We arrived early at the Port of Miami (about 10:15 AM) and the check-in process was quick and easy with the self-serve kiosks. After a brief wait, we were allowed to begin boarding about 11:30, and it went quickly from there. We enjoyed lunch in Emile's on the Lido Deck immediately. Our family (which includes two teenagers)especially enjoyed the burrito bar and the Mongolian grill--both welcome additions which we had not experienced on previous cruises.

After a tour of the ship, we went to our cabin and our luggage had already been delivered. We unpacked, laid out on the deck and participated in safety drill. (Safety drills are so much nicer now that they were in the old days where you were required to wear a life jacket too!)

We were set for early dining since that is our preference. We had a great waiter and assistant. We had purchased a soda card for each member of our family. We tipped the bar waiter well throughout the week, and he kept us supplied with soft drinks. The food was great--standard Carnival fare--but we always enjoy it! We can't bring ourselves to pay even more to eat in Harry's Steak House, but some friends of ours did and they said it was wonderful and worth it (with real, brewed tea, great bread, humongous steaks and cheesecake to die for). Read more