Just off the Fantasy!! 12-7 thru 12-12

[tucho]

First off, I consider myself a veteran Carnival cruiser, have Platinum statist been cruising since the 80’s. Only with Carnival the last 15 years. This review is just to express my opinion with the Fantasy and the last few cruises we’ve done with Carnival. This trip in general ranks towards the bottom of all the other cruises we have taken, 96% of it has nothing to do with the ship, crew or staff, staff maybe. Second time cruising out of Charleston, you get the sense that city doesn’t like the ship there. Embarkation was as before, little confusing. We were dropped off by our daughter that lives there, you’re literary drop off at the front of the terminal building on the street about 100 yards away, porter takes your bags, you have to get on a bus, wait for it to fill and drive you 30 seconds to the front of actual building for check in. We could have walked this faster with our bags, still don’t get this process? Forgot to mention arrived around 11:30, after the bus ordeal, check in took about 30 minutes. Weather was also a big disappointment. Cold on embarkation mid 50’s, better then back home in Michigan 30’s!! Chilly the entire cruise, with one complete rain day while in Freeport. Fellow cruisers were using the beach towels more like blankets while trying to get some sun on deck. The Fantasy, for being the oldest ship in the fleet ( I think ) she still is in good shape, some areas look a little worn, but nothing to ruin a cruise over. She doesn’t have all the bells and whistles like the newer ships, it’s over 20 years old! First time we tried anytime dining, for me it was alright, usually we’re early sitting, when showing up around the 6:00 pm we had 8 to 12 minute wait in line, asked for the same section as the first day since we liked the service the first day wasn’t a problem. Service and food in the dining room was good, nothing over the top, but better than fair. One bad meal, don’t order the pork loin, little tough and dry, least mine was. Here’s my nick picking on the staff or room Stewart. First day noticed I didn’t have that nice little stainless steel ice bucket, ask the Stewart about it, well never received one. Went to one of the bars and got one of the beer buckets, worked just as well. In Freeport took our room beach towels to the beach, got wet that day without going in the water:mad:. Anyway on return, left the towels on the bathroom floor. After he made up the room they weren’t replaced, waited till the next morning nothing. Had to personally ask to get replacements. After the Nassau stop same thing, told myself the heck with it get the towels at the towel hut on Lido. Nothing to get upset about to ruin the cruise. Entertainment, went to only one production show, was enjoyable, we liked going to the comedy shows, seems like that is a big hit on board, very crowned even the late shows both comedians very funny. Casino staff was very friendly, while playing and chatting with one of the pit bosses bought the table around of drinks.:) Wish I could say the same about the tables. Overall very enjoyable trip for being on short notice while visiting our daughter before the holidays. Weather could have been better. Hope Charleston embraces Carnival nicer and figures out a better terminal configuration.

[CatgirlNC]

I agree with you about the Charleston port!

[Butterbean1000]

Our daughter also lives in Charleston. We cruised on the Fantasy a few years ago on very short notice. Like you, it was our least favorite cruise. Embarkation sounds the same. I am really surprised they have not improved this over the last few years. We missed our balcony room. The food on Lido was not good. It was never hot, just warm. We ate a lot of pizza, salads and sandwiches. The crew was very attentive and the ship was kept clean. I won't say we'll never sail Fantasy again since it is so convenient to our home and daughter, but I hope Charleston gets a newer ship soon.

[my2monkees]

Embarkation can not change until they get new terminal. With all the lawsuits they are now back to step 1 on getting terminal. Hopefully the old bitties (oh sorry - the historical society) will allow the plans to move forward

[CrusingGolfers]

I live 1 hour north of Charleston and we drive 9-11 hours to Tampa, PC, Miami, or FLL to cruise. Charleston is one of my favorite cities in the world but they need to get over this whole cruise port thing. I can guarantee you that the people in the straw market would kill for bigger ships and more ships. It is the way they make a living.

[missdebi]

We have been on the Fantasy several times--love the ship love Charleston and really do not have issues with the embarkation process-it is what it is! Some stewards are better than others we have been on 18 cruises and have had a couple really bad ones but....my room was keep clean and I addressed the issues with guest services.

