After reading all of the negative posts about the Valor, I will admit we were a little skeptical about going. However, I have come to realize that cruising is all about what YOU make of it.. and apparently some people just can't be pleased. We had a great time on this cruise and I think Carnival did an excellent job, especially for the price.
Embarkation in Galveston was a breeze! We chose the 2:30 check in time. Arrived at the terminal at 1:30, assumed we would have to wait to board, but nope... we were on the ship and drinking a pina colada by 2:05!!
That brings something to share with you... Galveston is technically a "dry port". So if you purchased the drink package, that will not start until the following day at sea. With that said, you CAN STILL BUY DRINKS on the ship even in port. So no worries, my fellow drinking friends, you will not have to be "dry" on the first day of your cruise!
Our balcony cabin was located directly next to the elevators. I worried that this was going to be a problem with noise and too many people, but I was pleasantly surprised that it wasn't an issue. During the day, you could sometimes hear people in the hallway, but it was not bad and at night, they shut the main doors between the cabins and the elevators so it was nice and quiet. Between my fan blowing and the gentle rocking of the ship...I slept like a baby at night!!
Progresso... not so much! WAY TOO many peddlers!! They seriously would not leave you alone, even in the restaurants. It was fine to experience for a short while, but we went back to the ship pretty early just to get away from it. I would never have to go there again...but if I ever do.. I will book an excursion instead of just meandering around the town.