I'll pick itenary over ship. What do you like (or want) on a ship? Food? entertainment? What type of decor? Do yu care about spa? Do you want rock climbing wall or water slide?

Jewel of the sea is about 8 years old, 90,000 tons and holds about 2200 passenegers.
http://www.fodors.com/cruises/royal-caribbean-international-676685/ships/jewel-of-the-seas-676694/

Carnival Valor is about the same age, slightly larger at 110,000 ton and holds more passengers. It has been recently renovated in 2011.
http://www.fodors.com/cruises/carnival-cruise-lines-676515/ships/carnival-valor-676521/fast-facts-641/

The itineraries are almost identical as are the ships. That is why we are at a loss as to which one to pick. Prices are almost the same too. Any more advice?

They may seem similar but in reality, theya re not. They each offer something different, and that goes back to my original question: what do you like, or want, on a ship.

Based on experience, Carnival offers better food RCCL in the main dining room. That's what I ahve heard from friends as well. However, the difference is NOT big enough that I would choose one over the other.

Carnival has the reputation of "fun" ship. A lot more drinking and partying. There are quiet places if you so choose if you want to avoid the "crowd". What I don't like is the constant PA bombardments. I really hated PA announcement. I am not in KMart or Walmart.

RCCL offers a bit less "ritz" but still caters to the younger crowd. Personally, I don't enjoy the RCCL setting as much as Celebrity or Princess. Not that there is anything wrong with it.

Based on recent renovations, I would pick the Valor over the Jewel. Valor is also bigger and has more to offer.

Again, it really depends on what you like, or want, or a ship. What is important to you?

We did two cruises on Jewel of Seas and really like the ship, it is a nice size to navigate as it's smaller. I am not a fan of Carnival but to each his own. I would suggest RCCL if the itin is the same. Carnival has more of a party atmosphere. Check out some of the reviews of both ships on Cruise Critic boards as people will write reviews when they return. It is all up to what you want on a cruise.

Here's a review of Carnival Valor: http://www.cruisecritic.com/reviews/review.cfm?ShipID=338

Review of RCCL Jewel of Seas: http://www.cruisecritic.com/reviews/review.cfm?ShipID=307

Thanks for your help. All the reviews are also very close so I guess I will go for the best rate. If anyone else has any advice as to which cruise to pick please reply