[tucho]

Enjoyed reading the comments and responses. Talking to some of the local passengers with us they mention about lawsuits. Don’t know how true they are, but the old-bitties ( historical society ) didn’t like the way the ship blocked their harbor view once every 5 to 7 days for those 8 hours and the smoke coming out of the funnel would make people sick. Really!!

[etwright]

Looking forward to our cruise on the Fantasy in 13 days! :cool::D:cool:

[Sunshinecrew]

First, I am a cruiser. I have sailed on the Fantasy from Charleston though it was quite some time ago when Carnival offered one night cruises to "nowhere." I am considering cruising again this year on The Fantasy from Charleston. I visited this site as I could think of no better place to read reviews from those who have cruised on the Fantasy recently. Unfortunately, as one who resides just blocks from the cruise terminal in the historic district of Charleston, I didn't expect to find such inaccurate information written as fact and the mocking of dedicated preservationists whose efforts over the years have made Charleston the beautiful city it is today!

 

FYI, Charleston doesn't have a "straw market" nor does it have a "historical society." The "old-bitties" comments are beneath contempt.

 

The Historic Charleston Foundation and The Preservation Society of Charleston South Carolina are made up of members of all ages and both genders and rather than declare their motives perhaps one would be better served to read their accomplishments, mission, and also their actual concerns over the current and future cruise terminal at:

 

historiccharleston.org

 

preservationsociety.org

 

One of the biggest issues, at least as far as I am concerned and seems to be often spoken and written of, is that the Fantasy sits there burning its diesel fuel, rather than use shore power. The concern is the cost to our environment and our architectural historic structures. The "fight" is not so much about not wanting any cruise ships but where the new terminal is to be built and how many and what size ships are to be permitted and under what environmental terms and conditions.

 

Another note, the current terminal is outdated and does not meet post 9/11 facility requirements thus the additional security measure that passengers be bused in to the terminal when indeed it would seem so much quicker and easier to just walk up! Frustrating but just one of those necessary things.

 

Now I'll go back to reading. Just had to clear that up. :rolleyes:

[missdebi]

First, I am a cruiser. I have sailed on the Fantasy from Charleston though it was quite some time ago when Carnival offered one night cruises to "nowhere." I am considering cruising again this year on The Fantasy from Charleston. I visited this site as I could think of no better place to read reviews from those who have cruised on the Fantasy recently. Unfortunately, as one who resides just blocks from the cruise terminal in the historic district of Charleston, I didn't expect to find such inaccurate information written as fact and the mocking of dedicated preservationists whose efforts over the years have made Charleston the beautiful city it is today!

 

 

 

FYI, Charleston doesn't have a "straw market" nor does it have a "historical society." The "old-bitties" comments are beneath contempt.

 

 

 

The Historic Charleston Foundation and The Preservation Society of Charleston South Carolina are made up of members of all ages and both genders and rather than declare their motives perhaps one would be better served to read their accomplishments, mission, and also their actual concerns over the current and future cruise terminal at:

 

 

 

historiccharleston.org

 

 

 

preservationsociety.org

 

 

 

One of the biggest issues, at least as far as I am concerned and seems to be often spoken and written of, is that the Fantasy sits there burning its diesel fuel, rather than use shore power. The concern is the cost to our environment and our architectural historic structures. The "fight" is not so much about not wanting any cruise ships but where the new terminal is to be built and how many and what size ships are to be permitted and under what environmental terms and conditions.

 

 

 

Another note, the current terminal is outdated and does not meet post 9/11 facility requirements thus the additional security measure that passengers be bused in to the terminal when indeed it would seem so much quicker and easier to just walk up! Frustrating but just one of those necessary things.

 

 

 

Now I'll go back to reading. Just had to clear that up. :rolleyes:

 

 

 

I have cruised on the Fantasy several times and I agree that the cruise terminal does need to be moved so that it does not dock where it blocks views of this beautiful city. But isn't the Foundation really - honestly- trying to block a new terminal? If it was moved up the Ashley River in the port area that would alleviate the congestion and visual issues but it seems they keep having issues with each step of the process. As far as using shore power I will have to defer that discussion to those in the know. But I can see where sitting for that many hours would creat issues with black dust.

