Taking a Cruise - Some Advice
If you are thinking about taking a cruise to the caribbean or any other place here’s some advice from someone who’s been there.
I’ve been on Princess Cruises once, Royal Caribbean twice and Carnival once.
I would NEVER go on a Carnival Cruise again. Their food was TERRIBLE every night, and service was TERRIBLE. The people who are supposed to help and be nice to you on the boat acted as if they could care less being there. I think most were on their last few weeks and were anxious to get off, however I woul dhave thought this would have create excitement rather than boredom and an “I don’t care attitude”.
Princess #1, next up Royal Caribbean, I wouldn’t hesitate to go on another one from either.
I’ve gotten inside rooms every time. The only time spent in your room is getting dressed, showering or sleeping. Inside rooms are 100% dark so you can sleep great. If you are severely clausterphobic they may not be a good choice. Room posiition on the ship is important too you don’t want to be to far forward or to far back. Engine vibration, more swaying than normal, etc. are things you may notice.
$750 or $800 PP should be obtainable from Royal or Princess for Summer. Early Spring and spring it can be raining and chilly still in the caribbean so can late July / AUgust, etc.
Remember the cruise itself is only part of the cost you have to add another 100-300 per-person to go on the “good” excursions, port charges, room/etc gratuity, DRINKS, and any shopping you might do on shore. Oh, and the flight if you have to fly to port. Don’t go out of Texas it may be a lil cheaper but they cater to the Texans and if you aren’t from there it’s not near as fun.
We pay around $800 for a 7Day Western Carib. but I budget around $2000 or so per-person including flight to cover the above costs.
Jamaica is fun, Dunns River Falls. Cozumel Snorkeling. Swimming with the sting rays in Grand Caymen is fun. Shopping or snorkeling in some other Mexican port, and a day on the beach at som eother island is fun.
If you like outdoor activities and not JUST shopping go on a Western Carib. cruise.
Oh, and the food is free at dinner so I suggest getting one of each plate you are interested in 
Lobster eating contests, etc, 