After going on 34 cruises this one was the best ever. What made it so great? Using member reviews from Cruise Critic to pre plan the best excursions and the best pre cruise hotel.

We had a group of 20 mainly from Atlanta. We all drove down to the Hilton in Cocoa Beach leaving early in the morning. (About an 8 hour drive.) It is always nice to see how far we have to go using the Ron Jon’s Surf Shop signs along the way. The Hilton Cocoa Beach Hotel is exactly 1.2 miles south of Ron Jon’s. The Hotel was great because it is directly on the ocean, it was just refurbished, it has a great pool relaxation area, the beaches are more private, and they have live entertainment by the Tiki Bar. If you are a Gold or Diamond Hilton Honors Member you get free parking while you are on the cruise. They have a shuttle service to the Port for only $5.00 per person.

We left for the ship about 10:15 AM. When we arrived we gave the porters our bags and went to the check in area. I was surprised to find the ship was already being boarded! Next time we will leave at 10:00 AM. We always arrive early so we can eat in the Windjammer, explore the ship, and start relaxing. The rooms opened at 1:00, but we had carried our bathing suits, casual shoes, and cover ups in our carry-on bag. I am always surprised to see the people wearing very casual clothes into the dining room at night because their bags still haven’t arrived. (Wear your dinner clothes on the ship and then change into your bathing suits/shorts that you have in your carry on). Read more