I can't even put into words how wonderful our cruise on the Mariner was. It has been very Difficult adjusting to real life now. No one makes my meals, performs for me or brings me umbrella drinks while I bask in the warm sun. I feel like I have been kicked out of the kingdom. The ship itself is the most beautiful I have ever been on. The artwork is unbelievable. Its not hotel art, it is extraordinary, one of a kind stuff and it is everywhere. Every time we took a different staircase we were amazed.
My husband Ed and I arrived in Port Canaveral by car so we boarded as soon as we were allowed. We had been anticipating this moment for so long it was like Christmas morning to a child. Embarkation was a snap. If you fill out your documentation on line before hand it saves a lot of time. There are big signs before you go through security about not taking alcohol on board. We had brought a couple splits of Champagne in our carry ons. They went through xray and no one said anything so we were able to have a couple private toasts on our balcony. The rooms were very nice and the new rounded shower doors are much better than the traditional shower curtain.
First night out was a little rough and some passengers never made it to dinner. I will say that we have cruised at this time of year several times and the sea always seems to be a little rough the first night out of Port Canaveral. If it is not your first cruise you probably won't have a problem but if you are prone to seasickness I would take some precautions. After that night we were hardly aware that the ship was moving.