Carnival Glory Cruise Review

 

Carnival Glory Cruise Review

1/28/2017 and 2/4/2017

Just the Facts:
Ship: Carnival Glory
Captain:  Carlo Aquilone
Cruise Director:  Eric R. Brouman
Ports: Miami - Grand Cayman - Isla Roatan - Belize - Cozumel -
Miami - Amber Cove - St. Thomas USVI - San Juan - Grand Turk - Miami

This cruise is the beginning of five consecutive cruises for me.  The Bloggers and a later group cruise was booked long ago, I filled in other cruises to save travel.  This will be the review for the B2B on the Carnival Glory with the John Heald Blogger cruise being the second week.  I will chronicle both cruises in this one review.   This is my 66th & 67th Carnival cruises, my 5th/6th time on the Carnival Glory, and 123rd/124th cruises overall.  I am cruising as a solo.

Friday / Travel / January 27, 2017 / Day 0

Miami Beach from flight

Originally I was flying to Miami on Saturday, but American Airlines cancelled the early flight from Waco, so there was no way to get to Miami from Waco before sailing.  I now have to fly the day before…more expensive due to hotel cost…but a much easier travel day.  I didn’t want to leave the new truck at the airport for 41 days so DW dropped me at Waco Regional about 9:15 am.  Check in and security is easy at the small airport and soon our 40 minute flight was at DFW airport for the scheduled 12:30 flight to Miami.  Sometime that morning our plane went from a 767 to a 757 so new boarding vouchers and seat assignments for all…I had time and actually noticed that my boarding didn’t match the AA iPhone App so got mine strait away, no middle seat thank goodness.  We were a little late but arrived in Miami about 4:20 pm.  A zone taxi ($20) downtown and I arrived at The Langford just about 5:15.  I love the Langford, we stayed there just after they opened before our trip to Cuba.  A bit more expensive now as it’s more in line with Miami rates, but includes continental breakfast and as a returning guest they gave me two complimentary cocktail vouchers.  I went up to the Pawnbroker, the Penthouse rooftop bar where it was ‘happy hour’ and it's rather busy for an early hour.  Beautiful views of sunset over downtown Miami and this has become one of the ‘hot’ bars in Miami.  I ordered and enjoyed two of their signature cocktails until hunger overcame me.  About 7:00 pm I went across the street to the Downtown French Bistro that is rated well in guides.  It was not busy and I had a choice table.  It was happy hour on wine and beer so I ordered a Hefeweizen beer.  The menu is primarily French as is the decor.  I ordered the Petit Velouté de Potiron a small and sweet Butternut Squash Shooter as a starter and the Coquilles St. Jacques grillés sur Risotto avec Portobello & Huile de Truffes - Seared Scallops over Risotto with Portobello Mushrooms & Truffle Oil.  It was outstanding…scallops large and fried perfectly and the risotto was delicious.  It was also served with a small Arugula salad.  A wonderful meal.  After dinner I enjoyed some TV and the super fast internet (to me) then really ended up turning in early this evening.  It was a very easy and enjoyable travel day.

Saturday / Embarkation / January 28th / Day 1

Glory Sail Away from Miami 1/28

So nice to be already in Miami.  I slept very well and about 9:00 am went for the Continental breakfast included with the hotel fare.  Then I walked the two blocks to Walgreens for diet Coke and toiletries (liquids) I didn’t want to take on the plane.  I’m not going to rush to the port, i’ll let the anxious guests clog up the early boarding and I will enjoy some internet time at the hotel.  I checked out and got a Taxi ($18) to the port arriving about 11:35 am.  I thought they would have taken care of the super early Priority guests, but it was a huge mess…all backed up. Really no organization at all.  Priority guests really didn’t have any advantage over general boarding.  In fact when I finally boarded they were boarding zone three and blue cards.  They just were not processing the VIFP’s fast enough.  Once on board it went better: my cabin was ready, I met my cabin Steward Richard, and soon I was up at Lido deck enjoying a nice lunch of Salad Greens and Chicken Tenders.  It was already time for the 2:00 pm Facebook meet up so I just walked out to the Azure Bar for that meet up.  I saw a lot of cruise friends and enjoyed a couple of Pilsner Urquell’s. From Lido I sent a gag photo to Carnival Comedian Lance M that I screwed up and will now be one of my humorous cruise stories…you’ll have to ask me when you see me.  I went to safety drill about 4:00 pm and it went smoothly although I requested to sit and not actually go outside on the open deck.  Yes I took the easy way.  I returned to the cabin and Richard had placed my checked bag inside so I finished unpacking, hung clothes, and set up of the cabin.  I use hook magnets, various converter plugs, fan, and more in cabin set up.  I went to the Alchemy Bar for cocktails before dinner and met Ivana and Miro the Alchemists. They fixed me up with my traditional Quick Fix. John Heald actually popped in to say hello as well.  Hey John.  Dinner was at 8:00 and I was a little late as I assumed it was at 8:15…woops.  I knew most at my table so that will be nice for the week.  Dinner was good, I ordered:  Creme of Tomato Soup, Sweet & Sour Shrimp, and from the port menu the Fried Chicken and Tomato BLT.  After dinner I stopped by the Alchemy Bar for a Deal Closer as a nightcap.  It was an interesting and Fun first day on the Carnival Glory. 

Sunday / Fun Day at Sea / January 29th / Day 2

Platinum MDR

Just a little rocking in the seas overnight and I slept very well.  I must announce a new 'CruiseHack'--I brought a battery powered motion controlled light for the bathroom.  The kind you normally use to light toilet bowls...although I placed it on the shelves next to the large mirror.  When I went to the toilet in the night I was greeted with a very nice blue ambient light.  No need to find the light switch (which is outside in cabin) and just a  perfect amount of light.  It will be in my cruise kit along with my fan, magnets, electrical plugs, etc. from now on.  We did hit rainy weather this morning as we are off the northern coast of Cuba.  I had a light breakfast outside on lido aft and watched the rain.  Cabin time to update this blog then a walkabout the ship before lunch.  The Diamond event was a 12:15 Brunch in the Golden Restaurant located midship.  We ordered from the regular sea day brunch menu but I took advantage of the complementary cocktails.  I ordered a fruit plate, the Tomato Soup, and the 'Hey' Pork Chop.  For dessert a very nice Banana Creme Pie.  I did meet the Captain and several senior officers I had not met, and the GSM Vincent Whinset sat at my table so it was interesting getting some observations from him.  The goal for today was to have a nice brunch, cocktails, and a nice nap…I can say it was a very successful day…I slept until 7:10 pm.  I dressed for dinner and made the 8:00 pm seating on time.  Tonight I ordered the Italian Wedding Soup, the Spaghetti Carbonara as a starter, and the Slow Cooked Prime Rib entree. For dessert I had the Vanilla Crème Brûlée and a Fruit Plate.  The primary entertainment tonight is the production show Epic Rock in the Amber Palace Theater and I made time for a Spicy Chipolte Pineapple Martini from the Alchemy Bar before retiring.  The Platinum/Diamond gifts were delivered tonight...a nice boxed nightlight...won't work in bathroom as my new motion light does though.  No chocolates delivered and that may be a new policy...I'm actually fine with it...I didn't really eat more than one or two and delivery would have interrupted my great record-setting power nap.   It was a very relaxing sea day on the Carnival Glory.

Monday / Grand Cayman-Sea Day / January 30th / Day 3

My Scottish friend Griz at Q&A

Some rolling seas over night and another very nice sleep.  I had room service scheduled and delivered at 7:30 a.m. as the plan was to meet friends early and tender ashore to a private pool off Seven-Mile Beach.  Weather is beautiful, but the seas are not cooperating so Georgetown port was closed.  We sailed around to Spot’s Bay to attempt to anchor but that was a no go as well so we will have a sea day today.  The weather is lovely about 80° so it will be nice on the outer decks…a nice change from yesterdays heavy clouds. I sat out on Lido aft enjoying the sea air when I heard an announcement from John Heald, kind of rare since he not the CD, about a Q&A that he was about to do in the Amber Palace.  A nice fill-in on the unscheduled sea day as it’s actually a one hour comedy routine that John does so well.  I went and most that showed up were JH fans on board for the next sailing…and it was very entertaining.  The MDR opened for lunch since and it was not busy at all since it’s not on the original schedule…I confirmed it on the HUB App.  What a great benefit the HUB is especially when new events, entertainment, and opening times are added due to changes. For lunch I had the Penne Mediterraneo and a fabulous Breaded Chicken Cutlet with Passion Fruit Mousse for dessert.  I had a walkabout the ship and ended up sampling some Cheesecake and Pear Mousse as they closed the dessert station on Lido then sat out on Lido aft.  It began clouding up about 4:00 and they closed the retractable roof, I hope we aren’t sailing towards bad weather tomorrow.  There were Chocolate Covered Strawberries once I returned to the cabin, if they had come earlier I would not have accidentally ended up at the dessert bar earlier. Right.  I went to the Alchemy Bar for aperitifs about 6:30 and Ivanna prepared a special cocktail for me with Elderflower…similar to a Jana 88…it was nice.  For dinner I ordered two Shrimp Cocktails, Leek & Potato Soup, a Pork Chop from the Grill section, and the Oven Roasted Chicken marinated in island spices (very spicy) from the Grand Cayman port menu.  No dessert.  The production show tonight in the Amber Palace theater was Getaway Island, one of my favorites.  Late this evening a very nice Fruit, Wine, & Cheese basket was delivered to the cabin, I’m not sure who it is from, but thank you Carnival, I do like an occasional snack and I like he fruit much better than chocolate.  It was an interesting sea day on the Glory.

