Tim

Age: 50
Occupation: Psychologist
Number of Cruises: 2
Cruise Line: Carnival
Ship: Ecstasy
Sailing Date: March 19th, 2004
Itinerary: Mexico

I'm a 50 year-old who enjoyed our first cruise last year, with Holland-America and decided to go along with our daughter's youth group on their weekend trip on the Ecstasy.

My wife and I weren't surprised by the youth of the passengers or thier enthusiasm. The ship was clean and well maintained. Our cabin steward was unobtrusive and kept our room in great shape. The towel animals were a delight. The outside cabin was big enough and quieter than we'd expected.

There were two stage shows with the "Dream" themed show being a terrific surprise. It was the highlight of the cruise. The Lido buffet was well stocked and offered a wide variety.

There were some disappointments: Our dinner seating was next to three tables of very loud (not such a problem) and obscene (a big problem) middle aged women who were so raucus and inconsiderate we couldn't hear conversation at our own table. We were moved on the third night, when we asked. The blame lies more with the passengers than with Carnival.

Too many of the passengers seemed to have no regard for their fellow passengers. Loud, obscene language, public drunkenness and pushing were common.

The cruise line seemed to hope the guests would dress for dinner. T-shirts, jeans and flip-flops (as well as backward baseball hats) were far more numerous than neckties. I suppose I should have known.

My advice for people who were raised before the 60s or who have a strong emphasis on good manners and polite conversation is to bring friends, insist on a quiet table, leave the dark suit at home, bring your best t-shirt, newest jeans and brace yourself.

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