My DW and 2 DDs (6 and 9) sailed aboard the Rhapsody on 1 April 2007. Another family (former neighbors) who had recently been transferred to Dallas sailed with us. This was our 16th cruise and their first. Our last RCCL cruise was over 10 years ago on the Sovereign of the Seas.

Embarkation Day: We flew into Geo Bush (IAW) where our driver from Action Limousine was waiting. We opted for the stretch limo as RCCL charges $45 pp for transfers and the limo was $200. For $20 (party of 4) it's a no-brainer. The ride to the port is approximately 1 hour providing there is favorable traffic. As luck would have it, our travelling partners arrived at exactly the same time (11:15). Embarkation was extremely well organized and we were aboard the ship prior to noon (This process is greatly enhanced if you have completed the online check-in). There was a small problem with the process for our companions as they are German nationals and processing their passports seemed to cause some confusion. Sailing from Galveston, there are many foreign nationals aboard......more on this later. Cabins are ready at 1:00 P.M. so up to the buffet served in the Windjammer (Deck 9). All in all, RCCL provides a painless process for embarking its guests. GRADE: A

Debarkation: Fairly routine except with so many foreign nationals aboard, Customs is overwhelmed. Debarkation is by deck (2 is last) with those using RCCL's transfers going earlier (I'll wait for the limo). Even going last, we were still on our way to the airport while passengers were standing in line for a bus to the airport. If you have 4 or more, opt for the limo! Grade: C Read more