Just got back from this cruise. Overall, it was a good time and I'd recommend it. Here is our experience:

First of all, we booked a groupon for $300 for two people. This was easy to do, not part of any kind of timeshare, and we called the cruise line directly to book. No problems at all with doing this and a great deal for a two-night cruise. We did not add on the optional resort stay, so I can't comment on the resort at all.

Embarkation in the port was very easy. We got there around 11:30, dropped off the car with the valet (unfortunately this is the only option for parking, but they were very polite and quick, and hey, someone gets a job for this) and paid the $30 parking at drop-off. (Cash or credit) We dropped off our luggage, proceeded inside and everyone was very friendly. FYI- they have online check-in now and we printed out the onboard account form ahead of time, so that was helpful to have ready. They have booths set up for excursions, drink packages, and dinner times. The only one that's really necessary to stop at is dinner time sign-up. (We also got a soda card for $21, which comes with a refillable insulated mug, which turned out to be a good deal for us.) We waited about 15 minutes and were let right on the ship at 12 where lunch was waiting on deck 9. Read more