We just returned from our week aboard Mariner of the Seas (7/1-7/8, Western Caribbean). We had a wonderful trip and I hope this review will help you to do the same!

I am 28 and this was my fifth cruise, third time on Royal Caribbean. I sailed with my dad (late 50's, first-time cruiser) and my sister (26, third cruise). We are all single, professional and very active travelers! We usually end up needing a vacation to recover from our vacations!

We booked our trip through a local travel agent. We had a hard time deciding between this cruise and the Eastern Itinerary on Freedom. We ended up getting a Junior Suite on Mariner for less money than a balcony on Freedom. Also, the ease of Port Canaveral as opposed to Miami was a huge factor in our decision. I have sailed twice from Miami and swore I would never do it again! We drove to Melbourne, FL on Saturday morning and stayed at the Crowne Plaza. The hotel was about 30 minutes away from Port Canaveral, but right on the ocean! Very nice! Read more