Imagination -- oldie but goodie?

[gkyagermom]

Hi--taking my first cruise March 3rd on the Imagination. I know it's an older ship. Anyone had any bad experiences because of that?

[tncruiseman]

I have been on Imagination twice and it still is my favorite Carnival ship. Although it doesn't have any balcony rooms, it is the perfect size with all the amenities of the larger ships and has a higher crew-pax ratio resulting in more personal service. The Imagination is also among Carnival crew's favorite ships because their is a waiting list for crew being assigned to her. Relax, there is nothing short of a great experience ahead of you!

[Andrealovescruising]

I agree. Imagination is a great ship. We had our best service ever on the Imagination. Friendly, helpful and always smiling employees. You'll love her!

[TonynFla]

We took it last June. It was a nice clean ship. It did have something odd happen. It blacked out and stalled in the Gulf for nearly an hour. They got a little power back, and the Cruise director tried to make lite of the situation. People panicked a little, but then all came back up. Nothing else was ever said about it. We asked a couple of crew members, and they said that it was wierd, but got through it. I've been on A LOT of cruises and have never had something like that happen before.

The rest of the trip was very good. Our friends that were first time cruisers enjoyed it as well.

Tony

[Cruise Fanatic]

The Imagination does have some balconies but they are limited. The Imagination and sister ship Inspiration will both be going through an extensive refurbishment later this year. They both came out in 1995. The Imagination was last reburbished in 2004.

[gkyagermom]

I really appreciate the info. So excited I can barely stand it--work is definately not getting my best these days. (Um, at work as I'm posting, so you see the problem)

Keep the info coming. I'm not afraid of the power thing--I just imagine they'd send out another ship if there was real difficulty, right?

One more question--although tips will be charged to the S&S card, do you get better service if you toss some dollars around? My husband uses medication that needs refrigeration and if we can't get one in our room, we'll be at the mercy of staff to deliver it. Anyone had that kind of experience?

[tncruiseman]

I would call Carnival and advise them of the medication needs. Many ships have small refrigerators that can be delivered to your cabin if needed. A few bucks tossed here and there will definitely enhance your cruise experience, as well as encourage the staff to assist you whenever needed.

Work to cruise! Enjoy!

[gkyagermom]

Thanks, our travel agent requested a 'fridge, but was told they couldn't promise. The agent said not to worry, that the steward would be able to make sure the meds were kept cool and delivered daily if we couldn't do it ourselves.
If that happens, any suggestions as to how much to tip when that delivery is made? (remember, I've never cruised before)

[Nita]

We cruised on the imagination last August we were first time cruisers, and it was a blast the best vacation I have ever had. I am now hook on cruising but can not afford to take another cruise until 08 . I can not wait until 07 is over with so I can get excited and prepare for my 08 cruise. If you continue thru to the dates of September I have pictures posted of our imagination cruise look for posting from Nita HAPPY SAILING!

[tncruiseman]

gkyagermom, Maybe try slipping the cabin steward $20 when you give them the request and instructions..either that or 10 at beginning and 10 at end. Something along those lines. Just being pleasant to the crew is just as rewarding as a tip in many cases.