My husband and I drove to Ft. Lauderdale where we met our family who had flown in. Together we drove to the Port of Miami where we parked our car for free because we had a handicapped tag. The embarkation process was easy and quick.
My husband and I had an adjoining room with our daughter, son-in-law and 2 1/2 year old granddaughter. This was a first cruise for them, second for us. We chose Carnival because their childcare program (Camp Carnival) goes down to two year old children (most other ships start at age 3).
Our staterooms were quite spacious. There was no engine noise where we were near the forward end even though we were down on the lowest passenger deck. Our staterooms were a little worn looking (rip in the bed skirt, chips in the sinks, chunks of trim missing on counters) but everything was very clean. Bedding was of good quality and comfortable.
Worn, but roomy and clean. Quiet location, close to elevators.