When my girlfriend and I arrived in Tampa we were picked up by the transfer bus included in our Carnival fees. Very luxurious bus. We did wait about 40 minutes as other flights arrived and bus got full quickly. When we arrived at the pier there was some chaos as people did not listen to instructions regarding luggage and tags that could have been filled out early (on line).
I guess I am spoiled as my friend always reads the fine print and makes sure we have all the paperwork and instructions completed before our trips.
We arrived by 11am but it still took quite awhile to get on board. By the time we got into are room (got lost few times-no one to help us)we were very hungry.
We had a balcony which was on 7Th floor aft. I thought it was great view and very comfortable. The "Safe Box" method for locking was faulty. Stop filling up refrigerator with drinks that will be charged to room if drank. Door to balcony was very heavy and difficult to open.