Can anyone recommend a cruise websites with unboased customer reviews?

Looking for unbiased reviews of Cruise Ships (mainly, Carnival Fascination) and also reviews of the excursions.

Also, any other tips and advice that relate to our cruise vacation on Carnival Fascination are also appreciated.

Thank you all in advance for your answers.






Answer :
i dont know where your shp is going but we were on this ship last year and we loved key west and we just walked around. we also went to cozsmel and just went to the beach. i have been on other carnival cruises and this was the most disapointing ship to us. there is a club called passage to india which was alot of fun and the rooms are spacious and the beds are comfy. the food is decent, i recommend the prime rib. the buffets are ok nothing to write home to. the atrium reminds me of colors from a shopping mall. the casino is good we actually won some money off of it. there is a little cafe that you can buy cakes etc... the choc cake is to die for. like i said it is an older and smaller ship but it is still worth the vaule. i would go to cruisecritic.com there are alot of reviews of this ship on there. have fun

All excellent and extremely helpful answers... it seemed impossible to choose a best one... thanks to everyone for the helpful advice and links.






Answer :
Hi. I would definitely check out cruisecritic.com for information, and check out the boards for more information and past cruise reviews on that site are extremely helpful. Also just because one person doesnt like something doesnt mean that you wont either. Be open minded. Also, you can check out Yahoo Travel as they also get reviews from people. Also some other major travel sites have their cruise ships rated from people who have booked that cruise and have cruised on that ship before. One word of advice though, the Fascination is a much older and smaller ship then the ships they have now, but they might have upgraded or refurbished the ship so dont underestimate the ship, and you will have a great time..






Answer :
cruisecritic is probably the most unbiased place to check. I have been on the Fascination before its renovation and will be going back on it again in September. I found the ship small enough to navigate and learn your way around, which is helpful on a 4 day Cruise. The service was awsome and we had a great time. Enjoy






Answer :
There ain't no such thing. Everyone is biased, and that is all that there is too it. All you can do is read the reviews, and see if what they are saying is relevant to what you are looking for.






Answer :
Cruise forums have reviews written by members who have no connection to any of the cruise lines.

Here is a link to Cruise Addicts' reviews ...

http://www.cruise-addicts.com/reviews/in…

Here is a link to Cruise Critic's member reviews of the Carnival Fascination ...

http://www.cruisecritic.com/memberreview…

Here is a link to reviews written by Cruise Mates' members ...

http://www.cruisemates.com/articles/memr…

Here is a link to review written by Cruise Reviews members ...

http://www.cruisereviews.com/CarnivalCru…

There are some books that also provide reviews. Two books I recommend are:

The Unofficial Guide to Cruises by Kay Showker and
the Complete Guide to Cruising & Cruise Ships by Douglas Ward


Go with the first answer- cruisecritic.com they have lots of great information about any ship along with the ports of call, etc...  

Does anyone know how I could get in touch with a certain cruise ship director?

I am searching for a cruise director named Felipe Couto. He usually is on Carnival Inspiration but is currently on Carnival Fascination. I know that much but don't know how to get in touch with him in order to get a personal message to him. I have been Googling all day with no luck. Any help would be great!






Answer :
Contact the company.
He may not want his address given out to the public.

Everyone's answers were awesome and it was hard to choose just one so I just chose the first one I received and I did just that and they gave me a mailing address they said would get a letter to him personally. Thank you all!






Answer :
Contact carnival, they will not give out any of his personal information (phone / address etc), but they may tell you what ship he is on. I you write to their local office which the ship is sailing from, they will be able to get the message to him.






Answer :
Send him a letter. Cruise lines generally forbid employee/passenger relationships so they don't make getting in touch with their employees easy.

Maybe if you call 1-888-CARNIVAL somebody there would be able to tell you.

Send a letter to him at the company's main office, and they will forward it to him.   

What's free on Carnival Fascintation?

My fiance and I haven't booked our cruise yet, but we're really interested in going on one for our honeymoon this October. The cruise we're looking at is the Carnival Fascination going to Key West, FL and Nassau, Bahamas. We're all new to this and i'm still a little confused about food and drinks on the cruise and what's free and what's not. I've read room service is free and i've read the buffet is free.






Answer :
I just went on the Carnival Fascination for my honeymoon last May.
Room service is free and all food is free. Alcoholic drinks do cost, but they are not outrageous like I thought they might be. Soft drinks are not free either, you can purchase a coke pass i think it was like 30.00 something dollars but i am not sure and then its all you can drink sodas the whole trip you just go to the bar or wherever and show them you pass. Water, lemonade and tea are all free.

Also just some advice if yall are wanting to book any excursions for Key West or Nassau do it the first chance you get when you get on the ship, or I believe you can do it online, they go super fast, and you may not get to do the stuff you want to do. In Key West we went on a glass bottom boat, and had alot of fun, although I wish we would have not booked anything in Key West and just walked around. In Nassau we went to Black Beards Island and snorkeled with stingray and rode jet ski, that was awesome and beautiful. We also rented a little scooter thing, and rode around, I really think you should book an excursion or something in Nassau because in my opinion you get to see more of the island that way.
Make sure to take extra money with you for all the pictures they take on the ship, because they turn out really good and you will want all of them!! They can get quite expensive!
I hope you guys have a great time!!! and congrats on your marriage!
I hope I was able to help a little bit!






Answer :
FULL service and buffet... no extra charge restaurants on Fascination. http://www.cruisecritic.com/reviews/revi… link for reviews. MANY other ships have "specialty" restaurants that charge $20 per person to get in, but you NEVER have to go because there are so many other choices (NOTE- this is NOT an option on Fascination, but on many other ships). "Main" dining is a sit down, full service meal served to you from a full menu- appetizers, salad/ soup, entree, deserts.


All you can eat, including lobster and steak. You will pay for soda and beer/wine /booze. Tea (hot and cold), coffee, and sometimes lemonade are free, and served at meals.

You can eat forever... don't worry... lots of choices.






Answer :
Now that you have your answers. I HIGHLY recommend going on the Key West Pub crawl!! I don't know if they offer that excursion from the Fascination but we did it on another Carnival ship and had soooo much fun. Captain Ron the leader was great and really funny.






Answer :
Drinks u have to pay like wine and soda but if u just drink lemonade and tea theres a machine. Food theres a 24 hour pizza and icecream so it doesnt really matter. The resurant foods are free.







Answer :
 Included items:

Buffet
All Ship restaurants
All shows
pizza station
ice cream


Hope I helped!  

Carnival's Fascination Ship...?

My friend & I (ages 28 & 25) are going on a cruise in October to Nassau & Half Moon Cay, Bahamas(5 day cruise). We want to go to Atlantis to swim with dolphins in Nassau & also want to snorkel at some point... Any suggestions of where we should snorkel at? We are both super stoked, neither of us have ever been on a cruise before. Any other suggestions about the boat or either of the ports? P.S. How much are alcoholic drinks on the boat? :)






Answer :
I went on the exact same cruise last year for spring break. I think the excursion you have planned for Nassau will be lots of fun. We went on some sting ray thing when we were there, and it was pretty disappointing. Half moon cay is SOOO beautiful. It is Carnival's private island. If they had snorkeling there it would probably be very pretty. Otherwise, this is a great place to just have a beach day. They drop you off right on the beach, and since it is their private island, the beverage crew from on board is also on the island...really convenient. They also provide you with lunch. I think Grand Turks would be a really good place to snorkel as well. We had that planned, but it got canceled because of some rain, so we got a city tour and kayaking thing. It was pretty fun. So in short, I would stick with that excursion for Nassau, do a beach day in Half Moon Cay and then finish off your trip with snorkeling in Grand Turks.
Also, if I recall beers on board were about 5.75ish, the specialty drink was 6.95 and I can't remember how much wine was...sorry.






Answer :
talk to the staff about snorkeling. they'll be able to give you all the pointers and places you want, with up to date season information and everything.

they should also be able to recommend places on the island. the people that work on these ships are literally in these ports once a week for 6 month stretches.  

Carnival Fantasy, Ecstasy, Fascination, or Sensation?

ok I am trying to decide which cruise ship to take this April. I am brining my 14 year old son along and I want him to be kept entertained on the ship. Which ship is better for a teenage boy and also which ones have great dining and clean atmosphere? thanks






Answer :
All four ships are sisters. All are Fantasy class ships. So under normal circumstances all would offer the same amenities. However, all eight Fantasy class ships are being upgraded over the next two years. The upgrade is called Evolutions of Fun. Here is some information about it ...

MIAMI (January 28, 2008) - An expansive new aqua park featuring a 300-foot-long water slide, along with an exclusive adults-only area, and a totally redesigned “resort-style” main pool will be incorporated into the Carnival Fantasy when the 2,052-passenger SuperLiner undergoes a multi-million-dollar dry dock this fall.

The “extreme makeover” represents phase two of “Evolutions of Fun,” Carnival Cruise Lines’ $250 million extensive ship refurbishment program for the line’s eight 70,000-ton Fantasy-class vessels.

