I selected this sailing on the Mariner because it was short and I wasn't sure if I would like the ship (after having sailed on the Allure). It was a good value (especially since I waited until last minute to book). The forecasted weather for the Eastern Caribbean was fairly good (Michael was forming in the Gulf - so glad I didn't choose a western itinerary!). And, although having been to the Bahamas on other recent sailings - its been over 40 years since I visited Nassau.

My 11th cruise in the last 3 years - but first time sailing from Miami. In fact I have never really been to Miami only to the airport and passing through on a road trip to the Keys. I decided to spend the night before the cruise and stayed in South Beach - loved it and look forward to returning. From the hotel - I took Uber to the cruise ship terminal. The cost was about $13.00

I was dropped off a long distance from the entry point for check-in and had to walk a long distance. It was somewhat chaotic at the pier, there were lots of passengers being picked-up who had just disembarked, a traffic jam. The time was about 11:45am - there were very few people embarking at that time. I breezed through security, check-in, and was onboard by 12:15pm. I had my allowed bottle of wine in my carry-on bag, but no one mentioned it or directed me to a table for checking it in. Read more