Don Sessler

Age: 47
Occupation: Mfg Manager
Number of Cruises: 2
Cruise Line: Carnival
Ship: Ecstasy
Sailing Date: June 27th, 2005
Itinerary: Western Caribbean

What a blast! and what great food.

This was our second trip out of Port Galveston but our first with the family (21,19,19 friend,17). Getting on was efficient and easy with our 2:30pm arrival, despite daughter not having her license/photo ID. They accommodated us since she had us and her birth certificate. This ship seemed bigger than our previous Jubilee cruise. Rooms were exactly as advertised and sufficient in size. Our Steward kept things clean and tidy in an almost hidden-way, as we did not see him perform his duties.

Day 2 it rained, but the ship had activities ready to keep all entertained. Choices were Bingo, Game shows, movies, and casino! The fitness center had sufficient machines and stations for all, with almost no waiting. Day 3 we hit Cozumel. I had arranged an excursion to Nachi-Cocom via the internet and it was magnificent. For $32 pp (30% down, 70% cash on arrival) it was all inclusive food and drinks, plus rafts, kayaks, snorkeling, beach umbrella/chairs, swim-up pool/bar,etc. We were greeted by the host, taken to our reserved chairs, and began to enjoy the drinks. Lunch was a buffet of ribs/Mexican foods and everything was good. I walked down the beach and flagged the Banana Boat driver to take me back and treat my group to a Banana Boat ride. The driver tipped us over once, and after seeing our enjoyment, did it again. Very refreshing and fun. As we departed, the owner gave us each a T-shirt with Nachi-Cocom on it to remember it by. Day 4 in Calica/PDC had us worn down from Cozumels sun, so we did the tourist shops and bought presents. Day-5 was the return day at sea, and the beautiful weather had everyone at the pool. We all had a great time, and the food was amazing. We started with Filet Mignon, next day was lobster and prime rib, next day had seafood newburg; the choices and quality were much improved since 3 years ago. Definitely 4 out of 5 stars, and we have some good benchmarks here in Dallas.

Our Waiter (Ioan) from Romania was very attentive. I took the time to learn Thank-you (in Romanian) from another ship worker, and he appreciated my extra effort. (It's pronounced Moosa-Mess if your interested !) On that same note, ALL the cruise staff smiled and were genuinely interested to see that you were having a good time and that they kept the ship clean. Absolutely no disgruntled workers.

The kids took advantage of the Room Service and it took 30 minutes average to get their midnite snacks. Also, there were many photo opportunities, and I enjoyed the professional caliber of the staff and shots. We purchased quite a few. Overall, we had a blast, and all the kids did too. We are hooked on Carnival and look forward to our next one.

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