This was my first cruise. I booked with a private club, which organizes an annual singles "get away" cruise.

Embarkation: I arrived on a free shuttle from the La Quinta Hotel in Hollywood, FL. I was relatively early and I was able to get onboard very quickly. It seemed like 20 minutes or so. They usher you straight to the buffet area since your rooms are not ready yet. Immediately, you can appreciate the decor of the ship: glass elevators, the atrium, etc.

It was all a little bit stressful not knowing where I was able to go, but it was neat to be on the ship so early. Next time I will check more luggage with ship. By the time I wandered to my room, my checked luggage was waiting for me. Read more