Mariner of the Seas

Royal Caribbean International

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Ship information

Mariner of the Seas

About Mariner of the Seas

Mariner of the Seas is an affordable Caribbean cruise option with just enough action to make your short Caribbean vacation one to remember. One of Royal Caribbean's Voyager Class ships, Mariner of the Seas ticks all of the boxes for a great cruise: comfortable (if dated) rooms, solid free and specialty dining, and an array of activities like the Sky Pad bungee trampoline, a FlowRider surf simulator and lively pool deck. Mariner of the Seas' deck plans are also great at separating the buzzy action from cabins, making it easy to unwind.

In 2018, Mariner of the Seas underwent a massive renovation that gave public interiors a fresh look, from the grand Royal Theater to the Promenade and the pool deck. That all makes Royal Caribbean's two- to five-night itineraries on Mariner of the Seas a great bet for sunseekers needing a quick Caribbean escape.

Mariner of the Seas Deck Plans Spread Out the Fun

Mariner of the Seas deck plans are intelligently designed, making this smaller Royal Caribbean ship feel just the right size. Passengers can move about almost anywhere without crowd and elevators zip up and down to Windjammer Marketplace (the 180-degree-view buffet), pools, the gym, spa and other amenities from both forward and aft locations.

Food, drinks and entertainment are all within easy reach across Mariner of the Seas' 15 decks. But most of the action centers on Decks 4, 5 and 11, which hold the cruise ship's main public spaces (Honestly, though, almost every deck has at least one destination worth a visit).

Deck 11 is a go-to for almost everyone on board Mariner of the Seas. You'll find family-friendly pools, DJs, live reggae music, the adults-only Solarium Pool, and access to the kid-friendly FlowRider, Perfect Storm Waterslides and Sky Pad. Don't worry, though, Mariner of the Seas' deck plans separate the more raucous destinations from the more tranquil ones (like your cabin -- thankfully). 

The Royal Promenade is the centerpiece of Deck 5. Mariner's bright and busy thoroughfare is lined with shops, bars like the sharp The Bamboo Room and casual Playmaker's Sports Bar plus Cafe Promenade for free light bites throughout the day. You'll also find the Star Lounge here, which hosts nightly karaoke.

You'll also want to head downstairs to Deck 4 to visit some of Royal Caribbean's most iconic spots, including The Schooner Bar, which hosts piano music, lively singalongs and trivia every night. Royal Theater is right next door for song-and-dance shows as well as Mariner's riotous game show Love and Marriage. And if you're feeling lucky, have a go at the tables and slots in Casino Royale.

All in all, Mariner of the Seas' deck plans let you float from place to place, eat, grab drinks, play mini-golf and watch movies by the pool without elbowing through rowdy crowds or enduring long lines.

Mariner of the Seas Rooms Are Comfortable, but Dated

Rooms aboard Mariner of the Seas are comfortable. Expect hotel-worthy beds, banquettes or pull-out couches and enough storage space for the short itineraries that the ship makes. However, they're undeniably dated. Expect '90s-print curtains, light oak furnishings, and pink paneling. That being said, they are mostly free of major wear and tear.

Without a doubt, opt for a Mariner of the Seas Balcony room, with private outdoor space that measures around 42 to 50 square feet on average. You can choose between an Ocean View Balcony room or Spacious Ocean View Balcony room, though you're essentially getting the same amount of space. If you want a proper hotel-room sized cabin with a balcony, consider a Junior Suite upgrade.

Mariner of the Seas' cabins to avoid are generally Interior or inside rooms. The lack of natural light, combined with the aging decor, means that Interior Mariner of the Seas rooms aren't exactly bright and open. Instead, you're getting a quite stereotypical and cramped cruise room. You'll likely want to avoid rooms of Mariner of the Seas Deck 3 -- both Interior and Ocean View -- as it will put you on the same floor as the Royal Theater and Studio B, where the ice show happens.

