We cruised aboard the Carnival Valor on July 2-9, 2006 and had a wonderful experience overall. We flew into Fort Lauderdale due to a much cheaper flight and used the Airport Express shuttle service to our Miami hotel. This cost $23 per person (even though they advertised and told me on the phone it was $18.00). But even at $23 a person, that wasn't too bad. Another option is to rent a car and drive yourself to Miami. It is about the same price, but since our plane got in at midnight and we are completely unfamiliar with Miami, we decided to let someone else do the driving.

The embarkation process was very smooth. From the time we arrived at the terminal to the time we were on deck eating lunch, it was only about an hour. We arrived at the terminal at 10:30. I would recommend getting there between 10:00 and 10:30 or wait until about 1:00. The lines get really long during peak embarkation hours. We boarded the ship on the 3rd level directly into the main lobby. Wow, what a view! I couldn't believe how big and beautiful it was. We were told to explore the ship and that lunch was being served on the Lido Deck. The staterooms wouldn't be ready until 1:30, so we had to tote our carry on things with us. In the future, we will check all of our bags when we arrive at the terminal!

Shortly before embarkation, we went through the mandatory muster drill. One point of advice that I have is don't go to your muster station until they make the last call. The life vests are very hot and if it is hot outside you will roast. We got there right before it began and were only there for about 10-15 minutes! Others who went right away, were there for about a half hour! Read more