First time cruiser, brand new ship!
I was invited, along with many of my travel colleagues, to experience the brand new Carnival Horizon for two nights in April. I would join the ship in Naples and sail to Livorno via Rome. I couldn't pass up this opportunity to see what all the fuss was about. Initially (and still now) I was taken aback by the sheer size of this vessel as she idled in port, Vesuvius and Naples old town in the background. How could it possibly float? I was unsure if I would sleep well whilst we were sailing to Rome overnight.
Making my way to my stateroom I was impressed by the décor. Being new it was contemporary and funky, not a swirly carpet or dark green drape in sight. Our cabin was lovely, an outside stateroom with two bathrooms! It was nice to have the natural light from the window and the beds were comfy and the towels were soft and fluffy. So far it was ticking the boxes!
There was so much to do onboard, it would keep most people entertained for hours! From the skyride, to basketball, to the waterpark, there is lots to do. My children would love it. Swimming pools are fab and plentiful, with adults only areas too. My favourite part was the main pool deck, where I found myself lazing in the sun enjoying a few (too many) cocktails and watching The Greatest Showman on the big screen. Fab! The food was great and there was lots of choice. Two of my favourites were the eateries on the main pool deck, where you could source a great burger or a spicy burrito! Happy days. The main restaurant had lots of choice and the buffet serves all the time, so there is no shortage of food.
I was surprised that the ship felt so quiet despite the fact that there were over 4200 onboard! Where were they? They weren't all in Rome! I must admit I was sad when we docked in Livorno after a lovely few days. I think cruising has its place and I would now recommend it, hopefully one day I will get to take my family off into the sunset on one of these amazing ships!
