Following almost a year of anticipation, my family of 4 boarded the Carnival Miracle on December 24th for a 9 day sailing of the Caribbean. This was our 4th consecutive Holiday cruise - our third on a Carnival Ship. The boys are 21 and 17, and for us, cruising has been a wonderful way to give everyone some freedom to do what they want as well as encourage some quality family time at mealtimes and doing excursions together.

Embarkation was probably the easiest we've experienced. We arrived somewhat early at the pier having spent 3 days in Florida prior to the cruise. Luggage was dropped off at the terminal and the rental car was returned to a depot close by which offered shuttle service back to the port. Line-ups moved quickly and check-in was efficient and well organized. Rooms were not yet ready, so we sipped champagne in the lobby while waiting for the rest of our group to arrive. Headed straight for the Nick and Nora's reservation desk. This was something I had tried to look after pre-cruise by contacting customer service. I was told that reservations could only be made on the ship (not beforehand), so I was somewhat surprised to learn that New Year's eve was completely sold out from Internet bookings. Obviously I was not given the right information by Carnival customer service. We booked for the 2nd sea day knowing the first would be the formal night. Lunched on the Lido and got the all clear to drop our carry-ons at the cabin by 1:30 p.m. Luggage was delivered shortly thereafter.

We normally book a balcony with an inside across the hall for the boys. Again, this was something I had questioned Customer Service about to ensure that our doors faced one another. I was assured that they did, but I should have twigged into the fact that one cabin was even numbered and the other odd. Needless to say, our cabin was on one side of the ship and the boys on the other. Not terrible, given they are self sufficient, but it would have been nice to know ahead of time. Read more