Specialty Restaurants on Mariner of the Seas Shine

Mariner of the Seas dining is fairly great across the board, from the extensive breakfast buffet at Windjammer Cafe to dinners in the Main Dining Room and specialty restaurants like Izumi, Chop's Grille and Jamie's Italian.

Royal Caribbean's Izumi is one of the most popular specialty restaurants on Mariner of the Seas if you're after high-energy hibachi dining. Izumi Sushi is located inside of the restaurant, and has a large assortment of rolls (which can be custom ordered for vegetarians and those who cannot eat gluten).

If you're after a romantic date night, the extensive menu of steaks at Chop's Grille is likely the best bet on Mariner of the Seas, though the fresh pastas at Jamie's Italian (named after Jamie Oliver, the celebrity chef) are definitely worth a meal.

Mariner of the Seas' free dining is also quite good. The breakfast buffets at Windjammer are extensive, with a huge array of international options and sweet treats. For dinner, you'll want to skip the rather empty buffet and opt for the beautiful Main Dining Room, where menus including crowd favorites like pastas and fish are executed with creative twists.

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Cabins

Mariner of the Seas has 35 cabin types available

Mariner of the Seas Royal Caribbean International Interior

Inside Cabins

8 Inside types to choose from
Mariner of the Seas Royal Caribbean International Promenade View Interior

Inside Cabins

8 Inside types to choose from
Mariner of the Seas Royal Caribbean International Interior

Inside Cabins

8 Inside types to choose from
Mariner of the Seas Royal Caribbean International Studio Interior

Inside Cabins

8 Inside types to choose from
Mariner of the Seas Royal Caribbean International Interior

Inside Cabins

8 Inside types to choose from
Mariner of the Seas Royal Caribbean International Interior

Inside Cabins

8 Inside types to choose from
Mariner of the Seas Royal Caribbean International Connecting Promenade

Inside Cabins

8 Inside types to choose from
Mariner of the Seas Royal Caribbean International Interior Stateroom - Guaranteed

Inside Cabins

8 Inside types to choose from
Mariner of the Seas Royal Caribbean International Ultra Spacious Ocean View

Outside Cabins

9 Outside types to choose from
Mariner of the Seas Royal Caribbean International Spacious Panoramic Ocean View

Outside Cabins

9 Outside types to choose from
Mariner of the Seas Royal Caribbean International Ocean View

Outside Cabins

9 Outside types to choose from
Mariner of the Seas Royal Caribbean International Ocean View

Outside Cabins

9 Outside types to choose from
Mariner of the Seas Royal Caribbean International Spacious Ocean View

Outside Cabins

9 Outside types to choose from
Mariner of the Seas Royal Caribbean International Ocean View

Outside Cabins

9 Outside types to choose from
Mariner of the Seas Royal Caribbean International Spacious Ocean View

Outside Cabins

9 Outside types to choose from
Mariner of the Seas Royal Caribbean International Ocean View

Outside Cabins

9 Outside types to choose from
Mariner of the Seas Royal Caribbean International Ocean View - Guaranteed

Outside Cabins

9 Outside types to choose from
Mariner of the Seas Royal Caribbean International Spacious Ocean View Balcony

Balcony Cabins

10 Balcony types to choose from
Mariner of the Seas Royal Caribbean International Ocean View Balcony

Balcony Cabins

10 Balcony types to choose from
Mariner of the Seas Royal Caribbean International Spacious Ocean View Balcony

Balcony Cabins

10 Balcony types to choose from
Mariner of the Seas Royal Caribbean International Ocean View Balcony

Balcony Cabins

10 Balcony types to choose from
Mariner of the Seas Royal Caribbean International Spacious Ocean View Balcony

Balcony Cabins

10 Balcony types to choose from
Mariner of the Seas Royal Caribbean International Spacious Ocean View Balcony

Balcony Cabins

10 Balcony types to choose from
Mariner of the Seas Royal Caribbean International Ocean View Balcony

Balcony Cabins

10 Balcony types to choose from
Mariner of the Seas Royal Caribbean International Ocean View Balcony

Balcony Cabins

10 Balcony types to choose from
Mariner of the Seas Royal Caribbean International Connecting Oceanview Balcony

