We spent the night before at the LaQuinta North Hotel (a decent, no-frills property) which offered FREE parking for the duration of the cruise, a complimentary airport shuttle and a $10 per person cruise port shuttle. A cab ride from here will cost about $40 so the shuttle is a bargain.

We arrived at the POM around 11am and they started boarding passengers at 11:30. Cabins were ready before 1pm and luggage was delivered before 2pm -- all in all a very speedy process!

The ship itself is in fairly good condition for a 12 year old vessel and it is obvious they do whatever maintenance they can to keep it in good repair. Although there were some signs of wear and tear, even more evident was the fact that the ship was immaculate. Empty cups and dishes were whisked away from outdoor tables almost as soon as you put your fork or spoon down. Someone was always wiping down a counter or tabletop. And the buffet serving areas were also kept very neat and clean. Read more