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Billy Steen

Age: 38
Occupation: Computer Operator
Number of Cruises: 2
Cruise Line: RCI
Ship: Mariner of the Seas
Sailing Date: November 7th, 2004
Itinerary: Western Caribbean

Let me start by saying the Mariner is just fantastic, it blew us away. My family did a transatlantic cruise on the Splendour last year and we thought that was big.
First tip, get there early, we had a pick up from International Drive at 11:30, we arrive at the port at 12:20, and I’ll tell you, we were sitting in our stateroom at 13:15. It couldn’t be easier, but we did notice it did get busy from about 14:00 onward.

We headed to the Windjammer for a spot on lunch; this was really busy, bit frustrating as everyone seemed to have the same idea, but we got a table after a couple of tours round. The food is great, something for everyone; don’t let anyone tell you otherwise. There is everything from fruit right through to burgers, rice dishes; the list goes on and on.

There is normally 2 other ships in port. A Disney one and a Carnival one, you can look down on both of them.

We sailed at 5pm watching the sunset from the top deck is just the best way to start your cruise.

Now take your time to explore the ship, and if you want to be stunned leave the Royal Promenade until last. Go play golf or a dip in one of the 5 hot tubs.

We were on the second sitting for dinner. The dinning room is 3 stories high, yes 3!!! Meals were great, and the staff were great.

Head to the Royal Prom deck after dinner for a great parade, I don’t want to spoil it for you just get your camera ready.

As for the ports Labadee is nice, nice back drop. If you want a bit of peace and quiet, walk thro’ to the other side of the island, not so busy and loads of beds. We didn’t do much there but caught the sun.

Next was Jamaica. I’ve got to admit I didn’t like this place, the people are very pushy and I felt I had to constantly was my 14 year daughter as the locals wanted to braid her hair. We did go to Duns River Falls, not as part of the ships tour. ( I’ll say at this point we didn’t do any of the ships tours, just walked out the ports and there are plenty of taxis and buses to take you round all the ports).

Another word of warning about Duns Falls, the market at the exit is very tough. DON’T take any of the things they hand you, again very pushy.

Grand Cayman was the next day. Lovely Island, but hurricane Ivan has put a great big dent in it. Good shopping, again we jumped into a bus and for $15 we were taken to Hell, the turtle farm (extra to get in there), 7 mile beach and a couple of other stop, well worth the money. You get to see what Ivan did to the island.

Mexico next; another shopping trip. We jumped into a taxi to the lagoon park first, $10 for the taxi and $12 each to get in. Great snorkelling, if that’s your thing, but you have to pay extra.

Last day at sea, we took time to go ice skating, roller blade and golf again.

Another tip, go to the ice show, jaw dropping stuff. The other shows are worth talking about too but I’ll not spoil the surprises, I’ll just say all very professional.

I’ve taken loads of pictures, when I get to the bottom of my suit case I’ll post a few up, if you like.

One last thing, Captain Johnny is a real show man, listen to his announcements, they are just brill.