Carnival Fantasy, which operates year-round four- and five-day western Caribbean cruises from New Orleans, will be the third ship to be fully outfitted with all “Evolutions of Fun” upgrades, with Carnival Inspiration and Carnival Imagination completed in recent months.

http://www.carnival.com/CMS/Articles/fan…
http://www.carnival.com/cms/static_templ…

Also aimed at your son's age group is the Circle C program. Here is more information about the Circle C program ...

MIAMI (February 11, 2008) – Building upon its distinction as the family cruise leader, Carnival Cruise Lines has introduced a new on-board program called “Circle C” aimed specifically at the 12- to 14-year-old age group, with expansive new clubs, a full schedule of activities and trained staff.
The “Circle C” program complements the line’s other youth-oriented programming, including “Camp Carnival” for younger kids and “Club O2” for 15- to 17-year-olds, which combined are expected to host 600,000 kids this year – the most in cruising.


In conjunction with the launch of “Circle C” – and just in time for summer travel planning - Carnival is offering exceptionally attractive rates for families, with prices for third and fourth guests in a stateroom starting at $199 per person for three-day cruises and $329 per person for seven-day cruises on select dates. These rates are featured at carnival.com/family, which also contains a variety of helpful information on Carnival's youth programs.


“Circle C” facilities are already in place on Carnival Legend, Carnival Pride, Carnival Victory and Carnival Valor with Carnival Imagination, Carnival Inspiration, Carnival Liberty, Carnival Fantasy, Carnival Paradise and Carnival Glory scheduled to be retrofitted by the end of the year. The balance of the fleet is expected to be completed by 2010.

http://www.carnival.com/CMS/Articles/exp…

The four ships you have selected sail out of Galveston, New Orleans, Miami and Orlando. However, since the Imagination sails out of Miami, or the Inspiration, which sails out of Tampa, have already had the Evolutions of Fun upgrade, you might want to consider one of these two ships also.






Answer :
We have been on the Fantasy and the Sensation, we are going on the Imagination next week.
The two we were on were very similar to each other. The Fantasy in my opinion put more effort into things for the kids. (Just because of the staff I think.)
My kids had fun just walking around and doing things on there own.
You can't go wrong with any of these boats, Carnival is as fun as you make it. Have a blast!






Answer :
If you are needing Air fare also check which depature point will have the cheapest air fare. Sometime the air is as expensive as the cruise!
Great sailing!  

Does carnival cruise do anything special for you for your honeymoon?

we have an oceanview room booked for jan. 15 2009 on carnival fascination






Answer :
Yes, Carnival does. They want to make whatever is going on a good time. They put rose pedals alll over the room, and put cake on the bed with your names i believe. I've seen it before. Also, at dinner they might give you a wine bottle for free or something, (: They will make your night an awesome one, and Royal Caribbean wont do that usualllly.






Answer :
if you let them or your ta know in advance, they will give you a little cake during dinner one night. Other than that, you could buy some of the honeymoon or romance extra packages.







Answer :
Don't know about honeymoon, but they gave me a nice birthday cake at dinner the night of my birthday. 

Im going on my first cruise. im 15. its on the Carnival Fascination. and i wanna know stuff i should do.?

onboard and offboard the ship. and what excurzions i should do. i am definately not a preppy person who enjoys stuff like this. but i think i might. ima hardcore gamer and most the time will just listen to slipknot and play 360. i have never done anything like this before. so u people that have been on this ship. what is there to do for a person like me






Answer :
That ship has lots of ammenities. It has 2 pools, a video arcade, basketball court, mini golf course, jogging track, fitness centre, hot tubs, and multiple other things. Most cruise ships also put on shows at night after dinner. There are also lounges that have tvs and play music. You can also dance at the lounges. At half moon cay you can horseback ride, scuba dive, kayak, snorkel, deep see fishing, parasailing, glass bottom boat riding, sailing, swimming, or hiking. When you go to Nassau you can explore, shop, go on diving excusions or scuba excursions. People also like to go on outing to lagoons and other places.






Answer :
Hi,
I don't know that kind of shhip, but i'm pretty sure that tou're going to love being in da pool and go around the ship, you can make also new friends.

What to wear on a Carnival cruise?

i am leaving for the bahamas on the cruise carnival fascination and i am just wondering what the dress code is from people that have been a cruise before. is it formal on the night of the "captains ball" or can i get by with just a nice dress? would i look out of place wearing jeans to dinner with a nice top? things like that. Thanks!






Answer :
Casual attire is the order of the day. You are suggested shorts, sundresses, tank tops, etc. for the ladies, and for men; shorts, polo shirts, T-shirts, etc. will do. You can wear rubber-soled, low heeled or flat shoes for extra traction while onboard. The use of any footwear with wheels, including but not limited, to Heelys© shoes, is prohibited on board our ships. For dining you may want to dress up a bit and/or bring along a light sports jacket or cardigan.

Most evenings they have a Cruise Casual dress code, but there are those Cruise Elegant evenings one or two nights throughout your “Fun Ship” voyage, where you will have the opportunity to showcase your more elegant attire. For those who want casual attire for dinner time, the Seaview Bistro on the Lido Deck is open nightly, and has a more relaxed theme. Both dress codes for the dining rooms are described below.

Cruise Casual Dining Dress Code: Gentlemen - Sport slacks, khakis, jeans (no cut-offs), dress shorts (long), collared sport shirts; Ladies - Casual dresses, casual skirts or pants and blouses, summer dresses, Capri pants, dress shorts, jeans (no cut-offs). Not permitted in the dining room during the Cruise Casual dinner for ladies and gentlemen: gym shorts, basketball shorts, beach flip-flops, bathing suit attire, cut-off jeans, and sleeveless shirts for men.

Cruise Elegant Dining Dress Code: Gentlemen - Dress slacks, dress shirts. We also suggest a sport coat. If you wish to wear suits and ties or tuxedos, by all means we invite you to do so. Ladies - Cocktail dresses, pantsuits, elegant skirts and blouses; if you‘d like to show off your evening gowns, that's great too! Not permitted in the dining room during the Cruise Elegant dinner for ladies and gentlemen: shorts, T-shirts, beach flip-flops, bathing suit attire, jeans, cut-off jeans, sleeveless shirts for men, sportswear, and baseball hats.

Hope this helps.

-Michael







Answer :
In the main dining room and at the shows, it's expected that you will dress properly. Most nights slacks and a nice shirt or a sun dress are fine, on smart casual nights you should wear something a bit nicer, and on formal night dress up. Most women wear cocktail dresses, and teens usually wear party dresses.
Other than the dining room, dress code is pretty relaxed. In the daytime, you're fine in whatever, but in the evening it is slightly dressier.







Answer :
On the first day it is a casual day, because some peoples luggage has not been delivered to there room yet. There is also another casual day. On the captains dinner, you don't have to go, but I might wear the most formal thing you have. In the main dining room, you can get by with a nice dress. I would wear nice pants, but you probably will be able to get away with jeans and a nice top, but no shorts. Also, you may eat on the Lido Deck buffet for dinner too, and you can go in your bathing suit cover. Also, they have a 24 hour pizzeria and grille. Since I'm a teen, I can get away with wearing a bathing suit and cover to the shows, but I don't know if you would want to do that :]. Carnival is fantastic I had a great time!! I went on the Carnival Glory January 24-31, 2009 and the Carnival Liberty January 13-19, 2008. Best time of my life. Also, when you first get on the Lido Deck is where the food is and say if your cabin is number 6315 then it's on the 6th floor, because the beginning number tells what floor your on. Also, If your room is on floor 2 or higher, the glass elevators are beautiful.






Answer :
As an Accredited Cruise Counselor I can tell you that "formal nights" are a bit more relaxed than they used to be and you could just wear a nice dress or pant suit. On the other nights I would suggest nice pants or skirt and blouse. Basically they would like you not to wear denim to dinner or tank tops. The rest of the cruise however you can basically wear what ever works for you. If you are going this summer just be aware that June starts hurricane season and you may want to take an umbrella or even a light weight jacket to keep from getting too wet.
Elisa Taylor CTA
World Less Traveled







Answer :
we enjoyed "formal dining" one meal -

the rest we ate on the LIDO deck on the stern - wow
better selection - did not have to wait - and if all else fails -
PIZZA in the corner 24 hours a day

blue jeans rule in Lido! breakfast is awesome
lunch desserts are crazy!
the fish fingers are to die for!

you may consider a wristband for soft drinks -
but since they are not super good for you - the tea,water,apple juice
coffee, hot chocolate will suffice

have a great trip!






Answer :
You can't go to the formal dining room wearing jeans on formal nights, but if you don't want to dress up you can just eat somewhere else on the ship. They have a bunch of different places to eat on the ship.






Answer :
they do not like you to wear tank tops or denim in the dining room. but slacks would be fine. on "formal night" a nice dress would work fine. inside the dining room is really the only time there is a "dress code"






Answer :
What to pack for the Canrinavl Cruise and for whichever else:

Sailing time clothing. Main thing to take into account is that clothing must not to be uncomfortable (dresses or trousers and shirtwaist for women and T-Shirts and trousers or Bermuda shorts). From this point you vary to elegant or informal according Cruise category. Thus, if you take a Caribbean Cruise you should expand your beach clothing baggage. On the other hand if you're in a Luxurious Cruise, opportunities of handsome dressing will multipy and you will sure be ashamed without your tuxedo and a graceful night dress for your lady. Shoes will be comfy and avoid heels (except in lusurious cruises). Finally whichever cruise you choose you must to follow formalities, i.e. that which indicates do not wear too informal inside the casino.


