Elite Guest happy hour drinks as usual and had a dinner of Pork Tenderloin and Roasted Potatoes before retiring to the cabin.  It was a good visit to Old Town Dubrovnik today.

Day 6  -  Wednesday, February 31, 2024  -  Zadar, Croatia

Smooth seas overnight and I slept well. We both went up to Lido Buffet for breakfast, they had Canadian bacon this morning…one of my favorites. We have a ship excursion today: Panoramas of Historic Dalmatia and we met in the Theater at 8:20 am. We began the tour with about an hour's drive to Šibenik and did an hour's walk through the old town area. The Church of St. Francis was most impressive. It is a Gothic building from the second half of the 14th century, inside is an organ from 1762. The church has interesting faces of people on the marble facade around the building. Šibenik is one of the oldest towns in Dalmatia and is worth a visit. We had a rest stop on our drive back to Zadar with complementary toilets, drinks, and pie. Once back in Zadar, we toured the modern waterfront along the Aegean Sea. One of the features is the Water Organ that allows the waves to play the organ pipes…very different. Most of the Old Town here did not survive WWII and the 1992 War. Two places did: the ruins of the Old Roman Forum and the Cathedral of St. Anastasia. One full Roman column did survive and has stood for over 2000 years…in later times it was the column of shame where people would be chained and mocked. The Cathedral dates to the early 12th Century before the Venetians conquered Zadar in 1202. It is difficult for me to comprehend a place with so much history. Zadar is the jump-off point for many of the many islands in the Agenian Sea and has many businesses and bars with a yachting theme.  It was a nice tour overall and they returned us to the Zadar port and the ship at about 2:30 pm.  Upon return, we went straight up to Deck 10 and the Lido Buffet for a light lunch. We then retired to our cool cabin for rest.  I enjoyed the Elite happy hours this evening as it was cooler with a sea breeze and we did our sail away from Zadar.  Thanks to my bartender Made too for preparing my special drink in my silicone drink holder.  It keeps the drink colder for longer.  I had Pizza before returning to the cabin where the DW had been watching movies. It was a good day learning about and seeing sights in Dalmatia today. 

Day 7  -  Thursday, August 1, 2024  -  Split, Croatia 

Smooth seas and I slept well as we arrived at Croatia’s second-largest city. Our goal for the day is to visit Diocletian's Palace on our own. at about 8:00 am I went to the San Marco restaurant for breakfast, only my second visit to the MDR. I ordered: Eggs Benedict, English Bacon, American Bacon, Hash Browns, Fruit Plate, Danish, and Hot Milk. It was delicious. At about 8:45 am we went ashore and did the 15-minute walk to Diocletian's Palace. It was built in the late third and early fourth century as Roman Emperor Diocletian’s retirement residence and is now a UNESCO heritage site, it represents one of the best-preserved examples of Roman architecture yet doesn’t feel like a museum. The city of Split has grown up around this ancient palace. It is somewhat similar to Dubrovnik’s Old Town. We took in the architecture and sat in a Cafe enjoying a soft drink. We visited an Outdoor Market and a few shops. It became busy with tourists and rising temperatures so we decided to walk back to the port. The port area is a busy place with ferries arriving and departing as well as the location of the train station and the Bus Station.  We were back in our cool cabin by noon. At about 1:00 pm we went to the Oceanview Cafe. They had Rib-Eye steaks at the grill so I had one cooked to order plus Potatoes, and a large Salad. Excellent. At about 5:00 pm I got my special Cocktail in my silicone glass and then the two of us went to the Martini Bar on deck 4 to get a Hugo Spritzer. I had never been there and quite a surprise…the Bar surface is ice. Perfect for my glass to keep the drink cool, but cocktails in Martini glasses not so much. Very different though. They were busy too, a popular spot during Elite happy hour. We returned to the Sunset Bar to enjoy the sail away from Split. The number of ferries sailing is amazing to see too. We ate dinner out on deck. DW had Pizza and I had an excellent Stir-fry of both Chicken & Beef with mixed Vegetables. We then retired after this busy day in port and on the Constellation.

 

Day 8  -  Friday, August 2, 2024  -  Kotor, Montenegro 

Smooth seas overnight and I slept well. I was awake by 5:00 am and we had already entered the beautiful Bay of Kotor…it was soon light enough to see some views early and will be better at sailing away this evening. We went down to Qzine on Deck 3, the exclusive Elite Breakfast location, at about 8:00 am for a light breakfast…we had Fruit Plates and Danish.  This morning Qzine is also the meeting location for Elite priority tenders.  We were soon off on our 18-minute tender boat ride to the dock in Kotor.  By 9:00 am we were entering the main Sea Gate into Old Town Kotor.  We wanted to visit some specific buildings, the first was the Maritime Museum in the Grgurina Palace (1732) and then St. Tryphon’s Cathedral (1166) (photo).  Both were very well done, the Palace was in the 18th-century style with the maritime exhibits displayed within…The Cathedral had great displays in the upper galleries.  The entire Old Town is very nicely restored and a very clean area.  Numerous shops and restaurants in every Plaza within the walls.  We took a Coca-Cola break then at about 11:30 am we walked the short distance to the pier and tendered back to the ship.  Just after the noon hour, we went up to the Seaview Cafe, DW had a nice prepared herself Guacamole Salad+.  I also arranged my lunch, I had two NY Strip steaks grilled to order, and placed Cheese between the steaks on a large fresh Croissant with Mayo & Tomato.  It was FANTASTIC.  Best cruise sandwich ever.  We had a relaxing Balcony Day for the rest of the afternoon.  At 5:00 pm I went to the Sunset Bar for my cocktail…it was busy as everyone wanted to watch our sail away.  It was a beautiful sail away that I watched from our balcony or at the Sunset Bar.  Sailing in Kotor Bay is an amazing cruise experience. Tonight was the popular White Party on Deck 10.  It was a great early day in Kotor and a relaxing afternoon on the Connie. 