Tuesday  /  Roatan-Bay Islands-Honduras  /  January 31st / Day 4

Red Beet Carpaccio

Just slightly rolling seas overnight.  I noticed that it was wet outside early in the morning so had a banana from my fruit basket and into bed to sleep as late as possible. The ship does crew safety drills usually about 10:00am on some port days so no sleep if they do it.  I got around and went up to Lido for some pastries before they close breakfast then sat outside on the covered pool deck aft.  At least we are docked and the majority of guests seem to have gone ashore.  A bit surprising to me.  I did hit the hot tub for a while and just relaxed on deck.  By noon it was really pouring rain and it got busier on the deck.  I went up to deck ten to Ol' Fashion BBQ for lunch.  Its a great spot where the Fish & Chips used to be located, but since they now have an updated SeaFood Shack on Lido no need for duplication.  The BBQ was good, very similar to the C-Side BBQ found on the outer decks of Dream Class ships.  I had hoped it would clear enough to walk over and drink a few Salva Vida beers with friends and I’m sure some did, but easier and dryer to stay on board this afternoon.  I had a wee nap, TV and internet time, and updated this review. Since BBQ was my breakfast (I'm sayin') about 5:00 I went for my first Guy's Burger of the cruise...great as usual.  I visited with a guest while on Lido on her first cruise...a single Mom with 4-year old son. I think she may have needed some adult conversation and good for her for choosing a cruise for her vacation, very ambitious IMHO, I wouldn't do it.  No rain but cloudy and damp for sail away from the island.  I went to the Alchemy Bar for my traditional Aperitifs about 7:00 pm choosing my special cocktail from Ivana.  Dinner tonight included one of mt favorite Carnival dishes: the Red Beet Carpaccio so I ordered several of those as well as Heart of IceBerg Lettuce, an excellent Grilled Beef Tenderloin, and the Pescado Asado Cubierto Con Tostones from the Port-of Call menu.  Primary entertainment tonight was the Love and Marriage Show with Cruise Director Eric and the Piano Bar was busy tonight.

Wednesday / Belize City Belize / February 1st / Day 5

Alchemy Team

Smooth seas overnight and I slept very well.  We were tendered off Belize early  this morning and fortunately the weather is partly cloudy but fairly nice considering the forecast as of late last night was for heavy rain.  They proceeded as fast as possible to get guests tendered ashore while it is fair weather.  I had a lazy morning on the internet and doing a little work online.  An orange from the fruit basket is all I needed after a large wonderful meal last night.  I went up on aft deck and there is certainly more sun now and weather improved through the day...we are lucky.  I had a swim in the pool, very refreshing, and some time in the hot tub.  I got a table next to friends very aft with a great view and spent the afternoon.  BBQ from Ol' Fashion BBQ again for lunch...more crew than guests today.  I enjoyed the view and colors of the Caribbean Sea while reading and enjoying my Yeti filled with an ArnoldPalmer tea. I was going to vist with some friend on early sitting dinner so went down to the Alchemy about 5:15ish and missed them, but why waste a trip, I enjoy a nice cocktail or three.  Miro also made me a proper Sazerac that I had not had since staying at the Roosevelt Hotel in New Orleans.  Very impressed. I had a longer cocktail hour until dinner time but it’s the Alchemy Bar…very doable.  Tonight I ordered: Roasted Pumpkin Soup, Beef Lasagna (as starter), Braised Short Ribs, and the Buttered Popcorn Pot de Creme for dessert.  Very good.  After visiting with a Scottish couple at the bar and Griz at dinner I set up my speakers in the cabin and listened to some Celtic music this evening.  Another Fun day on the Carnival Glory.

Thursday / Cozumel Mexico / February 2nd / Day 6

Church in San Miguel

Smooth seas overnight and perfect weather…sunny but not too hot.  We docked early at the Puerto Maya Pier so I decided to have a banana from the fruit basket and get off the ship as soon as possible to beat the crowds.  It can be a mess at the Mexican inspection table and at the taxi stand.  I got off in very good shape and there were few guests on the pier.  I was probably a bit rude going around some at the inspections, but they were clueless, I had my backpack off and in my left hand for the fruit inspection and passed right through.  I think I was forgiven once the guests figured out what was going on and they did indeed have to remove their packs.  (I had given them fair warning, but when I saw the lady with the rolling cooler I knew she was going to gum up the system so I went around about three).  No line at all at taxi stand so I had my private ride to San Miguel ($8) and there by 8:30 am.  I had a very nice breakfast and great table at Las Palmas.  It was cool watching the Carnival Conquest sail by on the way to the pier while eating.  Breakfast was good: Pan Dulce, Island omelet (eggs, pineapple, ham), Bacon, Sausage, French Toast, and Leche Caliente ($10.80).  Barber shop doesn’t open until 10:00 am so I had time to go by the Church to reflect.  DW does this every cruise and I try as well.  Martin arrived and I had my haircut from my barber of 10 years.  It was now time to head to my HQ in Cozumel:  Woody’s Bar and Grill.  I had just set up my computer to enjoy the fastest internet on the island when friends arrived, then more friends.  Always fun and live music began at noon.  I always start with a Coca-Cola Light (two today), then move on to Bohemia beer and Guacamole, Pico de Gallo, & Chips.  I lost count on the beers, at least 4-5, and my total bill was $400 pesos or $20.  After friends left I did a lot of internet work…just love the speed…it’s faster than the Ranch.  Took a taxi back to Puerto Maya ($8) and the Freedom and Conquest were docked since I left this morning.  Some lines to board, but I was on ship by 4:15 for a 4:30 requested on board time. We sailed about 5:00 and I decided to do what I have done last few Cozumel nights on cruises: absolutely nothing.  No Alchemy, no MDR dinner, no shows--just relax.  I prepared some laundry, took a long hot shower, and ordered room service: Green Salad, Vegetable Plate, & Chicken Tenders ($5).  A very relaxing evening.  It was a Fun Cozumel Day.

Friday / Fun Say at Sea / February 3rd / Day 7

Fun at Alchemy

Fair seas overnight and I had a nice sleep. I went down to the MDR for the final sea day brunch about 9:00 am and was seated strait away.  I ordered the Fruit Plate and three Fried Eggs with side of bacon and ham…very good.  I enjoyed the sea air on Lido deck aft all morning until I had a late lunch of Guy’s Burgers. Yes plural…one just plain meat and bread, other with lettuce tomato onion…different tastes.  Then a trip to Cherry on Top for some candy and people watching on Promenade deck until time for the 5:00 pm Diamond and Platinum party.  It’s nice to be nice to the cocktail servers…I had no problem getting more than my share of Cosmopolitans.  Nice party, Gus was high with most days and I was 7th, but my table had 4 of the top ten. I doubt I make the top ten next cruise with Bloggers week. I had saved my complementary drink voucher until the last day to use at the Alchemy Bar and Miro had concocted a special cocktail for me…it was fruity and my with my favorite Elderflower…delicious.  Wonderful farewell party with my new and old Alchemy friends.  Feeling no pain I skipped dinner in the MDR for cabin time. Al Ernst and Tony Esposito are two of the best comedians now on board and for Bloggers following.  The production Show was Motor City.  I passed on late shows to relax...I have a lot of sailing before this current adventure ends.  It was a great final Sea Day on the Carnival Glory.

