Just returned from Mariner of the Seas, our first on this class of RCCL ships. Went with wife of 26 years and four daughters ages 12,16,18, and 21. This was our 7th cruise and their 4th. We flew into Orlando the day before and stayed at the Best Western in Cocoa Beach. I cannot praise their kindness and service enough, RCCL has a hard time keeping up! It is right on the ocean, affordable and pleasant, and perfect for a quick stay. Especially helpful when airlines lose a piece of your luggage, which fortunately was delivered before we left. Early Sunday Cocoa Beach shuttle took us to the ship for Day 1:

Embarkation well organized and relatively quick, I had filled out Sea Pass accounts and excursions prior to arrival-very time saving. Had most of the day to relax poolside until rooms ready. Due to the expense of travel with six, we had two inside rooms. They were on deck ten, however, which somehow made them better! More spacious than I thought, with pullman type beds, and no one felt crowded. Also, immediately upon boarding I made reservations at Chops and Portofino. As others have remarked, the Mariner is beautiful, and the service and friendliness of the staff and crew exemplary. Everyone we met smiled and seemed genuinely happy performing their jobs! Guest services always helpful, and all staff were accommodating for any request large or small.

FOOD: Typical cruise quality, we have been on Celebrity and Carnival(no smoking ship), though mostly RCCL, and all seem same-not bad, not great. However, the extra $20 pp charge well worth spending for the upgraded quality and service in the specialty restaurants. My children greatly enjoyed those evenings.Breakfast and lunch were mostly in the Windjammer, we ate at Johnny Rockets once-again extra charge involved. I do feel for the amount of the cruise, soda should just be included instead of "nickel and diming" you through the week-i.e. Rockets, Ben and Jerry's-though this was a minimal expense. Read more