I just returned from my first cruise leaving from the port of Tampa. Our cruise was from 5/27 to 6/3 and what a great time was had by all. I traveled with 7 other people (friends and family).

Pre-Cruise: Since most of us were from the NY area (2 from North Carolina), we decided on arriving in Tampa the day before and at the recommendation of another cruise critic member, we stayed at the Embassy Suites Hotel (Westshore). Very nice hotel. Highly recommend it. The hotel arranged a shuttle service from the airport (waited maybe 10 minutes after getting our luggage). Mike the driver was great, offered us cold water and an air conditioned shuttle. Mike also suggested and arranged for Addis Car Service to take us to the port on Sunday. True to his word, after breakfast (which was included in the price of the room) on Sunday morning, Mario the driver was waiting for us at 11:00 a.m. to take us to the port to begin our trip.

Port of Tampa: Embarkation was a breeze. We arrived at the port at around 11:15 a.m. and was on the ship by 11:45 a.m. As our rooms would not be ready until 1:30, we all went up to the Lido Deck to have our first of many buffet meals. Food was delicious. Lots of choices. We went to our cabins at 1:30 and found our rooms to be very nice, clean and comfortable. The beds and bedding were very cozy and comfortable. Bathrooms, although small, were fine. Enough room to put all your stuff. You do not have to bring a clothesline to hang your wet clothes. There is a zipline that runs across the shower which worked out great for the bathing suits and towels. Also all of our cabins had balconies so we arranged with the purser to open up all the balcony doors to all our rooms. Some of us got our luggage at around 3 others around 5. Dinner the first night is super casual. Read more