First of all we are 27 & 28 years old and married, no kids. I think that is important for you to know where we are coming from. This was our first cruise. -Getting from Houston to Galveston was a snap. Really made easy with this man, L.J. Cormier (Texas Cruise Ship Shuttle cruiseride@msn.com). He gives you a tour of Houston and Galveston $125 each way. Way worth the money (no stress). We got his name by looking on these forums.
-Embarkation was a breeze. Just some security checks and ID showing and you're on the ship.
-Baggage didn't get to the cabin till about 6pm. Dinner is casual that night anyway. NOTE - Your dinner time request and it is just that, a REQUEST with these people. If you're not old (60+) or have kids, you don't get seated at the early time. We got stuck with 8:30pm even though we requested 6:00pm.