Gala dinner(s) . While each cruise itinerary has its social, usually there is at least one gala dinner during the voyage, opportunity where we will dress our best piece of luggage. At lusury Cruises tuxedo for him and evening dress for her. Cruises more "informal" maight be a cocktail dress for her and a classic dark suit for him.

Shore excursions. For shore excursions is important to wear comfortable shoes and clothes according to the local climate. Clothing should be informal but also conservative to be admitted in possible mosques or churches visited. Women will have to keep pants or skirts that below knees. sleeveless shirts or T-shirt are not appropriate. Do not forget to check the forecast before complete the final adjustments to clothing. In very warm and sunny destinations not forget a hat and sunglasses (and sun creams).

Recreations. All the cruises there are several recreation on board. Of course we decide on which activity to take part, however, we should carry some sports clothing for these occasions. Let's say: blouse or shirt and shorts or trousers for ladies and shirt or sports shirt and bermuda shorts or shorts for the gentlemen.

Finally. Even if you have contracted a cruise with a travel agent, we recommend you to visit the official website of the line because many of them give you a list of clothing you should bring that will give you an idea on the amounts needed for the times described before.

And a list . Before leave home please check this list:
(this list is a resume of cruises.about.com check list)

Travel Documents

airline tickets or e-ticket confirmation
cruise documents
passports and visas (if necessary) or proof of citizenship (check with your cruise line for requirements)
vaccination certificate (if required)
copy of prescriptions and list of all medicines you are taking
credit cards
cash or traveler's checks (be sure to keep traveler's checks receipt in separate location)
3 copies of airline tickets, cruise tickets, passports/visas, itinerary - pack 1 copy in carry on, 1 copy in checked luggage, and leave one copy with someone at home. Alternatively, you can scan the documents and email an electronic copy to yourself so that you can access them from any computer terminal. (I usually do both - "just in case")
contact numbers to report lost/stolen credit cards or traveler's checks
emergency numbers at home
watch.
Other things

glasses, contacs, contac cleaner
sunglasses
reading material - books to read while on the plane or lounging by the pool
journal or notebook and pen/pencil - for making notes to tell your friends back home about your experiences
business cards with email address to give out to new cruise friends
home and email addresses of friends/relatives back home - for sending postcards, emails, or gifts
Electronics and Camera Equipment

plug adaptor and converter
cell phone and charger
binoculars (if you have on you will sure use it)
film and digital camera (send us some photos)
extra memory cards for digital camera
batteries for digital camera
battery charger
small travel alarm clock - battery operated
Medicine Kit

prescription drugs and any other essential medications in carry on bag
ear plugs or "ear planes"
small first aid kit (band aids, Q-tips, vaseline, dramamine, antibiotic cream, bandages, anti-diarrheal medication, cortisone
cream, aspirin/tylenol/advil)
germicidal hand cleaner
handi-wipes (for cleaning hands when ashore)
bug spray (not for your cabin on the ship, but for those pesky mosquitoes and "nonos" ashore)
sun screen/sun block and lip sunblock

check the tutorial in
http://www.clubdeturistas.com.uy/tutorial/cruisetutorial.html
of this reference (source) It has other interesting tips about cruising

you have also a detailed lists in sources below

Carnival Cruise, activites, food, drink, how much?

We're planning on going on a cruise (Carnival Fascination) from miami to bahamas...i want to know..what do you have to pay for? or is it already included in the price? (food, drinks, activities, off boat, extra services, etc.)






Answer :
Good news is all your food is included. You will have to pay for all your alcohol, and depending on your drinking ability that can add up. I found the prices for drinks comparable with that of most bars and they do run specials. They have free juices and iced teas and water (not bottled) There is a charge for soda but if you're a big soda drinker I would suggest getting a drink card which allows you unlimited soda for the cruise.

Shipboard activities are free but you will have to pay for any excursions or off ship activities. Occasionally there is a charge for some fitness activities and all spa services. Also, you pay for all your own casino play.

Don't forget the $10 a day for gratuities. They will add that to your sail and sign account when you check in, and frankly for the service you get $10 is a great deal.

Any shopping you do on board.

I have been on this particular cruise twice and love the Fascination. I was on it in October this year and last August. The first time my account was about $200 for a 3/4 day cruise and the last one was a little more so budget accordingly. Also you can check out what you've spent at the purser's desk. You will have a great time.







Answer :
Here are some of the products & services and costs on board Carnival:

- tips. $10 per day per guest.
- photos. $22-25 per sheet.
- bar drinks. $4-12 each plus 15% gratuity
- sodas. $1.75 per can or $35-45 for unlimited by glass program card.
- bingo - $5-10 per card.
- spa services - $50-200 per service.
- shore excursions - $50-200 per excursion.
- tips for shore excursion guides - $10-20
- casino - $$$
- temp tattoos - $7-12
- shopping in port and on board- $$$$. Good deals on smokes and liquor on board.
- taxis while in port. $5-20
- parking at port (contact local port but ours is $10 per day)
- porters for luggage. $1 per bag.

With the exception of the tips to the cruise staff, the above are optional services. My sister opens a cash account when she boards and after she reaches her limit, the purser sends her a note, she can add more cash or stop spending. I use a credit card and usually get sticker shock at the end of the trip because it is so easy just to swipe your card for on-board purchases.

All ports take US dollars. Take small bills $1, 5 and 10s.

Notable...be aware of the new fuel surcharge for any cruises departing after Feb 1, 2008. $5 per day per guest...






Answer :
you pay for shore excursions, bar, specialty coffee, some activities, spa treatments, some exercise classes, wine, all bar drink even the juices, sodas, even bottled water. Watch out for the extras.






Answer :
All Carnival cruises are basically the same as far as the questions you've asked. Meals are included in the total you pay before you cruise. Not included are sodas, alcohol, bottled water and premium cuisine. The buffet meals (included) are delicious so, you should be fine. Stay away from the sodas and bottled water you will find in your cabin, they're expensive. There will be juice and purified water which you will have unlimited access to in the Bar and Grill, the alternative to the formal dining room. The Bar and Grill offers the buffet style meals. You can also ask the cooks to prepare specialties, such as omelettes for breakfast or a rare burger at lunch. Beware of the poolside drink offers, they are relentless and not free! Take your cup over to the included juice kiosk and have a nice day! Well, one or two poolside drinks should be ok, afterall, you're on vacation!

You will be given a sail and sign card, which you can prepay at the purser's desk when on board with a credit, debit or cash. If you choose a debit card, they will put a $250 hold on the card at check in and it will be removed about a week later, so don't include that money as available or you'll be in big trouble. I preferred cash because my boyfriend is a little on the cheap side and cash enabled him to make adjustments as he saw fit.

You will be charged $10 per day, per person for gratuities, which is adjustable as you see fit. The service is absolutely wonderful so I agree with the other poster that it's a great deal. Again, your choice.

Shore excursions are not included, you can book them in advance or anytime during the cruise. Any duty-free shopping is also extra, so budget well! I did not budget enough for shopping and fell in love with these hand-made straw bags in Nassau. But hey, I was on vacation!

The Fascination ship to the Bahamas only ports at Nassau I believe, so be sure to visit Atlantis! Take a taxi from the port station for $8 and they will drop you off right outside the front door. Coming back is the same and don't be late back to the boat, it will leave without you! The beach at Atlantis is private and can only be visited by hotel guests but there are plenty of stores for shopping, this is off the boat so no sail and sign card is necessary.

BTW, next trip, try the Imagination out of Miami to Grand Turk, Half Moon Cay, Nassau. Half Moon Cay's water is like nothing else on Earth!!

Hope this helps! Enjoy!!






Answer :
Your food is included on your price. but everything else you do have to pay for water if you want it delivered in your cabin, soda, alcohol, oohh and your shore excursions. you also get this card (like credit cards) that's the only way you pay on the ship with that card~!







Answer :
Alcoholic drinks are not included in the cost. Non-alcoholic drinks (except water and drinks at the buffet) are also not included, but you can buy a pop card that gets you unlimited non-alcoholic drinks. Food is all included, except for a surcharge if you go to a specialty restaurant on board or get something from the ice cream shop. Most activities on the boat are included. You pay extra to play Bingo or to use the casino. Off the boat, you must pay for things yourself or you can pay to go on a shore excursion that the ship has organized. The other things you pay for are souvenirs, massages, hair appt, pedicure, etc.

CARNIVAL FASCINATION QUESTION :)?

1. Is it good for teens/active people?
2. Do you feel clostophobic in the interior state room?
3. What if you get sea sick?
4. Is the water slide/pools any good?






Answer :
1. YES! You can be as active as you want to be on a cruise! That is the best part!
2. Don't know. I have only stayed in a ocean view room. But you don't really stay in your room all that much!
3. They have pills at the pursers desk. You don't really feel the boat moving.
4. Yes!
You will have a great time!! The Fascination is a beautiful ship!!
You can also go to cruisecrtic.com for more information!
Happy cruising!






