After cruises aboard Celebrity, Holland America, Royal Caribbean (RCI 4 times), Disney and even the bankrupt Ocean Club Cruises, this was our first cruise aboard a Carnival ship and my expectations were pretty low.
I have heard that Carnival is a 3 Star experience, and is 'over-the-top tacky & gaudy'.
Joining us were my Mother and her friend Verna (both in their mid-80's) as well as my wife Kathy's cousin & husband (Ronnie & Art), who are first time cruisers. We chose Triumph because of the itinerary (4 ports) and the low Military rates ($589.00 pp for a balcony) that were available. Using my military discount, Carnival allowed us to get three (3) separate balcony cabins, all at the discounted rate!