My girlfriend and I decided to leave our husbands at home on the Eastern Shore of Maryland to watch March Madness while we went on a Caribbean cruise. To each their own. Personally, I think we got the better end of the deal. This is my 22nd cruise and my friend's 4th.

We flew Airtran to Ft. Lauderdale and arrived a day early. I had arranged for SAS to shuttle us to Miami where we stayed at the Marriott Biscayne Bay. We had a nice room overlooking the water with a small balcony. SAS was recommended by cruise critic members. It was great, just $15 per person from Ft. Lauderdale to Miami. This was a great deal as I have paid much more for other shuttles.

We arrived at the port the following morning about 11am. Check in went smoothly and we were soon on the ship and in the Windjammer eating lunch. Usually the rooms aren't ready until 1pm but they were ready early. The dreaded muster drill went smoothly. It is great not to have to take or wear life vests. Read more