My husband and I are active travelers, retired educators and in our 50s and 60s. We tend to go places for a week or so, book through VRBO and travel LAST MINUTE....usually less than a week in advance. We have grown quite fond of All Inclusive, Adults Only resorts. This was a new adventure! Booked about 1 month in advance, thought we got a pretty good deal with just under $1800 for a balcony on the Verandah (8th) deck near the front to the ship (or should I say Fore!) That price also included insurance and was with a military discount and $100 OBC. I depend on forums (TA and now CC) for as much info as possible to try to make the most out of a trip.
Direct flight from ATL. $336 RT on Delta because we came back on Monday instead of Sunday. that was a couple of weeks in advance also, it seems there are no last minute flight bargains...at least I have not found them anymore.
Embarkation seemed LONG with a Disney world type line, but I guess the line moved pretty fast. About 45 minutes to get through a VERY long line. Might consider FTTF if we do this again if you also get off early...that's another story! :-(