Saturday / Miami / February 4th / Beginning Bloggers Cruise / Day 8

My lunch time view of Miami

Smooth seas overnight and I slept very well even through the early morning debarkation announcements.  Fortunately I’m in the same cabin for both cruises so it will be an easy transition.  Another MDR breakfast about 8:30 am same order but not as good as yesterdays…maybe because of debark?  The over-easy was hard fried. The large B2B group met at 10:00 am and we eventually made our trip down to US Customs and returned to the ship for a complementary cocktail and photo.  It was great seeing early Blogger guests arrive most I have seen & known for years.  We have a mini-Snoozemate group so close friends this week.  I went up to Lido for a light lunch then to the cabin to set up my internet plan for the week & update this blog.  I met my new cabin Steward for the week, I can for see problems as he asked if I wanted morning or evening service…I indicated both.  I have good friends sailing this week so I went up on deck and found them by the main pool at Blue Iguana.  Just a diet coke for me and some people watching.  The pool was already packed with guests as the weather is very nice.  Boat Drill was about 3:45 and I did the same just going to a sit down lounge…they really have NO way of determining if someone attends or not.  At 5:00 pm the first Bloggers function was a welcome party in the Amber Palace Main Lounge.  John introduced the comedians and some staff, very funny as usual and I enjoyed a few Stella Artois beers. I went to the Alchemy Bar for aperitifs, and met the new Alchemist Richard, I will miss Ivana. I enjoyed my new cocktail with friends until time for dinner that has been changed from 8:00 to 8:15.  I ordered the Creme of Tomato Soup, a Green Garden Salad, and both the Shrimp and Beef entrees with a Fruit Plate for dessert.  Tony and Al did late comedy shows and Eric’s Welcome Show was the primary event this evening.  It was an interesting transition day on the Glory.

Sunday / Fun day at Sea / February 5th / Day 9

Super Bowl in Glory's Amber Palace

Fair seas overnight and I slept well.  Beautiful weather again today.  Cabin steward did not do a turn down last night and did not leave the Fun Times…I knew it…we’ll see if it improves.  I went up to Lido for a very light breakfast eating on open deck aft and visited with new B2B friends. I watched friends in the slot tournaments then to the Golden Restaurant for the Diamond Guest Luncheon at 12:15.  I was very pleased to see the premium menu this week:  I enjoyed the Blue Crab Salad with Citrus, Mushroom Cappuccino Soup, and the Charbroiled Filet Mignon entree.  Excellent dinner and the cocktails were very nice as well.  It was a FUN luncheon.  I visited with friends in the lobby as the Bloggers Tea was going to begin in the same MDR in only half an hour.  The tea time was good...they set up a large buffet and had some tray service.  I had scones and clotted creme that were excellent.  It was now time to relax and await Super Bowl kickoff.  On lido deck the Blue Iguana, Guy's Burgers, and Red Frog Rum Bar are staying open until midnight for those watching on the big outdoor screen.  In the Amber Palace Theater they are serving Chicken wings and have bar service.  The Sports Bar and Casino on Promenade Deck also have the game.  I watched 1st half on Lido and had a late night guy's Burger...very different.  Then retired to the cabin for second half and very exciting ending.  It was a FUN Super Bowl Sea Day Sunday on the Carnival Glory.

Monday / Amber Cove, Dominican Republic  / February 6th / Day 10

Teleférico Cable Car - Longest/highest in Caribbean

Seas were fair overnight and I slept well however short due to Game and early excursion this morning.  I ordered a light room service breakfast as a wake up, but was up by 6:00 am. so reviewed my excursion and email until breakfast arrived. Soon I went out on deck to get a feel for our arrival at Amber Cove…this is actually a new port for me. This area of the Dominican Republic is where Columbus first landed in the new world and established a colony.  I was headed for deck zero about 8:00 am as I have a bit of a walk to the meeting location of my private excursion.  A good 12-15 minute walk: down the pier, through Amber Cove, past the parking, then through the gate to the excursion meet location…hope it’s worth it.  Soon the bus arrived as well as the other guests on the tour and we were on our way.  We drove  from Amber Cove the short way to the city of Puerto Plata driving down the Malecon and by the public beach of Puerto Plata. First stop was the Brugal Rum Factory, a nice modern facility.  After reviewing the history of the brand and drinking some samples, we could observe the production floor.  It was interesting.  Second stop is the Amber Museum, where we see many displays and of course Amber for sale on the way out.  We then walked to the Central Park (Town Square) where we visited the beautiful old Victorian era Church (earlier ones where destroyed), and the lovey square decorated for the Merengue Festival of Puerto Plata.  I did have photos taken with Festivale characters.  We visited a shoppe where they hand rolled cigars and gave us a sample of the local drink: Mamajuana…of course they sold souvenirs.  Next stop was the old original 16th century Fort San Filipe where we had a history presentation and we could observe the nicely restored fort.  Final stop is the Teleférico where we travel by Cable Car to the 793-meter-high mountain Pico Isabel de Torres, the highest point of Puerto Plata where there is a replica of Christ the Redeemer, the famous statue in Rio de Janeiro. Guides are there to help take photos but they want you to then visit their 'table' or shoppe.  So the common thread on today's tour is that there are nice places to visit, but they WILL try to sell you something at each stop.  Was it worth it...yes once for sure, my cost was $40 including the cable car ($10), and the small bus was adequate.  We were back at the ship about 3:00 for the 4:00 sail away.  My first stop was Guy's Burgers...what an asset to have a Guy's that can feed guests quickly...especially when just return to the ship.  I went to the Alchemy Bar early and they were very busy it being Elegant Night.  I had my two SugarRays and a new Pear cocktail.  Great job Miro.  My regular cruise friends, blogger friends, and new friends all came by before dinner.  Tonight I ordered:  Mushroom Creme Soup, Spaghetti Carbonara (as a starter), Broiled Maine Lobster Tail, and the Slow Roasted Prime Rib.  For dessert: Vanilla Crème Brûlée and a Fruit Plate.  The production show tonight was Motor City, and of course Piano Bar music with Ben Gentry (one of the best), and the Punchliner comedians...so a busy night for guests.  It was a busy day in DR and the Glory.

Tuesday / St. Thomas USVI / February 7th / Day 11

Honeymoon Beach - St John USVI

Fair seas overnight and I slept very well.  I was awake early so I went down to the MDR for a nice full breakfast about 8:00 am.  About 9:30 I was on the Lido Deck aft and met friends for (their) breakfast and Bloody Marys.  It was then that the Captain announced that we would be late arriving in St. Thomas.  We were scheduled for 11:00 am but announced that it will be 12:15 pm.  We had a noon meet time for our excursion on the pier but that was changed to the Amber Palace…a lot of confusion but all was well as we arrived in St. Thomas.  The huge NCL Escape is also in port and it’s a nice sunny day as our excursion ultimately met on the pier and we were soon off towards Red Hook. All of our mini Snoozemates group and other good friends are all on the  St. John Catamaran Sail & Snorkel With Open Bar excursion. We had a nice manageable group and were soon sailing the beautiful waters to St John island.  We anchored off Honeymoon Beach in the National Park area and most snorkeled to shore and enjoyed some beach time.  Some rode the dingy from the Cat to beach.  I hit the water and snorkeled although there wasn’t that much to see so enjoyed the sand of the beach and water.  I snorkeled back to the ship as well so good exercise today.  When everyone arrived back on board the bar was opened and they also served fruit & cheese snacks as we sailed back to St Thomas.  When we were completely under sail you could really feel the higher waves in the open sea area so knew why the Glory took longer to arrive in port this morning.  Really glad that our beach was protected from the high waves.  We were taxied back to Havensight and the ship with a little time for shopping or beer before our 6:30 back on board time.  It really gets dark by 5:30 pm now but it’s a beautiful port in the evening hours.  I was too tired to dress and go to the MDR so I had Dinner in the Lido Marketplace and it was good, I sampled the Linguini Pasta Dish, had two BBQ Pork Ribs, two Baked Potatoes, and from the carving station the Grilled Beef Tenderloin.  I asked and received a nice thick cut…it was wonderful. The feature entertainment in the theater was John Heald’s infamous Marriage Show.    The Glory might as well take advantage of him being on board with the Bloggers Group.  After dinner and sail away I did some review updates and retired after TV time.  It was a busy, beautiful, and Fun day today in St Thomas USVI.

Wednesday / San Juan / February 8th / Day 12

Luis - Patio Bar - El Convento - OSJ

Again smooth seas overnight and I slept very well although I was up very early.  I did some updating (too tired last night) and work until just after 7:00 am when I noticed that the MDR opened very early this morning.  I went down for a nice Eggs Benedict breakfast, first of the cruise, and it was once my go to breakfast.  Then it was up to enjoy the wonderful weather up on lido aft where I visited with friends until 11:30 am.  I then changed and went to meet friends and share a taxi to see my favorite cocktail server in San Juan.  Soon we were at the El Convento hotel's Patio Bar enjoying cocktails.  Luis prepared a Smoky Cherry Ginger Mojito that was extra special.  I had to have another just to assure quality.  We walked back to the ship as it's all downhill stopping at the new Walgreen's Drugs then a couple of Madalla Light beers before boarding at 3:00 pm the designated time.  No line at all.  I went straight to Guy's for a double hamburger and it was great.  Cabin time until I went to the Alchemy Bar about 7:00 pm and enjoyed a special cocktail from Miro.  The Alchemy Bar has been packed each night this week, much busier than the previous week...as I told the bartenders it would be.  The Blogger guests do tend to enjoy themselves.  Dinner was nice, tonight I ordered: Roasted Pumpkin Soup, the Escargot, a Green Salad, the Braised Short Ribs entree, and the Buttered Popcorn Pot de Creme for dessert. The primary production show was Getaway Island in the Amber Palace and John Heald hosted his Cigars Under the Stars late night event on Serenity Deck.  We also have new Comedians on board for the rest of the cruise as well as Piano Bar and all the other venues busy.  It was an interesting day in Puerto Rico and on the Carnival Glory.

