Mariner of the Seas - misc questions

[whiskey girl]

We are booked for the Mariner of the Seas eastern caribbean itinerary in June.

Stateroom -- On my last cruise (the Carnival Pride), all staterooms had mini bars that could be emptied and used for personal items. Is that true for the Mariner?

Excursions -- I have stopped at St. Maarten before and was less than impressed, the St. Martin side looked nicer but we only took a quick bus tour and had a couple of hours in town. Are the French beaches cleaner? What excursions would you recommend? Someone mentioned a dolphin outing (lots of trave time but worth it). Any suggestions?

Thanks!

[spbflseas]

I prefer the French side, although the America's Cup Regatta tour is a blast. I had a client take the "art tour" and they really loved it, but this would have to be an interest. I have an uncle who spend 2 weeks there every year and his advice is always, French side is better from all aspects other than: 1) Dutch Side has casinos 2) Dutch side dining and nightlife are better. I would add one more, the Dutch chocolate is phenomenal.

[Boo Boo]

Orient Beach is very nice - best way to get there is to take a taxi (you may be able tyo get the same taxi to pick you up at a given time and take you back to the ship afterwards). At Orient Beach, the beach is very clean, the sea can get a little choppy, there are very nice loungers/parasols for hire (if you want) infront of nice French bars which sell nice food. The right hand side of the beach (as you look at the sea) is "clothing optional", the left hand side is "regular" (but, because of the European influence, don't be surprised to see topless ladies).

 

St Maarten is not my favourite island (we prefer the Western Caribbean), but Orient Beach is a pleasant place to spend a few hours.

 

Best wishes,

Boo