I am buying a 7-day cruise vacation in the next few days for my in-laws for a cruise in April 2002. They have never cruised before. Although I would like to get the best for them, money is an issue, and I am interested in getting the most for my money. My wife and I have cruised several times before and have been to most of the Eastern Caribbean, so I am knowledgeable about many of the islands, but I have not been on any of these ships. I have narrowed it down to the following ships:<BR><BR>1) Carnival Victory<BR>2) Carnival Triumph<BR>3) Carnival Paradise<BR><BR><BR>Which one should I send them on? They both smoke and one is in mid 50’s and the other is in early 70’s. Obviously I have not considered the Disney ships due to the high amount of kids, which would probably annoy them. They both can walk just fine (no wheelchairs or walkers involved).<BR><BR>I am currently reviewing cruise reviews for these ships, but it is still hard to compare one ship against another. Any advice would be welcome.<BR><BR>Dave<BR><BR>[email protected]<BR >

Whoops, i just remembered that the Paradise is a non-smoking ship - so that option is out. <BR><BR>So, which is the better of the remaining 2 ships: Carnival's Triumph or Carnival's Victory?

Victory & Triumph are twins, not that much difference. Victory is a year or so newer. Base your decision on price and itinerary.

As the poster ahead of me stated, there's not much difference in the ships! I noticed you mention April. Make sure you are not booking the week of Easter as Carnival will also be full of kids who are out of school. A general rule with cruises; the higher the price, the older the clients and the lower the price, the more young people and families. A limited budget makes it hard to get away from young families but the time you choose to travel will help!<BR>

I would choose the Victory since the decor is toned down quite a bit from the Triumph. The ship has a sea motif and it is interesting.<BR><BR>The food, service and entertainment is the same on both ships. The cabins are basic, functional and large.<BR><BR>Your in-laws may enjoy the big-band orchestra ..... at least the one in the early 70's.<BR><BR>Since Carnival is a family value cruise-line one will find a mix of all ages and types of passengers. <BR><BR>Paul