Ahoy, travel enthusiasts! Today marks the beginning of an exhilarating journey as we set sail aboard the magnificent Carnival Splendor. Our adventure kicks off at the Overseas Passenger Terminal in Circular Quay, Sydney—a location that embodies the perfect blend of urban excitement and maritime charm. Join us as we take you through the excitement and anticipation of embarkation day!
Our day begins with the buzzing energy of Circular Quay, a hub of activity where the city meets the sea. The sun rises over the Sydney Opera House, casting a golden glow on the harbour. The weather is a little chilly at 14°C and partly cloudy, perfect for capturing stunning photos without the glare of direct sunlight. As we arrive at the Overseas Passenger Terminal, we’re greeted by the impressive sight of the Carnival Splendor, gleaming in the morning light.
Pro Tip: Arrive early to soak in the views and capture some memorable photos before the crowds gather.
Stepping into the terminal, the atmosphere is charged with excitement. The check-in process is streamlined and efficient, with friendly staff guiding passengers through each step. With passports in hand and documents ready, the process is a breeze. Once onboard, we collect our keycards from a designated station, which will serve as our access to staterooms, onboard purchases, and more. Travelling with a passenger in a wheelchair, we were escorted to a separate station to have our documents and identity checked. From here we were escorted by the care team to boarder control where we were stamped out of the country.
Insider Tip: Complete your online check-in prior to arrival to expedite the process and ensure a smooth start to your holiday.
As we step onboard the Carnival Splendor, we’re instantly transported into a world of luxury and adventure. The grandeur of the atrium, with its elegant pink decor and vibrant atmosphere, sets the tone for the journey ahead. Crew members welcome us with warm smiles and are ready to assist with any questions.
Must-See: Take a moment to explore the ship’s stunning atrium and familiarise yourself with the layout to make the most of your time onboard.
Before diving into ship exploration, it’s wise to handle a few essentials. Head to Guest Services if you plan to deposit cash to your Sign and Sail account or visit the Adventures Desk to book tours. Popular excursions can sell out quickly, so it's advisable to secure your spots early. Remember, you can also book tours conveniently through the Carnival Hub App.
Planning Ahead: Booking tours early ensures you don’t miss out on popular activities during your cruise.
Special Needs Considerations
If you are travelling with guests who have special needs, now would be an ideal time to approach Guest Services to enquire about a sensory pack. Carnival Cruise Line strives to provide inclusive experiences for all guests, and the sensory pack can enhance the comfort and enjoyment of children with specific sensory sensitivities.
Upon boarding, resist the urge to head straight to your stateroom. By now, you’re probably hungry with all the excitement. Note that you won't have access to your stateroom until after about 1:30 PM. Instead, head up to the buffet on the main Lido Deck or explore the other dining options available. Treat yourself to a variety of delicious dishes and soak in the panoramic views of the Sydney Harbour from the ship.
Foodie Favourite: Be sure to try the diverse culinary offerings available at the Lido Deck, catering to every palate.
SAFETY FIRST!
The mandatory muster drill is an important part of embarkation day. The crew efficiently conducts the drill, ensuring that all passengers are familiar with emergency procedures. It’s a quick and essential step before the fun continues.
Quick Tip: Pay close attention during the drill to understand the safety protocols and designated muster station.
The highlight of embarkation day is the Sail Away Party. As the ship slowly pulls away from the dock, passengers gather on the deck to celebrate the start of our voyage. With live music, dancing, and a festive atmosphere, it’s impossible not to get caught up in the excitement. The iconic Sydney skyline fades into the horizon, and we’re officially on our way!
Celebration Time: Grab a signature Carnival cocktail and join the fun as we bid farewell to Sydney and embark on our adventure at sea.
As evening approaches, it’s time to unwind and enjoy a delectable dinner in the main dining room. Carnival Splendor offers two dining options:
Anytime Dining:Â Perfect for flexibility, where you can be seated at any time, though you may need to wait in lines during peak times.
Your Time Dining:Â Ideal for those who prefer pre-selecting dining times, either at 5 PM or later in the evening.
