Sunlover, for some strange reason there seems to be a love-hate relationship with Carnival. I don't quite understand it myself. I have found that going on a new ship is the best, the cruise lines seem to put the cream of their crop on a new ship to "sell" it to the general public. Love your itineary. Relax and enjoy it will be fine.
You have to take the reviews with a "grain of salt" read the good and the bad, and find a happy medium. i find that Anne's reviews are the most helpful.