Mariner vs. Caribbean Princess

[cruzluver]

Who has been on these ships and which would you suggest for a 40 and 42 year old couple and why do you suggest this particular ship? Our daughter wiil not be going and we like to kick back and relax. The ports are pretty much the same and so is the price. Thanks for your advice.

[Karter]

It all depends on what you are looking for in a cruise. If you’re looking for a lot of outdoor activities, wow factor of the ship, and ice skating shows then the Mariner is the best choice. If you’re looking for a more refined elegant experience with great food but an unimpressive ship design (3 story atrium) then Princess is probably better. One recommendation for the Caribbean Princess is to book a balcony on the Caribe deck. The balconies are twice as big and are half covered and half open above. So you can sun or have privacy depending on what you’re doing.

 

The comparison below compares the Grand Princess (which is very similar to the Caribbean Princess) to the Mariner. It also includes the Carnival Spirit but you can skip that part.

 

http://boards.cruisecritic.com/showthread.php?p=2161709

 

If you have never been on a Voyager class ship then I would definitely try the Mariner just for the ship experience.