Given our medical needs and travelling with teenagers, we opted for the earlier dining time. Despite a minor hiccup with the Carnival on-shore service team not sending out our set-time dining details to the ship, a quick chat with the Deputy Chief Maitre-D resolved everything smoothly. We were graciously assigned a dedicated table in the Anytime Dining room at the same time each night. The dining room stewards were exceptionally friendly and eager to get to know us, learning our preferences and making us feel truly welcomed. Their warm hospitality and attention to detail added a special touch to our dining experience every evening.
For entrées, we enjoyed the following selection:
Fried Prawns with Pickled Cucumbers and Plum Sauce
A delectable starter featuring succulent prawns, lightly battered and fried to golden perfection. The crispy prawns are paired with tangy pickled cucumbers, adding a refreshing crunch. A drizzle of sweet and slightly tart plum sauce complements the dish, creating a harmonious balance of flavors.
Baked Meatballs with Creamy Polenta
This comforting entrée showcases savory baked meatballs, nestled atop a bed of creamy polenta. The meatballs are simmered in a rich stewed tomato sauce, enhancing their robust flavor. The dish is finished with a generous layer of melted mozzarella and provolone cheeses, offering a gooey, indulgent experience with every bite.
Beetroot Cured Smoked Salmon
A visually stunning dish, featuring delicate slices of smoked salmon cured with beetroot, which imparts a vibrant color and subtle earthy sweetness. The salmon’s silky texture and refined flavor make it a sophisticated choice, perfect for starting a meal on a high note.
Classic Caesar Salad
A timeless favorite, this Caesar salad is made with crisp romaine lettuce, tossed in a creamy, tangy Caesar dressing. The salad is garnished with crunchy croutons, shaved Parmesan cheese, and a hint of anchovy, delivering a delightful combination of textures and flavors that perfectly captures the essence of this classic dish.
Each entrée provides a unique and delightful beginning to the meal, catering to a variety of tastes and preferences.
Penne Siciliana
A delightful pasta dish featuring penne cooked to al dente perfection, tossed with tender aubergine, zucchini, and juicy plum tomatoes. The vibrant vegetables are complemented by the addition of cheese and a blend of aromatic herbs, creating a flavorful and satisfying meal that brings the essence of Sicily to your plate.
Grilled Barramundi
A succulent fillet of barramundi, expertly grilled to achieve a crispy exterior while maintaining a moist and flaky interior. This dish is served with a side of sautéed vegetables, providing a colorful and nutritious accompaniment. Boiled potatoes complete the meal, offering a simple yet comforting element to this delicious seafood dish.
Sirloin Steak with Peppercorn Sauce
A juicy sirloin steak, cooked to your preferred level of doneness, is served with a rich and creamy peppercorn sauce. The sauce adds a spicy, aromatic kick that enhances the natural flavors of the beef, making for a hearty and indulgent meal.
Chicken A la Grecque
A Mediterranean-inspired dish featuring tender chicken pieces, served with nutty brown rice and a medley of artichoke, roasted squash, and mushrooms. The combination of flavors and textures creates a well-balanced and wholesome meal. However, this dish didn't appeal to everyone.
Irish Stew with Lamb
For those who opted for a comforting classic, the Irish stew was a perfect choice. This hearty stew is filled with tender pieces of lamb, potatoes, and carrots, all simmered together in a rich, flavorful broth. It's a warm and satisfying dish that brings a taste of traditional Irish cuisine to the table.
Each of these meals offers a unique culinary experience, catering to a variety of tastes and preferences.
As night falls, the Carnival Splendor transforms into a vibrant hub of entertainment. From Broadway-style shows in the main theatre to live music and dancing in the lounges, there’s no shortage of activities to enjoy. We end the night with a stroll on the deck, the sea breeze a gentle reminder of the adventure that lies ahead.
Evening Entertainment: Check the ship’s daily schedule for a variety of shows, events, and activities to kick off your cruise in style.
Embarkation day on the Carnival Splendor is a whirlwind of excitement, anticipation, and discovery. From the bustling terminal at Circular Quay to the festive Sail Away Party, every moment is filled with joy and adventure. As we sail into the open sea, we can’t help but feel the thrill of the journey that awaits. Stay tuned as we share more of our experiences and adventures onboard this magnificent ship. Bon voyage!
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Happy travels, and see you on the high seas!
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