Carnival Freedom Cruise Review by sasysutler

Note: Grand Cayman comment highlighted

We arrived at the pier about 11:00 in the pouring rain, but embarkation was a breeze and we were on the ship within 15 minutes (bypassing the photographers). We were able to drop off our bags in our room, so now it was fun time taking photos of the ship and eating lunch. We met up with some friends and went to Fish and chips.

Rooms were ready at noon, Muster drill at 3:30 and sail away at 4:00. We had early dining, but more on that later. The show tonight was Welcome aboard which we bypassed for a wonderful night exploring the ship and using the hot tub, Cruise director is Brad Calabrese. Very entertaining.

Day 2 was Key West. I love this port. Did the Trolley tour. Went to the other side of the island and went to East Martello Tower. Took photos of the haunted doll “Robert” and climbed up the fortress for a beautiful vies of the island. Also went to Fat Tuesdays. Remember you can bring back your cup ANYTIME for the refill price. I’ve packed mine away for next time. Also don’t forget Kino’s for sandals and Peppers for your hot sauces. The show that night was the love and marriage show. Watched it on TV. Not even funny this time as the one couple spoke no English and had to have their adult son translate. Quest was also that night at 11:30.

Day 3 was a sea day. No problems. We stayed in the solarium area (adults only) so it was really nice. This was also Formal night. Mostly evening dresses. Not many tuxes for the men, but very nicely dressed. The Captains celebration was held along the casino area. (NO FREE DRINKS). The show was The Big Easy.

Day 4 was Grand Cayman. We love this port and did the swim with the stingrays and Rum Point. Not sure how they determine this, but some operators actually took photos and then you can buy them. Our group did not, so I was thankful for an underwater camera. We also found a conch shell and saw dolphins playing along side of our boat. Grand Cayman is a tender port. The evening show was showcase of stars, which my hubby participated in. Mega deck part was at 10:00 and went most of the night. Mexican buffet.

Day 5 was Ocho Rios. We stayed on the ship. The show that night was Jump, Jive and Wail. It was ok.

Day 6 was a sea day with plenty to keep everyone busy. We chilled by the pool.

Now the review of the ship. Very nice, clean, and plenty to keep everyone entertained. There is a large screen by the pool. Saw Little Mermaid and West Side Story. Also they did show some football. There is an area at the back of the ship. Serenity where you will find large chairs and hammocks. Great photo opportunity. We were never charged at all for this.

The solarium area is nice as on misty mornings the top was shut, and the area stayed warm and dry until it was opened during sunny weather. We never had any problems with finding a place to sit or lay out in the sun.

Food. This is a big complaint. It really wasn’t very good this time in the dining room. Most the time the food was cool or cold to the touch. We had jerk pork the one night that was so hot it could not be eaten. Steaks, fish were hard and tough. Service was good, not great, and I couldn’t tell you who our server even was. The Deli was good, as was pizza and the grill, but they never seemed to open on time. Coming back from a shore excursion at 3:00 found people hungry and most everything was closed, and those that were open (deli and grill) had long extensive lines. One nice touch was the night I asked for hot chocolate with whipped cream in the dining room, then they remembered and brought it every night whether I wanted it or not! (Kudos on that)

Our room steward was Gerald and he was awesome. We lacked for nothing and I even took a few photos of different towel animals I wanted, and yep. Got them. As far as our room. RESEARCH. Our room was directly under the Lido pool deck, so on the nights with pool parties. Yep you heard and felt every STOMP!! Our fault for not checking!

All in all. It was a good get away from the stress of home and work, and I would book this ship again.

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