Thursday / Grand Turk / February 9th / Day 14

Topher

Rolling seas as we left Puerto Rico that continued through the night…I enjoy them as it rocks you to sleep. I’ve watched the sunrise the past two morning…very pretty especially with the huge thundercloud cells this morning. The MDR opens later this morning as we have a late arrival so I went up to Lido aft to visit with 'the gang' for awhile, but ended up in the MDR about 9:15 am.  Another Eggs Benedict breakfast.  I watched us sail into Grand Turk and dock about 11:00 am, the Carnival Sunshine is already docked.  Great beach port as the water is so beautiful here (Main photo at top).  At this port I prefer to get off late and return late and if you can catch a sunset on the walk on the beach returning even better.  I left the ship about 1:00 pm and headed up the beach to Jack's Shack the destination for my cruising friends for many years...now it's the destination for a LOT of people.  Over the years it has evolved from a shanty bar to a destination bar.  The water and perfect beach are an attraction for sure...as is Topher the Jack's Shack famous beach combing dog.  The Snoozemate's had a group photo taken with Topher when he was a puppy...and now a very happy mature dog that I have enjoyed watching over the years.  Some early arrival friends had a table so I was good once I arrived to enjoyed a full afternoon of wonderful Caribbean water and Turks Head beer  (BTW-prices have doubled over the years).  A great beach day.  We returned to the ship about 5:00ish and I always feel sorry for the room stewards at this port as there must be so much sand they have to clean up in the cabins.  We sailed away about 6:00 and it was just enough daylight / sunset to enjoy it. After clean up from the sand I was in too much of a beach mood to do elegant night dinner tonight so I had a great Fish & Chips meal ($6) at the SeaFood Shack on Lido Deck.  Two large fresh fish fillets fried perfectly served with tartar sauce, slaw and fries.  Very good...just like you'd get from a fish shop on the coast of Scotland (just fancier).  Very relaxing evening doing nothing.  It was a great beach day in Grand Turk.

Friday / Fun Day at Sea / February 10th

Sea food Shack -  Lobster Rolls

Slightly rocky seas overnight and I slept long and well as we begin our final sea day of the cruise.  I went up to Lido Marketplace before 8:00 am and since no line at omelet station I got my very first omelet of the cruise...a Western and it was very good especially with the side of bacon and toast.  I ate outside and it will be a nice sun shining day.  I went to pick up my Bloggers T-shirt and had a walk about on the ship, I had not made it to any of the upper forward decks including the two level Serenity Deck for adults only. I visited with friends on the Promenade deck then took some cash off my sail account at Guest Services.  I still have some OBC I need to spend so I had lunch at the SeaFood Shack. I had Lobster Rolls ($12) and they were great although I think I prefer the fish & chips I had previously.  This afternoon I did some prep for debarkation the attended the Diamond/Platinum party at 5:00 pm.  I had a few cocktails but paced myself well even trying some lighter cocktails.  Then it was the Alchemy Bar for my final visit.  I left in the early evening, but left it in the good hands of many members of the Carnival Alchemy Fan page on Facebook.  Skipped dinner in the MDR and had packing time in the cabin.  Got most done and will finish later.  I did order two BLT's from room service...they were very good...almost let the cruise end without a great BLT.  It was a busy final sea day on the Carnival Glory.

Saturday / Debarkation / Miami / February 11th
I woke early and finished packing.  Then to MDR for an Eggs Benedict breakfast.  My goal is to be among the last off the ship since I'm just walking to the next pier to board the Vista. I ended up leaving about 9:00ish as they were begging for self assist to leave.  Those left with tags had to wait for the luggage carousals to get to their numbers.  There was no problem getting an elevator or any lines...just walked off a bit after 9:00 am.  Good bye Carnival Glory.

Cabin
I had cabin 8407 a 4G interior located on deck 8 aft on starboard side for both cruises (Yea).  A nice location just down from Lido deck at aft stairways.  The cabin is a standard interior space, with twin or queen bed. It has a swipe type safe, three-section closet, no chairs, one electrical outlet on counter/dresser, Telephone on desk, Small Stool at Dresser, Hair dryer in counter/dresser, and small flat screen TV with the interactive features.  There is an empty refrigerator. The cabin is great for me as a solo. Cabin steward Richard was very good, Bogus improved and the cabin was always clean and ice container filled.

Dining / Food / Bars / Entertainment
Both the Golden and Platinum Main Dining Rooms are very nice.  Set dining was in the Platinum Dining room located aft on deck three.  The Blue Iguana for burritos and Guy’s Burgers are excellent.  The buffet food is pretty standard fare, but selected entrees are very good.  The MDR food on Glory is comparable with other Carnival ships.  I had good table locations, good fellow guests, and the waiters were good.  They have returned the butter knife to the American Table. The saucers for coffee cups as well as tablecloths are now gone from breakfast tables. No Mongolian Grill nor Cucina del Capitano but they have the BBQ on deck ten and the Seafood Shack on Lido aft.  Very nice Alchemy Bar and location on the Glory. 

Crew / Other
The entire ship crew were very friendly, they themselves can make the cruise more enjoyable for the guest. Waiters and Cabin stewards especially very friendly. They always seemed to have a smile on their face and eager to please the guests. The excellent training by Carnival is quite obvious. The Carnival Hub application is wonderful, especially for checking your account balances.

HIGHLIGHTS OF THE CRUISES
Sailing with Friends and Bloggers
Diamond Guest Luncheons with Captain & Senior Officers
Amber Cove / Puerto Plata Day
St. Thomas Catamaran Excursion to St. John
Grand Turk Day
Alchemy Bar
Cozumel Day
Platinum / Diamond Parties
Carnival Glory Crew members

Carnival Sunshine Transatlantic Cruise

Carnival Sunshine soon after arrival in New Orleans

Carnival Sunshine Transatlantic Cruise Review

November 1-16, 2013

Just The Facts:

Ship:  Carnival Sunshine  1-16 November, 2013

Captain:  Giusseppe Giusa

Cruise Director:  Jamie Dee

Ports: Plama De Mallorca, Malaga, Las Palmas, Grand Turk

Weather:  Very good with smooth seas

This is my 37th Carnival cruise, 4th transatlantic, and 82nd overall cruise. I am traveling solo, but know many people on board.

Travel

I began my trip leaving the ranch at 4:30 am on Thursday (Oct 31) by driving to Waco for a 6:00 am flight to DFW airport.  I then took a morning flight to New York JFK airport to catch an afternoon transatlantic Delta flight arriving at 8:35 am (Nov1) in Barcelona Spain. After clearing customs and retrieving my checked bag I took a 10:15 am  Carnival shuttle to the cruise pier.  Check in was fairly smooth and I was on board and in my cabin at 11:35 am.  Nineteen hours of travel from home to ship cabin is a lot for my old bones, but it will be an easier return.

Day One--Friday--Barcelona--Embarkation

Oceanview Cabin

I have one of the newly installed cabins located on the Promenade deck aft, an interesting new location for passenger cabins on Carnival ships. This area is where the aft promenade showroom is located on all other Carnival ships (and used to be located on this ship) and it is very convenient to the new Red Frog Pub, Alchemy Bar and Ocean Plaza.   After dropping my bags I went upstairs to get a stir-fry in JiJi’s Asian grill (similar to the Mongolian Grill on other Carnival ships) from the new concept all enclosed Lido deck aft.  Located there is the Cucina de Capitano, JiJi’s Asian Kitchen, and the Havana Bar.  In addition to my wonderful bowl of made-to-order stir-fry I also sampled the Cuban sandwich from the Havana Bar.  All very good.  After the long travel experience I retired for a much needed sleep until near dinner time.  I appreciate that they do two Welcome Aboard Shows as I would not have made a late one, but the 7:00 pm show time was perfect.  Jamie Dee the cruise director is a very good host and I believe will become one of the top CD’s at Carnival.  I have late seating at 8:00 pm in the Sunset Dining Room one of two main dining rooms (MDR).  I’m used to set dining being in the aft MDR, but the Sunrise Dining Room is now reserved for Your-Time dining.  I do have a nice table with a very good group of people and the best Maitre‘D in the fleet with Ken Byrne so that makes up for the secondary dining room location.  Tonight for dinner I ordered: the Creme of Sun-ripened Tomato Soup, Fresh Green Salad, the Chicken a la Grecque entree, and two desserts: the Creme Brulee & the Black Forest Gateau Cake.  After dinner it was cabin time for much needed rest.

