John

Age: 42
Occupation: Government
Number of Cruises: 2
Cruise Line: Carnival
Ship: Holiday
Sailing Date: February 14th, 2005
Itinerary: Western Caribbean

Those of you that are skeptical of the Holiday, don't worry, she is in fine shape. We have been on it twice. Once in July, 2003, and again in Feb. 2005. Ship is in good condition for a 20 year old! Cabin fixtures (toilets, sinks, shower valves) have been replaced, new carpet in hallways and staterooms, and the food is as good as it gets. Pools are a bit small, but plenty of deck space to lay out and soak up the sun. Service was excellent as it always is.

Embarkation and debarkation moved in a timely manner. Try the new casual debarkation. Its wonderful. If you are willing to carry all of your luggage off, you can leave the ship as soon as it clears customs, and a short announcement. The only concerns we had was that the Cruise Director, and his staff were very young, and the lack of experience definitely showed. The entertainment was a little "under par." Also, breakfast and lunch were fine but the dinners in the buffet were also sub par, and lacked choices. Probably best to eat dinner in the dining room.

All in all, a very good cruise for the price, and the budget minded cruiser. Total for us 2 was $710 including tax and port charges. (Stayed in a Cat 1A cabin and got a porthole for no extra charge!!!) We have been to Playa Del Carmen and Cozumel 4 times, and still find new things to do/see every time. Great for first timers, but don't expect to see Mr. and Mrs. Thurston Howell III on the ship!!! Feel free to send me emails. I love to talk cruising!!!

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