I enjoy checking cruise prices, usually daily, to find the best rate. We took a cruise on the Triumph in May, 2010, so we didn't really plan on going again this year, but when I came upon the price of $339 pp for 7 nights - it was just to good to pass up. My advise is to keep close check on the cruise price & call as soon as you see a price you like because they usually don't last long.

I am from north Louisiana so we decided to make the 8 hour drive to Galveston the day before the cruise. We stayed at the Beachcomber Inn ($70/night) because they allow you to leave your vehicle in their parking lot for free if you stay the night before your cruise. We've found that it's much easier to grab a cab to & from the terminal instead of fighting the traffic. I traveled with my mother, brother, & his new wife.

We were up and ready early so we went on over to the terminal about 9:30. We were informed that the ship was an hour late docking & there would be a little wait. This was my 10th cruise and the 1st time for VIP. Checking in was very nice. Me mother & I were directed to a separate room where 2 people were assigned to check in the VIP passengers. I took all of 3 minutes. We were then taken to a special area to wait to board & were escorted onto the ship right after the handicap call. We were on Lido deck eating lunch by 11:30 & there were no lines in the buffet. My brother & his wife made it on board by 12:30. Read more