Day Two--Saturday--Palma De Mallorca, Balearic Islands, Spain

Palms in front of Old Palace - Palma de Mallorca

Smooth seas overnight and I was up early for an excursion today.  At 6:45 am there are very few in the Havana Bar and I got a great made-to-order omelette from the omelette station.  I then met a group in the EA Sports Bar after 7:00 am for a private excursion.  Soon we were off the ship and boarded a nice coach for a Panoramic tour of Palma on our way to the Caves of Drach.  After driving and viewing the countryside we stopped in Manacor to see a display and history of Mallorcan Pearls, it was interesting and worth the visit.  We were soon off to our 10:45 tour of the Caves of Drach located on the eastern shore of the island.  The caves are very interesting with a large lake at the bottom.  Once you reach the lower chamber by pathway you take a seat and enjoy a concert performed by musicians in a boat on the lake.  Your then ferried in a row boat across the lake and after some new views along the path exit the cavern.  It was enjoyable.  After a quick San Miguel cerveza we boarded the bus for a drive through the very picturesque village and harbor of Porto Cristo and then the return to the city of Palma.  We had a nice guided tour of the outer castle walls, Cathedral of Santa Maria of Palma, and old town area before some free time.  The narrow streets and shoppes of the Arab section and the Cathedral doors were most interesting.  I found a great gelato shop and remembered the flavor Crema Catalona from previous trips to Barcelona...excellant.  We arrived back at the ship about 3:00 pm for a 4:00 pm sail away.  I tried my first Guy’s Burger upon return and was actually disappointed.  It was a very good Hamburger, but it was not a proper Guy’s.  It was not smashed out thin and cooked with a light crust, but a thicker meat patty.  Still better than what they used to have, but not a Guy’s.  I went to see Lance Montalto’s family comedy show at 6:00, he was very funny followed by a wonderful Alchemy Bar apéritif.   For dinner tonight I ordered:  the Hot & Sour Soup, baked Pene Pasta with Sausage, Roast Beef of Tenderloin, and the Passion Fruit Creme Brulee for dessert.  Another good dinner. The feature entertainer was juggler Neil Duinker, but I went to the Alchemy Bar for cocktails and then to the Comedy Club for the 11:00 show with Lance Montalto.  The comedy show was fantastic.  Following comedy I helped close the Piano Bar.  Seth the piano player is young and talented and people had a fun time.  I predict he will be the next Carnival Piano Bar 'Star'.  About 1:30 am I went up for pizza and they were actually busy at this late time and the pizza was very good.  After a very long day I retired to the cabin.

Day Three--Sunday—at Sea

Carnival Sunshine - Behind the waterfall

Smooth seas overnight and it was refreshing to sleep late this morning.  I didn’t get out until after 11:00 am and had a late breakfast in the Lido Marketplace.  As this was the first sea day I took a walk around the decks and explored new areas on the ship.  The Serenity Deck area is very large and was very busy.  The Waterworks looked like great fun, but it was not busy at all and it was a very nice and warm day.  I want to do the water slides but the staircases up to them look more challenging than the slide itself.  We’ll see.  At 1:00 pm I went to a nice private cocktail party for Facebook friends in the  piano bar.  It was the usual deal, unlimited drinks for an hour, and the servers were very good, enough for the 60+ in attendance.  After a nice buzz and enjoying good conversation it was back to the cabin about 2:30 pm and ordered BLT’s from room service as cabin time was the plan for the afternoon.  I made notes for the blog and enjoyed the BLT sandwiches, they really need to be ordered each cruise as the Carnival room service version is very good.  The feature show in the Liquid Lounge is Motor City a Playlist Production with the eight feature performers and great LCD stage backgrounds.  This is also Elegant/Captains night and passengers have the opportunity to meet and have photos taken with the Captain & Staff before dinner.  For dinner tonight I ordered: the White Mushrooms, Roasted Pumpkin Soup, Spaghetti Carbonara, Prime Rib, & Cherries Jubilee for dessert.  The mushrooms were not the large ones as usual, but very small portions, but everything else was very good.  Other options of course included the Broiled Maine Lobster or Seared Redfish.  I retired after dinner as Monday is another early day.

Day Four--Monday—Malaga, Spain

Mijas Pueblo - Fountain

Again smooth seas overnight.  I ordered a light room service breakfast as a wake up and it was delivered at the scheduled time.  Carnival room service is usually very consistent with service. I met our private excursion group at 7:30 am and soon we were off the ship and on our motor coach and away at 8:00 am on the way to Mijas for the day.  The guide pointed out several points of interest in Malaga and on our way along the Costa del Sol.  We drove briefly along the beach before heading up the mountain to the old Mijas Pueblo.  Our bus  parked at the visitors center and the guide gave us a tour of the quaint Virgin de la Pena chapel built in cave then a  walking tour of the old town.  All the houses and shoppes are white washed and built along the hill side in this town.  It’s a lovely town and the views of the Mediterranean Sea and coast are spectacular from here.  After our tour a small group of us spent our hour of free time at a restaurant with a panoramic view drinking some good San Miguel cervezas and using their Wifi.  It was then time to meet the rest of the excursion group for a Tapas lunch.  Family style we were served sangria wine, meatballs, cheese, shrimp, mushrooms, ham, potatoes, peas, and fresh bread.  It was an excellent meal.  A unique feature in this town is that the taxi’s are burros, a good choice considering the hilly nature of the streets.  We boarded tour bus and returned to the ship by 2:30 for our 3:00 pm departure.  I had a nice snooze upon return.  After my nap I had my first Thirsty Frog Red before dinner in the Red Frog Pub, it’s a very good beer.  Dinner was interesting tonight for a couple of reasons: 1) Half out table was eating in the steakhouse so we were joined by both comedians Lance Montalto & Joel Lindley & the Punchliner host Wally and 2) it was a completely new & unique menu.  I ordered: Chilled Borscht, Gravlaks, Farfalle Pasta with Artichokes & Arugula, and Roast Striploin with Popovers.  Other menu items included: Truffled Duck Livers, Green Asparagus & Mussels, Spring Chicken in Crawfish, Glazed Veal, and Roasted Fennel & Braised Leeks.  Interesting menu.  Comedy Magic with Thom Peterson was the feature entertainment in the theater this evening, but the real entertainment was the 10:00 pm Playlist Performers Feature in the Ocean Lounge.  The eight performers did numbers of their own choosing with the band. They were all good and I was able to hear it from a good seat in the Alchemy Bar.  We turn back our clocks for the first time tonight, an extra hour of sleep.

Day Five--Tuesday—at Sea

Carnival Sunshine - Alchemy Bar

Smooth seas overnight and I was up around 8:00ish so I went to the MDR for a nice full breakfast with friends I ran into at the deck five elevator.  (I’m really liking the deck 5 cabin location...everyone uses the promenade to traverse the length of the ship so you do see a lot of people)  After breakfast I made some notes then I actually took a nap, why not?  For an early lunch I had a salad from the Salad Bar on Promenade Deck, very nice.  It was now time for the Cocktail Seminar at The Alchemy Bar.  Daniel the bartender did a nice basic presentation and we sampled three small Alchemy cocktails in addition to receiving a coupon for a full cocktail later.  It was a two hour presentation and good fun.  Click here to see the Alchemy Bar menu. New friend Lance Moltanato did a Beatles show this afternoon and it was a full house as was the previous one he did on Sunday.  I went to Guy’s for a burger and it was much better than previous, these burgers were flattened better, but still needs more fire.  I got an ice creme for dessert and as I went through the Ocean Plaza saw some friends and Lance M and joined them for a while.  I really enjoyed getting to know Lance this cruise as I had several lunches and dinners with him as it happened to turn out.  He was always a favorite, more so now, and he is genuinely a nice and funny guy.  It was cabin time for the rest of the day to make some notes and have a Cabin Cocktail (Cuba Libre light).  Dinner was again interesting with some old and new items on the menu. I ordered an Iced Pineapple Salad with Watermelon, Spanakopita, Cannelloni Piemontese pasta, and Roast Prime Rib.  All very good.  After dinner you couldn’t get in to see the 9:45 comedy show as it was packed so only early dining guests would get a chance to attend.  I had a cocktail in the Alchemy Bar then ended up with friends coming so stayed for a few hours.  The Alchemy is kind of my neighborhood bar on ship since my cabin is just around the corner.  They had called for all passengers to turn in their passports before arriving in Las Palmas tomorrow.  Since it was now 1:00 am I went to Guest Services and avoided the long lines from earlier in day.  A Fun Day at sea.

