RCCL's Mariner of the Seas,is probably best for those doing the family with kids vacation. Front topside of the boat is almost exclusively kid territory. Spa on the 11th,is a big plus,with a large (25foot) jacuzzi.Steam rooms,saunas, are also available at no cost. From there things go downhill.
Food at the formal dining room was bland at best. Too much singing and running around,PA system was used every night and that got old real quick. English skills,for the wait staff,were minimal which made the smaller details hard to explain . Dessert selection was sad,steaks were impossible to get cooked to request. No cream for coffee(Skim milk),vegetables,,,,had no flavor. You had to make a special request to get shrimp cocktails(What's up with that?) All and all,the quality of most of the food I ate on board wasn't up to our previous cruises (8) RCCL wouldn't even open up a full bar,for Crown and Anchor members special events. (just cheap Champagne,and Mimosas) Tacky!
The way this ship is designed,just doesn't work for me The ice-rink just takes up space and just doesn't really serve a purpose. (it's too small for a real ice show,and doesn't seat enough people to make waiting in line for the free tickets worth your time) As for late night entertainment at the main Savoy theatre.........don't get your hopes up,unless you're into lame jokes,and entertainment from the Ed Sullivan days! All and all we won't be cruising on the Mariner again.
I was in cabin 1666 ,tenth floor. unobstructed view..cabin and balcony size is small and tight. Cabins on the fantail sell for the same price,but have much larger balcony space. Noise is a problem,if there are small children next door. Close to the Windjammer for food, but a long walk from the spa and Atrium pool.