I chose this particular cruise because we wanted to try the "Sunshine". I knew it was pretty new and has all the upgrades. It did not disappoint.
EMBARK: We flew into Melbourne airport the day before, rented a car, and drove to the port around 12:30 / 1:00. We stopped at a grocery store to pick up a couple 12-packs of soda to bring on board. Renting the car was less expensive than a shuttle for 4 people round trip. Then, the rental car shuttle picks you back up when the cruise is over and we drove back to the Melbourne airport. Easy and convenient. There was quite a line at that time for embarkation, but it moved along pretty fast. (maybe 25 -30 minutes total from arrival to ship).
SHIP: The lobby area was modern and shiny. We went to our interior cabins (we had two next door to each other), and they were fresh and ready. The room stewards introduced themselves to us - they are always SO friendly and helpful! There were no ice buckets in the rooms, but one of the stewards brought us one promptly after we asked. Carnival does provide two big water bottles now for free to VIFP members, so we had 4 total, which was nice.
Nice typical interior cabin. No noise from above or below, or in hallways. Two beds, desk, stool (chair), bigger shower in bathroom than I remember.