Carnival is known for its family-friendly fun, so Victory definitely sees its share of families as well as those who are kids at heart. Overall the ship draws many young couples, singles and groups of friends, the vast majority from the United States and Canada.

By day, casual attire goes, so shorts, jeans, capris and tees are just fine. By the pool, of course, it's bathing suits and cover-ups; inside the Lido restaurant, shirts, cover-ups and footwear (including flip-flops) must be worn at all times. If you prefer to stay in your bathing suit, just bring your plate to one of the many tables and chairs outside.

Most evenings are Cruise Casual, which means slacks, khakis, jeans (no cutoffs), dress shorts (long) and collared polo shirts for men and casual dresses, skirts, pants, capris, dress shorts, jeans (no cutoffs), blouses and tops for women. Not permitted in the dining rooms are cutoff jeans, men's sleeveless shirts, gym or basketball shorts, baseball hats, flip-flops or bathing suit attire.

Other nights are Cruise Elegant (once during two- to five-night cruises; twice during six-night or longer cruises) when you can don your elegant attire if you choose. Formal attire for men could include dress slacks and dress shirts (sports coats are suggested but hardly worn); while a suit or tuxedo would be appropriate, we never spotted anyone that formally attired. For women, cocktail dresses, pantsuits, skirts and blouses, or evening gowns are acceptable. If you want to keep it casual for dinner, the ship's buffet is open nightly and has a much more relaxed dress code, so daytime attire is allowed.

For the Chef's Table experience, closed-toe flat shoes that aren't prone to slipping must be worn since the experience involves a tour through the galley. Also note that dress codes pertain to children as well.

Carnival Cruise Line recommends gratuities of $13.99 per person, per day for standard staterooms and $15.99 per person, per day for suite staterooms. Gratuities can either be prepaid and added before sailing or can be automatically added to your Sail & Sign account onboard. Gratuities are not assessed on passengers less than 2 years of age. For cruises that begin in Barbados, all gratuities must prepaid and automatically added during the booking process.

In addition, an automatic 18 percent gratuity will be added to beverage purchases, the cover charge of the Chef's Table and spa treatments (these gratuities cannot be adjusted); room service staff may be tipped as service is rendered.