I wondered if the Valor would make the grade. It does. Here is our review about this ship and the cruise line.

SUNDAY, APRIL 25, 2010: EMBARKATION: How easy can it get? There were seven of us including my wife's sister and her husband. They had never cruised before and had a wonderful week. We turned our luggage over to the porters, gave them a tip, and made our way inside. We hade a suite so we could have gone the VIP route but decided to stay with the rest of our group. We got there about 11:15 and were at our cabins by 11:45. They were ready and we put our stuff in and went to lunch. Eating is my favorite part of a cruise. The six new pounds will vouch for that. One word about the new kiosks that Carnival has installed to help you get through the lines quickly. GREAT! Use them. MEALS: Great food at lunch and in the main Washington Dining Room. Juan was our waiter for the early sitting and he was fantastic. Danilo was his assistant and they took great care of us all week long. We looked forward to the nights that they sang and danced. Two appetizers, two entrees and two desserts. This night was Cream Brule'. One of my favorites but I had also heard about the Chocolate Melting Cake. Try both. CABINS; our suite was ready early and had a balcony that was large enough for all seven of us. The other two cabins were inside ones but were directly across the hall. ENTERTAINMENT: This was the one area where I thought some work could be done. We have cruised other lines and seen better. However, you have to realize that you get what you pay for. We could afford a suite on Carnival for the balcony cabin price on another line. The comedian that night was not great and we did not enjoy him. The dancers were not the best but we did enjoy them.

MONDAY, APRIL 26, 2010: A nice, quiet day at sea. We did the hot tub thing and the pool. I must say that this is the only day that we took the time for this. Too busy otherwise. The best part of my day was sitting on the balcony and getting a chance to read and relax. MEALS: again great food and great service. There are eight different buffets on the Valor, not counting the burrito bar, the deli, the pizza place, sushi bar and fish and chips. If you can't find what you want stay home. The fish and chips were more than enough for me, but I also had the calamari. Like I said I like to eat. Got my brother-in-law to try the calamari and he loved it. ENTERTAINMENT: good show featuring the dancers and singers. I also enjoyed going along the fifth deck and listening to the individuals that sang on the small stage there. Some quiet time alone as I listened. Everyone else was in a hurry to do something or get somewhere. Read more