Answer :
It's a cruise, you can be as active as you want to be, you won't spend enough time in your stateroom to be claustrophobic, you won't get sea sick, and how bad can a water-slide and pool be? Just go and have a great time, Cruises are the best vacation you can take, no matter what your age is.






Answer :
1. Definitely. There's a mini golf course on deck, for crying out loud. Also, they recently added a teen club, which is a great place to meet people and hang out.
2. The rooms can be small, but not overly cramped. Plus, with all the things on the ship all you do in your room is sleep and get dressed!
3. I've never gotten sick on a cruise, but if you do their are pills readily available.
4. Heck yes! What could be wrong with a pool and water slide?

Fun things for a teen to do in carnival cruise?

Tomorrow I'm going on a cruise in a ship called carnival fascination, I was wondering if anyone had some tips on where to go have fun, and meet kids my age, Im 15,,And I would aprreciated if you had some hidden tips (advice), 1st time cruisers don't know about?






Answer :
Blow bubbles with bubble gum
Blow on a beer bottle
Blow on a blade of grass
Crank up some music
Cut out photos and paste them on Popsicle sticks and have a puppet show
Eat
Eat 6 spoon full of sugar, a soda, and another think that makes you hyper and then you won't be bored anymore, you will end up finding something to do... trust us
Get a tootsie pop and see how many licks it takes to get to the center of the tootsie pop
Experiment with makeup
Get a bubble blower and then blow some
Laugh out loud
Learn how to fake an accent
Make a humorous crank phone call
Make an entertaining phone answering-machine message
Make up poems or songs about your boredom
Nap
Play cards
Play Dead
Play house with yourself
Play with marbles
Pop zits and blackheads, clean lint out of belly button, q-tips, and find those hidden treasures of the nose
Practice your arm pit farting skills (Advanced participants try with your hand cupped on the back of your knee)
Pretend that you are not bored
Read some comic books
See how long you can hold your breath
Send a tune with keypad numbers on the phone
Sing even if you can't
Spin until you're dizzy
Stand on your head
Stare at the ceiling and try to make something out of the dots
Write your name in permanent marker on all your underwear
Break into a friend's house and clean it
Call a wrong number and talk to whoever answers.
Catch a fly, then put in a jar and stick in the fridge (this cools their metabolism down), then tie the fly to the end of a thread 15in. and hold the other end of the thread while you watch it fly around (We have tested this and it works - a lot of patience is involved)
Chase your best friend round the sofa
Dance around your living room naked
Doodle or cartoon
Dress in something silly and laugh at yourself
Fiddle around with a Ouija board
Figure out how to get yourself on TV
Find an address to your favorite famous person and write them a letter. See if they write you back
Flip a coin 500 times to see who wins
Get on the radio
Give names to your body parts
Go shop for a really cool book
Go through the English dictionary looking up really long words like discombobulated.
Have a carpet picnic
Have a staring contest with yourself in the mirror.
Kiss your elbow, if you can.
Lay a long straight line of masking tape on the floor. Now spin around really fast then try walking on the masking tape.
Learn a new word in the dictionary
Learn to Juggle
Learn to peel a banana with your feet
Let a helium balloon float up to your ceiling and throw things at it to pop it
Listen to a type of music that you don't normally listen to
Listen to really hard music and head bang
Listen to some polka music and eat sausages
Make a list of the fun things you've already done, then admire how long your list is.
Make a trash can a basketball hoop and throw crumpled up paper for baskets
Patch some clothing
Phone your local government rep and see if you can convince him or her to have lunch with you
Plan a journey
Play bottle cap hockey...with pens as the sticks and a bottle cap as the puck
Play dress-up with all the clothes you have in your closet
Pronounce your friends names.backwards
Put doll clothes on your cat and play dress up
Rent a movie, 2 hours later go back to the same movie store and rent the sequel, 2 hours after that go back and get the third movie
Roll your change
Run around your house as fast as you can and, count how many times you can go without getting tired.
Shave your head
Sit at your desk with your left arm sticking out until it goes numb
Snap your fingers as if suddenly you have a bright idea and see if you get any
Take a company that has been getting on your nerves - find out who the person is that you should write complaints too. Write a letter to them with the most trivial or confusing complaint. Ensure you talk in circles so that the letter is well written but extremely confusing
Take one hundred dollars out of the bank and spend it all on yourself
Rent some fun movies
Throw a huge party for no reason at all
Turn on the T.V., put it on mute and make up dialogue
Washable crayons are a wonderful invention. Pick a wall and invite friends
Watch 101 Dalmatians and see if they really show 101 Dalmatians
Watch a foreign film
Watch cartoons (preferably funny stupid ones)
Write a big list of fun things to do
Write a limerick or twelve
Write a rant letter to the paper
Write out ten things that make you happy - then do one of them
You and a friend pick your noses and see who has the biggest boogers
Bring dog treats to the park and meet 25 new dogs
Burn things with a magnifying glass
Buy the craziest, most comfortable slippers you can find
Climb a tree
Find some crutches and pretend to have a broken leg
Flip some coins into a fountain
Flirt with people
Go dumpster diving and see what you can find
Go out and get your motorcycle license
Go to a candy store and buy a ton of candy. Eat all day
Go to the 24 hr grocery at 1 a.m.
Have an egg toss
Make a rope swing
Make faces at strangers to make them laugh
Play Frisbee
Play knicky knicky nine doors leaving freaky anonymous notes behind
Put bunny ears on people you don't know (the two finger kind you know, like a peace sign)
Skip rope
Take your TV outside
Try to stay up for 24 hours
Volunteer for a charity
Walk around a public park, every so often pretend to trip on a 'invisible' wire.
Watch kids play - and then join in






Answer :
i just got back from the carnival valor and im 15 i met 21 people i had a blast enter the club 02 at least that was the name of mine and DONT BE SHY meet alot of people and just have a blast.. they have clubs and dance!!! some guys are cute lol =)=)=)





Answer :
-Water slides
-They usually have a teen night in the dance clubs great way to meet people
-Comedy shows
-Gym or spa
- Pool
- They will have a huge list of things to do once you reach your destination, water toys(jet ski's etc).

Does anyone know if Carnival cruises have a place for laundry?

I'm going to be on a Carnival Fascination Cruise, and I might need to do some laundry lol






Answer :
Yes, the Carnival ships have small laundry rooms.

The soap was expensive...about $2.00 for a single load. It was $2.00 for a wash and $1.75 for the dryer.

The machines are usually busy...my fellow cruisers had to wait until late at night before he could do his laundry.

You can get quarters from the Purser's office.






Answer :
Yes they do. I'm not exactly sure how to go about it but just ask your housekeeper/room attendant and they will point you in the right direction. You're not the only one who does laundry while on vacation. I always overpack and never need to do laundry because I bring so much and buy even more, but then again I'm lazy and hate laundry.







Answer :
Yeppers! they have full laundry rooms( a buck a load) and your butler will pick up and bring back if you want dry cleaning.
I had a blast!!!!!!!!!







Answer :
Yes, the Carnival ship I was on did. There is information in your room. Enjoy your cruise.






Answer :
Should be added it's pretty costly.

Going on carnival fascination what are some of the hidden cost and other do's and don'ts .?

Going on carnival fascination what are some of the hidden cost and other do's and don'ts .?






Answer :
Gratuities are added to your onboard bill, though you can change them either higher or lower, if you feel service was better/worse than expected.

Alcohol, sodas, spa services and shore excursions are all extra. You can buy a soda card which will give you unlimited sodas for the length of the cruise. If you plan to drink a reasonable amount of soda, these are a good deal and should be purchased as soon as you board, before you buy any sodas. Purchase at any bar.

Internet service is extra. You can buy minutes in bulk to save money.

Anything you purchase in the gift shops is obviously extra as well. Same is true for photos.

If you think you will have any special requests for your cabin steward, such as always keep the ice-bucket full, give them an extra $10 as soon as you meet them after boarding. That extra tip goes a long way toward better service.

You can sometimes find shore excursions through third party services. Usually these are as good if not better tours than offered through the ship, and generally cheaper. Ask your travel agent for advice.

Feel free to contact me directly for more specific questions.






Answer :
Booze, soda, bottled water and you cannot bring any on board if they find them they will toss them

IM 17 male and going on the carnival Cruise fascination and wonder what there is to do for kids my age?

sports
entertainment
etc





Answer :
Here are the activies for 17 year olds


From the moment they step onboard, Club O2 teens are part of a cruise experience unlike anything else. Every activity and event -- from outdoor activities like: basketball, volleyball, ping pong, pool parties and high-energy dance parties -- has been specially created with 15-17 year-olds in mind.

Club O2 Daytime activities are designed to be a little more relaxed. Teens can hangout with their friends while watching a movie, listening to the latest music, playing video games or joining karaoke jam sessions. We’ve even set up teen-only shore excursions so your young adults can enjoy the sites and sounds of our beautiful ports with their peers.

All activities are coordinated by a Club O2 Director dedicated to keeping the activities fun for our 15-17 year old guests.

Many of our ships feature a dedicated lounge designed just for the Club O2 program. These hot spots feature comfy seating, video monitors, a state-of-the-art dance floor and an area to enjoy Coca-Cola products and other non-alcoholic specialty drinks.

