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You mentioned something about a bus that goes from various points in Florida down right to where the ship is docked. Do you have any more information? I am thinking of flying down a few days earlier and spending time with friends in Orlando. It is way expensive to fly just from Orlando to Miami, so the bus would be a good option for me. Thanks for your help!

Taking the chartered bus from Orlando to the Miami port terminal and back is an excellent idea, Utah Girl. I also plan on taking it from where I live on the central Gulf coast. Four of us freepers from my area utilized bus service last cruise and it was such smooth sailing, taking us right to the cruise line's front door at the port. We had a lot of fun on the trip, also.

Give me a day or so to do some investigating on the price to see if the bus line is giving any discount to Carnival guests. If there's no special on right now, passengers will pay around $59 to $79 per person round trip depending on the city you board the bus. I'll probably have to pay the $79, you coming from Orlando which is closer to the port will pay less, I assume. Tipping the bus driver is expected, but not mandatory. Reservations have to be made ahead of time with prepayment.

I'll get back to you with the details ASAP, probably tomorrow. Tonight Bahama Mama will be in her grass hut watching our President make the SOTU address, God bless him.

Thanks for your question and keep 'em coming, folks.

Bahama Mama

Hi, Utah Girl. Bahama Mama was able to put her finger right on the info you requested very quickly!

The cruise service bus will pick you up and return you to Orlando for $69. The bus will pick you up at McDonald's Restaurant parking lot, 9814 International Drive (at International Drive and the Bee Line Expressway at 6 AM (EST) and bring you back at 5 PM the next week.

The bus company operates late-model, air-conditioned, comfortable motor coaches equipped with TV and VCR for current movies. Every vehicle is equipped with state-of-the-art communications and uniformed drivers.

There are no specials for single passengers, but for this cruise couples or pairs can reserve one seat at full fare and book the 2nd seat at 1/2 price. Florida Freepers, take note!

The "FReeps Ahoy" cruise committee does not handle personal travel arrangements. To make your bus reservation, phone toll free at 1-800-276-5055. If you live outside Florida, call (941) 379-7900. Have your sailing date (May 31) and ship name (Carnival Triumph) at the ready.

Don't delay phoning so you're assured of a seat. Orlando is a popular pick-up city for your bus.

Let Bahama Mama know on this thread when you're all set!

Bahama Mama