Never having cruised from Mobile before we set out early from Jackson, Ms to arrive at the terminal. We got there about 11:30 and the traffic was already backed up in both lanes almost to the interstate exit ramp. And it was moving very slowly, it took about an hour to finally get parked in the garage and was on the very top level uncovered. The inside lines were also very long, but seemed to move fairly quickly and in 45 minutes we were finally on the ship at 1:15. Just went and waited to get in our room and at 1:30 hall doors were opened. Most of our luggage was already there so we placed it in room and went up to Lido deck to grab bite to eat. Sail away was late by about 30 minutes but finally we were underway. overall impressions: Food: Not as great as we have gotten on other Carnival ships. Pasta dishes were very bland and dry. Usually had to ask for extra sauce in dining room and always had to add salt. Prime rib on last night was mostly fatty, very little meat. Lobster tail was mushy, had to be sent back(others were fine). Room: TINY!! Probably because we had two boys in there but we were really cramped. Unable to empty either of their suitcases because drawer space very limited. I will say the bathroom was decent size with spacious shower. Service: very friendly and helpful, always smiling. Room was always clean and plenty of clean towels in bathroom. Dining servers were very accommodating with special request. Kids never went to camps so cannot rate these. Overall: Debarkation was easy, we waited till ship had cleared out before leaving and lines were minimal. On the road by 10:30. Would cruise from Mobile again, but not on the Elation. Seemed really small compared to the Conquest I have cruised on before.