We took a bus from upstate NY to the port. Baggage handlers took care of our bags from bus to ship. They do expect a tip. Not part of Carnival. Arrived around 11am, was one of the first few hundred in line. That sounds like a lot, but not that many people. The port had chairs for about 300 people and then queuing after that. Very organized and orderly to board. No crazy rush. Lines are broken out by cabin section, so everyone isn't in one line. When you get to the front, it's very quick if you filled out your Fun Pass on line. They just swipe your credit card, give you your room keys, and you are off. Takes longer if you didn't fill out the Fun Pass on-line, as you have to do all that at the desk. Next is security...a quick bag x-ray and you are on your way.
If you board on 3rd deck, stop by Purser's desk and grab the Carnival Capers (activity newsletter) and a map of the ship for your first day and head up to Lido Deck 9. They are on the counter. No need to wait in line. Check your room key for your dining seating. If you don't like it, you can wait in line at Purser's desk and try to change it. We had the early seating, as we requested, but later I'll tell you why I'd prefer the later seating. Take the elevators in the center of the atrium. You won't be able to get into your room for a few hours (they'll post the times), so take your carry-on bag, get a good seat (by the pool, near the pool, or in the restaurant) and make yourself comfy.
Take a good look at all your food options, as many people didn't discover them until Day 2 or 3. You have a small international buffet...continuing toward the aft or stern (that's the back of the ship), you'll run into the Deli (small but nice option), continuing on is the main buffet in the Mediterranean area. There are 2 identical buffets here. Continuing around further aft, you'll find the 24x7 pizza place (I admit I ate one slice of goat cheese and mushroom and garlic every day), Mississippi BBQ (really just burgers, dogs, fries), and another pool. Heading back into the Mediterranean area, you'll find an Asian offering, and lastly by the main pool areas, you'll have another burgers, dogs, fries buffet. Don't forget the free flowing, self-service, soft-serve ice cream or yogurt. Then there are drink stations. Water, iced tea, fruit punch, and some juices are free. There's also hot cocoa, coffee, and hot tea for free. Soda comes from the bar for a cost. That's your first lunch.