We have cruised on other lines and chose carnival as a last-minute decision to get away quickly close to home (one hour drive to galveston from sugarland, texas). we travel with our daughter (who has cruised since birth!), who is now 6.
Embarkation was uneventful. parking was nearby (pre-booked easily on line), and lines were short and everything moved along quickly.
The first thing we noticed was the tiny balcony cabin. it was so much smaller than what we have been in on norwegian and royal caribbean. the cabin, and the ship were simply decorated, nothing was luxury at all. (think motel 6) that was the beginning of our disappointment with carnival.
Cabin was just OK. They are likely pretty much the same. BASIC. This is like Walmart....no luxury at all....just the basic cabin. The steward was lovely - Carnival is lucky to have him.
Took public transport to 7 mile beach. Very nice but got extremely crowded. $2.50 per person each way.
Arrived and left port.