Looking for some Inspiration?

On Saturday June 7th, 2008 Diane and I had the privilege of doing a ship inspection of the Carnival Inspiration. Ship inspections are a chance for Cruise Specialists to tour a ship while it’s in port. This is usually an exclusive event, done by invite only and ships aren’t always opened up to Cruise Specialists, or only a limited number are permitted to participate. Touring a cruise ship lets us see exactly how the different cabin categories look, what amenities are provided, what the set up is, what type of theme or décor the ship has. We also get a chance to sample the culinary experience that our clients will get to enjoy on their vacation, complete with a delectable chocolate dessert and samples of the wines available to you, the passenger. All of this just so we can easier find the perfect cruise vacation, something tailor made just for you.

In 1996 Diane and I had actually sailed on the Carnival Inspiration, enjoying a family vacation with our two children. At that time the home port was San Juan, Puerto Rico and the itinerary was the Southern Caribbean. The ports of call that we got to enjoy on our seven days in paradise were, of course, San Juan, St. Thomas, St. Maartin, Martinique, Barbados and Dominica. Having had a personal experience on the Inspiration as guests, we were anxious to see what changes have been made in the ensuing years.

Last year the Inspiration underwent a make-over; the price tag was over $50 million dollars. All that we saw pleasantly surprised us! In 1996, having a family of four which included two teenaged children, we booked the mini suite. At that time the décor was black veneer; now it has been updated into a more modern look with bright, airy colors. When we sailed the room was partially divided by a partition, a wall that separated the beds from the couch. The couch at the time was a small sectional that folded into a hide-a-bed; well, the shorter part of the sectional did anyway. It’s not something I would recommend a tall guy like myself try sleeping on. The updated look removed the partition, allowing for a more open feel. The couch still opens into a hide-a-bed; however now it’s the longer portion of the couch opening up. On this new version I wouldn’t hesitate to worry about having enough room while sharing the bed with my wife.

The cabins weren’t the only part of the ship to receive a new look. All of the public areas received a face-lift with an artistic theme. For those that like to golf, a 9-hole mini golf course has been added. I know, you’re probably saying “But Tim, I don’t like to golf! I’m on vacation, I’d rather just hang out and have fun at the pool.” Guess what?! You’re covered too! The Inspiration has added a water park with several water slides. Or maybe you’re looking for a little pampering; then we’re going to send you to Serenity – an adult only retreat. Maybe you’re looking to work off a few of those scrumptious meals you’ve been eating (Diane recommends having dessert first!). The gym not only has state of the art equipment, but also provides classes; we even saw some bikes for spinning in the room. And after your day of fun in the sun, a fabulous 3+ course dinner (hey, if lobsters on the menu, I’ll have 2 or 3!) and maybe some dancing under the stars or catching one of the shows, you’re ready for bed. And Carnival has you covered there with a bed that’s going to feel like your own version of heaven.

Are you ready to try out the new and improved Carnival Inspiration for yourselves? We’ll be happy to help you find that perfect cabin at that perfect time. The Inspiration sails year round out of Tampa, Florida heading to the Western Caribbean for five glorious days. The cabins are very affordable and are perfect if you’ve never been on a cruise. Or maybe you have but now you’re looking for something to take the family on. Did I mention that we had our two teenagers on board with us and we only saw them at dinner time? Ahhh! Peace and quiet! And for those of you just looking for a short get-away to paradise? This ship is perfect for you too! The Carnival Inspiration has something for everyone and we look forward to helping you find that vacation that’s just what the doctor ordered! So just click on My Vacation Center at the right and we can get started.