Planning your next Royal Caribbean cruise and torn between Mariner of the Seas and Navigator of the Seas? You’re not alone! These Voyager Class sister ships have been amped up with thrilling waterslides, upgraded pool decks, and brand-new dining options. But which one is really the best fit for your perfect cruise?
I’ve done the digging—reading firsthand reviews, insider tips, and cruiser stories—to give you the ultimate comparison. Whether you want family-friendly fun or non-stop social vibes, this guide will help you decide.
So, which ship will you sail on? Let’s dive in!
From Classic to Amped: The Real Story of Mariner & Navigator
Mariner of the Seas and Navigator of the Seas are Voyager-class cruise ships in Royal Caribbean’s fleet. Navigator set sail in 2002, and Mariner was launched a year later, in 2003. At the time, the cruise ships had ground-breaking features like ice rinks, the FlowRider surf simulators, outdoor movie screens, and rock-climbing walls.
As part of Royal Caribbean cruise ship amplification, Mariner and Navigator underwent refurbishment in 2018 and 2019, respectively.
The Mariner of the Seas was refitted, adding more cabins and gross tonnage. Additions to the ship included the Sky Pad—a virtual reality bungee trampoline and Perfect Storm waterslides. Updates also included a refreshed pool deck, Playmakers Sports Bar & Arcade, and family-friendly features, making it a standout choice for short, fun-packed getaways.
The Navigator of the Seas amplification increased passenger capacity to nearly 4,000 guests. It also added the Riptide mat racer and the Blaster Aqua Coaster—the longest waterslide at sea suspended over water. Also, the tropical-themed pool deck features the lively Lime & Coconut bar, while new dining options like Hooked Seafood and El Loco Fresh enhance the onboard experience.
Overall, the “amped” Mariner of the Seas got excellent reviews, with many praising the Sky Pad as an “unforgettable onboard experience, and especially great for families.” However, others commented that some staterooms still show their age.
The best reviews were for the transformed pool deck on Navigator of the Seas. Many cruisers shared online that the three-level Lime & Coconut bar gives the deck a unique tropical vibe, making it the heart of the ship’s social scene.
Key facts:
Mariner of the Seas:
- Passenger capacity: 3,344
- Gross tonnage: 139,863
- Decks:14 guest decks
Navigator of the Seas:
- Passenger capacity: 3,968
- Gross tonnage: 139,999
- Decks: 14 guest decks
The ratio of gross tonnage to passenger capacity indicates how much space is available per guest, with a higher ratio suggesting a more spacious and less crowded onboard experience. Therefore, the Mariner of the Seas has more space per passenger.
What Makes These Ships Stand Out?
Both Mariner of the Seas and Navigator of the Seas share many Voyager-class staples, but it’s the unique touches that set them apart. From thrilling slides to serene spaces, each ship offers distinct experiences. Here’s how they stack up.
Pool Deck
Navigator has a three-level Lime & Coconut bar providing vibrant, fun, and tropical vibes with prime pool front views. Here, you’ll find DJs spinning upbeat tracks and creating distinct party zones. Also, bartenders at two bars serve tropical cocktails day and night. One cruiser described it as a beach club vibe at sea, and ideal for socializing and enjoying the onboard experience.
The pool deck on Mariner of the Seas is more family-orientated, offering a more relaxed feel. Although it doesn’t have the high-energy vibe of Navigator, it still has plenty of space to chill out, soak up the sun, or cool off in the pool.
Water Slides
Thrill-seekers will love Navigator’s two signature slides. The Blaster Aqua Coaster—the longest waterslide at sea—provides exhilarating twists, turns, and uphill sections that extend over the edge of the ship. One cruiser on Reddit shared, “It’s an adrenaline rush, especially with the ocean rushing below you.”
The Riptide mat racer offers a unique headfirst ride through a clear tube, giving a flying-above-the-sea sensation. Together, these slides deliver next-level aquatic adventures.
Mariner boasts the Perfect Storm waterslides—Typhoon and Cyclone. These twin slides aren’t as extreme as Navigator’s, but they’re perfect for families or anyone looking for a fun, fast-paced ride. A guest shared on a forum, “The slides were a hit with my kids, especially since they’re not too intense.”
While not as high-thrill, Mariner’s slides add just the right amount of excitement to a sea day.
Other unique features
Although it caters more to high-energy activities on board, the Navigator has family-friendly areas and a splash zone—albeit not as large as Splashaway Bay on some Royal Caribbean ships. Here, kids and parents enjoy non-stop laughter and fun with water cannons and fountains. Also, unique upgrades like El Loco Fresh and Hooked Seafood have improved the dining options.
One of the most unique factors of Mariner is its bridge viewing area. A fellow cruiser told me that it offers a rare behind-the-scenes peek at ship navigation.
As of 2023, another unique feature, the Sky Pad trampoline inside of an orange sphere, is no longer on Mariner, seemingly due to a personal injury lawsuit.
Verdict
The water park upgrade and fancy dining option puts Navigator of the Seas in the top spot for thrill-seekers, nightlife lovers, and social groups. However, Mariner has calmer water rides and a more relaxed atmosphere, which is ideal for families, although it lacks a kids’ splash zone.
Thrills and Chills: Which Ship Does Water and Pool Features Best?
Both ships feature Royal Caribbean’s signature water attractions, including dual pools, whirlpools, and the ever-popular FlowRider surf simulator.
Navigator of the Seas is a clear winner when it comes to water attractions. It features the Blaster Aqua Coaster, with water jets that propel you through dips and drops. Also, the Riptide mat racer is a stunning experience for headfirst thrills—mainly the see-through curve off the side of the ship.