 

No they do not have a "straw" market by definition but there is a market that prides itself in the handmade sweetgrass baskets. This market has a strong history and is a delight to walk through. I think this is why it is referred to has the Straw Market.

 

And as far as the Fantasy we love her...great crew, love the "smaller" ships, nice relaxing atmosphere.

[CrusingGolfers]

First, I am a cruiser. I have sailed on the Fantasy from Charleston though it was quite some time ago when Carnival offered one night cruises to "nowhere." I am considering cruising again this year on The Fantasy from Charleston. I visited this site as I could think of no better place to read reviews from those who have cruised on the Fantasy recently. Unfortunately, as one who resides just blocks from the cruise terminal in the historic district of Charleston, I didn't expect to find such inaccurate information written as fact and the mocking of dedicated preservationists whose efforts over the years have made Charleston the beautiful city it is today!

 

FYI, Charleston doesn't have a "straw market" nor does it have a "historical society." The "old-bitties" comments are beneath contempt.

 

The Historic Charleston Foundation and The Preservation Society of Charleston South Carolina are made up of members of all ages and both genders and rather than declare their motives perhaps one would be better served to read their accomplishments, mission, and also their actual concerns over the current and future cruise terminal at:

 

historiccharleston.org

 

preservationsociety.org

 

One of the biggest issues, at least as far as I am concerned and seems to be often spoken and written of, is that the Fantasy sits there burning its diesel fuel, rather than use shore power. The concern is the cost to our environment and our architectural historic structures. The "fight" is not so much about not wanting any cruise ships but where the new terminal is to be built and how many and what size ships are to be permitted and under what environmental terms and conditions.

 

Another note, the current terminal is outdated and does not meet post 9/11 facility requirements thus the additional security measure that passengers be bused in to the terminal when indeed it would seem so much quicker and easier to just walk up! Frustrating but just one of those necessary things.

 

Now I'll go back to reading. Just had to clear that up. :rolleyes:

 

 

I'm sorry for the confusion. I go to Charleston's "not" straw market several times a year and I guess I get confused since all the people working there call it the Straw Market. Also those same people tell a very different story than you tell about the cruise port and the problems the locals are giving.

 

Nothing wrong with the Fantasy from what I've heard. Just hope that Charleston gets it together and brings in new ships to help the locals.

[Scrapenthusiast]

We were on this cruise as well. I thought it was okay overall. I wasn't expecting so much movement. Granted, I've never been on a ship this small but it really never stopped rocking and rolling the entire time. The food wasn't as good on this cruise imo. But the people on the ship were great. We met some very nice couples throughout the week and the staff was very friendly. I think we have decided that we prefer a bit of a larger ship. We did miss not having the steakhouse as an option. And ordering the steakhouse selections just wasn't the same as having the full steakhouse experience to us. The ship seemed to have an odor to in in the cabin hallways or maybe it was just ours. We were on deck 7 empress. We only had an oceanview and the bathroom seemed smaller for some reason. I felt that the cabin was kind of grimy too, in that it could've used a deep cleaning. But overall we still had a pretty good time, and made the best of the week. I thought the Motor City show was really good, and I loved the interactive aspect of it at the end of the show. The comedians were great, but yes if you didn't get there early it was standing room early. We got there early each time we went, but The Forum where it is held seemed like a makeshift room for it. The embarkation process is bizarre and the little terminal that you go through to get on the ship seems like it was an after thought. The debark process was great, we loved how quickly we were able to get off the ship on the last morning. Still felt kind of silly to take a shuttle across to the parking garage, but whatever we were happy to be heading out. All in all we wouldn't sail this ship again.

Edited December 15, 2014 by Scrapenthusiast

[Sunshinecrew]

I'm sorry for the confusion. I go to Charleston's "not" straw market several times a year and I guess I get confused since all the people working there call it the Straw Market. Also those same people tell a very different story than you tell about the cruise port and the problems the locals are giving.

