Embarkation/Debarkation/Logistics/Ship Infrastructure Leaving from NYC was a plus for us - the Manhattan rather than Red Hook terminal was also an advantage. We arrived nice & early at JFK, took Air Train to subway and subway to Columbus Circle. Since we didn't need to pack formal outfits (another plus for Freestyle) we had minimal luggage, so walking over was quick & easy.
The embarkation process under-sold and over-delivered; the queues were long, even though we were there early, but moved fairly well. Staff were pleasant, refreshments available. We were told that boarding would not happen until 1:30, but actually got on board by just before 12 noon - in fact our number was called before we even finished checking in!
Early hours onboard before staterooms became available were a bit chaotic - since we were dressed for NY weather, we went outside to sit in the Great Outdoors area to have our lunch (from Garden Cafe buffet - busy, not the best layout, but food was surprisingly tasty) and grab a couple of beers.