We had a very nice cruise. Valor is a huge, beautiful mega ship but if you have cruised on other lines, you may be disappointed with some aspects of the ship such as service and entertainment.
The port in Miami is efficient but lacks enough seating. I would not suggest getting there too early. Once you find a place to sit to wait to board the ship, don't get up or you will lose your seat. Embarkation was not difficult, but was delayed for our cruise for unknown reasons. People were still coming off the previous cruise after noon, and of course, new passengers can't embark until the ship is cleared. Our luggage was delivered to our rooms promptly. The ship departed the dock on time which was a pleasant surprise because of the delay in boarding. Muster drill is important, but we've learned, don't be the first to get there. You get packed in, pushed back to the wall, and it was hot and crowded.
As we left port, we went to the bon voyage party, what a view and a wonderful way to begin your cruise. A cocktail waitress named Teeni approached us and promptly delivered a bucket of Heinekens to us. She asked our names and remembered us the entire week. She works the pool decks during the day, and the theaters and public areas at night. She always had a smile and always seemed to find us. If you happen to see her, tell her Vince & Wally miss her very much!
We had 2 rooms on the 11th floor Spa Deck, both had nice size balconies and were very comfortable.Our rooms were underneath Camp Carnival so it's little noisy during the day. The Spa deck balconies do not provide the privacy of the lower decks so please beware you are being watched. The 12th deck is used primarily for Camp Carnival and for passengers observing the beautiful views of the ocean and ports and they can look right down on your balcony. Rooms are close to elevators, pools, outside decks, fitness center, spa and food. Not a lot of foot traffic and very quite at night when it matters most.