I have been sailing for over forty years, on almost all the cruise lines - some that are still sailing and some that are no longer in business. I have sailed previously on Carnival several times, including on the Carnival Miracle two years ago following a similar itinerary.
POSITIVES:
Embarkation - we arrived at the terminal at 11:00 and were on board, eating lunch on the Lido Deck, by 12:00. Our rooms were ready by 2:00 and our luggage arrived soon after.
extended balcony, aft cabin. Very quiet, spacious, convenient to dining and activities.