We are a gold level member of Carnival and had completely STOPPED using them after 2 bad experiences back to back in 2017. We decided to give them another try on our honeymoon cruise this week (currently writing this while on the ship, last day) and honestly it was a mistake to even entertain the thought of coming back. For the last 2 years we have been using Norwegian and LOVE it. Much higher class, much better service and better maintained.
First, I want to state that we are in our 30's and 40's and are generally easy going and RARELY complain. (We are not the typical nagging customer "looking for a handout" complainers) so please know that everything I put here is the truth and not exaggerated: (see pics as well)
The hallways and stateroom areas are not patrolled and quiet time or rules are not enforced, at all... period. Ever. We have had to call security 3 of the 5 nights of this cruise due to EXTREME noise from drunk, loud groups congregating and socializing in the hallways at 1 and 2AM. I recorded videos on 2 of the nights just to show security and guest services. Literally groups of 4-7 people were allowed to stay in the hallways just outside staterooms and LOUDLY socialize, yell, laugh and drink. A dozen different bars upstairs but they were on deck 6 which is ALL staterooms acting out. In speaking with the people at our dining table we learned that this was also the case on other decks and one couple even demanded another room after calling security and guest services didn't correct the issue. You can hear every noise through the walls on the Elation as well. The guests next door to us had 2 children, with names I could not pronounce but I knew their names... How? Because you could clearly hear them through the walls.
Loud, small and typical. Not relaxing