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Royal Caribbean International

MV Mariner of the Seas

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Reviewed by: Greg & Julie Stambaugh
# previous cruises: 4
Date of Trip: May 9, 2004
Itinerary: Caribbean - Western

Ever felt closed in on a cruise ship before? Never again if you decide to try the Mariner of the Seas. Despite the fact that over 3,000 passnegers were sailing with us, the service was friendly and efficient - dining room, room service, room attendant and bar staff throughout (and, of course, Captain Johnny, too). Recreation alternatives onboard were varied (and available!). Entertainment, including the ice show, was above par in our opinion. Ice skating on a ship - no problem, mon. This cruise ship is a masterpiece and we would recommend the Mariner of the Seas.

The centerpiece of the Mariner of the Seas is the Promenade. This is reminiscent of a European street scene, including the Chanpagne bar, Vintages wine bar, Wig and Gavel English pub and an Italian pizzeria and deli. Many shops line the Promenade as well. This is a "must not miss" in our opinion if you enjoy cruising in larger ships. The pictures we had seen did not do this feature justice. The Promenade is truly amazing.

Despite the large number of passengers, the pool areas and dining rooms are spacious enough to handle the "crowd". Quiet and intimate spots also abound. The Connisiouer (Cigar) Club seats about 24 or so in comfortable surroundings for that after dinner stogie - totally enclosed and well ventilated to boot.

The Casino is quite large and efficiently staffed. I've read that the casino on the Mariner of the Seas is the largest of any cruise ship afloat. In not, there were plenty enough tables and slot machines that I never saw anyone waiting for a machine or a blackjack or other table game.

Food was generally good - dining room, buffet or specialy area - i.e. Johnny Rockets. We would say that pizza is better on the last two Carnival cruises we took -(Spirit and Glory) and maybe RCL can check out this problem! Otherwise food was comparable to the Carnival cruises we've been on recently. Service was simply excellent! The Dining Room, which is stunning in and of itself, was made even better by the friendly service - Anton and Mario, we miss you. We also miss the staff at Vintages - Philipe, Gerarde, Catarina and Nadia. They were really into their jobs and delighted passangers who happened that way with both scheduled and impromptu tastings. "Two thumbs up!"

Room service was also very good. Each morning we ordered coffee and juice and a two days we ordered breakfast. These were all ordered the night before. A wake up call letting us know that the server would be there momentarily was uickly followed by a knock on the door. Coffee on the balcony was a great way to start the day!

Our cabin felt smaller than we had previously, however, there was adequate storage space. The bathroom, although small, had a hard curved shower door which was a nice touch. Missed the bathrobes, though! The mini-bar did not contain alcohol, but buying a bottle of wine at Vintages a few evenings took care of that issue.

Entertainment was generally good and varied. Ice Show on board?? This was a first class performance everyone enjoyed. Seating is limited so you have to make sure you get in line early for tickets to get the show time you want. Only line of the week! Other shows - stage productions and featured performers were all enjoyable and seating was available for the performances without difficulty. Entertainment in the bars and pool area were all good and fun as well!

Let's see. Mniature golf, rock climbing, ice skating, wine tasting, casino donations, lounging around, virtual golf.. this on the ship! On shore,, petting dolphins, amd sting rays was a first for us! Snorkling in the Grand Caymans and on Coco Cay was great. The variety and volume of fish were amazing and the coral formations beautiful. Dunn's River Falls in Ocho Rios was quite a climb and Margaritaville lived up to it's name! Cozumel - well - rent a jeep and take off around the island is our suggestion. We got out early enough to go to a number of spots to get some great pictures before anyone else arrived. Great way to explore a lot of Cozumel and still give you time to see the Mayan ruins and get some beach time as well. And maybe some lobsters and shrimp at Chen Rio.

There were a lot of different types of folks on the ship. We went as part of a family group and did not meet a lot of new people but those we did were all friendly and invitable!