Balcony Cabins

10 Balcony types to choose from
Mariner of the Seas Royal Caribbean International Balcony Stateroom - Guaranteed

Balcony Cabins

10 Balcony types to choose from
Mariner of the Seas Royal Caribbean International Grand Suite - 1 Bedroom

Suite Cabins

8 Suite types to choose from
Mariner of the Seas Royal Caribbean International Grand Suite - 2 Bedroom

Suite Cabins

8 Suite types to choose from
Mariner of the Seas Royal Caribbean International Junior Suite

Suite Cabins

8 Suite types to choose from
Mariner of the Seas Royal Caribbean International Junior Suite

Suite Cabins

8 Suite types to choose from
Mariner of the Seas Royal Caribbean International Owner’s Suite - 1 Bedroom

Suite Cabins

8 Suite types to choose from
Mariner of the Seas Royal Caribbean International Royal Suite - 1 Bedroom

Suite Cabins

8 Suite types to choose from
Mariner of the Seas Royal Caribbean International Ocean View Panoramic Suite

Suite Cabins

8 Suite types to choose from
Mariner of the Seas Royal Caribbean International Suite - Guarantee

Suite Cabins

8 Suite types to choose from

Deck Plans

14 deck images available

Royal Caribbean International Mariner of the Seas
Activities and Entertainment

Theater and Shows on Mariner of the Seas

The Royal Theater on Mariner of the Seas is a rather grand space that hosts original jukebox-musical-style shows as well as game shows such as the always funny Love and Marriage. The cast puts on two shows each night to cater to the early birds and night owls. "Gallery of Dreams'' follows an artist who brings history to life through his sketches, jumping from Austria to the Wild West to 1940s Morocco. On our most recent sailing, the performance was a little wobbly.

If you're after a more reliably liked dose of entertainment on Mariner of the Seas, your best bet is to grab tickets as soon as possible to Ice Under the Big Top. The circus-themed figure skating show features aerials and skits that scored high marks from most guests we talked to on board. The show is also family-friendly, with showtimes during the afternoon. 

Daily Things to Do on Mariner of the Seas

For a smaller ship, there are plenty of things to do on Mariner of the Seas throughout the day. These are all detailed in your Cruise Compass, which is left in your room every night, detailing what's happening the next day (and when). You'll find more details below on the pools, Solarium, fitness center, spa, and adventure activities like the FlowRider and rock-climbing wall. Bingo, themed and general trivia, dance classes, movies, poolside music, seminars on jewelry and spa products. There are also fitness and healthy living seminars and fitness classes plus DJs around the ship.

Nightlife on Mariner of the Seas

Nightlife aboard Mariner of the Seas is diverse enough to keep everyone happy, true to the Royal Caribbean brand. There are lively party spots and more subdued lounges all around the ship. Dancing lessons, dance parties, trivia, tournaments in the casino, game shows and movies on the pool deck are all on offer for those who have early bedtimes (and those who do not). Other evening activities include comedy shows, big stage productions, meetups and get-togethers for singles, LGBTQ+ cruisers and others. If you're planning on having more than a couple drinks per day, it's well worth your investment to get a Royal Caribbean drink package. Pay-as-you-go drinks are pricey (even for mocktails).

You'll find a different vibe at every bar. However, you might hear the most noise coming from Schooner's of all places, where piano sing-alongs and an array or rowdy trivia games take place nearly every night. There's also live music at Bolero's that draws a crowd (though it's a bit sleepy when no one's playing and the group gathering for singles and LGBTQ+ cruisers seemed mostly unattended during our most recent cruise).

Playmaker's is a draw day and night, with sports beamed in on several screens. Depending on capacity, Ellington's or Studio B function as the nightclubs, and a silent disco just might be on the agenda (it was one of the most popular nights on our last sailing). And don't forget karaoke -- if you're lucky you'll have a host that whips everyone up into loud rounds of laughs and applause.

