Mariner of the Seas Review
Mariner didn't disappoint! All 5 of us loved the cruise!
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After months of wondering whether we would be going north due to the swine flu, we were ecstatic to find out that the Mexican Riviera cruises would resume. We loved this ship. It was constantly being maintained and cleaned and the artwork in the stair wells was really enjoyable and different. I noticed a lot of granite and tilework throughout the ship and it was very pretty.
The cabin was nice, bed was comfortable, storage was adequate and this time, it wasn't so hot that we couldn't use our balcony. I loved waking up to see the huge expanse of ocean. We had room service for breakfast (but if you want a decent amount of fruit, I suggest ordering more than 1 plate of it at a time) and just enjoyed being outside and alone. The bathroom has a round shower with doors, but be careful to be sure the shower head isn't pointing out the door when you turn it on!!! (Yes learn from my mistake! I had pointed it away from the door, but the weight of the hose caused it to swing back to the door - no more explanation necessary!) Only shampoo and soap were provided so be sure to bring your own conditioner and lotion if you use it. I didn't think of it, but the first night my son said he was disappointed that there were no towel animals or chocolates on the pillows. The towels appeared starting the second night, but alas, no mints this sailing.
We had early seating, and really, we enjoyed the food. The meat was good and tender and we loved the desserts. We enjoyed the 2 nights when the salads were brought to the table in large family style bowls. It seemed to me that the portions were smaller than past cruises, but that suited us better as we were not so overly stuffed after each meal as in the past. Of course, it was always OK to order more of anything or to try a second appetizer, main course or dessert - the waiter and his assistant were so happy to bring us anything and after a couple of days started anticipating when we might want something and brought it without our asking. They were fairly quiet until the very end of the cruise, but did their jobs impeccably.
Cabin Review
Deluxe Oceanview Stateroom with Balcony
8620 - Balcony on the hump. We LOVED the location and quietness of this cabin! It was directly across from the elevator and stairs, but we never heard any noise from anyone leaving them and we had easy access to both. It was by the stairs leading to the dining rooms (going down) and the Windjammer buffet (going up). Very convenient! Still not a bad walk to the other stairs to the theater either. I liked how there was a special place for life jacket storage instead of having them crammed in the closet wherever they fit as on past cruises. 2 chairs and small table on the balcony, but being on the hump, we could see all the way down either end of the ship. Take this cabin (or one on the hump) if you are looking for a balcony!