Robin

Age: 42
Occupation: journalist
Number of Cruises: 1
Cruise Line: Carnival
Ship: Imagination
Sailing Date: May 24th, 2004
Itinerary: Western Caribbean

I did considerable research before taking this cruise with my husband.

This was not my first choice but as it turned out, the ship is probably good for first timers who aren't sure what they want or what to expect.

The ship offers lots to do, from bingo and shows to kareoke (sic) to eating every two hours, which is half the lure of cruising, it seems.

It's an old ship and it looks it. But the cabin was clean and spacious and the diverse crew worked hard to please.

You can absolutely have fun on board but don't expect a classy affair. It's tacky splendor on the ocean and who can't relax and have fun with that?

I was disappointed by the "library" and the Card room, which was empty the one time I visited.

If you are not a party seeker you can find quiet places to read, especially up on the jogging deck up front.

Formal night was interesting. The lobster was a bit overdone but not bad considering they cooked for thousands.

We only went to the dining room twice as two of the couples at our assigned table spoke Spanish the entire meal.

The other eating options were just as tasty and the pizza really is good.

As for the excursions, Stingray City is a must and the river tubing in Jamaica, three miles down a mountain in the shade, can't be beat.

The stores are also must stops if you know what you want. I got a lovely Movado in Grand Cayman.

I was surprised by the nice quality of free, recent movies shown daily in the cabins.

I was also surprised by the diverse crew and actually liked that, though I suspect they aren't paid well. They do work hard.

The "Las Vegas" shows are decent and the mignight comedians ranged from good to suck-faced.

On a scale of 1 to 5, I'd give the ship 3 plus. And that's because I really wanted a newer ship. Overall my experience was a 4.