Pre-Cruise: We stayed overnight at a nearby La Quinta after flying into Ft. Lauderdale airport the day before departure. We parked our car there for two weeks and got the complimentary shuttle to the port. Although we had initially been told by a desk person AND the driver of the shuttle upon dropoff that we'd be picked up at the pier, we were informed when we called back that there was no pick up and that we'd have to get a taxi. A taxi from the port to Hollywood, FL where our hotel was cost right at 23.50. Still better than the $10/pp the shuttles wanted.

Embarkation: After taking the 10am shuttle to the port we were ushered through check-in in about 15 minutes and only had to wait another 15 or so before we were allowed to board at about 11:30am. The agent, Margie, who helped us was a pleasure. They are very strict about where you sit and how you line up once you are checked-in while you wait to board if the boat hasn't been opened yet, so keep that in mind.

Ship: I'll separate the ship into several sections since doing otherwise seems like it would be a disservice. Read more