Day Six--Wednesday--Las Palmas, Canary Islands

Cathedral Santana Veguetta - Las Palmas

A bit of higher seas overnight.  We are not scheduled to arrive in Las Palmas until 11:00 am and that is very unusual as the Magic arrived early and we are doing the same itinerary.  I went up to JiJi’s on Lido for a wonderful omelette with a side of Canadian Bacon and readied to meet for another private excursion.  Our group of about 28 debarked just before noon and it was very busy as the ship was half hour late arriving so everyone was debarking at once, but we got to the bus just after noon and head out of Las Palmas.  First stop was Arucas where we stopped at the very large Cathedral of Arucas and then the Arehucas Distillery and tasting room.  After driving through the mountains, the next stop was Teror one of the oldest towns in Gran Canaria with interesting houses, buildings, and streets.  I did have time for a local cerveza with friends in Pino Square before leaving.  Final stop was the Caldera de Bandama the site of an old volcano caldera and scenic overview of Las Palmas.  We returned to the ship by 4:00 to long lines of passengers waiting to board.  Once on ship I went straight to Guy’s for a burger then took some ice to the cabin for cabin time until dinner.  Dinner was perhaps the best of the cruise so far.  I ordered the Escargot, and two entrees: the Osobucco, and the Carnival Filet Mignon.  The osobucco and steak were great.  I had a very nice Apple Crum and a Pineapple dish for dessert. The feature entertainment this evening was Hasbro, the Game Show and we have new Comedy Show entertainers onboard: Tom Pepper and Gary Thompson. 

Day Seven--Thursday--at Sea

Carnival Sunshine - Epic Rock

Smooth seas overnight and I slept very well...past 9:00am in fact.  Today they had the NEW Sea-day Brunch in the MDR.  New menus, new hours, and even new aprons for the servers.  I like the concept.  The Punchliner theme didn’t really work, but the menu was good so they saved the best and did away with the comedians and later start time.  Good job Carnival.  I had the Steak & Eggs and they were excellent.  I went on deck and lounged around the waterworks area and would have gone down the slide, but there was no attendant on this beautiful calm day.  Lunch from the JiJi’s Wok and it was very good as usual.  I had afternoon cabin time then went for a walk around decks, stopped for a Reuben Sandwich on the way back to the cabin.  I went a bit early to the Liquid Lounge and got a great seat for the Playlist Production Epic Rock 7:00 pm show.  This is a high energy rock show with great costumes, the full LCD background and with stage enhancements such as smoke, fog, & flames.  A very entertaining show.  Dinner tonight was good.  We had Chicken Wings for the table (2nd time) and I ordered: the Butternut Squash Soup, Pasta & Shrimp entree as a starter, the Pork Tenderloin and as I couldn’t decide on a dessert had the first three (Apple, Strawberry,& a Brulee) listed on the menu .  Might as well.  They had rock music in the Ocean Lounge this evening, I only listened for a while then cabin time.  We turned our clocks back one hour this evening.

Day Eight--Friday--at Sea

Singing Maitre'D Ken Byrne

Smooth seas overnight although a bit higher than yesterday.  I went to the MDR for breakfast and they have reverted to the standard breakfast menu, not the brunch so Eggs Benedict ordered this morning.  I went up to the Water Works and again the slides are closed and the seas are calm.  It’s a shame to spend so much money on the new design only for them to not be able to be used.  I was told that they are not holding enough water in the small pool at the end of the slide run.  After a walk about the ship I had some very good Chicken Schnitzel from the Lido Marketplace for lunch.  At 2:30 pm Ken Bryne, the long time Carnival Maitre’D did his first ever official Carnival show in the Liquid Lounge.  He had a packed house with people in the aisles and staircases.  He did a great show and received two standing ovations.  Carnival should have been doing this on all of the transatlantic cruises.  At 4:30 they hosted the Diamond Cocktail Party in the Limelight Lounge.  It was well attended by more than the 116 Diamonds on board.  This is the largest number of Diamonds ever on a single Carnival sailing.  CD Jamie introduced the Captain and senior staff and they served very nice h’orderves as well as your choice of complementary cocktails.  It was nice of Carnival to do this...thanks.  Following the party several gathered in the lobby bar until time for the feature show with David Knight, the hypnotist.  I’ve seen his show several times and it is entertaining.  Dinner was good, I ordered French Onion Soup, Pork Tenderloin, and Short Ribs.  Tonight was 1950’s theme music in the Ocean Plaza from 10:00 pm to late.  We also turned the clock back another hour.

Day Nine--Saturday--at Sea

Carnival Sunshine - Cherry on Top

I felt some rolling seas overnight.  I was up and had a very nice special omelette this morning.  I then met a friend to get some photos for my blog before going up to waterworks to check on the slides.  Not running and it actually looks as though they are shut down.  I now wonder if it’s a weight situation with the extra fuel on for the Atlantic crossing or problems with the NEW fresh water system for the Waterworks.  Not really right to promote it if it can’t be used.  I did something new this morning, I had my haircut in the Spa.  It was nice and they did a good job.  I just couldn’t wait until December to see my regular barber in Cozumel.  I watched the movie Lincoln on cabin TV, Daniel Day Lewis did a great job, but I thought the movie was slow.  I went to a kiosk and had my Sail&Sign account summery printed out for review.  The kiosks are great and saves time standing in line at Guest Services (GS).  I had Stir-fry from the JiJi’s Wok for lunch...always good.  There were a couple of college football games on TV as they picked up two television stations from San Juan and one in USVI.  So I was able to watch some Big 12 football during the day as I would do at home. Nice.  For dinner I’m doing a basic plan, I ordered a Salad, Pasta, the Prime Rib, and three desserts just for myself and the table to sample.  All were good too.  The feature show this evening was Seth, the piano bar entertainer.  He was very good and has a very bright future either with Carnival or wherever.  They also had a nice 10:00pm show in the Ocean Lounge by Justin, one of the Playlist entertainers.  We again moved our clocks back an hour at bedtime.

Day Ten--Sunday--at Sea

Carnival Sunshine - the Twister

Just enough seas to rock you to sleep, it’s been a very smooth cruise.  I went to the MDR for a nice full breakfast this morning.  I heard that the waterworks opened yesterday afternoon for two hours so I went up to check and the Waterworks was open.  Amazing what a few complaints to senior officers, on social media and JH’s Facebook page will get done.  I doubt we’ll know why they have kept it closed, but passengers were taking advantage this morning.  There are three slides, two for racing if you wish, but the  Carnival Sunshine Twister is the longest slide on any cruise ship and that is the one I tried a few times.  Lots of twists and two black out areas...exciting.  I’ll try to do this each day.  Another advantage of my cabin location is I can easily get a light snack from the Taste Bar around the corner, the Egg Drop soup today was good.  This is cocktail party day.  At 1:00 pm we had a Facebook Friends Cocktail Party in the Piano Bar, my drink of the party was mojitos.  Good Fun.  The next Party was the Carnival VIFP Party at 3:15, but I had time to have two slices of pizza from Pizzeria del Capitano between.  The VIFP Party, one of three that they held,  was the usual deal with the Carnival video and I did have a couple of FunShip Specials but that was my limit.  The Sunshine does not have a live orchestra so the DJ did the music from a booth on the stage.  A little different, but it worked fine.  The more I see Jamie the more I like her as a cruise director.  There are about 2725 passengers on this cruise, with 116 Diamond, 717 Platinum, and 1014 Gold thus the need for three parties.  As we get closer to North America we are getting more television so there were some NFL games on TV this afternoon, so I enjoyed some room service BLT’s and football.  I did the same at dinner tonight as last ordering just a basic Fruit appetizer, Arrabiata Pasta, Rib Eye Steak, and three desserts for the table to sample. Duck, Frog Legs, and Perch were other options.  Dinner was good especially the Pineapple Boat fruit selection.  After dinner they had a Caberet show in the Ocean Lounge with Chiara Castania one of the Playlist entertainers. She was great and they have done a great 10:00 pm show most every night.  The Dallas Cowboy vs. New Orleans Saints NFL game was also featured in the EA sports bar and cabin TV late this evening as we have a lot of pax from both places on this cruise to NOLA.  Very late game as we are still a few time zones east and I was actually asleep before the game ended.  We again changed our clock back an hour this evening.

