We are experienced travelers and cruises with a fair amount of water under the keel.Living in Houston makes Galveston an easy and low cost departure port. While the cruise line and itinerary selection is limited we use RCCL 2-3 times a year for our quick escape and "mental health" excursions. The 12/16 sailing billed as the "End of Days" cruise proved to be a most satisfying and pleasant trip.RCCL delivered every thing we have come to expect from them....after all it's not Cunard, Azamara or Holland America, but more than adequate and good value.

THE SHIP: We have sailed on 3 of the Voyager Class ships and Mariner was very familiar. She is showing a bit of wear and tear, but is scheduled for a month of dry dock and refit in Jan '13. Nothing serious, just some worn furniture and fittings. Some of the public restrooms are a bit gamy..not from lack of cleaning but rather a plumbing issue.

The ship was totally sold out,approx 3400,but we experienced no sense of crowding or any waiting. Every thing was handled smoothly and effortlessly. We prefer smaller ships and Mariner is as large as we would want.Even the Deck 11 pools with their usual large crowds seemed to have lounges to spare. RCCL is actually enforcing their "no holding chairs" policy. Read more