 

Nothing wrong with the Fantasy from what I've heard. Just hope that Charleston gets it together and brings in new ships to help the locals.

 

Sorry, I've never heard anyone refer to Charleston's City Market as "The Straw Market," much less "ALL the people working there" and I live a block and a half from it and my husband wholesales to its vendors so we know and talk to many vendors and shop owners there and throughout Charleston, Mt Pleasant and the beaches. Many tourists, however, do refer to it as "The Slave Market" thinking slaves were sold there. Not true, it was a food and meat market at that time. That's one of the first things the tour guides tell visitors. Most people I know just say "The Market."

 

If you would but read the sites given or Google the issue from the preservationists' point of view, you might learn that a study conducted concluded that cruisers spend one tenth the tourist dollars in the city of Charleston versus other tourists to the area. Vendors in the market tell us that they do not make much money from The Fantasy cruisers. That is because it is a embarkation and disembarkation port for that ship. They do, however, receive more business from other cruise ships which stop here as a destination visit. Unfortunately, the city of Charleston does not realize that much revenue from the cruise ships overall and the negative effects on the environment and our historic preservation efforts are of more concern to those of us who care dearly about Charleston. I can say that as one of a family who earns money from tourist dollars, including from the City Market area! Sometimes it's just not all about the money!

 

And once again, I will state, it's NOT a matter of not having ANY cruise ships but WHERE the NEW terminal will be built and how many and what size ships will be visiting and under what conditions (shore power versus burning diesel fuel as they sit at berth, etc). The use of local suppliers is another issue. You'd be surprised at how few are reportedly used by Carnival. The share of revenue received by the States Port Authority versus the City of Charleston seems to be another issue. This isn't as someone suggested, only about "old-bitties" worried about their view being blocked and getting sick though "sick" is a pretty good reason if it exists.

 

From what I understand, we're just not realizing what you think we are from this industry as it exists today. That is what is in need of working out. I implore you to read and learn about your area as it is your city as well.

 

Meanwhile I love to cruise! I might even enjoy cruising on The Fantasy which is why I came here to read! Just hope others will keep an open mind, love our city and appreciate what has gone into preserving it as it is today and share our concern about what it will take to preserve it for future generations while allowing for growth, modernization and even cruising from our port!

[uncleg]

Its not really the locals who are the hold up on a new terminal, its a handful of "blue bloods" in the area who have the $$ to delay this as long as they can, most are not even locals, the locals were taxed out of the city years ago, also included in the mix is an "environmentalist" who makes big $$ causing grief for any development in the low country. As all of have seen the location of current terminal is nothing but an unattractive parking lot with deteriorating buildings, it used to be used for shipping container storage, the neighborhood around is a mix of business/homes and abandoned buildings. They complain of pollution from the ship, the ship is there just to embark and disembark, there is no way it can be any worse than the diesel fumes spewing from the empty CARTA buses that serve as public transport in area. The property is owned by SPA, but Blue bloods want it turned into their own personal waterfront park, cuz heaven forbid a tourist show up:eek: . I live locally out of the downtown area, could not afford to live there if i wanted to, and enjoy being less than an hour from cruise port. all things considered the port does a good job with what it has to work with. Just venting some, but someday i know we will have a first class port and hopefully different ships to choose from, that being said i do love the Fantasy.

[cruzeluver]

Its not really the locals who are the hold up on a new terminal, its a handful of "blue bloods" in the area who have the $$ to delay this as long as they can, most are not even locals, the locals were taxed out of the city years ago, also included in the mix is an "environmentalist" who makes big $$ causing grief for any development in the low country. As all of have seen the location of current terminal is nothing but an unattractive parking lot with deteriorating buildings, it used to be used for shipping container storage, the neighborhood around is a mix of business/homes and abandoned buildings. They complain of pollution from the ship, the ship is there just to embark and disembark, there is no way it can be any worse than the diesel fumes spewing from the empty CARTA buses that serve as public transport in area. The property is owned by SPA, but Blue bloods want it turned into their own personal waterfront park, cuz heaven forbid a tourist show up:eek: . I live locally out of the downtown area, could not afford to live there if i wanted to, and enjoy being less than an hour from cruise port. all things considered the port does a good job with what it has to work with. Just venting some, but someday i know we will have a first class port and hopefully different ships to choose from, that being said i do love the Fantasy.

