I was looking for a last minute getaway from my stressful job to celebrate my birthday. I did not want to have to travel to Florida to depart. I also did not want to pay an arm and a leg for the adventure. The only cruises that fit the bill were the Pride out of Baltimore, NCL Jewel, and the Carnival Glory out of NYC. The Glory won out due to price and destination. I was hoping to escape the sweltering summer with Canada as my destination. I have also wanted to try Carnival, as I have only cruised on Disney and RCCL. I took my mother on this cruise with me and left everyone else at home (dogs included). This cruise more than exceeded my expectations.

GETTING THERE: We drove from York, PA. My thought was to leave at 6:00 a.m., but of course my plans never pan out they way they should. Got on the road at 7:30 a.m (made a couple stops on the way). Decided not to drive all the way into the city (didn't want to deal with the hassle). We parked our car at Port Imperial/Weehawken Ferry Terminal and took the NY Waterway across. We paid $60 for parking and approx. $38 (round trip ferry). Pretty painless procedure. Although we could have easily walked to the cruise terminal from the ferry, we opted to take a cab. Of course the cab driver didn't want to drive us down the street ("Can't you just walk? It's right there!). Total attitude! Well, I had to give him a few choice words (can't write what I said) and told him he would mess up his good tip if he didn't hurry up get me down the street (they can't refuse to take you). Needless to say he took us there (pouting). Upon reaching our destination, cab driver received his nice tip (cost of cab fare $7.40 gave driver $15.00 total). Cab drive took our luggage out the car and gave it to the waiting porter and sheepishly wished us a happy vacation. Gave porter $7.00 for handling bags. Everyone's happy!

EMBARKATION: Arrived at the terminal at 11:50 a.m. It took us 15 minutes to get to the check-in desk. We were able to walk right on to the ship after check in. Read more