Matthew Bronson

Age: 49
Occupation: Business Development
Number of Cruises: 4
Cruise Line: Carnival
Ship: Pride
Sailing Date: September 7th, 2002
Itinerary: Eastern Caribbean

Firstly, the Pride is the best of the ships we’ve sailed, regardless of Cruise line. Larger cabin sizes and the fact that it was launched in 2002 must be a factor. Additional inquires will be replied to via cruiseQs@love-usa.net.
I’ve posted a few picture at http://www.floridalocator.com/cruise2002/. What I was looking for when reading these reviews was the ‘not so good’ news. I will mention those first.

Bad news
Despite what Carnival said repeatedly, liquor prices were 30 to 40 percent less in St. Maartin than on board. Desserts looked great but had little flavor. Meat could only be ordered medium rare or medium well. STRANGE. Check-in was less efficient than other cruise lines. Midnight ‘adult’ entrainment was essentially the same as the earlier shows except with forced vulgar language. I wasn’t offended, just disappoint I stayed up late for no reason. Mostly, the quality of the shows was reminiscent of my high school talent show.

The bartenders were cold and distant. Cocktail service was almost non-existent. We had to move to the bar to get served on most occasions. Midnight buffet was attractive, but unless you’re a late-night person, who needs another meal? Besides, lines were so long, it took 30 minutes to get inside. The cabin had a VCR but no apparent place to rent or borrow tapes. Maybe get some 7 day rentals from your homeport video store if that is how you want to spend some of your time. Library was essentially a very expensive Internet room. Bookcases were locked and we never could find anyone to open them. Either way, selections were lean. If you’re a reader, bring your own. Although the menus were varied, well prepared, and nicely presented, most were very bland.

Good news
The ship is beautiful, well laid out and very clean.

The staff is very attentive and friendly except as noted above. Cabin was well laid out, 5293. Lots of closet space, nice bathroom, large balcony. Casino staff was very friendly except Casino general manager. The alternative dining areas, less formal and fancy, served similar if not the same menus as the main dinning room.

Recommendations
Check out all of the music groups at various times and locations on board. From classical to rock‘n roll. The butterfly room is worth taking a look out. High tea was fun and something you don’t usually do at home. If you enjoy wine at dinner, buy a bottle and they will keep it for multiple days and serve it each night. Bring several liters of bottled water.

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