Background: We're in our early forties, active, love the outdoors and travel frequently. Cruising isn't our favorite method of travel, but we got a great deal and it's a fun way to travel with our kids. This was our third cruise; the other two were on RCCL. Our kids are 13, 10 and 8.
Pre-Cruise Hotel: We stayed at the Embassy Suites in Miami. It's our second time staying there pre-cruise. Can't beat the price when you consider free breakfast for 5 of us, room for 5 of us, and free happy hour for the adults.
Embarkation: Very fast and painless. The complimentary champagne or orange juice is a nice touch. If you're like me, and hate hoards of people, avoid the Garden Cafe buffet within the first few hours of boarding. It was the most crowded I ever saw it all week. Luggage arrived within an hour of getting into our room.