Mariner of the Seas

The Mariner of the Seas is one of the many floating holiday resorts operated by Royal Caribbean International. The vessel offers a huge range of diversions and entertainment, so there's sure to be something to suit passengers of any age or interests.

The Mariner of the Seas currently splits its time between the Europe and the US. In the summer months, it is based in Civitavecchia near Rome and sails to ports in Italy, Greece, Turkey and Israel. In the winter, the vessel travels across the Atlantic and is based in the Port of Galveston in Texas, where it embarks for the Caribbean cruises.

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As one of the second-generation Voyager class cruise ships, the Mariner of the Seas - along with the Navigator of the Seas - features enhancements like glass balconies for improved views, as well as an additional restaurant and a larger buffet.

In 2012, the ship will be dry docked for a full refurbishment and it is expected to be fitted out with even more amenities during this overhaul.

Ship stats and features

Passenger capacity: 3,840
Year entered service: 2003
Beam (ship width): 155.5 feet
Draught (ship depth): 28.8 feet
Length: 1,020 feet
Tonnage: 138,279
Crew: 1,185
Maximum speed: 24 knots
Number of passenger decks: 15
Number of lifts: 14
Number of swimming pools: 3
Number of cabins: 1,557

Food, cuisine and dining

On the Mariner of the Seas, the main dining room is spread over three decks and each level is named after a musical: Rhapsody in Blue, Top Hat & Tails and Sound of Music. At the bottom of the grand staircase, which connects the three levels, guests will find a bronze sculpture depicting the cherished characters Maria and Captain von Trapp.

For those looking for healthy eating choices, be sure to check out the Vitality menu, which has been designed for overall wellbeing, as well as taste.

These meals feature fresh ingredients and balanced nutrition, as well as tasty snacks like energy bars, protein drinks and herbal teas. The menu is free from trans fats and workshops are available to help you learn how to keep your healthy diet going even after the cruise is over.

Other dining options include:
• Portofino
• Island Grille
• Cafe Promenade
• Windjammer Cafe
• Johnny Rockets
• Sprinkles
• Jade
• Arctic Zone
• Ben and Jerry's

Guests with specific dietary requirements will also be accommodated at most of the restaurants throughout the liner.

On-board entertainment and activities

Quite simply, there's always something going on when you're aboard the Mariner of the Seas.

With activities and entertainment including everything from parades in the promenade, to bingo, karaoke and kids club activities - not to mention excursions to the various ports of call - it's easy to feel overwhelmed by the range of options.

Of course, shows are a popular diversion and the ship plays host to a variety of performances for various age groups.

For example, Pure Energy is a colourful and energetic music and dance show in a Las Vegas style. Or why not enjoy the comedy of the Love and Marriage Show (which is very similar to the TV programme called The Newlywed Game)? There's even an ice skating show at Studio B.

As well as the bigger acts, many of the bars and clubs offer live entertainment. Lively Latin music can be found at Bolero, the Schooner is a piano bar, Ellington's is a jazz lounge and the Wig and Gavel - a British-style pub - offers mellow classic rock.

Spas and fitness facilities

If you're in need of some additional relaxation, or a specialist treatment, the ShipShape health and fitness spa is the destination for you. With a large gym featuring cardio and resistance machines, as well as a day spa offering massages and aromatherapy, you're sure to feel rejuvenated in no time.

There's also a sauna and steam room. Or why not book an appointment at the beauty salon for a new hair style, a facial or a manicure?

For those who really want to get a great workout, perhaps enlist in an exercise class. Options include Pilates, aerobics, spinning and yoga. You can even take a lesson to learn some line or ballroom dancing moves.

Of course, there are plenty of other adrenaline-fuelled activities located elsewhere on the ship. Rollerblading, rock climbing and swimming are just a few of the options available.

Cabins

Those planning a voyage on the Mariner of the Seas will have plenty of choice when it comes to accommodation. With 1,557 cabins spanning 22 different categories, you can choose not only the size and amenities provided by the room, but also the location on the ship and the type of view.

The largest of the staterooms is the Royal Suite, which measures 1,146 square feet. There are ten Owners Suites, with dimensions of 468 square feet, while the Royal family suites are 574 square feet.

More basic rooms are around 157 square feet, but whichever option you choose, you'll enjoy a separate sitting area, a private bathroom and a television, while some rooms also include mini-bars.