Day 9  -  Saturday,  August 3rd, 2024  -  Sea Day 

Smooth seas overnight and I slept well. I went to the San Marco Dining Room for a very good breakfast: Danish, Fruit Plate, Eggs Benedict, English & American Bacon, Hash Browns, and Hot Milk.  We had a lazy morning planning our final port and debarkation day.  I did a walkabout and visited the large Reflection Lounge on Deck 11 forward.   They watched the Parade of Nations on Deck 10 Pool Deck, the Captain even spoke a bit.  At about 1:00 pm I went to the Grill on Lido Deck, the Steaks were too large for a sandwich so I had two as a Steak Dinner with Potatoes and a Salad.  They were excellent.  The food has been very good on the cruise.  I have gained back the weight I lost on the land adventure last week.  We watched the movie Amsterdam and had a relaxing afternoon.  At 5:00 pm I went to the Sunset Bar for my usual.  Italy has been on our starboard side all day and at about 6:00 pm we reached the bottom of the boot of Italy.  DW joined me on deck as we turned north to sail through the Strait of Messina between Sicily and the mainland (photo of Messina).  That was the highlight of the day.  At about 7:30 pm we took Pizza back to our cabin and ate on the balcony.  It was a relaxing day on the Celebrity Constellation.

 

Day 10  -  Sunday,  August 4th, 2024  -  Salerno, Italy

Smooth seas in the Mediterranean Sea overnight and I slept well. I went to the Lido Deck for a nice Omelette, Bacon, & Hash Browns and brought some Pastry and Walnuts back for the DW. At about 9:00 am we debarked the ship and walked into Salerno. Most Shops were not open yet, but we strolled admiring the beach and boulevard. We arrived at the Cathedral of Santa Maria degli Angeli, San Matteo and San Gregorio VII just as they opened at 9:30 am. It is a long name but an important Cathedral as it is the burial location of the Pope and Saint Matthew, the Apostle. In addition, the ornate circa 1084 church has a large bell tower, pipe organ & many mosaics, statues & relics. The below-ground Crypt is very ornate and different in that it is lighter in colors and decor with a positive vibe. Not dark and creepy at all as are many old Medieval Crypts. The Tomb of Saint Matthew was located in the center and was dominant and the Statuary above the Tomb was done by Michaelangelo (photo). This is the third Apostle Tomb I have visited the others being Peter & John. We then had a Coca-Cola break at the outdoor Cafe next door. Many shops were now opening for our casual return to the Cruise Pier. We were back on board the ship by noon. For lunch, we went up to the Ocean View Cafe on Lido and I had another custom Steak Sandwich. We watched Table 19 an interesting comedy movie about a wedding this afternoon. Sail away began before I got to the Sunset Bar but I really enjoyed the views of Salerno and later the Isle of Capri as we sailed around it at about 6:30 pm. I had a very good Stir-Fry plate for dinner tonight. Then it was time to pack and put out our luggage for pickup outside the cabin. A busy evening. Salerno and the Cathedral were great to visit on this our final Day on the Celebrity Constellation. 

 

Debarkation Day 11  -  Monday,  August 5th, 2024  -  Civitavecchia, Italy 

We placed our luggage out in the passageway before bed last night.  We have Tag 2 is a very early meet time for our Airport Shuttle.  We arrived early and were sent straight away to pick up our luggage even before self-debarkation began.  We were on the first bus out @ 6:48 am.  Very smooth and very easy.  We arrived at the airport and were checked in quickly so time to eat and wait for our 11:20 am boarding on American Airlines. The 10-hour flight landed in Charlotte and soon we were on the way to Tampa arriving at about 8:40 pm local time.  A 24-hour trip with Ship Debarkation, Airport wait time,  and Flight times.  Home at about 10:30 pm local time.

Cabin
We had Cabin 9138 and loved the location…I picked it as it had easy access to Deck 10 with Lido Buffet and the Sunset Bar.  It was also a bump-out balcony with great views on the starboard side.  Natalya our Stateroom Attendant was excellent. Small couch and chair at the vanity/desk, The BR has a nightlight…always useful.

Dining / Food
We never ate dinner in the MDR although we had one lunch and I had a few breakfasts in the San Marco Dining Room all with Tablecloth service. The Oceanview Cafe (Lido buffet) food was very good to excellent. Favorites: The Grill, the Carving Station, the Pasta Station, the Deli Section, the Stir-Fry area, and the Salad Bars.  We did not do a specialty restaurant.  They even serve fresh Croatian Oysters one night, not available in the MDR.

Highlights of the Cruise
Day Trip to Moster, Bosnia

Montenegro and the beautiful Bay of Kotor

All the Croatian Ports
Sunset Bar with Made and Bar Team.
Service and food in the Oceanview Cafe