We just returned last Saturday from a 7-day cruise of the Eastern Caribbean on the Carnival Triumph. We're New Yorkers who have traveled widely, but only cruised once before. Here's a detailed review in case you're considering this ship or itinerary.
The ship: The Triumph is big—about 2800 passengers, and 1000 crew members. But that doesn't mean it's overwhelming. Most of the activity was concentrated on only a few decks, especially the bustling Lido deck with the main pools, whirlpools, sunning areas, and buffet restaurant. So with a total of 12 floors of cabins and public rooms, there were still spots available around the ship where you didn't feel crowded. It also had a FANTASTIC gym, which was not crowded. Plenty of machines, and you look out directly over the ocean at the front of the ship. Wow.
Although the ship is almost a decade old, it seemed very well maintained. And the dEcor is toned down—by Carnival standards. There's plenty of color, but nothing loud or garish. Much less so than our previous voyage on the Carnival Imagination (which was just renovated last month, and hopefully now has toned down the decorating scheme).