Day Eleven--Monday--at Sea

Guy's Burger

Smooth seas again and I had a nice sleep.  This was a Sea Day Brunch day so I had long casual breakfast in the MDR.  I had the Hueavo Rancheros and they were very good.  I also tried the Banana Creme Pie...it was very nice.  At 11:00 am (11/11/11) they made a special announcement concerning Veterans Day and had a moment of silence.  Very well done and this afternoon a big Veterans gathering and show in the theater.  It was a packed house and guests really enjoyed it.  This afternoon I had a nice Fiery Tomato Soup from the Taste Bar as a lunch snack while walking around the ship then retired to the cabin to read.  About 3:30 I went up to Guy’s Burgers and since they were not too busy I discussed with the manager the  fact that it’s not quite a true Guy’s Burger.  He said it was the meat, that they are still using the European supplier.  That makes sense as Guy’s requires a 70/30 mix so hopefully that will be corrected once in the USA.  No Waterworks today yet leaks and brief loss of water in Lido Marketplace area today (it’s just below the Waterworks)...who knows what’s going on?  Minor inconvenience and not disruptive to cruise though.  The feature show  this evening was another Playlist Production: Studio VIP.  A very good high energy show.  Too many fruit drinks on the cruise for me so I enjoyed a White Russian with friends in the lobby bar before dinner.  Tonight I ordered: a double Shrimp Cocktail, Spinach Crepe (not good), New York Strip Steak, and a Banana Split & White Bread Pudding Cake for dessert.  Disco and 1980's music was the theme in Ocean Plaza this evening.  Another nice sea day.  Clocks turned back again.

Day Twelve--Tuesday--at Sea

Again nice seas overnight.  I was up early and with six consecutive 25 hour days I have had plenty of sleep.  I read for a while then went early to the MDR for a very nice breakfast.  It’s another beautiful day and I had a walk on deck, no Waterworks, but there was enough to keep the sun worshipers busy.  There does seem to be plenty of deck chairs although there are chair hogs on board, I suspect it’s the high number of European passengers on board and the fact that while in the MDR I overheard some telling another group to take your time, they’ve covered a dozen chairs on Serenity deck.  I read until meeting a friend at Cucina del Capitano for lunch.  I had both a pasta and lasagne, they were very good.  Maitre’D Ken did an encore show in the Limelight Lounge this afternoon.  It was again very well received.   I’m really getting into my book so did more relaxing reading this afternoon and I went to the pre dinner feature show featuring Jerry Goodspeed the comedy ventriloquist.  He was very entertaining and is a Carnival regular feature.  Dinner was again good, but similar to previous night.  I ordered two Shrimp Cocktails, the seafood entree Zuppa di Pesce Cioppino, and the NY Sirloin Steak.  Late tonight was the Mexican Fiesta Party on deck.

Day Thirteen--Wednesday--Grand Turk

Grand Turk sunset

Calm seas overnight and I was up up early and did some reading.  I had a very nice Omelette with Canadian Bacon from the Lido Marketplace this morning as we arrived early into Grand Turk.  We are docked next to the Carnival Victory out of Miami and they are transferring some provisions to us this morning.  It’s a beautiful day with temperature in the mid 80’s and will get warmer.  I’m not in a rush to get off and pretty much had the ship to myself for a few hours.  I did some more reading then went up to get a great stir-fry from JiJi’s grill.  It was somewhat busy with crew as they are allowed to eat there on port days and it’s a popular spot with crew as well as passengers.  I left the ship about 1:00 pm and headed to Jack’s Shack.  Friends were already there so I got a lounger and hit the water strait away.  Wonderful.  Topher the JS dog was doing his thing playing with some kids on the beach.  I started with some Turk’s Head beers and signed on to the internet for the first time since leaving Barcelona.  It was a Beautiful day with a great beach, a great bar, good beer, so it was like a day in Paradise.  I was actually the last cruise passenger to leave making my way back just before our 5:30 boarding time.  In fact it was sunset, see photo at left (thanks Doug).  Tonight I went to the Fahrenheit 555 Steakhouse with a friend.  It was fantastic, I ordered Green Salad, Escargot, Ribeye Steak, and Fruit for dessert.  The escargot was prepared individually in pastry shells and assorted seasonings....best I have ever had.  After a wonderful day and meal I retired early this evening.

Day Fourteen--Thursday--at Sea

Rolling seas overnight, unusual that we made it across the Atlantic with smooth seas and get some bumps now that we are sailing the pseudo Caribbean.  We will be sailing just off the north coast of Cuba all day today.   It’s also the first day that we have had cloudy skies although it’s still warm although humid.  Today was the last of three Sea-day Buffets in the MDR so I went there for a nice Steak & Eggs breakfast.  The Veterans events they had Monday onboard inspired me to get into my book.  I finished it and I’m sorry to admit that it’s one of the few I have read cover to cover in several years.  The book is From Dogfight to Diplomacy a memoir of Donald MacDonnell of Glengarry.  He was a Spitfire pilot during the Battle of Britain and later a spy in the Soviet Union. While sailing the Carnival Legend last month I had promised Lady Glengarry that I would read it so I ordered it and I was lucky that it was delivered just a few days before leaving for this cruise. It was a very good read. I was fortunate to carry the Glengarry Chief banner for him at a ceremony in Glencoe Scotland years ago.  He actually showed me his ‘spy’ camera at the time.  A great man.  I timed lunch for just after 2:00 pm so there was not a long line at JiJi’s for another good stir-fry lunch.  I began a new book this afternoon and then met friends for cocktails in the Alchemy.  They added a new Alchemist bartender who joined the ship from the Carnival Victory in Grand Turk, so there are new faces on board including several Carnival Beards (executives) that came aboard as well.  I had dinner in JiJi’s Asian Grill this evening.  JiJi’s is Carnivals new premium Asian dining venue and the Carnival Sunshine is the first to have one so I did want to experience it firsthand.  The food was very good.  You pick from a choice of appetizers, an entree, side dishes, and a dessert.  I also ordered their specialty drink, a Green Tea Martini.  Lots of activity around the ship and another new comedian onboard.  We also set our clocks back for the final time this evening so we are now on CST the same as our destination New Orleans and home time in Texas.


Day Fifteen--Friday--at Sea

Carnival Sunshine - Serenity Pool

Seas were slight overnight and weather the same as Thursday- warm, cloudy & humid. I was actually up early, didn’t use our final 25 hours for additional sleep.  I went up to the omelette station for another great omelette then some Canadian bacon and fruit from the Lido Marketplace.  I set on deck for a while to people watch and I’ve started a new book- SOS Spirit of Survival about the family of four from California that was on the Costa Concordia when she sank in the Mediterranean Sea in January of last year.  I enjoyed lunch in the MDR for the first time today, I had a great Pasta dish and a Yankee Pot Roast.  I read after lunch for most of the afternoon although they repeated the excellent Playlist Performers Musical Feature at 2:30 pm.. This afternoon turned into the only really cloudy day and brief rain of the cruise.  We have been very fortunate. The 7:00 pm feature show was a New Orleans Band, the Dirty Dozen Brass Band, that joined us in Grand Turk.  It was a good, but a loud show and old-timers were bailing fairly early.  Dinner was good, I ordered the Tom Ka Gai (soup), Farfalle Pasta with Turkey, Grilled Pork Steak, and Grand Manier Souffle for dessert.  I had not attended any of the late functions in the Havana Bar as yet and tonight they had Havana Fusion with Salsa Music, Mojitos & special drinks, Mombo dancing and more.  I finished my book then retired.  Another nice sea day.

Day Sixteen--Saturday--at Sea
Fair seas overnight in the Gulf of Mexico and I went to the Sunrise MDR for a nice full breakfast this morning.   I also started another book, This is Your Captain Speaking by Gavin MacLeod.  We approached the Mississippi River and entered about 11:00 am, it was great entering in day light hours and get a good view of it as it had always been dark on previous cruises.  Since I was on the upper open decks watching us sail upriver I decided to get a hotdog from Seadogs located on deck 11 aft, one of many lunch locations and one most passengers forget to enjoy.  We had our final Facebook Friends cocktail party in the Piano Bar at 1:00 pm and I spent the rest of the afternoon reading.  I did make a Guy’s Burger run followed with ice creme in the late afternoon.  Resting and reading as I know tomorrow will be a very busy day.  The feature show this evening was Thien Fu a comedy juggler, but I stayed in the cabin and read.  Final dinner was good, I ordered  the Sweet Potato Soup, Prime Rib, Planko Shrimp, and Bitter & Blanc for dessert.  After dinner they had a Bathrobe Farewell Party on deck, that was interesting and appropriate as most were now packed for debark on Sunday.

