David Penkala
Age: 41
Occupation:Ophthalmic Equipment Sales
Number of Cruises: 9
Cruise Line: Carnival
Ship: Carnival Fascination
Sailing Date: January 16th, 2006
Itinerary: Western Caribbean
Even though this ship is 12 years old, it's still holding up quite well. This
was my second time on the Fascination, last being Nov. of 2003, and several
changes we noticeable. First, carpeting on the stairs and hallways were replaced
so the walkways looked very clean (not worn looking). Second, the pillows,
sheets and blankets all have been upgraded with new, very comfortable linens...a
nice touch for when you are in your cabin sleeping. My cabin was on the Upper
Deck 156 - ocean view, being a past Carnival cruiser I was given a 2 category
upgrade. My dad/mom and sister/bro-in-law (Timmmmmm-aaahh) were on the Riveria
deck - ocean view, which they seemed to enjoy being very close to the water when
they looked out their window. The ports of call included Key West - always a fun
town to visit (even though they don't seem to be in port very long to really
spend quality time in town) - and Cozumel - this got changed to Calica because
of the hurricane damage to Cozumel. I was not overly impressed with Calica,
there is really nothing to do or see there and the beach excursion wasn't a
whole lot to write about either. Our final day was a day at sea, which was nice
and relaxing, but the weather wasn't to sunny so we kept busy inside. The food
onboard was very good, formal night being "lobster tail" night - I had 3 of
those beauties (good size 6 or 7 oz tails) - with the steaks and other main
items well prepared. I enjoy the 5 day/4 night cruises because it does make you
feel like you've gotten away for a nice vacation without being away tooo long.
If you get the chance, spend the night before this cruise in Miami and board the
ship the following morning. I would recommend this ship to anyone who enjoys a
great get-away without having to spend alot of $$$ to do so. P.S. - This was my
sister and her husbands first cruise, they truly enjoyed themselves and enjoyed
the ship...they can't wait to go on another one, even if it's with mom and dad
again.