Both the Elation and the Paradise were built in 1998, with the Elation's latest refurbishment taking place in 2005, and the Paradise's in 2008. Each sports six hot tubs, two pools, a fitness center, spa, salon, four nightclubs, Internet cafe and arcade. Both ships are just over 70,000 tons with lengths of 855 feet. Each can carry more than 2,600 passengers and 920 crew members.
Cruises offer non-stop activities or endless hours of relaxation, depending on your vacation mood. You can swim or splash down the three-story water slide before luxuriating in one of the many hot tubs. Head down to the lounge or up to the Lido deck for interactive crowd pleasers like trivia games and contests. Book a massage at the spa or work up a sweat in the gym, then head to the shops. Try your luck in the onboard casino, which offers slot machines, video poker and live tables. Guests who prefer a more quiet experience can grab a book from the ship's library to read in the adult's only serenity area. In the evening, don your best to attend the Captain's Cocktail party or hit the dance floor in one of the many nightclubs. Smoke a cigar or listen to piano music as you sip your top shelf favorite in one of the themed lounges or bars. If you are feeling brave, sign up for karaoke, or just watch the professionals belt out songs during the production shows in the main theater.
Cruise ships are a mecca for culinary gluttons. Start off the day with breakfast at the buffet on the Lido deck, then pick up a mid-morning snack at the 24-hour pizzeria. At noon, choose from room service, the grill, buffet, Asian kiosk, deli or main dining room. Grab some ice cream or a cool beverage in the afternoon before deciding where to eat dinner. For those willing to wait up for it, the midnight buffet offers delicious food presented in a stunning display of edible wonder.
If you are traveling with kids, they will be just as busy during the day as you are. Kids ages two to 11 can hang out at Camp Carnival where trained counselors will lead them in everything from art to dancing. Circle "C" is the place to be for the 12 to 14 set, featuring video games, music and snacks to munch on with friends. Teenagers from 15 to 17 will enjoy hanging out at Club O2, their own private nightclub.
Ensenada, a scenic shore village on Mexico's Baja peninsula, is the destination for 3-day Mexican cruises. Visitors can surf the waves at Rosarita's beach or relax on the warm sand shores. Shopping is a popular pastime, or you can sightsee from a jeep, a horse or on foot. Play golf, visit a local winery, kayak or learn to cook authentic Mexican cuisine before you board the ship at the end of the day.
