RCCI Mariner or Carnival Splendor?

[keetalyn]

Hi Everyone!

 

I'm trying to decide between these 2 ships for a 7 day Mexican Riviera cruise from Los Angeles in mid-October. They're somewhat similarly priced, so I'm wondering which would be a better choice for us. We have a 20-month old son, so we'd like for there to be at least a few things to amuse him with. We're bringing my mom (late 50s) along so we have babysitting covered at night. No one in our party has cruised before, so any additional suggestions are welcome!

 

The only other thing I can think of is that if one of these ships has much better food than another, that would probably be a tipping point for us. Friends of ours recently did a 4 night from LA on Carnival and said the food was almost inedible. :eek:

[Cruzaholic41]

I've been on both. One word. Mariner!

 

These two ships are not even comparable. Mariner blows Splendor away in terms of beauty, amenities, ship design, and comfort. Splendor is one of the ugliest ships at sea. In keeping with Carnival tradition, the interior design is so gaudy, it's almost unbearable. Mariner, on the other hand, is a gem.

 

Plus, the alternating Captains (Capt. Johnny and Capt. Per) are 2 of the best and most sociable in the business.

 

I found the dining room food on both ships to be comparable. However, Mariner's buffet area, specialty restaurants, and alternative food options like pizza, snacks, etc. are superior to Splendor. Plus, Mariner's ice show is a must see. Splendor has nothing to compete with it.