Club O2 Directors are hired and trained to spark the interest of the teens and get them involved. Each director brings their own unique style to Club O2. Their motivation and dedication to the program ensures your teen’s cruise experience is unlike any they have ever had before. They are hosts, entertainers and often DJ’s for the teens.

Some of our Club O2 activities include:

• Board Games

• Card Games

• Music Hangs

• Theme parties

• Lido Deck Activities

• Reality Games Shows

• Trivia and scavenger hunts

• Pool Parties

form carnival.com

What expenses should be expected on carnival fascination. going to cozumel and key west suggest any excrusions

What expenses should be expected on carnival fascination. going to cozumel and key west suggest any excrusions






Answer :
You have to factor in these things: tips for waitstaff and room staff, alcoholic drinks and soda, extra's on the ship like souvenirs, coffee shop, ice cream shop etc, excursions could be anywhere from 50 bucks to 200 bucks depending on what you do....






Answer :
I am going on carnival imagination, and you really should go on their website and go to the bottom where it says Know Before You Go and look at the expenses that will be accumulated. it is $10 per day per person, $1 per bag 15% for alcohol tabs (it is included in your tab), and if you are planning on using the spa, i think that you can send away for a brochure that will tell you what is involved. Do not forget to check in on line using funpass!!! have a great time.






Answer :
Cozumel is one of my favorite ports -- I've been there three times. The first time we went downtown, did some shopping, and had lunch at Pancho's Backyard. Fabulous food and HUGE margaritas! The second time we went to Mr. Sancho's beach club, and that was fan-freakin'-tastic. They had the freshest seafood I've ever eaten, lots of tables with those thatched-hut-type umbrellas, wandering mariachis, a freshwater pool, some great little shops, and best of all NO ENTRANCE FEE! They charge for some activities like horseback riding or massages, but we just ordered lunch and margaritas and watched the world go by. Heaven.

Getting there is easy. The taxis are regulated, so they can't gouge you (all the prices are posted). There are so many taxis coming and going, it's easy to catch one back to town or the pier when you're ready to leave.







Answer :
I'm not sure about the ports since I will be visiting Cozumel for the first time next month and have never been to Key West. I can tell you the most expensive thing you aboard the ship for me are usually the drinks. www.cruiserfaqs.com has a drink menu thats relatively up to date. Also note there is an additional 15% gratuity automatically added to the drinks cost.

There is no alternative dining establishment on the Fascination so if you are not a drinker your onboard costs should be minimal.






Answer :
just got back from keywest. its awesome there. very laid back. I thought Mel fisher's treasure museum was neat and you get to hold a gold finger (value at $15000)! Duval Street is the place to be in Key West. Tones of shops and restaurants and art galleries (some very nice ones) to go through. If you go to the beach on your stop go to the state park ($1.50 per person walkin or bike) awesome blue water.





Answer :
I have been on about 20 cruises and here's what I suggest based on my experiences:

Always pack your passport and cruise documents in your carry on bag ONLY. Also, if you plan to get into the pools or hot tub as soon as you get on ship (they will be open), bring those clothes in your carry on bag; you other luggage may not get to your cabin until much later in the afternoon.

The dress on ship is casual all day until 6:00PM, so take:

-swim wear (at least 2),
-shorts, tank tops and "T's"
-sandals, beach shoes, flip-flops
-your snorkel equipment if you have it,
-sun glasses and sun screen, and lotions,
-a cap or big hat for the sun,
-a book if you are a reader,
-your music player,
-sneakers and clothes to workout in if you like to use the gym,
-good walking shoes,
-your camera, and
-other personal toiletries including tooth paste, mouth wash or lotions.

Your cabin will have towels and soap provided, including pool and beach towels, and a hair dryer. It will also have a generic hair shampoo so you do not need to bring that unless you like a specific brand.

After 6:00 PM they request that you wear "sports or resort casual" attire. That's attire that you would expect a person to wear in a business office, (like a bank employee), shirt with a collar, slacks, skirt, blouse, etc. You can still wear shorts and swim wear in the pools and spas but not in public areas like dining rooms and restaurants, show rooms, bars, casino, etc. Don't over pack , take clothes that you can mix and match tops and bottoms and plan to wear each piece twice. If you are going to the Caribbean you will likely be in shorts and/or swim wear most of every day so evening clothes don't usually get much wear.

Your cruise will have a formal night or two when you can wear your best stuff and get pictures taken, and maybe meet the ship’s Captain. The formal nights are REQUESTED not required attire. You will not be denied entry to the main dining room if you decide not to dress up, as long as you are at least sports casual. But most people do dress up. A gown or party dress for women and a suit or tux for men. Some people dress up both formal nights, some don't. We always take the formal stuff off after dinner and a photo or two and go back to casual stuff.

- Its best to pack using soft-sided luggage because with space limited in your cabin it fits under the beds better if its not hard sided luggage.

- Pack using the vacuum clothing bags (about $20 for 3 at Target) so that you can get more in your bag AND so that if the TSA at the airport opens your bag they can see what's inside without rummaging through your things.

-Take a small carry-on bag for the last night of the cruise. On the last evening you will be required to put your luggage outside your cabin by about 2:00 AM so that they can start taking it down to the lower deck for offloading the next morning. So you will need a small bag for your toiletries and your clothes that you sleep in.

- If you can take a six-pack of bottled water and soft drinks in your carry-on for your cabin. You will have to pay for both on the ship and its nice to have those handy in the cabin. The cruise ships do let you bring water and soft drinks onto the ship but not alcoholic beverages. I always take 16 oz soft drinks and water; ask the cabin steward to take the stuff out of your cabin's mini-refrig and put your own in it. Buy more in ports if you run out.

- If you are taking your cell phone, MP3 player or other item that needs to be plugged in take an extension cord as the plugs in the cabin are generally not in the best places and there are usually only one or two.

- Take a small bottle of hand sanitizer and/or hand-wipes. There are generally sanitizer dispensers at the entrances of restaurants, the buffets and dining room, but some times the are not there or not working. The sanitizer helps prevent the spread of the Norwalk Virus that sometimes occur on cruise ships.

- Take a can of air freshener for your cabin bathroom. The bathrooms do not have exhaust fans.

- Take a few zip lock bags of various sizes; they always come in handy.

- If you think you may get sea sick (you more than likely WILL NOT) take some ginger candy or cookies along; otherwise get a patch or medicine from your doctor. But you are not likely to get sea sick because the ships have automatic stabilizers to minimize motion.

- Take some one dollar bills (also maybe a few $5's) for tipping the porters in the airport, at the pier (they do not work for the ship), and they will come in handy in port stops for buying small items in the markets and at vendor stands; especially bartering places.

What type of carnival cruise line should i go on?

I want to go on a 3 day cruise to bahamas. Which one should i go on?
Carnival Imagination
Carnival Sensation
Carnival Fascination

Which ones the best?
Thanks






Answer :
They are all the same class of ship (Fantasy class) so they are all pretty much identical. Pick the one that is the easiest and cheapest to get to, has the best rate, and leaves when you want to go. Other than that, have fun!!

See the link below to view the particulars about each ship.






Answer :
You will have a great time on any of those cruises. The food and entertainment are great, being at sea is fun, and the ships are beautiful. Since those three ships are so similar, choose by the specific islands they visit, the price, and the departure city. You won't go wrong with any of those three ships





Answer :
Hi, this site helped me a lot on the internet are many types of cruises and prices very good hope have helped. I find the best vacation
http://www.cruceros-economicos.com/econo…






Answer :
none all there boats are crap ive been on the fascination my friend went on the sensantion and there waz nuttin to do so go on a longer cruise






Answer :
I have not been on those lines, but most cruises are the same, the ship buts together a lot of activities to do on board, and there are so many people you are bound to meet someone, just look at it as an adventure - good, bad or whatever -

When we got back from the Bahamas it was stormy by the time we got to New Orleans it was raining so hard I wanted to cry, but we went to our hotel, got refresh after the flight and had the best 4 days in New Orleans, we look back on all the chaos that happened that week and laugh so hard, we were diving in the Bahamas and when we came up it was raining, we had to hold on to these little kids because their mother did not know how to swim, we were bitten by bugs, brought home a water bug that probably could have carried our luggage - it was terrific!

Has anyone sailed on Carnival Imagination/Fascination Lately after their refurbishment?

Has anyone sailed on Carnival Imagination/Fascination Lately after their refurbishment?






Answer :
I have been on both ships since July. Imagination has had a fantastic redo and the ship is beautiful. The pool areas seem to flow better and the adult only area is great. We even took a ride down the waterslide which was very cool. The rooms have new TV's and most of the common areas have been updated. I was on the Fascination in July and didnt notice anything new, so im thinking that it hasnt gone thru the "Evolution of Fun" makeover, The ship is still nice so if yopu are trying to choose between them Imagiantion is awesome but Fascination isnt too bad without the redo

What are the best excursions on The Carnival Fascination? Key West and Cozumel are the stops.?

What are the best excursions on The Carnival Fascination? Key West and Cozumel are the stops.?





Answer :
KW is good for just wandering around. You can get suggestions for walking tours at the guidebook websites - Fodor's and/or Frommer's - or in their paper guidebooks [try your library].