Mariner of the Seas' Casino Royale has everything from slots to gaming tables. It's easily one of the busiest places every night aboard the ship. You can either use your cruise card or arrange to pay in cash. Just keep in mind that Royal Caribbean is allowing smoking in Casino Royale, which will either put you off entirely or make you a happy cruiser.

Cruise Critic's Picks for Mariner of the Seas Nightlife:

For a Good Old-Fashioned Singalong: The Schooner Bar is easily one of the most popular early-evening destinations on Mariner of the Seas. There's a pianist who belts out great versions of pop songs spanning the decades and singalongs can get lively. It's also one of the main venues for trivia games, which also tend to get boisterous (and are definitely worth a pit stop on your way to shows in the Royal Theater).

For a Dose of Latin Music: Boleros serves chic drinks in a space that features a small stage and dance floor. Bar seating and tables for two and four fill the space, but many patrons stand at the balcony overlooking the Centrum and onto Deck 3, where you can watch Studio B show-goers coming and going. The feel there is distinctly Latin, with salsa dance lessons and other Latin music.

For the Sports (and Bar Food) Enthusiast: Playmakers Sports Bar has that neighborhood sports bar feel, complete with nearly three dozen televisions (all tuned to sports or sports highlights), a small pool table and bar-friendly grub. During games and in the early evenings, Playmakers can get crowded, and there might be a short line at the bar. The same holds for later at night.

For Something a Little Chic: The Bamboo Rooms was added during the 2018 refurbishment, The Bamboo Room, a Polynesian-inspired bar with updated versions of classic tiki-lounge cocktails, looks amazing with its bold, leaf-patterned wall coverings, dark wood and bamboo accents throughout. The menu was inspired by tiki bar classics, so expect lots of rum, fruit juice and bartenders who are friendly, fun and know their way around a cocktail shaker. Light bites are available

For the Night Owls (or Live Music Lover): Depending on ship capacity, Ellington's is used for late-night dance parties. You'll also find jazz and Latin music here on some sailings. The

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Dining

There are over a dozen places to grab a wide array of food on Mariner of the Seas. Overall, restaurants aboard the ship do a great job of keeping all appetites satisfied. And pretty much everything tastes great, too. Specialty restaurants on Mariner of the Seas are easily the highlight -- including Chop's Grille, Izumi, and Jamie's Italian -- but the Main Dining Room (for dinner) and the Windjammer Marketplace buffet (for breakfast) are generally excellent free options. Keep in mind that Royal Caribbean's My Time Dining means you aren't stuck to rigid dining schedules for dinner, making meal time more flexible.

Free Dining on Mariner of the Seas

Main Dining Room: Easily the most stunning place to eat aboard Mariner of the Seas, the food in the Main Dining Room matches the setting. Soaring ceilings, elegant-but-modern decor and balconies that curve and wrap around overhead (by way of a grand staircase) all set the mood for formal dining service (though formalwear isn't generally required). The Mariner of the Seas Main Dining Room menu changes nightly, with dishes from all over the world. You'll typically find pastas, inventive soups and an array of meat and fish options every night. There's also a separate vegetarian menu. While appetizers and main dishes are tasty, desserts can be a little one-note. The Main Dining Room is open for all three meals every day. We suggest My Time Dining for dinner, which allows you more flexibility around when you eat (though standard seatings are also offered). There are also far more two-tops in the Main Dining Room now, though traditional large round tables are seated as well.

Windjammer Marketplace: Mariner of the Seas' Windjammer Marketplace is the ship's massive buffet. It's bustling for breakfast and lunch, though tends to be a bit empty for dinner (and options are less exciting). The highlight at Windjammer is breakfast. And what a breakfast it is: Pastries as far as the eye can see; South Asian dishes; omelets and eggs any way; every type of breakfast meat you can imagine plus salads, fruit, yogurt and granola. It's all a step above the typical buffet you'll find on land or at sea. If you're feeling like you really want to spoil yourself, make sure to hit up the sticky bun station, which has a different offering every day. They go well with the surprisingly good coffee.

