we stayed at the radisson resort the night before. rooms were okay. shuttle service was included with the rate of $184. car was left at hotel. shuttle picked us up at 11am and we were at the port within minutes!
this was my 7th cruise, 5th with carnival. we did complete our sail and sign card online which made things move quickly. we were on the ship at 1230pm and of course the rooms were not ready. we went to the lido deck for lunch and had a welcome aboard cocktail. lines were already forming to change seat assignments in the dining rooms. i would recommend taking care of that just as soon as it is available.
this was not the most beautiful carnival ship, but it was clean and the staff was fantastic. we did not participate in the activities onboard. i have done that in the past and it is the same old things to me.