KW and Coz are both easy to do on your own, unless you don't feel comfortable with that. You MUST be sure to get back to the ship on time - they will leave without you unless you are on one of their excursions.

In Coz, a lot of people like Chankanaab Park; others prefer Paradise Beach, or Nachi Cocom. I preferred CP to PB, myself.

Go to CruiseCritic.com, click on "Boards", then go to "Ports of Call" for tons of info from experienced cruisers about these ports.

Have a great cruise!!

Has anyone taken a cruise to the Bahamas on Carnival's Fascination ship?

I'd like to know about excursions and activities you have done on and off the ship and if the fees were worth it. Also, any other advice for a first time cruiser you'd like to share. All comments are welcome.






Answer :
There's always lots to do on cruise ships in general. They schedule all kinds of activities throughout every day you're at sea or in port. On Carnival ships, they have a daily newsletter called Carnival Capers, which lists and describes the various activities throughout the day.

You can also look up your cruise on Carnival's website and see a list of excursions each port of call offers. Also, on the first day or so, the cruise director will lead a presentation about the various excursions and will be available for you to ask questions. As cruise director, he or she will have gone on every excursion offered in the ports of call on the ship's itinerary. And, they usually recommend certain activities as being the best for athletic people, for adventure, for minimum physical activity, etc. And, they videotape the presentation and replay it on the ship's in-house channel throughout the cruise. So, you don't have to necessarily go to the presentation in person.

You can order your excursion tickets through the excursion desk next to the purser on the main deck. Or, you can order them through your TV, like you would order a pay-per-view movie. Also, realize that some excursions sell out quickly. So, if possible, make up your mind and order your tickets early, so you don't get shut out.







Answer :
You can find answers to all these questions - and more - at CruiseCritic.com. Click on "Boards" at the top of the page, then go to the topic of your choice. I'd suggest, "First Time Cruisers", "Carnival Cruise Lines", "Ports of Call" for starters. You might also want to check "Reviews" [again, at the top of the page] - the "Member Reviews" for your particular ship would be especially helpful.

Have fun!!






Answer :
I went on the Norwegian last week. There are alot of activities. I would advice you to take advantage of everything on board. Have fun! Oh! and save your money for when you get to NASSAU there is so much stuff to buy. Also book an excursion.

Carnival Fascination Cruise in September?

Is it a good time to go in this cruise in the beginning of September? How is the weather like in the Nassau and Key West around that time? Is it better to go in August?






Answer :
If there is a problem the Captain will divert the ship to another port. Any time is a good time so just enjoy.






Answer :
June, July August and September have increased chances for afternoon thundershowers, which usually appear and dissipate rather quickly. Water temperature during the summer and early fall is between 85 and 87 degrees.
Fall, also known as "hurricane season," brings the rainiest time of year, and also the greatest chances for tropical weather, making it the least desirable travel time out of the four seasons. September is the rainiest month of the year, when an average of 6.4 inches of rain falls in Key West. Daily highs are in the 80s, and lows are in the 70s.
Also
Best time to go is June, July early september and december unless there is tropical storm nearby. Water is very warm!! Check weather channel for tropical storm update between june-nov before you go

By the ay Awsome deals on this site

dinamtravel.agenthub.net
:)
good luck.






Answer :
actually the best time is May, June, July, August, and i am sure September its great weather too. p. s Fascination is a great ship already booked my time there:)

Carnival Fascination supper club?

does the ship carnival fascination have a supper club?






Answer :
No Fantasy class ships have supper clubs.






Answer :
It didn't when i was on it in August of 07 but could let you know after I return in September. I have been on many cruises and found the Fascination a fine ship, so much so we are going on it again in September. It was just totally refurbished so I am curious to see the changes.







Answer :
It's a Fantasy Class ship, so it has the standard set up of two formal dining rooms, and a buffet/grill. There is a formal lounge/cigar and martini bar aboard each ship, though.







Answer :
it does not have a supper club but it does have an area for cigar and brandy folk

Carnival Fascination or Rccl Gradeur of the seas?

Going to take a cruise this spring break fairly soon and have narrowed it down to 2 ships. Which is in general better and or has the least amount of problems. They are both fairly older and I want to make sure that the ship doesn't have any major problems. Taking family with 2 teens have been on both carnival and royal. any help/ experience would be great

thanks





Answer :
Defiantly rccl their ships are a lot better! All of you will have a great time! Carnival is way to dumpy in my opinion!


Have a great time!






Answer :
My friend went on Grandeur of the Seas and she said she was not impressed. Don't know much about Carnival Fascination. Go to cruisecritic.com it will give you reviews of cruisers who sailed on each ship. Bon Voyage.






Answer :
i personally like royal caribbean better...their staff and service is better than carnival. If you are taking 2 teens, i think they would enjoy royal caribbean better (i'm 15).






Answer :
Fascination was o.k. Went on it last April. It's not the best Carnivals ship. The lido night time entertainment was so lame.

Pros and cons of carnival fascination?

i'm going in mid-august with my parents and 3 siblings. we are all ranging in ages 10-17. we're going to the bahamas!! what are the pros and cons of carnival fascination?






Answer :
Went on it last April. Not the best Carnival ship. It's ok for a 3-5 night cruise. The beds are the best though. Tend to find more young retarded people on the 3-5 night cruise. The 7 night or longer have more classy people both young and old.







Answer :
Go to cruisecritic.com. Read reviews from people who have sailed on the fascination.

Carnival fascination june 13th. questions about excursions?

we are going to half moon cay and naussa island. this is our first cruise and we just know we want to do snorkling. which island should we do it in. wich excursions are the best and worst. what are some fun things to do on the Fascination for a 15 year old?






Answer :
I'd suggest go to the forum at the Cruise Critic web site and joining the Roll Call thread for that specific departure. You'll need to register at the site, but it's a great way to see what's popular, and you can read about people's experiences on past trips as well.

We are going on our first cruise in Sept. it is Carnival Fascination and goes to Key West and Cozumel.?

Any tips or advice would be great! Am I able to bring water and soda on the ship with me? Good excursions in Cozumel (I used to live in Key west so I pretty much know everything there)
Good places on the ship! Does it feel very crowded? My husband and I are both 24 and newlyweds and so is the other couple that we are going with. Thanks In Advance!






Answer :
Well first of all ,congratulations

Second, Carnival cruise line is the best cruise line for newlyweds...

carnvalcruiseline.com

http://vacationstogo.com/cruise_lines/ca…

http://vacationstogo.com/ship.cfm?shipid…

http://www.cruisecritic.com/reviews/revi…

http://www.cruisecritic.com/reviews/crui…

Yes, you can bring water and soda on the ship with you...actually that it a great idea...i have been on 30 cruises in my life, and from experience, soda is not free...it adds up quickly when you buy it...its a great idea to bring ur own, its allowed, and you wont have to buy any on the ship...

Now on the ship- the pools are a great place to be...catch some sun, go swimming, play poolside games, watch the games..and more...

it doesnt feel crowded at all..there is so much to do onbaord the ship...it is very surpising...the ship holds a lot of people, yet there so much to do, it feels so spread out

About the food- food on cruises are amazing...everything is included in ur fee...u get free room service, just pay a few bucks for a tip...the dining room's food is spectuacular, with a lobster night...so much food to choose from...the food in the buffet is great, so much variety

Sorry, this is out of order, but before your cruise, you may want to purchase a sea sick pill, only if you think you may get sick...i dont reccomend the patch because there are horrible sideaffects...but if you want mild comfort i would get the wrist band...it works great for mild comfort

Now the shows at night are spectacular...it is absolutely amazing how they can do this stuff on a ship...the shows are right after dinner, depending on when you have dinner, the early or late setting

I hope that this helped you..and if you have any further questions, dont hesitiate to send me a message, ill be happy to help you! Have fun =








Answer :
I was recently in Cozumel on a cruise and we went with the Playa Mia Beach Break. It's a private beach and it is GORGEOUS! I think it was $29 pp and it included the use of non motorized water sports and all you can drink. We paid for waverunners and food and had a great time. They also have a pool there. I would highly recommend it! You can go at your leisure so you are not stuck with a whole group of people as an excursion!






Answer :
We LOVED Cozumel when we did Carnival a year and a half ago. Just as you get off the boat you can rent scooters. We road them all over! and I think it was about $30 for the whole day. Just be careful in the town, People drive crazy! . The beaches were great and shopping out on the outside of town was cool. We road the scooters back with our hands and cargo space packed with neat stuff we bought. Our only worry is they were pretty beat-up and we luckily pointed the dings out before or they tried to charge us for damage so if you try it just beware.
Don't buy anything right as you get into port. The same stuff can be found in town for a lot less.
I saw lots of people packing water in and didn't see any problems bringing it on.
All the best and have fun







Answer :
i would bring soda if i wanted something they didnt' offer.
i would also research some at cruisecritic.com
for more details.






Answer :
We are going on our first cruise in Dec on the Fascination as well... I am taking my b/f for his birthday along with some other friends.. Please write a review or let me know how your cruise goes on the Fascination I am very excited about our cruise but curious about the actual ship. i have heard heard great reviews however u know someone also has something bad to say.






Answer :

Congratulations!

