In a nutshell, this was a really nice cruise - food, cleanliness, service, FUN; I don't know what it is people complain about, maybe I'm just lucky and continue to get good cruises on Carnival. The only reason I give this 4 out of 5 is because I've been to Nassau and Freeport multiple times, so was nothing new there - but I knew that when I booked...no biggie.
We booked this cruise a few months out and chose it based on price (very good deal offered), and based on time of year to cruise. We flew in to Orlando and stayed in Titusville the day before cruise departure. It's an easy trip from Orlando airport to the Space Coast and cruise port. If staying in Titusville, there are plenty of hotel options, and these have better prices than the hotels closer to the port - but again, super easy and close enough being in Titusville. I also highly recommend Dixie Crossroads for dining in Titusville, fantastic dinner the evening before cruising. We did not do a shuttle between the airport/hotel/port, but opted to rent a car as this was about a $20/person cheaper option vs. the shuttles (based on 4 travelers). This savings also includes calculating in the parking at the port - which is also, very easy.
We arrived at the port as early as you're allowed to (actually a little before) and had bought the Faster to Fun pass for $49/cabin allowing us to board the ship early and gain access to our cabins pretty much immediately - luggage was also already at our cabins. THIS IS SO WORTH THE MONEY, and I'd definitely do it again - look it up under "shore excursions" in Port Canaveral.
While this isn't really an "excursion", it's where you find the Faster to Fun pass - $49/cabin, well worth every dime for ability to board the ship early, have your cabin ready pretty much on arrival and even have your luggage waiting. No crowds at the bar while getting a drink or setting up your cheers or beverage package, and also first crack at the grilled food being served for lunch.
We didn't take an excursion, stayed on board enjoying a mostly empty pool area and ship in the morning, then just visited the shops right there in port for a little bit.