We flew into Ft. Lauderdale the night before and stayed at the Ft. Lauderdale Hilton Marina Hotel. We had a good room overlooking the huge pool. We dined at the Bimini Boatyard Bar & Grill; a 5 minute walk from the hotel. Food was okay. The Bimini Bread was delicious.
The hotel had a shuttle to the pier for $7 each. Embarkation was quick and easy due to Platinum status.
Our cabin was good; the very front of the ship, and our steward was efficient, if seldom seen.