Day Seventeen--Sunday--Bonus Debut Day--New Orleans

Captain Giusa and Carnival Sunshine Godmother Lin Arison

Again smooth seas overnight and I slept well.  I had a nice MDR breakfast again, my final Eggs Benedict until my next cruise.  I do not have to leave the ship today as I received an invitation to attend the one day Debut and Naming Ceremony event for the Carnival Sunshine in New Orleans.  I do have to clear U.S. Customs though so I relaxed until they almost cleared the ship about 11:15 am.  I least I was able to exchange greetings with John Heald in the lobby from deck 3 to deck 4 as he boarded the ship.  Unfortunately there was a long slow line through baggage claim and customs, but I finally made it through about 12:30 pm.  Once I finally cleared I just went around the corner and up the escalators to where they were preparing guests for the days ceremonies.  By the time I got my new documents they began boarding the ship so I was back on about 1:20 pm.   I had stowed my big bag with friends so I retrieved that and went to my new cabin, number 8289, a balcony located on deck 8 about mid-ship.  Now for the important thing of the day other than the special ceremony: Open Bar.  I made it to the Alchemy Bar by the 2:00 pm opening and had the first drink they prepared, kind of fitting.  Daniel knew the ‘program’ and started me off slow with a few Aperol Spritzers.  Soon friends from the transatlantic cruise, friends in the press, event guests, and new passengers began arriving and soon a party was underway.  After a few regular Alchemy Bar cocktails a few of us went up to the Havana Bar for a late lunch.  They were serving their very good Cuban Sandwiches and there was no line in the nearby at JiJi’s Wok.  After mentioning to the bar manager that although I saw their daily drink specials each day I never actually had a cocktail from the Havana Bar in my previous 16 days.  He solved that with a tray of ALL the drink specials.  We had the Havana Especial, Mojitos, Papa Doble, Cuban Iced Tea, La Buena Vida, and Daiquiri Clasico.  The group of us used straws to sample before ordering our favorites.  Very interesting drinks and follow this LINK for the drink descriptions.  Dino the Sunshine Beverage Manager came by with his approval of our FUN idea.  The Carnival Sunshine naming ceremony was held in the packed Liquid Lounge and all the Carnival Senior Management were in attendance. Lin Arison who christened the original Carnival Destiny did it again and renamed her the Carnival Sunshine.  They had a very good preview of the ship for the guests, the Punchliner had four comedy shows, there was entertainment in all the venues, and they had two showings of the feature Playlist Productions show Epic Rock.  Jerry Cahill did an official welcome prior to both showings in the theater.  Dinner was in two open seatings in the Sunrise Restaurant. Basically the elegant night dinner was served: Prime Rib, Lobster, etc. with complementary wine.  Of course a final visit to Daniel in the Alchemy Bar was on the agenda.  The shows and previews, especially the Piano Bar and Red Frog Pub, went very late into the evening.  They even delivered a nice BLT sandwich in the wee hours of the morning.  THANK YOU Carnival for a wonderful day.

Debarkation--Monday--New Orleans
I had my final MDR full breakfast this morning and a Bloody Mary to start the day, both needed after a full FUN day on Sunday.  Since I cleared customs on Sunday all I had to do this morning was walk off the ship. Very simple. I left about 9:15 am and was able to share a taxi with two Carnival Corporation beards (Miami executives). Carnival even paid for the taxi...thanks again.  I had an early afternoon flight from New Orleans to DFW, then a commuter flight to Waco.  I had time to begin catching up on the internet with airport Wifi, but finally arrived in Waco and made the one hour drive back to Bosque County and the ranch.  Much easier than the trip to Barcelona at the beginning.

Ship / Cruise
Of course the Carnival Sunshine is the reincarnated Carnival Destiny.  She had an extended refit adding extended decks, new cabins, refurbishing, updates, and a NEW name.  Are there still a few kinks to work out?  Yes.  I saw the buckets catching water leaks on several occasions and other items that needed repair, but  it wasn't enough to effect the enjoyment of the cruise.  Also added to the Carnival Sunshine were all the 2.0 features such as a Red Frog Pub, Ocean Plaza, Waterworks, Guy’s Burger Joint, JiJi’s Asian Kitchen, and more.  I wonder if they did not try to do too much, they have a wide variety of venues, but most are smaller than one would expect on this size of ship.  The Liquid and Limelight lounges are much too small.  I really enjoyed the 7:00 pm start time for feature shows for late seating guests. They had a lot of Trivia sessions, Crafts, Lectures by Micky-Live, and activities to keep passengers busy during the crossing.  Weather also cooperated with lots of good deck time and deck activities available each day.  It was a very nice transatlantic crossing.

Cabin
I had cabin 5335 one of the new cabins located aft on deck five. Basically a standard Carnival cabin with three closets, safe, drawers, mini-refrigerator, couch, a new style table, night stands, and queen/twin bed. This is the only Carnival ship with cabins located on the promenade deck.  Good location as deck 5 traffic goes from forward to aft and it’s next to Ocean Plaza.  First thing I noticed is that it is an adjoining cabin although it was not shown as one on the original deck plans.  I try to avoid adjoining as you usually lose your couch because of the door; however, the new design has the door opposite the bed so you do not lose any cabin space and I never heard my neighbors. After retuning I noticed that the newer revised deck plans do show this correctly.  The thermostat and cooling system worked very well, but I did bring my fan that helped with circulation.  Poor selection of movies on the cabin flat screen television and it is NOT interactive so you can not check your Sail & Sign account or check menus, etc.  I heard several opinions on various cabins during the course of the cruise and some had cooling or drainage problems, but mine was fine.  I know that the deck 6 cabins above the new Ocean Plaza are NOW very noisy...avoid these.  A few buckets in the passageways will probably be a fact of life on this ship until they trace down all the leaks, it’s a minor inconvenience and not disruptive to cruise life.

Crew
The crew were great.  Carnival has done a great job in training, it is noticeable, and the primary reason along with value to cruise on Carnival.  My MDR headwaiter Kaz was very professional and efficient. One of the best I have had.  The Alchemy bartender Daniel is now one of my all time favorites, but all were great.  Cruise Director Jamie Dee is a star and now #1 in my book.  She is energetic, professional, easy on the eyes, a great host, and all one needs in a CD.  I liked that she had a entertainment and highlights plan that was given at the beginning that outlined the 16-day cruise.

Food
Overall I did not find the food as good as on the Carnival Legend last month.  As I mentioned in that review, Carnival food many times is ‘hit or miss’.  That was a hit, this cruise was good, but many times closer to a miss. MDR service was very good though.  I really liked all the breakfast options: MDR-regular, MDR-brunch, Blue Iguana, Lido Marketplace, Ocean Plaza, Havana Bar, and three omelette stations.  I liked the availability of Canadian Bacon too.  Lunch also has a lot of options.  I loved my two dinners in the the specialty locations: Fahrenheit 555 Steakhouse and JiJi’s Asian Kitchen, well worth the additional charge.

Needs Improvement

1. The venue for the Punchliner’s Comedy Club is much too small.  Once she begins her Caribbean sailings with 95% english speakers the demand for space  will be even greater.  
2. It would be nice to have an interactive TV system so that you can check the status of your onboard account or something as simple as the dinner menu.  I doubt that is in the future though. 
3. The Waterworks were advertised to be open from 9:00 to Sundown (or  5:00 pm) each  day in the FunTimes yet was only open a few days and only a few hours on those few days.  Weather was good so not a factor.  Don’t know the true problem.  The fresh water is nice, but if it’s the problem go back to salt water, not that big of a deal.
4. The primary aft dining room should be for set time diners especially now that Your Time dining seems to have peaked and the majority of guests are now repeat and not first timers.

Cruise Highlights (for me)

1. Meeting new friends and seeing previous cruise friends
2. Carnival Crewmembers
3. The Alchemy Bar
4. Mijas Excursion
5. Great Breakfast & Lunch options

Comments
The Carnival Sunshine is promoted as the only ship in the Carnival fleet with ALL the Funship 2.0 improvements.  True and they are very nice, but perhaps it was too ambitious as many of the venues are in my opinion too small to accommodate many guests.  Hopefully the variety of venues will spread demand...we will see.  She is a great choice as a 'sampler' or beginners cruise. I do believe the space/venue problems will become more acute once she sails the Caribbean itineraries. I will be back to back on the Sunshine for the John Heald Bloggers Cruise in February and that will be fun with the Snoozemates and other Blogger friends, but I really don’t see myself booking the Sunshine as a destination ship beyond that.  Too many other choices closer to my home ports in Texas. 

Did I have fun on this cruise?  You bet I did!!

~Thanks to ZydecoCruiser and other friends for photos~

(click on photos to see full size)

Epilogue:  I no more than posted this with my final comments when I actually booked the Carnival Sunshine again for 19 January 2014.  Goes to show that aggressive marketing works.  It my case it was the no solo supplement offer...that makes it a great value.  It is unusual though that the newest Carnival ship is already using promotions and discounted fares.