It could have been worse

After returning from a a very disappointing cruise, I decided the only way to feel better was to complain with the hopes of receiving at least a partial refund from a company that ruined my only week of vacation for 2010. That company (Carnival Cruise) was less than sympathetic. Even though the 5 day cruise was only 4 days because we didn't leave the Miami port till after midnight due to mechanical issues, Carnival didn't think that I needed any compensation. Even though we didn't go to the destinations that we paid for, Carnival didn't think that I needed any compensation. Even though the ship showed obvious signs of age, was very dated, was dirty, and dirty laundry from the previous cruise was in the closet, Carnival didn't think that I needed any compensation. Even though the food was less than desirable and the service was not cruise worthy, Carnival didn't think that I needed any compensation. Even though my cruise was not the fun filled vacation that is promoted in their commercials, Carnival didn't think that I needed any compensation. After complaining to every Carnival contact that I could find an e-mail address for, I just decided to tell everyone I know that Carnival is not the recommended cruise line to use.

Then today I learned of the Carnival cruise ship that is stranded 200 miles off the western US coast because of an engine room fire. No electricity, which means no air conditioning, no hot food, no hot water, no entertainment. This ship is slowly being towed with the hopes of reaching port within 2 days and is loaded with over 3000 guests with nothing to do and over 1000 employees trying to keep them calm.

Now all I have to say about my cruise is "It could have been worse".