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Even Carnival's mid-sized ships, such as Carnival Vista, have ropes courses and other activities to keep everyone's adrenaline pumping. I did notice that crew members were trying to reduce the number of chair hogs by keeping an eye on which chairs were actively being used; however, they were only able to help so much. Additional seating would have been beneficial, as there were definitely some spaces that could have fit a few more lounge chairs. While I was impressed with the overall condition of my interior cabin, the bathroom revealed the true age of the 26-year-old ship. From the lack of storage to the stained floor and clingy shower curtain, it was a far cry from the bathroom I had while cruising onboard Carnival Celebration. Just like a regular restaurant on land, you’ll make a reservation for dinner using the Carnival hub app on a smart phone.

Carnival Elation Cruise Ship: Overview and Venues
Although the ship did not receive the full upgrade "Evolutions of Fun", in 2014 she received "Fun Ship 2.0" upgrades. Elation is the world's first cruise vessel equipped with Azipod propulsion, the state-of-the-art technology that substantially improves maneuverability in addition to saving hull space. The ship is also the world's first with a conference center (capable to accommodate small to medium groups for meetings and special events). This authentic south-of-the-border watering hole offers a variety of tequilas, cold cervezas, and frosty drinks to help you unwind, have a drink, and soak in the laid-back environment.
Is Carnival Elation Family Friendly?
There are sensory bags available for any kids who might need them, available at Camp Ocean on a first come first served basis. The bags have headphones, fidget toys, a feelings card which also has pictures of “needs” on the back, and a list of recommended times for using the headphones. When my kids were young, these bags weren’t available, but what a game changer for easily overwhelmed little ones. Those looking for onboard souvenirs can pop into The Fun Shops, as well as the Swarovski Boutique.

Carnival Elation Features and Activities
Stop in for specialty coffees, rich milkshakes and scrumptious desserts at the Musical Café. Since I began sailing with Carnival, I've been to Half Moon Cay twice. The first was on a sailing onboard Carnival Conquest, and the second was on my 5-night Carnival Elation cruise. Rather than being able to walk off the ship and begin exploring the port of call, you have to be transported from the ship to shore via a water taxi. Though it was obvious the ship has been well-maintained throughout the years, including an extensive dry dock in 2017, the limited number of dining choices and onboard activities left much to be desired. Honestly, the only thing I would say is not great about the Carnival Elation is how far Deck 4 is from any food or beverages.
It’s about more than just getting your hair or nails done… but it’s definitely about getting your hair or nails done! Even though you’re on vacation, you won’t have to settle for anything less than the salon style you’re used to back on land. And these good looks go beyond the usual — we even offer services like teeth whitening… great for taking those ‘I’m on vacation and I’m looking great! Chill out in the Carnival Elation kid-free oasis that's the hub of relaxation. Take in the ocean view, hop in the hot tub, or kick back under the shade of a big umbrella.
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Carnival Cruise Line offers children’s activities on every ship. Dedicated kids’ clubs group kids by age with age appropriate activities. The ship has the basic activities, expected on most cruise ships in the Caribbean. Our Cabin, Room R35, was located on Deck 4 (Riviera Deck). This is the lowest passenger cabin deck on the ship, and it’s the furthest from the food and activities.
While somewhat busy during the day, the Carnival Elation casino really kicks into high gear in the evening. Passengers enjoy games of chance at the card tables and slot machines. The casino also hosts a number of tournaments and competitions, such as the Three Card Prime Showdown, Scratch & Win, Spin & Win and a blackjack tournament. Many of the activities occur on the Carnival Elation Lido Deck near the swimming pool.
Carnival Cruise Reviews for Family Cruises to Mexico - All from San Diego (2010 UPDATED): Cruise Ratings on Cruise - Cruise Critic
Carnival Cruise Reviews for Family Cruises to Mexico - All from San Diego (2010 UPDATED): Cruise Ratings on Cruise.
Posted: Fri, 29 Sep 2023 15:30:45 GMT [source]
Because we sailed before school was out for the summer, we saw many young couples, honeymooners, parents with preschool-age kids (and younger) as well as a lot of older adults. There also were many multigenerational families aboard, both for vacation and family reunions. Carnival Elation was built in 1998 and is therefore noticeably smaller than the larger-than-life ships being built today. Despite its capacity of 2,190 passengers, this ship is large enough that it doesn't feel crowded, yet small enough that cruisers won't get lost trying to find the dining room or theater. There are tons of things for children and families to enjoy, from toddlers, all the way up to teens. Activities range from things the entire family can enjoy (like mini golf), to kid-specific activities that they can enjoy on their own, at one of the three on-board kids’ clubs.
They are the same size as the regular cabins, 185 square feet, with small balconies to enjoy private views of the sea. Between cabin doors, floor to ceiling tropical murals brighten the space. Interior cabin walls are bland beige, but the artwork suggests watercolor surf boards stacked on a beach.
Like any restaurant, we liked some meals better than others. Everyone at our table agreed that dinner was better the first two nights than the last two nights, but that might have been our personal food preferences. The menu had more fish options as the week went on, and most of us didn’t like fish that much. You can enjoy a seated breakfast or brunch in the Imagination Restaurant on Deck 8 as well as dinner in the Imagination and Inspiration Restaurants. But, for lunch, snacks, water stations, coffee, ice cream, pizza and Guys Burger Bar, you’ll have to trek up to Deck 10.
The most popular sun decks are those located near and around the main pool, although not on the same deck as the pool. There didn't seem to be much in the way of "saving" chairs with towels; most chairs we saw were always occupied. Mainstream cruise lines cater to a variety of guests, hoping to provide something for everyone. These typically cost about $100 - $350 per person per day.
Welcoming and comfortable, the 70,367-ton, 2,052-guest ship is sure to give you the time of your life! The Carnival Elation is the smallest ship in the Carnival fleet. It does not have a huge sports decks or multiple pools, but there are water, sports and dedicated children’s activities on board. Other entertainment and a casino offer non-sports entertainment options from morning to late night. The ship offers both dining room, upscale and casual dining as well as many bars.
Sail aboard the Carnival Elation and completely unwind with a visit to the ship’s spa where you can enjoy a hot stone massage or just lounge in the sauna. Enjoy the beautiful spaces onboard like the Tiffany’s Bar and Grill, which offers beautiful ocean views on one side and intricate and bright stained glass panels on the other. This is also a spot to grab some great food, from traditional pasta to Mongolian dishes.
Don't miss sunrise and sunset at sea - your comfy stateroom is the best way to experience these! A Carnival Elation Interior Upper/Lower stateroom creatively maximizes space for a pair of cruisers. These staterooms feature all the same amenities as other Interior staterooms, with a different layout - including one Twin bed, and either an upper Pullman or sofa bed. They also feature linens from the Carnival Comfort Collection, a full private bathroom and more.
We had hoped to enjoy a bit more shopping onboard, the selection of shops was small. There were also some "sidewalk" sales during the week, but still not much of an overall shopping selection. Passengers can also find some deck chairs and loungers on Deck 15 (Sun), which is the top deck on Carnival Elation. This section can be accessed via the elevator and the outdoor stairs found in the mini-golf and bocce ball areas on Deck 14 (Grand).