I arrived at the port at 11:30. The terminal was fairly packed, but lines went quickly. After I began the check-in process, a large number of people began to arrive, and it became even more crowded. I was soon whisked away up stairs for boarding. We were on the ship about 1 hour after arrival.

Once on the ship, our first stop was guest services to separate our sail and sign accounts to each use our own credit card (travelled with my best friend.) The kiosk only accepted my credit card when I checked in, and when my friend scanned his passport, it didn't give him the option, so just be aware. The rooms weren't ready, so we went up to the lido deck at Rosie's and grabbed a burger. The scene was so over-whelming, so much to see and take in that I didn't realize that just past the burgers and hot dogs was an entrance to the rest of Rosie's. Oh well, I already had my burger and found a table that I was happy just to be on the ship!

The sail away party on deck was great. It was a perfect Miami day! I was concerned about the photographers I have read so much about on here that come around and take your pic, and when I seen one approaching, I kind of cringed, I just didn't want the annoyance of having my pic taken all the time. I thought what the hell, we posed for the camera and of course I just had to buy it when I saw it! I made some last minute phone calls and texts before leaving the port. I'm with AT&T, so I called ahead and had my voicemail deactivated to avoid extra charges. I received a lot of texts during the cruise (all free) and sent only a handful at .50¢ each. Read more