Carnival Ecstasy is a popular floating resort. The waters are crowded with sea-worthy vessels, so to make planning easier, we've done all the prep work for a cruise vacation. As part of a Huffington Post Travel series on cruise ships, here is a tip sheet offering all the key information one could ever need to know about the Carnival Ecstasy.
From The Gulf Of Mexico To The Caribbean
The Carnival Ecstasy sails from Port Canaveral, Fla., New Orleans and Galveston, Texas. The ship carries passengers to Key West, Fla., and the Bahamas, including Freeport and Nassau. The ship also swings further south to Cozumel and the Yucatan Peninsula of Mexico.
A Luxury Cruise
The Carnival Ecstasy is a Fantasy-class cruise ship. These ships have a wide range of public entertainment areas, from clubs and bars to children's areas and adult-only retreats. Unlike older Fantasy-class ships, the Ecstasy has been fitted with balconies so that more cabins have private viewing areas.
Entertainment For All Ages
The Carnival Ecstasy features a club for every member of the family.
is the place for children ages 2 to 11 to play, draw and make new friends. Tweens will love hanging out in their own space, the
, with video games and other activities designed for youth.
was designed with teens in mind. This round-the-clock hangout features music, food and friends. Mom and Dad can sit back and relax in the
. This adults-only area is open to anyone 21 and older.
Roomier Rooms And Better Views
All the Fantasy-class cruise ships have a larger cabins than other Carnival ships, and the
has more balconies than most of the other Fantasy-class ships. All the rooms enjoy luxury sheets and towels. The decor features light wood and pastels with bright-colored accents. The Ecstasy also has some cabins with interior doors to create adjoining rooms.
Cost
vary depending on the type of cabin, and the type and date of the cruise. A four-day cruise to the Bahamas in an interior cabin can cost as little as $189 per person on the Carnival Ecstacy. However, a seven-day cruise to the Western Caribbean from Galveston in a suite can cost $1,199. For less expensive rates, look at booking a cruise in the autumn.
Explore Ruins
The
in Cozumel is highly recommended. The tour includes transportation from the ship to the ruins, a guided tour and a bag lunch. In addition, the tour includes time for shopping near the pier. Travelers should wear comfortable walking shoes and apply sunscreen.
Dining Options
You can choose the early or late seating at either of the two main restaurants,
. If you're looking for something quicker, try grabbing a bite at the Panorama Bar and Grill on the Lido deck. Room service offers a limited menu 24 hours a day.
Maiden Voyage
According to the
, the Ecstasy was launched in 1991. Kathie Lee Gifford was asked to act as godmother to the ship. The ship went into dry dock and was refurbished in 2009.
In The News
reported a fire in July 1998 that started in the laundry room and spread. The fire cost more than $275 million to repair.
reported that the Carnival Ecstasy was one of three ships contracted to provide shelter for victims of Hurricane Katrina. The
reported that David Ritcheson, a teen who survived an attack by white supremacists, leapt to his death from the Carnival Ecstasy in July 2007.
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