Our family of four has been taking family cruises for many years. They have usually been over spring break. This cruise we went the first week of January.
We flew down one day early and stayed at the downtown Embassy Suites. This is a very nice hotel very close to the pier. We went over to see the Carnival ship and watch the Outback Bowl from the pier area. It is very nice.
We took a short taxi ride to the Ryndam about noon. There was a line but it moved rapidly. I think we hit the peak of boarding. This cruise we were all in one cabin. Something we hadn't done since our girls were little. We had some trepidation but it turned out great. The E cabins are very spacious with plenty of storage.
Very spacious cabin even for four. The sofa is full length and doesn't block the cabin while in use. For two the cabin would be really nice. The bathroom is also larger then most with a tub/shower and it was recently redone. Excellent value.