Carnival Vista. Hits and Misses on the Last Med

[seannyice81]

Hey everyone!

 

I'm currently on the 8-9 hour flight from Barcelona to Washington (DC). Overall, I had an amazing time in the Mediterranean with my mom and we will cherish the memories forever.

 

Before I get carried away with my thoughts on things, I want to let those of you who read my blog know that I will not be providing a complete trip review here. I will also be doing coverage of my time there in a different format as well on my website. The gist of it is that it's very hard to dedicate the time to the reviews. That said, I will be going over some of the details for you below, at least for the time being.

 

Ok...

 

Let's start with the 135,000 ton gorilla in the room, Carnival Vista.

 

I would absolutely love to tell you I loved the ship. I will say that I liked it, but that's saying much, so...

 

Carnival Vista

HITS

-Seemingly endless amounts of food choices for dining at any time on ship.

-Pig and Anchor opened for 2nd Sea Day

-FLICK stage show best they've had in a while

-Handwash stations everywhere

-Havana Deck awesome and live music good too

-Smaller cloud 9 spa than Dream Class still very, nice.

-floor space of bathroom seems larger (might not be technically).

-Massive Serenity Deck

-Kaleido-slide great!

-Sky-Ride is fun!

-The outdoor dining on deck 5 was great!

-Shower temp fluctuated less

-More outlets (hallelujah!!!) including 2 USBs.

 

MISSES

-The ship generally seemed to be lacking the character of the other ships I've been on. Decor (while not a big issue) was very subdued. There are just about zero interesting details.

-even with LCD funnels, Main lobby VERY underwhelming and lacking the "ooo and ahhh" feeling of other ships.

-The main theater only spans 2 decks and there are much fewer good seats as a result. The sight lines from most of the upper balcony are poor due to the lack of pitch. The lower floor is now flat because it serves as a dance floor and stage as well (on occasion). No tables for drinks and the removable chairs make for less accessible passage between rows. IF YOU WANT A GOOD SEAT, ARRIVE EARLY!

-Almost all interior cabins are now down to two closets from 3. There are no drawers on the desk other than for the hair dryer. The drawers and safe are now in one of the closets.

-counter space is reduced in the bathrooms

-corridor and staircase carpet easily stained and replaced twice during our cruise.

-Those of you who miss the table cloths will be displeased with the tables. They're not the beautiful wood of those in older ships, but they look like the laminate tables you'd find in public schools.

-A lot less whirlpools than Dream Class

-The forward elevators require pushing ALL the call buttons if you want one. This is because they all go to separate amounts of floors. If you push one button, you will be waiting a while in likelihood. This ALSO means that if you're in an elevator you will stop at more floors because people had to push all the call buttons.

 

Food was a mixed bag.

-Blue Iguana (b.fast & lunch) OK

-Guy's Burgers YUM!

-Pig & Anchor OK

-Ji-Ji's (lunch) MEH'

-Bonsai (dinner) YUM!

-Steakhouse OK (they mixed our food up)

-Shake Shack OK

-Lido Marketplace OK

-Reflections MDR OK

 

Bar service was average, but drinks were good. I wanted the new shark cups for friend's kids, but they had run out a while ago.

 

To summarize, Vista is the best of Breeze and Sunshine without the character and ambience. I give it a 7 out of 10.

 

In ship experience, it ranks lower.

1- Liberty

2- Breeze

3- Pride

4- Victory

5- Splendor

6- Vista

7- Glory

8- Valor (pre 2.0)

 

Now, the cruise.

 

This was my first time in Europe, period. Europe itself...AMAZING!

 

If you are considering a cruise in Europe, I highly recommend you do so. It was wonderful aside from a few things I miscalculated on my own behalf. Here are some tips I have for those thinking of going or interested if Horizon sails there.

 

-DON'T plan too much in one day. There is so much to see and you will not be able to cram everything in and be satisfied with all the bits and pieces of the day. Example: in Naples, we booked the Positano, Sorrento, and Pompeii tour. We had to be up early and arrived back after our Early Dining seat time. In between, we saw lots of cool things and places, but we were rushed through all of it. I would MUCH rather have spent the whole day in Positano. You see what I'm saying? Focus on doing something you really want to experience so that you aren't rushed and can enjoy it to the fullest. You will want to come back no matter.

 

-The Roma/Gypsies are less of an issue as the tourist season winds-down or if the weather is less ideal. I do recommend anti theft articles of clothing or bags, but I had no issues in my regular pants. I tended to blend in with locals when not using my camera.

 

- The locals (especially the Italians) are more skinny, have nicer hair, wear tighter clothes, and smoke a lot more openly. They also won't get out of your way. Get used to it.

 

-They don't really accept the US Dollar like places in the Caribbean so don't expect it. Bring or source an appropriate amount of Euros needed for the amount of time you'll be there. There was one lady quite taken-aback by them not accepting her $ in Rhodes.

