We arrived in San Diego night before our cruise, stayed at the Best Western Hacienda in Old Town. Perfect timing since it was Cinco De Mayo, and our hotel was right in the middle of the action. Hotel was very sprawling, comfortable and friendly staff. They provided us transport to the port the next morning.
Embarkation: we arrived early around 11a, quickly went through check in with no lines. Process was very simple and organized. We were fortunate because they started boarding around 1145. On board quickly with our room was ready to go. Very nice.
Room: our sky suite was on towards the aft on port side. very spacious for a mini suite, comfortable, and a very large balcony. We are hooked! We have always had a balcony room on cruises, but the extra space and comfort is addictive. We also got a great rate with a "senior" 55+ discount. Worth the hunting I did before booking.
We had sky suite cabin 1239. Great space, large balcony, very nice bathroom. very quite and the deck above which we were concerned about had very little foot traffic, so very quite. loved the location, very easy to take the steps down to dining, and the elevators only a few steps away.