We go on this particular cruise twice a year as it is convenient for us to drive the 4 hours. We do arrive in Galveston the night before and motel it. Do not participate in the sleep, leave the car and bus to port. We have discovered that EZ Park is the way to go. Drive to the lot, park and take bus to pier. Porter waiting to take bags. The embarkation was very quick - from arrival at 10:30am at EZ Park to lunch at the Windjammer was 11:30 and painless. Cabin was ready at 12:30pm and all bags arrived by 5:00pm.

Cruise itself was wonderful, water was like glass and the service was impeccable as usual.

To address the dining experience, we actually cancelled our reservations at one of the optional restaurants as the food was excellent in the dining room. We do not do excursions as we have done it all and just enjoy the cruise itself.. The ship is nice and quiet on port days and we like the onboard relaxation and visiting with the other people who choose not to go ashore. Read more