This was our second cruise ever, so please take it for what it is... just one person's opinion.
Carnival Victory is a very nice ship, but a very LARGE ship (almost 3,000 passengers). Our first cruise was on a smaller cousin, the Imagination, 2 years ago. I think I like the smaller vessel better overall...fewer options, but less crowded. We cruised over a school holiday (March 20-27) and so the Victory was full.
Victory's staff is exceptionally friendly and helpful. I would LOVE to sail with that staff again... but having said that, I might not sail the Victory again (unless off-peak season) particularly on this itinerary because: 1) Crowds made the casual restaurant very difficult to access during any reasonable mealtime, and the dining schedule was erratic at best. Lots of good food is available, if you can get it! They do have several alternatives (a deli window, an Asian window, a grill, a pizzeria, poolside small buffets and the inside grand buffet) but all are crowded, and the buffets are not open as long as I expected. If you go on Victory, eat in the dining rooms... a great experience.