This was my seventh cruise (6th with Carnival).
Parking: We arrived and parked in the New Orleans port parking. The fee was $16/night. We had read about some less expensive structures, but reviews were not good, so we decided to go with the more trusted source. Attendants take care of your luggage, you just park and take carry on items with you.
Embarkation: Very short walk from parking structure. Embarkation process was smooth. There is a table to check beverages bringing on board. We had soda, water and protein drinks. We were on the ship within a few minutes, and ready to drop by the cabin prior to going to lunch on the Lido deck.