Background - we are in our mid to late 50's, retired, married for 30+ years, this is our 8th cruise but first time on this ship and this itinerary.

We arrived in San Diego the morning of the cruise (flew via Southwest Airlines). We were at the San Diego Port for Embarkation at 11am, the porters took or 3 very large suitcases and we proceeded inside to check in. Weather was overcast and chilly (dare I say cold at 57). Check in was a breeze, we waited about 15 minutes and started on board. We were directed to the Neptune Lounge but our suite (7058 was directly across from the Neptune Lounge doors) was ready and so we went right in. It wasn't but a moment before our room steward came in and introduced himself. I slipped our steward $20 for speedy luggage delivery and by 12:30 our luggage was in our cabin.

We proceeded up to the Lido for a bite of lunch. Embarkation day is tough as everyone is trying to get a feel for the ship. We had no problems filling up on great food and meeting our fellow cruisers. We then went into the dining room to see where our table was located (table for 2 lower, late 8:30 seating) - perfect. Since this was our first time on a Vista Class Ship, we walked around best we could and decided what we would do our first night onboard. Read more