 

-More people speak better English than you'd think. Don't try local languages unless you are very proficient. They'll know you're a foreigner and speak English to you anyways.

 

-Pizza in Italy really is as good as you think. Make sure you have some, especially in Or around Naples. It is thin crust in most cases. Same applies to Mousakka and Souvlaki in Greece.

 

-Everyone is fascinated by our politics (especially our S* show of an election). Be prepared to discuss it a little.

 

-The ship would generally arrive 7-8am with tours following soon after. This was not a cruise to sleep-in. Occasionally longer tours would get you back after Early Dining seat time. Those with Early would frequently miss sail-away too. Anytime Dining was truly the best.

 

-Those of you with mobility issues with face some difficulty. Cities are older, more narrow, and have been built on top of one another. There will be many stairs to climb, less elevators than you'd think, and a lot of walking/standing. Bring comfy shoes, a cane, or whatever you might need to make things easier for you. The ships will try to have an accessible tour for you, but it's probably not going to be that great in this part of the world.

 

-Toilet seats are not that common. Yes, you read that right. Many public restrooms toilets lack their seats, especially in more private or secluded areas. Ladies and Men's rooms. Mostly nicer establishments or popular tourist spots have them. Don't count on them.

 

-Hop on, Hop off buses are great for tours. They are not great for getting to and from airports.

 

-Reserve tickets or passes in advance. The Accademia in Florence, where the statue of David is, or the Sagrada Familia in Barcelona have very, very, long lines.

 

Cruising Carnival in the Med was an experience in its self. Being geared more towards the Caribbean, they would often be playing reggae in the public areas with scenes of Jamaica on the big screen. A little more European style or flair would have been nicer. As stated in other places, Guest Services or the Casino will not exchange currency for you.

 

One issue I began having was the staff focusing on the trams-Atlantic well before our cruise was ending. You got the sense the cruise was the red-headed step child after a while. Attitudes, focus, and service included.

 

Overall, we will think of this trip for some time. I just don't know that I would give Carnival another chance for a future Med sailing with all the other lines that serve the region (and many seemingly doing it better). Truth be told, I might favor a land vacation so I can spend as much time in places as I choose. We'll see what the future brings.

 

If you have any questions, I'll be happy to answer!

Edited October 22, 2016 by seannyice81

[louanne93]

Thanks so much! You have answered so many questions for me. I appreciate your breakdown in ships!

[aztekpm]

Thanks for the quick review, although not big, you gave a lot of good advice!

 

I'm with you too, Liberty is still my favourite ship I've sailed... there's just something about her!

[les37b]

Thanks for your review.

 

Two things..... I'm surprised you didn't mention VAT and Carnivals refusal to sell you Cheers. (Assuming you do drink ... or enough to warrant buying.)

 

And picking up on one thing:

 

"Toilet seats are not that common. Yes, you read that right. Many public restrooms toilets lack their seats, especially in more private or secluded areas. Ladies and Men's rooms. Mostly nicer establishments or popular tourist spots have them. Don't count on them."

 

I'm shocked to hear that. I cant say I went into too many loo's when I've been on the med on a cruise, but I've never once found that. I think you must just have been unlucky 'cos I certainly don't think that's the norm.

[mirp]

Great overview. Thank you.

 

 

Sent from my iPhone using Forums

[seannyice81]

Thanks for your review.

 

Two things..... I'm surprised you didn't mention VAT and Carnivals refusal to sell you Cheers. (Assuming you do drink ... or enough to warrant buying.)

 

I'm shocked to hear that. I cant say I went into too many loo's when I've been on the med on a cruise, but I've never once found that. I think you must just have been unlucky 'cos I certainly don't think that's the norm.

 

This seemed to be more of an issue the places I went in Greece and Italy. Some other people I knew were mentioning too.

 

As far as VAT, I was very disappointed like many, especially considering other ships were still making port there with no issues. I don't drink quite enough for Cheers.

[falkcor]

I will also be doing coverage of my time there in a different format as well on my website.

 

nice summary review - I'll be looking to your website for more details

 

This seemed to be more of an issue the places I went in Greece and Italy. Some other people I knew were mentioning too.

 

at least it's not like some places i've been, where even toilet paper was not the norm :eek:

[les37b]

This seemed to be more of an issue the places I went in Greece and Italy. Some other people I knew were mentioning too.

 

Not good! Not all of Europe is like that. No wonder we voted brexit! :p

 

On reflection, I cant actually remember needing to go to the loo when I was off the ship, so probably clouded things a bit!

 

As far as VAT, I was very disappointed like many, especially considering other ships were still making port there with no issues. I don't drink quite enough for Cheers.

