coondog99

We were on a fully booked Mardi Gras before Christmas and the only time it felt crowded was at peak times for the Red Frog Tiki bar, Guy's and Shaq's. The rest of the time it seemed like we weren't on a big ship. Surprisingly enough, there was always lots of deck seating as well.

We just did this exact thing while on the Mardi Gras as we had booked two cabins: a balcony for my wife and I/ an inside cabin for our two sons and two of their friends. Our PVP placed my wife in our second cabin instead to get a better VIFP offer. Once on board, we went to guest services later on in the embarkation day to avoid a huge line. Mind you, we still had to wait 30 minutes. The guest services agent switched my wife into our balcony room without any question. My son and her received new Sign and Sail cards and all was good.

Another great review, Sid! Love your viewpoint of the cruise, unique photos, and witty comments.

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"Despacito" (the song title that translates to "slowly") was also used to highlight and criticize the slow United States response to the destruction at La Perla caused by Hurricanes Irma and Maria, where the video was filmed. The National Park Service assisted the few residents of La Perla with tarps soon afterwards~wiki

If you like beaches and shopping....St Maarten If you like history and food....San Juan

At what point of the cruise, could you book this?

Do you still have to rent those chairs? The last time I was on that beach was in March of 2019 and the chairs were almost up to the water's edge. Looks like things have changed. Your review is fantastic. The variety of your photos and you witty comments make it interesting. Looking forward to boarding the MG on 12/17!

Our group of six is booked on the Carnival Mardi Gras for a Dec 17th departure with our rental vehicle is being dropped at the Port Can Enterprise location that morning. Currently debating these options: 1) Drop rental and all of us taking Enterprise shuttle to terminal. 2) Dropping 5 of us/ luggage at cruise terminal then myself goes to drop vehicle and taking shuttle. 3) As above but Uber or taxi instead of shuttle Any advice or insight??

We've been to both with the last time being in 2019. I had heard a lot about Jack's Shack so we made the 5 minute walk down the beach to it. We honestly thought it was overated, expensive, and filthy. The bathroom was disgusting and the service was horrendous. If you want some solace, their beach area is quieter and away from the cruise area. It's essentially a no frills shack on the beach. Won't be going back. 4/ 10 Margaritaville has the resort type feel. Large pool, swim up and stand up bars, food but expensive as well. Lot's of chairs inside and out and still close to the beach. Has a party atmosphere and some island vibe. 8/10

Our Dec 22nd flowrider excursion was cancelled by Carnival without a reason. Anyone have insight into why?

Happened to our 12/ 17 MG itinerary as well. We won't be doing too much in Nassau considering that there are international travel advisories in place.

Some rental car companies have drop offs in Port Canaveral/ Cocoa Beach eg Enterprise, but others do not. Some that do have drop offs also have shuttles to and from the cruise terminal.. Best for you to do a mock one way booking from MCO to there and see what your options are.

Great review. It felt like I was there! Cruising on the MG Dec 17th. Can't wait!

Here's a good resource and an option.... Food & Drink Menus (2022) - Saint Greg's Travels (saintgregtravel.com)

What's the earliest appointment options for ship embarkation for non diamond or platinum cruisers?