We were on the May 5-13 sailing. I have been on on 25 or 30 ships (including troop ships - as a "passenger"). Yes, I'm getting on in age.
The embarkation in NY, was as usual a bit confusing. However, it is really not painful. Parking at the pier is easy. You drop off your companion and all your luggage - you'll see it next outside your cabin door. Finding parking is easy. There are clear signs to the parking area. When parked take the escalator and meet your traveling companion.
Check-in was simple, but we were supposed to get a VIP line, which did not occur. In any case, it was only 1/2 hour check-in. Rather than wait until they let passengers on the ship, we went for a walk along the pier. If you go to the right out of the terminal there is a nice park a few blocks away. Just remember to get back to the ship.