Since we live in Baja full-time, we had to go north before we could go south on our Mexican Riviera Elation cruise. A friend dropped us off at the embarkation point, and other than a few third grade educated parking lot attendants, everything was well designed and fast. There were plenty of visitors and convention bureau types to direct us, and we were through check-in and security in no time at all.

First thing, we went to check out our room. Since we intended to spend so little time there, we booked an interior room on Upper Deck. It was utilitarian but very comfortable...we never regretted the decision to forgo a view room, and only would upgrade if we had a reason to go for a suite. To me there is no in between.

Our luggage took a while to get to the room, but in plenty of time to change before dinner. Read more