I take most reviews with a grain of salt and don't just accept them at face value. As has been said, many only post to complain but there's plenty of folks that also had a great time but just don't write about it.
You should already know how much you owe and when. You either take the payment to them or send it. Again, that's my opinion and how I would expect to proceed.
The train sounds like a good, viable option for you. Yes, the west coast would be closer, but that becomes moot when you factor in the visit to your sister in St Louis.
I agree with the other poster. The southern out of SHU was great. We were lucky enough to do it twice. Would love to see it come back.
The ability to take bottles on board was a bonus.
We have considered getting a cove in the future but after reading these posts about the salt issues, probably not. Also, not fond of the balcony rail type. Have had similar ones on ships in the past and didn't care for them.