Carnival Cruises’ Celebration surely had its heydays, but it shouldn’t be left out of your planned trips if you are a seasoned cruiser who wants to get the most out of the experience.  Admittedly, it isn’t a new ship, even with major renovations made last 2003.  In fact, since it is practically one of the cruise line’s maiden ships (it first set sail in 1987), the major designs which harks back to the peak of previous standards are forgivable.  Besides, Celebration has a lot more to offer in experience; this more than makes up for the minor letdowns in amenities.

Repeat passengers will immediately notice that the ship’s purser’s lobby has been refurbished, with fresh carpet and wall covering, and the contemporary paintings which keep the ship abreast with the present.  Past this area are the ship’s main public rooms, and pretty much everything remains intact and true-to-form with the Cruise line’s penchant for multiple themes.  There isn’t any cavernous atrium to gape at, and understandably so.  A New Orleans theme is prevalent in Bourbon Street up at the Promenade Deck, where hangouts like Mardi Gras (an open area multifunction deck) and Trolley Bar is conveniently located.  The usual hotspots are still there Galax-Z disco and the Rainbow Club Casino, as well as a cozy naval-themed library.

You’ll get your money’s worth with Carnival’s reliable reputation for providing quality entertainment though.  You could tell that they invested much to the productions held onstage, even rivaling those of Disney Cruises.  The productions vary with each night, from country to Broadway shows, and with numerous costume and set variations during the play, every production is surely a treat.  Day activities on the same venue include art auctions, parlor-game’ style tournaments, bingo, and others.  There’s also a pseudo-club area (Astoria Lounge) with comfy seating and great service.  Karaoke is also unexpectedly well-loved at the Endless Summer lounge, particularly in the evenings, and an adjacent lounge is reserved for such attractions as comedy acts and art auctions.

There isn’t much to say about the cabins, especially for those who’ve become inured to the lavishness of current onboard accommodations.  These are mostly space-efficient and functional though, and there are plenty of nifties in the bathroom to sate your bathing splurge.  Closet space is ample, and phones and TVs are mounted so as to maximize on space.  The spas leave much to be desired though; most stations are cramped and within hearing range of a nearby activity room, so you won’t be able to relax while you’re having a facial.  Fortunately, though, Celebration hasn’t spared on the one thing which mattered the most the onboard dining experience.  The Vista and Horizon rooms afford comfortable sitting for main meals, and buffet and grill options are offered at the Wheelhouse Bar and Grill.  Round-the-clock room service with a rather extensive menu are available as well, a perk even for those who’ve been to behemoth ships who don’t have a decent room service to boot.  From the get-go, Carnival Celebration doesn’t sport the flash and fancy of newer ships, but fortunately it knows that it can’t compete in terms of amenities, and more than makes up for the shortcoming by providing for a quality cruising experience.