After much research, I booked through an Internet travel agency that I had never used before. I booked a balcony stateroom for my DW and I and an inside one for my son and GF. My DW and I celebrated birthdays during this period so I decided to surprise her and upgraded to a Gran Suite for really not much money. Would I use this particular agency again? Probably not. I'll leave it at that.
My DW, DS, GF and I drove from New Orleans to spend New Year's with family in the Ft. Lauderdale/Miami area. Driving was more economical than flying due to the Holidays.
After getting dropped off we were directed to the check in area by some very friendly Costa personnel. We went through the security checkpoint without incident and proceeded to check in. It took us about 15 minutes from the time we pulled up and the time we were on the ship. We were truly amazed as this was the smoothest and quickest embarkation of any of our cruises. Once inside we were met by Costa staff who checked our documents again and took our picture with a handheld device. This took all of a minute or so. From there we were directed to our cabin.
Gran Suite 7200. Spacious. Lots of closet and drawer space and leg room. Over sized balcony. Do not turn on AC all the way prior to going to sleep!