First of all I generally travel by car which means I use hotel cruise packages. I stayed at the Fairfield Inn in Dania Beach which provides a free trip for 2 to the port via Ace Transportation. It was $8.00 for an extra person to the port, and $10.00 per person for the return trip. However, this aspect was handled so well I do recommend this package for Port Everglades. We were taken to and from the port very promptly. Services by hotel and transportation was A+ and recommended.
Getting on the Freedom was much like other ports. We were getting on at terminal #21, and this was uneventful. The muster drill was well done, staff very friendly. Our room was clean, and our cabin steward met us promptly. He remembered all of our names and did an outstanding job. We had early seating and although our table was not in the best location our waiters were outstanding as was the food throughout the cruise. I did not eat on the lido deck very much, but everything seemed very good. On the last two sea days they attempted some special events like a taco buffett and a chocolate buffett. These events were very good, but they had problems handing the many customers. I should note we had excellent weather throughout this cruise which enhances the experience, naturally.
Our first port was Grand Turk, and it had everything for my family. Ocean, pool, shopping,and it is now one of our favorite ports! La Romania was the next port where I went on an excursion with Seavis. Very well done, and recommended as well as I had a very good time and never felt lost, or worried about getting back to the ship on time.