I just returned yesterday from a 4 nighter on the Fascination (my grandson, 16, was with me). This is my 5th cruise on this ship. My most recent was in August last year right before the ship went into drydock for a complete refit/refurbishment. I am an avid cruiser and have almost 100 to my credit on most of the cruiselines in the world and several no longer in operation. I was in the travel industry for 32 years and was a tour director for many of them so had the opportunity to cruise - a lot. I am an "easy-going" cruiser and not much "gets my goat" or upsets me....I am on vacation, ya know.

The Fascination is a wonderful ship and, since her refit last year, she absolutely sparkles! She is smaller than many of the "new" ships and is easier to navigate. (Capacity is still over 2000 - just doesn't feel that way) She is spotlessly clean from stem to stern with an attentive crew, efficient purser's desk and shore excursion desk. Any problems are addressed immediately.

The food in the main dining rooms was flawless. The servings are reasonable and, if your appetite is good, you can order as much of anything as you like. (To the person who complained about the small lobster tails, may I say that the dish also included 4 large shrimp - and everything was cooked to perfection. It was enough for me but a gentleman at my table ordered 3 plates!) The soups are delish! I always order a double Caesar Salad, it is so good. If you don't like anything on the menu that evening, they have several entre's that you can order anytime...a wonderful NY strip steak (my grandson had it 3 nights!), a chicken dish and others. If you leave the dining room hungry, it is your own fault. Try the hedonistic "Melting Chocolate" for dessert......

The buffets on Lido deck are very good. One-half of the buffet is "themed", offering French food one night - Chinese another, etc. There is always a pasta station (great pasta dishes), a carving station with beef, pork or turkey and many, many side dishes and vegetables. A complete and separate salad bar and dessert bar would satisfy anyone. Then, there is always the deli which serves up wonderful sandwiches made fresh to order (try the Reuben). 24-hour pizza (very, very good), 24 hour ice cream (help yourself). Then there is the room service menu (free - but tip the person a buck who delivers it)... I LOVE the roast beef and brie on a baguette....or a dish of assorted cookies and brownies!

While I don't "boogie all night" anymore, I do wander around and watch others. the "Diamonds are Forever" club was hopping every night as was the "Club 88" piano bar. Passage to India was rocking and so was the teen club "Club O2". There are enough planned activities everyday to absolutely wear you out. The shows are lively and enthusiastic while maybe not "Las Vegas" quality - they are fun nontheless.

Our cruise last week missed Cozumel due to Hurricane Dean (they went to Nassau instead - which, to me, is a big YAWN. I spent the day reading!!! However, in the past, I have found Cozumel to be a great stop. There are wonderful beaches and some of the best shopping. You can sign up for a shore excusion offered by the ship or - if you are adventurous, negotiate your own ride dockside. Just make sure you are back on board by the time shown on your daily newspaper----the ship won't wait for you if you are late. Paradise Beach is a favorite...beautiful beach with beach chairs and umbrellas, nearby restroom facilities, nice little beach restaurants and reasonable prices. Chakanaab Park is another. It is beautiful and offers a great day out...... If you go to the Carnival website, they will list the suggested tours or, better yet, go to cruisecritic.com....that is the BEST website for finding out about almost anything "cruise".

Best places on the ship? Well, there was always a pretty good crowd at the Atrium bar but I found that a little to noisy as it is near the purser and shore excursion area and you get the noise from the photo shop, etc. But there was always a lively bunch enjoying themselves. The Stars Bar near the casino is another hot spot. Live music there every evening and the entertainer was terrific. Club 88 gets going about 10 - 11PM. For quiet places, go out on the open deck from Promenade deck. It is usually quiet there and a great place to watch the sunset. There is also an observation deck far forward of the ship on Verandah deck.....just keep walking forward and you will find the door. It is located right under the bridge and offers a great view.

My favorite, day or night, is at the very last door on Lido Deck out the back of the Coconut Bar and Grill. There are doors on each side that lead out to a small "balcony" area, shaded, with about 8 - 10 tables and chairs with GREAT views. These places are pretty quiet - I don't think many people know about them. I can sit up there, watch the sea and read. I also usually eat breakfast out there - after hitting the breakfast buffet.

No matter what you chose to do, you will have a wonderful time on Fascination. Remember, a cruise is mostly what you make of it. Nothing is perfect. You will probably find something you don't like - but - overlook it and do something else. (I don't like cruising with children whose parents turn them lose to run around, scream, play "pirate" on the the glass elevators, invade the adult spaces on the ship and generally behave badly....but they have never ruined my cruise....neither have the roaring drunks, the complainers or the misbehaving adults.) Reroute your thinking a bit and enjoy yourself!

As for bringing on your own soda and water; I will attach Carnival's policy below. They are getting tighter and tighter with this. Even bringing cases of soda on board is becoming an issue. I did see people bringing both on board with no problem. They are getting meaner about bringing on booze, though. I did see alcohol being "confiscated"...but some people smuggle it somehow... I never saw the sense to it myself. Anyway, the water on board is perfectly safe to drink and is probably better than that at your home. Why not save the luggage space, bring a couple of bottles of water and just refill on board. The water is absolutely purified as they desalinate their water onboard and is probably more pure than your bottled water. As for soda? Well, a soda card on Fascination is $16.00 which gives you as much soda as you want to drink..... So, guess you will make that decision for yourself.

Anyway, go - and have a GREAT time.

Source(s):

Guests are prohibited from bringing alcoholic beverages onboard. However, guests (21 years and older only) may bring one bottle of wine or champagne per person on board only during embarkation at the beginning of the cruise. A $10 corkage fee per bottle will be charged should you wish to consume this wine in the dining room or a $14 corkage fee per bottle in the Supper Club. Guests may bring a small quantity of non-alcoholic beverages.

All alcohol, additional quantities of wine/champagne or excessive quantities of non-alcoholic beverages will be confiscated and discarded without compensation. Guests may purchase a variety of beverages on board the ship. Alcoholic beverages will not be sold or served to anyone under the age of 21. We reserve the right to refuse the sale of alcoholic beverages to anyone. Alcoholic beverages purchased in the ship’s gift shops or in ports of call will be retained by Carnival until the end of the voyage.







Answer :
I would definitely check out www.cruisecritic.com!!! I am so addicted to that site!! The have a great message board that has helped me get ready for my cruise on the Fascination! It will be on my first cruise too!! 9/28-10/1. I am so excited!!






Answer :
we went on this ship last year (and we were that age too and newlyweds)and i think its the worst ship carnival has. there is a club called passage to india that is fun and the prime rib is amazing. the ship looked like a shopping mall from the 80s but u do not feel crowded. we played the newlywed game and had a blast. i would also try to do differnt things like the dance classes as a couple. it is a good ship for young people and partiers, but dont use this ship as a guideline to what all carnival ships look like.

also the lobster is small so order two and get a just married cake ordred from the coffee and pastry shop. they are only 8.00 and will feed the 4 of u and they are good.

do not do the unlimited snorkling excusion in cozumel. i would go to the ruins or get a cab to a taxi. downtown is kinda scary too but the shopping is great.

congrats and have fun

How much are soft drinks on Carnival Fascination?

How much are soft drinks on Carnival Fascination?






Answer :
Soft drinks are $1.50 each. You can buy a fountain card, which is priced per-day of your cruise, and it works out to about $5 per day. The price is lower for children.

The fountain card entitles you to unlimited soft drinks. You present the card at the bar, and they will give you one drink. You can only have one at a time, and the cards are not supposed to be shared with other people.






Answer :
soft drinks are included i believe. i was wondering how much alcoholic drinks were...

Carnival fascination first cruise and questions about excursions and stuff.?

we are going to half moon cay and naussa island. this is our first cruise and we just know we want to do snorkling. which island should we do it in. wich excursions are the best and worst. what are some fun things to do on the Fascination for a 15 year old?






Answer :
half moon cay is a beach port. There water is shallow and there isn't much to see in it. It is a great port for just relaxing an floating around in the water. If you want to see alot of fish and corel etc, you should snorkle in nassau. If you can arrange it, try to go on a stuart coves which is not affiliated with the cruise line. Their trips are a blast, esp if you like sharks. If not, there will be a bunch of snorkle trips you can take. They usually take you to a shallow area that isn't very far from the port and most of them go the same place. Your only real decision is whether you want to go with a bunch of people or go on a smaller boat.






Answer :
I've been to Nassau and I know that a possibility is to go to the Atlantis Resort.. (Check into that excursion)..
They've got all kinds of activities available to you..

Carnival Fascination to Key West & Calica--Q on tipping & transfers?

We leave on the Carnival Fascination on September 24, and I have a few questions.

My husband and I are first time cruisers, and this is a late honeymoon for us.

Has anyone ever been on this cruise before? Any advice would be great!

First is tipping. I was told by a fellow cruiser that we should NOT let them automatically take it out of our "account" on the ship, and leave cash in the room. What should we do?

Second is the transfers. We are flying into Fort Lauderdale. From there we are renting a car and driving to Miami the next day. Thrifty told us that we could drop the car off at Miami Airport, and they will shuttle us for free to the port. I thought this was a great way for us to do some sight seeing and save us a buck or two.

But for coming home...Should we take the transfer from Carnival? It's $30 a person. I read on Yahoo Answers that we should just take a taxi???






