This was our eighth cruise, the fourth time with RCI. We had a very relaxed journey from start to finish. We are from Sullivan County (NY). Due to the late departure of the Brilliance and the fact that we had vacationed in Puerto Rico previously, we over nighted at the airport (EWR). We stayed in the Newark Airport Hampton Inn. We had a 9:30 Jet Blue flight and found not having to drive (a two hour journey),then fly and transfer to the port all in the same day a more relaxed and less tense way to approach the travel from home to ship. If you seek additional information re the hotel,I have a review of the hotel and park/fly option of the Hampton Inn on Trip Advisor. Briefly,the Hampton Inn is not a "posh" hotel but the staff is helpful and I find their parking facility and use of their "courtesy van" most convenient. It will meet or exceed your expectations.

Our Jet Blue flight the next day was on time. We found the seats comfortable, and their service, although limited, was sufficient for this four hour flight. The crew was most hospitable.

For those of you who have never made the airport to cruise ship transfer before (like us),it is a snap. Just exit the baggage area and the cabs are lined up to take you to your ship.The base price is $21.00 (for two people)plus $1.00 per suitcase. For peace of mind, it is always best to ask what the fare will be prior to getting into the cab. We did not hear a peep about anyone getting ripped off by a cab driver. Your trip (depending on traffic) should take about twenty minutes. Read more