This was our 7th Carnival cruise, the first on Triumph and first out of Galveston. We spent the night in Galveston prior to the cruise and took a taxi about noon to the port. Embarkation was smooth. It was about 45 minutes from curb to drink of the day.

We had a wrap balcony aft on Empress deck. It was great. Lots of room to move out of the wind and sun, and we had friends on board who frequently joined us. We spend a lot of time on the balcony rather than on public decks, so the balcony is important for us. Our only complaint was that we would periodically find cigarette butts on the balcony and after one particularly windy day a pizza slice arrived. The rooms are showing their wear, but were clean and comfortable.

The food was good. People frequently complain about food in their reviews and I don't quite understand why. There are so many options. One day the chicken tacos weren't the best so I went to the wok and my wife went to the deli, and both were great. The pizza was tasty and I love Guy's burgers. The huevos rancheros during sea day brunch were really good. Overall we enjoyed the food. Read more