Carnival Inspiration to North America

These short, four day Carnival cruises are a great add on to any west coast USA itinerary, but bear in mind that there will be few nationalities on board bar Americans. That's no bad thing-far from it- but just a heads up. What you are essentially boarding for four days is a non stop rock and roll party on the waves.

With 2,200 passengers on board, the Carnival Inspiration is a well programmed, smoothly run floating resort. Families will love the fact that three different activities club exist on board for all ages, from teens back to toddlers. And those wanting to get away from the sometimes raucous fun on the pool deck will find welcome respite at the Serenity Zone, an aft facing, adults' only enclave overlooking the stern. With padded loungers, soothing music and a pair of bubbling hot tubs, it's a great place to wind down for an hour or so.

Carnival Inspiration also scores well for families in terms of accommodation. From large, comfortable inside and ocean view cabins (some of which can accommodate four people) to some newly created balcony cabins and a slew of truly swish, mid ship sited suites, the ship has something for every taste and price point.

You'll certainly be wowed by the vast, ten storey entrance lobby, with its lobby bar and quartet of glass lifts, rising up to an interior boulevard lined with bars, shops and cafes. There's a huge casino and a disco that rolls though until the early morning hours, as well as a slightly raunchy piano bar. But you'll also find quiet bars, not to mention a superb, forward facing upper deck spa. For a short trip, this ship is a very good choice indeed.

You can feast on flat iron steak and lobster in one of the two main dining rooms, while waiters sing and dance on special podiums for your entertainment. Yes, it's a bit on the brash side- a pizza sized slice of Vegas afloat, if you will. But it's all great fun, and even better value.