First, a disclaimer. Prior to this back-to-back, we've been on 4 other RC cruises. All in all, those were positive experiences with minimal issues. The first part of this B2B-January 7, 2008 would make up for all the good! This may be long, so grab a beverage and get comfy. (Donning fireproof suit!)

Our flight down on Southwest from Philly to FLL left about 10 minutes late due to passengers being late getting through security. We arrived, after a relatively uneventful flight, 30 minutes early.

Pre cruise, we spent the night at the Courtyard by Marriott Cruise port/Airport. Got a GREAT rate-seemingly an AAA special since the other rates were more than twice ours! (We paid $125 plus tax...a bargain when even the Holiday Inn Express on 17th wanted OVER $250!) The shuttle arrived Sunday about 12:30 and drove us over to the hotel. Even though it is prime cruise season, we were able to get checked in right away. We'd planned on the Islamorada Fish Company for dinner, but after a quick lunch from Subway (in the Fishing museum just behind the hotel) and a nap (till about 7 PM) we skipped dinner. Upon check-in we signed up for the 1st shuttle to the port-10 AM. Breakfast, though not included in the rate, was only $9 per person for a nice buffet. Typical Marriott-eggs and waffles to order, meats, breads, fruit, juice, coffee, cereals, yogurt. Filled us up enough to last until we got on the ship! Read more