Wish I could complain...but

After being on Victory's sister ship, Destiny, I knew what to expect. Carnival's style isn't exactly mine (being 60 and somewhat sedate) but my 11 year-old daughter LOVES water slides so the Celebrity cruise that also matched our available Spring Break dates was eliminated from contention. The ship's layout is identical to Destiny/Sunshine despite a completely different ("Seven Seas") interior design theme. Crowds gather at the usual places at the usual times and can be avoided with a bit of planning. Sure she's a bit old, and a bit worn, but so am I and we're both in pretty good shape altogether. Carnival's waiters, bartenders and the staff who have contact with guests are all trained in memorizing guests' names and it makes a difference. Nobody beats Carnival at the friendliness game. Ate nearly all meals in the MDR because of my allergy to lines. I did sample the pre-sail lunch buffet because, thanks to paying extra for the "Faster to the Fun" program, no one else was aboard yet. The roast beef was actually rare, the way I like it! Eggplant caponata was a delicious surprise. Went to a comedy show (Percy Somebody...forgot his last name) and didn't laugh much. Went to the singing-dancing revue in the main theater and was quite entertained. Joined the old fart singalong in the Piano Bar and had a good time. Glad my kid was accepted into the Circle C group for 12+ because she made two friends immediately and had a superb time on the ship. Both ports of call were familiar territory and we were happy booking shore excursions without Carnival's help (Mini-submarine, parasailing, Mr. Sancho's Beach Club). All in all, a good ship, better food than Royal and a nice getaway. Carnival still gives the best bang for the buck. (Next I gotta try Holland-America and Celebrity)