We flew into Miami on Friday evenings and stayed at the Hilton Miami Airport. In reading the reviews on the hotel website we figured it may be hit or miss. We liked the fact there was a shuttle from the airport to the hotel and it wasn't hard to catch at all. One person complained of the time they waited, but they weren't very smart. They continuously waited at the far end of the shuttle pick-up. We simply walked down to the beginning of the shuttle area so we would make sure to get onto the first shuttle that showed up and waited less then 15 minutes. Everything at the hotel was just fine and I would stay there again on another cruise out of Miami.

We took a cab to the port and it cost around $30.00. Embarkation was a breeze. We arrived at the port right around noon. We dropped our bags off directly outside of the taxi and proceeded to walk into the area where you sign saying you haven't been sick in the last two days and the screening area. Everything is very clearly marked on how to get to the next area or someone is directing you. (TIP: If you have any type of balcony room or suite, make sure to look for the check-in line...it is offset to the far right side of the check-in area and dramatically shortens your check-in time)

We entered the boat without a problem, picked up our glass of champagne and then went into the atrium area, purchased the soda deal for the week and then proceeded to go to the garden cafe on deck 12 for lunch. This is the main dining area and after we grabbed a bite to eat we went and laid out on the chairs until the rooms were available around 2:00. We didn't get our luggage until around 7:00 that night and our neighbors didn't get theirs until later, so don't be worried if yours doesn't show up right away. (TIP: If you want to eat at the specialty restaurants, make your reservations right away on the 7th deck midship for that night and the following night. You can only make them 24 hours in advance) Read more