Seas Mariner had a number of positive elements, particularly the relatively large size and efficient layout of the suites. The food was not particularly special and the service could be warm or indifferent depending on the day. Quite often I felt rushed to order and rushed to eat. Coffee was seldom refilled without asking, drink orders were slow and sometimes wrong.

Conversely, the officers were friendly, chatty and concerned all were having a good time. One word of caution, do not stay on the 10th level! The noise from things being pushed around the pool deck above was very annoying. The entertainment was OK and the ship has an excellent video and book library. No need to bring a tie and a jacket wasn't mandatory. Signatures and Latitudes restaurants were good, the Compass Rose decent and La Veranda just OK.

Room service for breakfast was horrible. It arrived half an hour early and was barely warm. The side trips such as the helicopter to the glacier are breathtaking and worth the money. Equally, the cruise itinerary is outstanding with no complaint on the scenery or commentary about Alaska.

TV channels are limited, but who stays in the room with such beauty outside? The hot tubs were great, the pool chilly, and there are golf nets, paddle ball, shuffleboard and other outside games to keep kids and adults occupied.

There is photo service, shops, a doctor, and a casino. The portions at meals tended to be small so don't hesitate to ask for a double the staff were happy to handle those requests and be sure to try the soups, they were great! I would return to the 8th deck or so and out of 10 stars this one rates a strong eight to a weak nine.