Mariner of the Seas Western Caribbean Review [Podcast]

In this Cruise Radio episode, Doug talks with Kevin about his five-night Royal Caribbean cruise on Mariner of the Seas.

Kevin details the efficient embarkation, his stateroom, and dining experiences, including the Windjammer marketplace and free options like Sorrento pizza. Entertainment, especially for his son, was a highlight, with shows on the promenade.

The cruise, despite spring break timing, wasn’t overcrowded. They enjoyed Cozumel and CocoCay, although a balloon excursion was canceled due to wind. Kevin praises the easy departure process with facial recognition and gives tips for first-time cruisers.

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Listen to the episode on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Amazon Music, or where you listen to your favorite podcast.

Timestamps:

• Embarkation and Pre-Cruise Stay (00:02:12): Kevin talks about the quick embarkation process and their stay at a hotel near the port.
• Stateroom and Room Features (00:03:29): Kevin discusses the stateroom, including the balcony location and the accommodation for their child.
• Dining Experiences (00:06:03): It covers the Windjammer Marketplace, the main dining room, and other dining options on the ship.
• Entertainment and Shows (00:13:30): Kevin shares his son’s experience with the entertainment, including impromptu and stage shows.
• Entertainment on the Ship (00:14:29): Discussions on the various entertainment options on the ship, including the ice show and poolside activities.
• Crowds and Congestion (00:15:01): Describes the ship’s crowd and congestion levels during sea days, particularly during spring break.
• Smoking in the Casino (00:15:45): Addresses the smoking environment in and around the ship’s casino area.
• Port of Call – Cozumel (00:16:20): Details the excursion in Cozumel, including a hop-on hop-off bus tour and beach club experience.
• Port of Call – Perfect Day at CocoCay (00:18:41): Share the experience at Perfect Day at CocoCay, including the attempted hot air balloon excursion and activities at the oasis lagoon.
• Refund Process for Excursion (00:20:02): Explains the refund process for a canceled excursion, including the options for receiving the refund.
• Comparison of Parking Options (00:24:18): Discusses the pros and cons of parking at the cruise pier versus taking a shuttle for budget-conscious travelers.
• Final Thoughts on the Cruise (00:28:04): Provides an overall review and recommendation for the cruise experience on Royal Caribbean’s Mariner of the Seas.