Take a spin on the Mariner of the Seas
What has 16 decks, room for more than 3,800 passengers and everything from a climbing wall to an ice-skating rink? It’s Mariner of the Seas, which has just started sailing from Los Angeles to Mexico on seven-night cruises. Here’s a look inside the Royal Caribbean International cruise ship, which is said to be the biggest to ever have its home port on the West Coast. (Jane Engle / Los Angeles Times)
Mariner’s colorful pool area, viewed from the Viking Crown Lounge on Deck 14. For sun, fun and the sounds of a live band, head for the main pool area, which has two pools and two whirlpools. Adults can escape to the Solarium, with pool, fountain, whirlpools and a quieter vibe. (Jane Engle / Los Angeles Times)
Johnny Rockets diner, one of many restaurants and cafes on board. (Jane Engle / Los Angeles Times)
Overview of the Royal Promenade, the throbbing heart of the Mariner, which stretches longer than a football field down the center of the ship. Noisy and bustling, it’s lined with shops, cafes and other gathering spots. (Jane Engle / Los Angeles Times)
This whimsical statue of a strongman greets casino visitors. (Jane Engle / Los Angeles Times)
At the Casino Royale, you can play nearly 300 slot machines or try your hand at blackjack, Caribbean Stud Poker, craps or roulette. (Jane Engle / Los Angeles Times)
The sprawling Royal Suite sports a king bed, queen sofa bed, concierge service, spacious bath with whirlpool tub and even a baby grand piano. The cost? It varies, but one recent fare was $4,449 per person per week, compared with regular fares starting at $549. (Jane Engle / Los Angeles Times)
Skaters swirl to Russian music on the ice-skating rink on Deck 3. Besides watching performances, passengers can take to the ice themselves. (Jane Engle / Los Angeles Times)
The three-level main dining room can seat nearly 1,900 people. The Mariner of the Seas can carry 3,835 passengers when full, or 3,114 at double occupancy. (Jane Engle / Los Angeles Times)
Miniature golf? Why not, especially when the views encompass shore and sea. The nine-hole course, dubbed Mariner Dunes, is on Deck 13, which also has an in-line skating track and a basketball court. (Jane Engle / Los Angeles Times)
The Mariner, like many other Royal Caribbean ships, has a rock-climbing wall. This one rises 200 feet above sea level, providing bird’s-eye views. Bonus challenge: holding on when the ship heels at sea. (Jane Engle / Los Angeles Times)
