We chose this cruise because it meant a short flight to Vancouver and a limo home from San Francisco. Flying has become our least favorite part of traveling. Mariner is a beautiful ship even if she needs a facelift. We started cruising on her twelve years ago when she was a Radisson ship before becoming Regent, and later joining NCL. We enjoyed her in 2005 and still enjoy her now. We are looking forward to sailing on her again in 2018 after her retrofit. We chose an F forward cabin with shower, no tub which is adequate for our needs and provided a comfortable ride.

We do not like Compass Rose, the main dining venue, because service is way to slow for breakfast, lunch and dinner. We find the menu to be monotonous, although improved with the choices of sauce but still prefer the specialty prestaurants.

Artful Travelers provided guest speakers and entertainment that were a highlight of this cruise. Filmmakers discussed their PBS and Frontline films in both lectures and at cocktails and discussions, and passengers could ask questions at both venues. We also had a variety of Guest Speakers including Barbara Boxer. Passengers who signed up for the Artful Travelers Program were invited to dinners and cocktail parties. Regent Entertainment is definitely a step up from years past. Read more