 

OK, in your instance not allowing it to be sold, it maybe didn't affect you too badly. Imaging the effect of those who wanted to have their 15 alcoholic drinks plus a few coffees etc. They've got it so wrong on not selling cheers its crazy. Hopefully everyone took full advantage and brought their own on board.

 

at least it's not like some places i've been, where even toilet paper was not the norm :eek:

 

Ah. You mean France! :D

Edited October 22, 2016 by les37b

[pghsteelerfan]

Thanks for your thoughts on Vista. A European cruise is a long shot for us, at least right now and not at the top of our priority list, BUT we were very curious to give Vista a try once she's sailing the itineraries out of Miami. From pictures I've seen, she's beautiful, but it would all come down to itinerary and cost. Glad to see Liberty is at the top of your list...she's worked her way to the top of our list as being our favorite. Glad you had a nice time and that you had the opportunity to see Europe and appreciate the tips in not trying to do too much in one day.

[jsfromsc]

Great review with valuable insight and information.

 

My husband and I aren't drinkers, but we still appreciate having a table to rest a soft drink on during the shows. So they removed the tables, but still there are fewer seats? Wonder what the reasoning was behind that?

 

Thank you for including the info on Europe. So many Americans are so ignorant when traveling. They don't realize that other parts of the world live very differently than we do. I would love to do a Mediterranean cruise.

[pusywillow]

Did they have a seafood restaurant? You didn't mention that.

[seannyice81]

Thanks for your thoughts on Vista. A European cruise is a long shot for us, at least right now and not at the top of our priority list, BUT we were very curious to give Vista a try once she's sailing the itineraries out of Miami. From pictures I've seen, she's beautiful, but it would all come down to itinerary and cost. Glad to see Liberty is at the top of your list...she's worked her way to the top of our list as being our favorite. Glad you had a nice time and that you had the opportunity to see Europe and appreciate the tips in not trying to do too much in one day.

 

Thanks, Holly!

 

Great review with valuable insight and information.

 

My husband and I aren't drinkers, but we still appreciate having a table to rest a soft drink on during the shows. So they removed the tables, but still there are fewer seats? Wonder what the reasoning was behind that?

 

Thank you for including the info on Europe. So many Americans are so ignorant when traveling. They don't realize that other parts of the world live very differently than we do. I would love to do a Mediterranean cruise.

 

Thanks!

 

There are tiny arm-rests on balcony chairs and some of the half-circle seating below. I don't know why they cut the theater a deck short (for cabins?), but it was hard to see anything when not in a prime spot!

[seannyice81]

Did they have a seafood restaurant? You didn't mention that.

 

Yes, the Seafood Shack was there and open often. I just never had a chance to get to it or Cucina Del Capitano.

[Velvetwater]

Thanks for the review.

 

I'm just going to clear up some Misconceptions from the OP. Just proud of my continent guys.

 

 

 

-The Roma/Gypsies are less of an issue as the tourist season winds-down or if the weather is less ideal. I do recommend anti theft articles of clothing or bags, but I had no issues in my regular pants. I tended to blend in with locals when not using my camera.

 

This is a very ignorant statement to make if you are linking the two together. Gypsy and Roma are very different for starters and most theft done in Europe is not done by these groups.

 

 

-Everyone is fascinated by our politics (especially our S* show of an election). Be prepared to discuss it a little.

 

Most Europeans are not fascinated by US politics. Its just on the news at the moment and makes an easy conversation starter. The election is close now.

 

-Toilet seats are not that common. Yes, you read that right. Many public restrooms toilets lack their seats, especially in more private or secluded areas. Ladies and Men's rooms. Mostly nicer establishments or popular tourist spots have them. Don't count on them.

 

Toilet seats happen in most European countries. Some select areas have a pot hole in the floor, a thinner seat with a gap at the front...these are uncommon though....you may have been unlucky.

 

[seannyice81]

Thanks for the review.

 

I'm just going to clear up some Misconceptions from the OP. Just proud of my continent guys.

 

Thanks for clearing some of that up.

 

The Roma and or Gypsies tend to be grouped together based on things I've read hence including both. The fact of the matter though was that there were no issues from either of them as many implied they would steal my camera or other valuables.

 

I can see the election being fascinating to some for sure. At least that's the impression I got from some who wanted to start debating foreign policy under Trump or Hillary. I hope that you're right though because frankly our election is embarrassing.

 

Then either there is a toilet seat shortage or vandals are stealing them in certain areas of your beautiful continent! haha.

[buddylover]

 

 

 

Thanks!

 

There are tiny arm-rests on balcony chairs and some of the half-circle seating below. I don't know why they cut the theater a deck short (for cabins?), but it was hard to see anything when not in a prime spot!

 

Yep, you hit it on the head.....they reduced the theatre size to cram more people on board (more revenue), reduced the atrium height and openness and thus the ambience as well....all in the name of the 'bottom line' unfortunately!!!:(:confused::(