Mariner of the Seas was our first cruise aboard one of RCI's Voyager-class ships and all I can say is "Wow!" Frankly, I enjoyed this ship more than I expected to since I'm not a fan of these huge megaliners. The public rooms are easy to navigate, there are lots of dining and entertainment options, plenty of pool chairs (yeah!) AND we got two extra days with one of "the" best captains on the high seas keeping us well informed of Hurr. Jeanne's progress and arranging a day at Royal Caribbean's private beach, Labadee, when it became apparent that we were not on a 7-night cruise.

Just a few observations on the ship and cruise:

Embarkation: Embarkation begins at approximately 11:30 at Port Canaveral and except for the hassle of arriving by local shuttle or car, and the forms you have to fill out if you have E-tickets (won't do that again),it's smooth sailing once you get into the terminal. RCI is currently allowing passengers to board early, asking them to stick to public areas until 1:00 p.m. but that may change as more folks attempt to creatively circumvent the "system" and get access to staterooms early. Where would you rather sit till 1:00? In a noisy, crowded terminal with 1,000 or so of your not-closest friends or at the Wig & Gavel enjoying a cold beer?????? Read more