I, of course, like others on here always wonder about the negative reviews...and wonder what am I getting myself into. Well there was no need for worry on our cruise on the Valor.

For starters, this was my third cruise and my husband's second. We were traveling with a couple, her second cruise, his first. I have previously sailed on the Sensation with said friend, and my husband and I have been on the Disney Wonder with the kids. This trip was for some adult fun without having to worry about the kids, or the expense of bringing them along. It was also for DH to see whether he would want to take the kids on a Carnival cruise. (he sort of became a snob after Disney). The answer was a resounding YES after day one on board, in fact we did book another for early next year with the whole family, and additionally purchased to future cruise certificates.

Embarkation was ok, but I expect crowds and chaos. The only thing I think Carnival could do better here is move the kiosks away from the area where you pick up your sign and sail cards. The line for the cards was wrapping in front of kiosks and guests were getting confused. The Carnival lady was nice, but guests in line to use the kiosks had to cut through the line for the sign and sail cards. Overall, I think that is my only complaint of the whole trip. Read more