 

Agreed! A lot of these so-called "preservationists" moved to Charleston from up north and want to treat the historic district like a museum and not a real, working city. There was no complaining about cruise ships until Carnival showed up. NCL sailed out of Charleston for years without any issue and Celebrity sailed from here occasionally.

[Sunshinecrew]

I have cruised on the Fantasy several times and I agree that the cruise terminal does need to be moved so that it does not dock where it blocks views of this beautiful city. But isn't the Foundation really - honestly- trying to block a new terminal? If it was moved up the Ashley River in the port area that would alleviate the congestion and visual issues but it seems they keep having issues with each step of the process. As far as using shore power I will have to defer that discussion to those in the know. But I can see where sitting for that many hours would creat issues with black dust.

 

No they do not have a "straw" market by definition but there is a market that prides itself in the handmade sweetgrass baskets. This market has a strong history and is a delight to walk through. I think this is why it is referred to has the Straw Market.

 

And as far as the Fantasy we love her...great crew, love the "smaller" ships, nice relaxing atmosphere.

 

Indeed there are many residents and preservationists who are opposed entirely to cruise ships docking on the peninsula and the associations were trying to block a new terminal being built downtown preferring a new terminal, if any, be built in North Charleston near or at the old Navy yard. While appeals have volleyed back and forth in the legal system, as it stands now, the city's plan is for the new terminal to be built at the end of Union Pier. The City Market is going to expand across East Bay to Concord Street, the street along the waterfront. The neighborhood associations and preservationist groups are still working to appeal but at best I suspect they realize it's a battle in the end over where and conditions.

 

I've been here a very long time and as I said in another post, we personally sell to market vendors and shop owners and I have never heard the market referred to as "The Straw Market." Never. "The Straw Market" is in Nassau. Our sweetgrass baskets are made from a marsh grass called "sweetgrass," bull rush, pine needles and sometimes palm. They are very lovely, unique and a tradition I hope we don't lose as new generations come along.

 

I'm sorry, I hate to be so argumentative but as one who wanders these streets overhearing peoples' comments and misrepresentations daily, every now and then I just have to take the opportunity to try to clear up misconceptions. Not that big a deal, call our market what you will. View the cruise concerns as you choose. I would plead for open minds and study of all the issues, however. :)

[Butterbean1000]

Why do we have to label people who have a differing opinion? I find the terms old biddies and blue bloods rather tacky. Just FYI, my daughter who lives blocks from the port in a historic old house is all for expanding the port.

Edited December 15, 2014 by Butterbean1000

[sanmarcosman]

Why do we have to label people who have a differing opinion? I find the terms old biddies and blue bloods rather tacky. Just FYI, my daughter who lives blocks from the port in a historic old house is all for expanding the port.

 

and thank you for not calling them bitties, as in itsy bitties :)

[Sunshinecrew]

Why do we have to label people who have a differing opinion? I find the terms old biddies and blue bloods rather tacky. Just FYI, my daughter who lives blocks from the port in a historic old house is all for expanding the port.

 

Thank you. I agree. Labeling people who are concerned for Charleston's environment, historic architecture and other issues surrounding the controversy as "old-bitties" and "blue bloods" IS uncalled for. I find it hard to understand why some people on the Internet find themselves talking to others in a manner that they probably never would face to face! Brings out the worst in some of them.

 

Small world! Your daughter might just be my neighbor!

