This was my 3rd cruise and the second with Carnival. The last time I cruised with Carnival it seemed to be more of a party ship but they have toned it down and seem to cater more to the family.

We arrived to the port early and we were pleased to find they were allowing us to drop our baggage and start the process the time of our arrival to the port was 10:30 am. We dropped off our luggage and parked the car then proceeded back to the terminal and check in was a breeze. We were given a note letting us know politely that check in was not until 1:00 or so but the ship was there and ready except for the rooms so they were pleased to allow us on and feed us lunch. We boarded the boat at about 11.

We had some time to plan our trip and after some research we found a great tip! Bring a lanyard (a necklace type thing that has a clip on it). Soon as we got our sail and sign cards we took them to the information desk where they were happy to punch a hole in the card so we could hang them around our neck so we had access to our cards at all times and did not have to look in pockets when we needed them. People asked us daily where we got them and said it was a great idea. Read more