First, we were first time cruisers and this is the first review of this type I have ever done, so be gentle.

We arrived the evening before our departure date and spent a wonderful evening in Charleston walking around and relaxing. Got up had a nice breakfast and then headed over to the parking area. It can be a little confusing at first, but it actually runs very smoothly. you basically follow the car in front of you around the cone lanes they have set up. The police check your paperwork and you pull forward, drop off your checked bags and then move forward and wait for the parking to open. While waiting they come around and collect your parking fee, they take cash or credit card, then you are directed around to the warehouse to park inside. I understand the over flow is outside but most parking is inside.

From here you walk over to the shuttle bus and it takes you to the front of the terminal for check in. The process seemed to be moving very quickly - you get your sign and sail card and are directed up the stairs to have your picture taken. Then it was up the gangway and onboard. Since we were told our cabin would not be ready till 1:30, we headed to Windows by the Sea and had a small lunch. From entering the parking lot to finishing lunch was less than an hour and a half, we decided to go check on our room and it was ready for us. Read more