I have found this site really helpful in the past, and wanted to pass on the knowledge to others.
First off, I must say that I find many of the reviews to be very critical -- to the point that I was worried about the Grandeur before we left. I was thinking sewage, ripped carpets, terrible food... well let me tell you -- I am an experienced traveler and 4-time cruiser -- the Grandeur was wonderful and we loved it.
Embarkation was a BREEZE, I couldn't believe it. We got on the ship much earlier than the published time, had a GREAT lunch at the Windjammer and were able to spend a couple of hours in New Orleans (fun, fun) before re-boarding. The embarkation staff were efficient, friendly and there were no delays. Much better than other ships I've been on.