We opted to use a car service traveling about 2 hours from home to the port. For us the extra cost is well worth not worrying about a flat tire or some other car issue, finding parking.
We arrived at the terminal at about 11 AM; a porter took our luggage and we went to the check in line. We had priority check in and no wait but it didn't seem that the regular check in long was that long at that time either. By the time we completed out paperwork about recent illnesses our cards were being handed to us and we were on the gangway. We by passed the photographers and walked on the ship, welcomed with champagne.
By the time we had lunch (which was prolonged, perhaps because it was the first day), our room was ready.
Wonderful room with an oversized balcony that allowed the three of us to eat on the deck.
Bayonne is a great port to get in and out of; nothing like the craziness of going out of New York.