We sailed on the Carnival Imagination to Catalina island and Ensenada from October 25-29.
Because the Best Western hotels and Holiday Inn were all booked, we stayed at the Comfort Inn who also offers a park and cruise package. The package was priced at $189+tax. Instead of a shuttle, the hotel pays for a taxi to and from the port which was very convenient.
On embarkation day we arrived at the port early around 10:30 to be among the first to board. Check in was very smooth but boarding did not begin until 12:00.