Edited December 15, 2014 by Sunshinecrew

[Sunshinecrew]

Its not really the locals who are the hold up on a new terminal, its a handful of "blue bloods" in the area who have the $$ to delay this as long as they can, most are not even locals, the locals were taxed out of the city years ago, also included in the mix is an "environmentalist" who makes big $$ causing grief for any development in the low country. As all of have seen the location of current terminal is nothing but an unattractive parking lot with deteriorating buildings, it used to be used for shipping container storage, the neighborhood around is a mix of business/homes and abandoned buildings. They complain of pollution from the ship, the ship is there just to embark and disembark, there is no way it can be any worse than the diesel fumes spewing from the empty CARTA buses that serve as public transport in area. The property is owned by SPA, but Blue bloods want it turned into their own personal waterfront park, cuz heaven forbid a tourist show up:eek: . I live locally out of the downtown area, could not afford to live there if i wanted to, and enjoy being less than an hour from cruise port. all things considered the port does a good job with what it has to work with. Just venting some, but someday i know we will have a first class port and hopefully different ships to choose from, that being said i do love the Fantasy.

 

Are you kidding? Last time they pricked my finger my blood was red! :)

 

And here I was under the impression that Charleston already has a place called "Waterfront Park." I enjoy it as my own personal park right along with all the other residents and tourists alike!

 

As a matter of fact, The Charleston Metro Chamber of Commerce Economic Outlook Forecast for the 2014 Visitor Industry was that 1,652,423 people would attend area attractions! And that was before Conde Nast Traveler readers voted Charleston the number one city in the US for the fourth year in a row! Indeed, "heaven forbid "A" tourist show up. Chuckle.

 

Seriously, I doubt anyone in Charleston does not understand that tourism is vital to our local economy. However, the historic district is a small peninsula area that is becoming over-congested at times. Some measures are needed for all to have a quality experience, visitors, workers and residents alike. Should we do nothing? Surely not. The mayor has established a 22 person Tourism Management Plan Advisory Committee to study the issues. We'll see what comes of it.

 

Pollution in Charleston exists. The exact cause of the black gritty residue on my own outside window sills I can not say as I have not had such studies conducted. I suspect there are a number of contributors, cruise ships included. Personally, I would prefer they use shore power just as I am happy that CARTA is aware that they have to expand their use of green vehicles system wide.

 

Just venting some.

Edited December 15, 2014 by Sunshinecrew

[Sunshinecrew]

Agreed! A lot of these so-called "preservationists" moved to Charleston from up north and want to treat the historic district like a museum and not a real, working city. There was no complaining about cruise ships until Carnival showed up. NCL sailed out of Charleston for years without any issue and Celebrity sailed from here occasionally.

 

Raising my hand! I'm proud to be a "so called preservationist." I'm not from up north. Born and bred right here in the south. I recognize that the historic district of Charleston is both a museum and a real working city as well as the home to many, including me.

 

Please join us in doing all that we can to help preserve and conserve these beautiful lands, waterways, this city and life that we have inherited for ourselves, visitors (cruisers included) and future generations! Everyone should be a "preservationist" and a "conservationist"! We'll toast to that on the deck of The Fantasy if she lives to see her new terminal, un-plugs from shore power, and sails off into Charleston Harbor and the Atlantic Ocean taking us to wonderful fun-filled sunny destinations!

[FlorenceItaly]

Does the Fantasy have a dedicated Salad Bar area? We leave tomorrow. Thanks.

[missdebi]

Does the Fantasy have a dedicated Salad Bar area? We leave tomorrow. Thanks.

 

 

Yes it does...it is in the middle of the Lido buffet area.

[FlorenceItaly]

Yes it does...it is in the middle of the Lido buffet area.

 

 

Thank you!

[nc762shooter]

Sunshinecrew do you know why the city doesn't want to locate the new terminal closer to the navy yard? It seems like it would help crowding as far as embarkation/debarkation goes. I can understand from a tourism aspect why that isn't desirable since passengers wouldn't be right at downtown, but having cruised out of Charleston a few times I can see how passengers aren't a huge source of tourism dollars. We live near Charlotte and it's no problem to drive down the morning of embarkation and then drive straight home after the cruise, therefore we don't spend much time or money in the city. I imagine a fair number of other cruisers are the same way. Not that we don't want to visit Charleston, just that living so close we don't feel the need to squeeze in seeing the city with our cruise, we make visiting the city itself its own trip!

 

As for cruise ships stopping in Charleston as a destination, Union Pier is obviously a much better location than the navy yard for proximity to the historical district and downtown, too bad it couldn't be used only for those ships with a new terminal near the navy yard.