Answer :
we went on the same exact cruise
ok first off the fort lauderdale airport offers a share a ride for 20 dollars a person and it may be cheaper then renting a car. the share a ride will also be at the port and will pick people up as well i think we paid 15 to go back at the fort lauderdale airport it is right outside the baggage claim. so i would consider that because for 80 dollars u got ur transfers to miami and from the port to the airport. our hotel in miami gave us a shuttle to the port for 5 dollars a person.if ur staying in fort lauderdale the day before i would actually reconsider because it is twenty min away but that twenty minutes is freeway and that can be trouble. or ask ur hotel in fort lauderdale if they offer shuttle to miami
i would not leave the cash in the room for tipping. do it automatic and they will allow u to change it accordingly.
key west is a blast you will have fun. go to eat at sloppy joes and the blonde giraffe for key lime pie and there is some nice shopping on duval street
now the ship im sorry to say is very old and is carnivals worst ship in my opinion. my hubby and i did this for our honeymoon too.it was his first cruise and he said it looked like a shopping mall but it did get him hooked on crusing. they did give a us a cake and sing to us at dinner lol. also do the newlywed game. also at dinner request two lobster dinners and make sure to try the midnight buffets.
the passage to india club is fun live bands every night and there are alot of people that go on this ship in thier twentys and thirtys.the karake club is good too. also the rooms are a good size and the beds are comfy which is good for honeymooners :) have fun






Answer :
i would take off the automatic tipping and tip what you see fit for your waitor, room steward, and room service.
i would weigh the costs of taxi vs. the transfers on returning. $30.00 a person seems relatively inexpensive to me






Answer :
As far as tipping goes, my husband and I have been on quite a few cruises, and we always have them take it out of our account. If at the end of the week, you feel your services didn't meet your expectations, you can have certain ones (such as the waiter or the room steward only) adjusted. We personally have never had to have one of them adjusted down, but a couple times, we have given a litlle extra (handed to the person) in cash if they were exceptional. For example, on our last cruise, our room steward seemed to be always by our room when we were coming back from our excursions or meals, and he would great us by name and open our door for us. He was great with my boys, always joking around with them, and opening the door when they would lock their key in the room. To me, I thought that extra special attention was worth a little extra tip.

As far as the transfer on the way back, it all depends on your preference and time frame. It is about an hour drive from Miami to Ft. Lauderdale. I don't know which is cheaper. I can tell you that both are easy to do. There are always plenty of taxis to take, but make sure you get your price before you get in the cab, or you are stuck with whatever price they give you once you are there. As far as the shuttle, you get a ticket and everyone boards a bus and they shuttle everyone as a group. You need to make sure you have enough time to to use this option (depending on your flight time). Good luck and have a great time.






Answer :
As far as tipping is concerned, it is often better to tip from your room, so you can decide how much to leave. They generally leave you a suggested tipping rate for each employee so you'll know how much to leave. As far as transfers go, a taxi is the quickest way to get to Ft. lauderdale airport but will run you about $60-$70 depending on traffic conditions. So you may save a couple dollars if you decide to take the Carnival transfer






Answer :
Same ship in October 2004, slightly different itinerary.

We find it's easier to let them take tips out. You don't have to worry about having the right amount of change on the last night. Saves a trip to pursers desk to get them removed. We have sometimes tipped cash in addition to the shipboard account and have had issues catching staff because the last night is usually hectic. We never leave cash; rather, we've always handed it to the individual and thanked them.

Couple of transportation options. The rental car agencies will also pick you up at the port. If you have time before your flight, you could sightsee some more and drop the car at the airport.

If you are flying out of MIA, you can get a taxi for $24 (flat rate+tip) from the port. But if it's FLL you're leaving from, a taxi could be more expensive than the shuttle unless there are more than two of you. FWIW, Tri-rail is an inexpensive alternative between MIA and FLL.

Does the Carnival Fascination have a Circle C youth program?

I am going on a cruise in the near future and I can't seem to find the "circle C" group anywhere on the boat. Oddly enough, they have the camp carnival (age 2-11) group and Club 02 (age 15-17) but strangely, there is no Circle C (age 12-14) to be seen anywhere. Does anyone know if this age group program exists and is it currently active on the ship? Best answer goes to whoever can also tell me if they have a ps3 on board (like, in the group [circle C]).






Answer :
hey they do have a circle c
you dont need to worry:D
also they have teen living rooms
sometimes they are remodeling the area
they have ps3's xboxes&rockband

even if its not there look at another ship it will look similar

they have teen programs on everyship
you can also try to meet kids at
-sports areas& by the pool






Answer :
Theres a Circle C on all ships. so yes to answer your question, sometimes the Circle C actual room is being re done or not available. In this case, sometimes the use the disco or a lounge, or share the club 02 room.
oh, the ps3 questions.. Usally they have some type of ps, and/or wii. Theres almost always rockband also.
Hope i helped

What do I need to pack for a 3 day cruise on a cruise carnival fascination?

I am going on a cruise next week and its our firts time. I have no idea what to pack






Answer :
Pants that stretch. Seriously you will eat a lot trust me. Sunscreen, bathing suit, everything you would bring to the pool/beach, compfortable shoes as well, dress outfits for dinner, all of this and your credit card and you should be ok. There will be extra charges if you go on on-shore trips and other things you will want to buy on the cruise. Have fun!






Answer :
Well, one night will be formal, so you need to have a nice dress or suit to wear to that. And maybe a couple of other semi-nice outfits for dinner, but Carnival is fairly casual. If you plan on going to the clubs/bars on board, bring stuff for that. Otherwise, just bring jeans, shirts, etc. Whatever you are comfortable with. Bring some comfortable shoes!!!

Carnival's website should have some guidelines.






Answer :
This is a party cruise. So, pack things you will be comfortable in both in the dining room and in port. Bring a few swimsuits, comfortable shoes, and lots of sunscreen.






Answer :
Pack a lot of warm weather clothes, bathing suit. Some dressy things for dinner and night time. But mostly casual things you want to be comfortable.






Answer :
Here is the link to comprehensive answer about your question:
http://mediterraneancruisevacation.blogspot.com/search/label/Mediterranean%20Cruise%20Packing%20List

I found it when I'm searching with yahoo. The article is discussing about what you should bring along your cruise. It is a 3 series article. If you want to check out the site's main page here is the link:
http://mediterraneancruisevacation.blogspot.com

Hope my answer could help you.

Does the Carnival Fascination have mini bars in the rooms?

I am going in a couple weeks and need to know because I am bringing on a bottle of wine. I have an ocean view room too.






Answer :
You can't bring your own alcohol on board. They search you,

Has anyone gotten married on a Carnival cruise? Specifically the Ship Fascination?

We're getting married on the Carnival Fascination in February 2009...I've been on many Carnival cruises...but this was years ago...Just looking for some information/tips///






Answer :
Carnival is the party ship so... don't have too much fun!

(i've never been married on a ship)

Is the carnival fascination dance friendly and does it provide a fun atmosphere for a 21st birthday.?

I am thinking of going on a cruise next spring for my 21st birthday. I am wondering what kind of bars are on the carnival fascination. Are there karaoke, dance clubs, etc? Can anyone recommend something that would be fun like this?

I just found out I have to have someone over 25 in the room with me because I won't be 21 when I board the ship . :(






Answer :
The bars weren't actually in rooms on the Fascination. They're everywhere. One's in the middle of the main floor, Empress. There's one by the pool, one by the pizzeria, and I think in the restaurants and a few other places too. They're just islands on the cruise.

There are also all sorts of dance clubs. At night, I was up on the pool deck, and they had some big dance thing, and a lot of activities. Check out Carnival Capers every day for a list of all their activities!

At 21, you can do basically anything - go to the spa, casino, shows, etc. There are also lessons and stuff too.

Carnical Fascination is a fun atmosphere for anyone. Have fun!






Answer :
Yes but make sure you don't set sail until after your 21. Cruises set your age by how old you are on the date you set sail so ifyou turn 21 on the cruise, they still won't let you drink. All passengers in the cabin must be over 21 or you have to have someone over 25 to book the cabin.

However the legal part being said, Carnival is a great place for a 21st. There are lots of clubs. Some do kareoke or the ship will have a kareoke contest, some bars are quiet and reclusive and some are the noisy nightclub that you'd expect anywhere. A larger ship averages like 10 bars so you'll have lots of choices.

PS- Club 02 you are too old for. That's part of Camp Carnival, for 15-17 yos.







Answer :
Happy Birthday! I just booked on the Fascination today as well. Not sure if you have been on other Carnival cruises before or not, but, they all have some type of dance club, Club O2 (with music our generation listens to), also the last cruise I was on Carnival Holiday, they had karaoke almost every night around 11 or so, and there were many many bars with different themes, like cocktail lounge, sports bar, and outside pool bars.

""Eight different bars & lounges, teenage nightclub, and excellent live entertainment held thru out the cruise""

Congrats and have fun on your cruise!







Answer :
You'll have a great time on Carnival, I take a few cruises per year and the most recent was Carnival 3 months ago. It was a blast!! There were a lot of young people around your age on board. We went to the club every night and danced until closing. So have fun!! "Put your hands in the ayer ..Oh hot dam. This is my jam. Keep me partying to the AM.