Chose this cruise for the new ship as we've sailed on many other Carnival ships with a Platinum status. We wanted the biggest and newest ship and the itinerary was appealing for our 20th wedding anniversary. I mention the Platinum status simply to preface that some of the negative things I read about we don't experience.  The embarkation process is first rate for FTTF and status passengers.  The Miami port, dropping the bags, checking in, on board within 20 minutes.  I saw others waiting, even outside and can see why this could be problematic and understand the negative comments.  We knew there would be things that took time and moved slowly thanks to reading other reviews, so we were just prepared mentally and let it didn't let it be the focus.

The ship we found to be amazing.   We didn't miss the 9 story glass elevator experience.  The 3 or 4 level center atrium with the center art piece was appealing.  There is plently of seating around the atrium for when there was activity taking place.  The White Night party is held there and it was so much fun.  Just plan for what you want to do and show up a bit earlier.  The 30 minutes you give up by showing up at places early is well worth it. 

The Liquid lounge shows is one example.  We only planned to see two.  Doors open 30 minutes before, we got there stood in a line of about 20 and picked our very favorite seats, had a cocktail and just talked while we waited for show. BTW, for us, a party of two, opting for the 2 of the 5 bar seats on the railing in front of the bar.  Up front and center and they were very comfortable.  Unlike the bar seats actually at the bar.  Facing the bartenders they were comfy but when spin around to watch the show the foot pedal didn't spin around.  We had them the 2nd show but two people left the 5 bar seats at the railing and we quickly jumped there...over other seats that were probably blocked by someone of something.  The theatre is smaller that the grand rooms on older ships but so very much updated with technology, singers were OK, dancers good and all in all we remained excited and entertained throughout the entire show.  They aren't Vegas shows, but these two didn't put us to sleep...my husband has referred to them in the past as nap time.  Read more