Well this was our first cruise we have ever been on and let me say that we had a BLAST! I am going to end up posting video/pictures in a different thread, still need to get them downloaded, but will definitely post them here. Bear with me as this may get pretty long!

So first day, we had flown into Tampa the day prior to spend time there. So on actual embarking day, we got to the airport by noon. Carnival reps were easy to locate by baggage claim and very nice. Explained exactly what to do and where to go. We sat maybe 15-20 minutes to wait for our bus. The driver of the bus was really nice guy (Alan) and gave alot of information about Tampa and the ship prior to getting there. Once we were by the Port, he said, look out the right side and you will see your home for the next week. We couldn't believe just how big the ship was. Everyone was in awe!!!!!!!!

So we got on with NO problems. It was really smooth. Here's a bit of advice, when the porter takes your bags before you get on the ship, tip him/her a few dollars. We didn't right away and he literally chased us and said "I'm your porter and this is the last time you will see me, so if you are going to tip me, you want to do it now" So we did. I think the entire process to go through Port Authority and get on the ship was maybe 20 minutes. It went pretty quick. They do take your picture right before you get on and you will have the option to buy it. We did. Read more