Carnival Splendor Review

4.0 / 5.0
1,476 reviews

Overall Enjoyable Cruise with Small Issues

Review for the Mexican Riviera Cruise on Carnival Splendor

Rating by category

Cabin
Value for Money
Embarkation
Dining
Public Rooms
Entertainment
Fitness & Recreation
Service

Additional details

Sail Date: Dec 2018
Leaving the ship in Cabo San Lucas
Take photos with locals in traditional dress in Mazatlan
Horseback riding at Stone Island in Mazatlan

Carnival was not my first choice, but both Royal Caribbean and Norwegian claimed they were both booked during this Christmas and New Year holiday period. Not the worst ship, but obviously an older ship. Huge diversity crowds with occasional rude people stepping on/over you and in close proximity. Some polite and friendly guests. The crew was attentive and few with limited English skills when it comes to providing directions or instructions. We had problems with Migrino Beach ATV Excursion provider in Cabo San Lucas. We pre-purchased (4 x $100+) ATV rides and was aware we would pay an additional $20 each for entry fees. But, then we were hit with another $30-$35 insurance fee per ATV or given an option to leave an open credit card in case of damage to ATV. We felt the ATV park was taking advantage of tourists. Had no choice but to pay after taking a 45 min ride to the ATV park from ship landing. The 1 - 1 1/2 hr ATV guided tour was fun. Also, be aware of Stone Island and Old Town Sightseeing Tour. Tour van guide was knowledgeable of the city sites, but the beach stop and activities were of poor quality. Water toys and health quality of horses used for horse back riding were questionable. The worst part of the on-board cruise was the fitness center. The equipment that include thread machines, elliptical steppers and bikes are all in need of repair and replacement. Fitness center is in serious need of repair, renovations and HVAC upgrade. Whatever you do, do not fall for the pre-pay wi-fi and bottomless drink plans. Wi-fi connection and ability to text each other aboard ship is almost impossible. We purchased the premier Wi-fi plan to Skype and text with our teenage son at home. We went without e-mail and text messages almost the whole cruise. However, we were able to get e-mail and phone calls when in port and off ship via phone provider. We were told by Customer Service person who admitted there were problems with connectivity on the ship. We were re-refunded the cost of our wi-fi plan after making request. Bottomless Bubbles drink plan is a ripoff. Lemonade, ice tea, coffee, tea and milk are available at no charge. My daughter has never drank carbonated drinks and therefore, did not need to participate in the bottomless drink plan ($7.50 x 7days). Despite the issues that I have written about, the cruise overall was o.k. and worth getting away. But, Carnival should take immediate actions to renovate the fitness center.

Cabin Review

Cabin wasn't bad. Bed was very comfortable Very soft bed sheet linens. We had a very friendly and good Cabin Steward. He was attentive making sure we had clean bathroom, fresh towels, turn-down service. He was very friendly and made sure he knew our names. He always timed the cleaning and entering our room after we went to breakfast and late dinner.

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