Background: We live near Atlanta, Ga. and this was our 5th time cruising with Carnival. We prefer to cruise out of ports that are within driving distance from our home. Previously, we have sailed out of Miami and Port Canaveral, and were really looking forward to going to a new port this time. My sister and her husband were joining us on this cruise, and I started a Roll Call that grew to approx. 90 members by the time we sailed.
Pre-Cruise Hotel: Instead of leaving our home and driving straight through to the port, we decided to leave a little earlier and get a motel for the night. This would allow us to take our time in the morning getting dressed and eat breakfast before heading to the port. We stayed at the Days Inn on Adamo Drive and were very happy with the arrangements. The hotel was easy to find, very well laid out and clean. When we left the next morning, all we had to do was follow Adamo Dr. to Channelside Dr - maybe a 10 minute drive. I would recommend this hotel.
Embarkation: When you turn onto Channelside Dr., follow the signs to Terminal 2. You can pull up to the curb and have the porters help you unload and then go park your vehicle in the garage across the street for $84, or elect to use valet parking for $100. We unloaded our luggage and waited for my husband & Brother-in-law to return from the parking garage at Gate B. Once we showed our passports & ID's, we were on our way up the escalator inside the Terminal.
We had connecting cabins located on the Empress Deck (forward port side). Never had any noise problems, and our Steward was THE BEST! The only con was it was a long walk to the aft Lido Bar & buffet...but that can be good if you need to walk it off!