We had sailed the Mediterranean around Europe on the Freedom last April. We loved the ship and the itinerary, so decided to try the Caribbean for a winter break. The Freedom was just as wonderful as it was when it was brand new!
We arrived in Miami a day before the cruise. Hey, we live in blizzard country and there was no way that I was tempting fate and arriving the day of the cruise. As it was, I was constantly going to the weather channel and checking out the forecast. We arrived to a beautiful day in Miami, sunny and in the 80's. We took a free shuttle to our hotel, Sofitel Miami Airport. With a quick check-in and some free drink and wine coupons for being a Sofitel Privilege member, we proceeded to the restaurant for a delicious and unique lunch. It was a little pricey but the convenience was worth it. After lunch, it was still early and we spent the rest of the day around the pool. Later, I talked to the concierge who arranged a noon pick-up for a shuttle to the port. The cost was $10 per person and delivered us right to the Carnival Freedom curb side.
We handed off our luggage to the porters and proceeded inside. For some reason, we were selected to go directly inside to check-in, by passing one of the initial check in points. The line upstairs was not too terribly long. The people checking guests in worked efficiently and pleasantly. After about a 15 minute wait, we were called to the desk. Our funpass had been filled out previously, as well as our sign and sail cards. In about five minutes, we were on our way to board the ship.