What is the difference in the Carnival Elation vs. The Carnival Fantasy?  Has anyone heard if the Elation will undergo the waterworks package prior to moving to Mobile in May, 2010?  Also, does anyone know why the Fantasy is moving to Mobile for just a short time, then on to Charleston?

jennjenn:

What is the difference in the Carnival Elation vs. The Carnival Fantasy?

The Elation is much newer.
The decor is different.
The Elation uses a smoother, quieter, more fuel-efficient propulsion system (azipods) whose downside is that it is less reliable and more expensive to repair.

Has anyone heard if the Elation will undergo the waterworks package prior to moving to Mobile in May, 2010?

It will not. Only some of the Evolutions of Fun package has been installed, with the most noticeable parts being the Serenity area and the Mongolian Grill.

Also, does anyone know why the Fantasy is moving to Mobile for just a short time, then on to Charleston?

1) Carnival can't plan very well.
2) Carnival wants to make West Coasters extra angry.
3) Carnival probably doesn't know themselves.

~ MattInSoCal

Thank you very much for the answers... Great answers by the way!  At first I was concerned about The Elation.  I have been on The Fantasy many times and love it so it is great to hear that The Elation is even better! 

Happy cruising!

Jennifer

I'm not sure Elation is better in any substantial way.   It's a very similar ship with fewer upgrades.  And Carnival announced this just when I'd gotten used to hurling myself down the water slide...

I think Matt is basically right.  They want to make the west coast angry.  And they clearly want to please Charleston even if it peeves Mobile a little.  Personally, I think Charleston should have to make do with Elation for a few years like Mobile had to make do with Holiday.  But, such is life.  I'll try Elation and then make the decision to love it or leave it.

Happy travels.  :)