For me there are three factors which make up a successful and enjoyable cruise, and this ticked all the boxes. I have deliberately omitted itinerary, as quite frankly that is relatively inconsequential to us as we would be more than happy to cruise 7 days in ever increasing circles with no stops whatseover.

1) Ship. Mariner is a beautiful ship, the MDR is stunning and the staff adequately reflect the general RCCL service ethos. The cabin was superb. Considering the size of the ship, it was kept in an immaculate condition and was constantly cleaned and tidied. The Viking Crown area was wonderful and a focal point for us to meet at 4pm every day to partake of BOGOF Margeritas and Rum Punches (Buy one get one free), to interact with other guests and generally to watch the world go by. Service up there was pleasant but never pushy.

2) Food quality. As a relative newcomer to cruising I am constantly astonished by the comments that the food quality at RCI has gone down hill. I did not have one meal that I would consider as anything less than excellent. The MDR in the evening was superb, Windjamer or MDR for lunch equally so, and Windjammer or MDR for breakfast fulfilled all expectations. Read more