We landed at 9:30am the morning of the cruise. We took Tiffany Towncar to Port Canaveral. By the time we got checked in, it was probably 11:30am. They began boarding around 12:30pm.
I was surprised at how many people were already in line to board. I guess they were aware of the "ressie scramble". The "ressie" lines were not bad at all, and we got everything we wanted. Then again, we traveled less than two weeks after 9/11, so I don't think the ship was very crowded.
I agree with AnnMorin...I think next time around we might try flying in the day before. I was also very tired the first day on the cruise, having been up at 4am to catch the flight. I also don't sleep very well the night before I travel...too nervous and excited! My mind is always racing with fears of forgetting to pack something, or making sure the house is safe & secure.