Dog House: Dog House serves frankfurters, brats, sausages and sides like potato salads. It's a popular option with kids -- and easy, too, as Dog House is adjacent to the pool -- but also with adults who wanted a light meal or heavy snack in the afternoon.

Cafe Promenade: This is the go-to spot for when the majority of the restaurants on Mariner of the Seas are closed in the afternoon. The pizza is decent (and hits the spot for those late-afternoon cravings), but it's the fresh antipasti that are the star of the show. Roasted peppers, summer squash and an array of other options all go above counter-service fare. You can also score some rather tasty sweets here. Drip coffee is free.

Arctic Zone: Tucked into a corner next to the pools on Deck 11, soft serve frozen yogurt is the name of the game here (and helpful for cooling off on hot Caribbean days).

Specialty Restaurants on Mariner of the Seas (Fee)

Izumi $$$: If you're in the mood for a boisterous night out, then Mariner of the Seas' Izumi is for you. And yes, that goes for the hibachi and sushi components of the restaurant. You'll need to reserve seats at the hibachi tables, which often erupt in laughter at the chef's antics (or, alternatively, wows at the performances). The Japanese-influenced menu is packed with delicious items (including plenty of vegetarian options) and it's a family-pleasing spot as well. For those who don't want to make reservations, seating at the sushi counter is first-come, first-served. Izumi is open for lunch and dinner.

Jamie's Italian $$$: Fresh house-made pasta is the centerpiece at Jamie's Italian, by British celebrity chef Jamie Oliver. It's not the only thing on this well-rounded menu of Roman-inspired dishes, though. Appetizers like the antipasti plank and garlic bread are family-style dishes, though the truffle arancini is a must. Main courses and pasta dishes are sizable, but not overwhelming. Still, if you have a smaller appetite, pastas are offered in smaller portions. Jamie's Italian is open for lunch and dinner and reservations are recommended.

Chop's Grille $$$: Mariner of the Seas' steakhouse is a date-night destination. Cuts come in numerous shapes and sizes and there are dry-aged options as well. Expect a great wine list alongside traditional steakhouse options like shrimp cocktail, baked potatoes, and a surf and turf meal as well. You'll need to make reservations as soon as you can, as Chop's is one of Mariner of the Seas most popular specialty restaurants. You should also note that the prix-fixe menu's price can go up depending on which menu items you select.

Chef's Table $$$$$: If you're looking to get dressed up and dine like foodie royalty, Royal Caribbean's Chef's Table is the spot on Mariner of the Seas. A five-course menu includes indulgent plates like filet mignon, all created by the ship's head chef. It's open for dinner only and reservations are a must.

Johnny Rockets $: Retro-diner vibes are the setting for this casual spot that's a great late-afternoon lunch break or evening cheat meal. Burgers of all stripes are on the menu (including a vegetarian option), and the never-ending plates of fries seal the deal. Oh, we forgot the milkshakes, too (but you shouldn't). Johnny Rockets is open for lunch and dinner. Reservations are not required.

Bamboo Room $$: Light bites with South Pacific and East Asian flavors are on the small menu at this tropical cocktail spot. It has some of the nicest decor of anything found along the Royal Promenade and is worth a stop for a pre-dinner appetizer and drink.

Playmaker's $$: Playmakers Sports Bar is just that: a sports bar serving classic bar fare. Beer and cocktails are on offer and the menu includes favorites like wings, sliders and even Impossible burgers. The wings get the gold medal from most guests and the bar stays open late.

Starbucks $: The alternative to Cafe Promenade's own cafe, this is the brand everyone knows. Expect coffees, pastries and grab-and-go items. It's open all day.

Room Service $: The room service menu is available around the clock and a flat fee is charged regardless of when or what is ordered.

Ben & Jerry's $: Mariner of the Seas offers a small selection of the famous Vermont ice cream makers' most popular flavors throughout the day.

Cafe Promenade $: While filter coffee, pizza, antipasti and sweet treats are all free, you'll have to pay for specialty coffees (and their spiked cousins) at Royal Caribbean's Cafe Promenade.

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