We made our own travel arrangements to join the ship flying with American Airlines from Manchester to Philadelphia. Then on from there to Fort Lauderdale. I would advise you to allow about 2.5 to 3 hours to transit through Philadelphia airport due to the security checks and having to collect luggage for the transfer. The Airport is great, large and bright with plenty of signs to help your transition.

Arrival at Fort Lauderdale is easy as you have already had the checks done. On the way home all security is done from leaving the ship it did take 4 hours to get off and through the checks due to cutbacks on customs side of things so again allow time for flights. On the way home we did miss our flight to Philadelphia but the airport staff were fabulous and rearranged our flight efficiently with no fuss and no extra charges. On the plus side you don't have to collect your cases at Philadelphia on the way home they go straight through to your final destination.

On arrival to the ship we were allowed to board straight away at 11am. Rooms were ready by 1pm. We used the time to orient ourselves to this large and rather beautiful vessel. Captain Panos greeted us all very graciously and we sailed at 16.00 hours. Read more