Mariner’s best water attractions are the Perfect Storm slides, which offer twisting, family-friendly fun and a more balanced mix of adventure and relaxation.
Pool Party or Family Time? Here’s the Vibe on Each Ship
Choosing between the Navigator of the Seas and Mariner depends on the type of onboard vibe you’re after. Lively and social with plenty of poolside parties? Or more relaxed and laid back? Here’s what I’ve discovered.
The Navigator buzzes with energy, making it the perfect choice for couples, groups, and cruise passengers wanting a lively onboard atmosphere. The pool deck oozes tropical vibes, with colorful lighting and upbeat music setting the tone thanks to the Lime & Coconut bar. Other lively venues include dancing in the Boleros Lounge, listening to Jazz in the Cosmopolitan Club, or relaxing in the Schooner Bar.
While I’ve not been on Mariner of the Seas, I’ve read that it has a more relaxed, family-focused ambiance. Many cruisers describe the spacious pool deck as a peaceful spot to unwind. Also, it seems that it has calmer crowd dynamics and more intimate spaces to relax. One guest summed up the atmosphere on Mariner, “It’s a cozy retreat and place to recharge while still enjoying fun activities.”
Verdict
Choose Navigator of the Seas for its high-energy nightlife and social vibe, or Mariner of the Seas for laid-back relaxation and family-friendly charm. Each ship offers a distinct experience tailored to your cruising style.
Itineraries: Short Getaways vs. Longer Cruises
The Mariner of the Seas is based in its home port of Galveston, TX, and mostly does four to five-night Western Caribbean sailings with some stops in Mexico. Cruise highlights include snorkeling at Cozumel, ziplining through forest canopies at Roatán, relaxing at Costa Maya, and exploring Mayan ruins.
On the other hand, Navigator of the Seas is ideal for cruisers seeking extended itineraries, often sailing five to seven-night cruises along Mexico’s Pacific Coast. Popular stops include Cabo San Lucas, with its golden beaches and iconic arch, and Ensenada, known for its wine and fresh seafood.
Verdict
Departing from Los Angeles, Navigator is a perfect choice for West Coast travelers or those looking to explore the vibrant culture and scenery of Mexico. However, if you’re looking for a Caribbean Cruise, Mariner is the best choice.
Related: The best time to cruise the Caribbean.
Dining & Bars: More Options on Navigator
Both Navigator of the Seas and Mariner of the Seas offer exceptional dining and bar options. As you’d expect on Royal Caribbean, the Windjammer Cafe is a favorite for its food quality and experience. The consensus among cruisers is that Navigator edges ahead thanks to its wider selection of specialty venues and unique experiences.
Here’s what you can expect on each ship when wining and dining.
Navigator of the Seas: Diverse Dining and a Social Scene
Navigator excels with its range of specialty restaurants. Cruisers’ favorite dining venues are Hooked Seafood for its fresh, coastal-inspired dishes and its famous lobster rolls. A personal favorite of mine is El Loco Fresh for its quick and tasty Mexican tacos and burritos.
The Lime & Coconut bar is a social hotspot spanning three levels. Quite simply—the tropical cocktails and sunset views cannot be beaten. It’s like a mini resort right on the ship. One of the unique bars onboard is “To Dry For”—sip cocktails while enjoying a salon experience and getting glammed up for a fancy evening.
For classic favorites, Johnny Rockets offers diner-style seating and comfort food like burgers and milkshakes. Pair that with the casual fun of Dog House, serving gourmet hot dogs, and you’ll never go hungry or bored.
Insider Tip: For the best sunset spot, head to the top deck of The Lime & Coconut. It’s an incredible way to kick off your evening!
Mariner of the Seas: Cozy Dining Venues with Family Favorites
Mariner of the Seas focuses on casual comfort and family-friendly dining options. Jamie’s Italian serves rustic, homestyle pasta dishes with flair, while Chops Grille offers classic steakhouse favorites like filet mignon and seafood towers.
I noticed that many cruisers praise the interactive experience at Izumi Hibachi, where chefs dazzle with tableside cooking. One guest shared, “Watching the chef flip shrimp into his hat never gets old—it’s dinner and a show!”
Casual options include Playmakers Sports Bar & Arcade, Johnny Rockets, Dog House, and Cafe Promenade.
The bars on Mariner include intimate venues like the Bamboo Room, a tiki-inspired retreat serving handcrafted cocktails with a retro twist. “It’s a hidden gem,” said one cruiser. “The vibe is relaxed, and the drinks are top-notch.”
Insider Tip: For a cozy evening, grab a drink at the Bamboo Room and take it to the Royal Promenade for a quiet spot to people-watch.
Let the Entertainment Begin: Shows and Nightlife
Both Navigator of the Seas and Mariner of the Seas feature a range of evening entertainment options. These include original productions, live music, guest appearances, and ice skating shows. What is it that separates entertainment on the two ships?
Navigator of the Seas
Entertainment on Navigator is some of the best I’ve seen on Royal Caribbean ships. They have plenty of high-energy options that cater to partygoers and anyone looking for a good time. Its signature production, “Showgirls,” celebrates classic showgirl traditions with vibrant costumes and electrifying choreography.
Themed parties like 80s nights, tropical deck events, the iSkate ice show, and ballroom dance shows keep the nightlife buzzing. My overall impression was that there was always some exciting show happening, and I was never bored.
Mariner of the Seas
Mariner offers family-focused entertainment. It has original productions and live music similar to Navigator. A favorite of many cruise passengers seems to be the “Gallery of Dreams” production. This features imaginative storytelling and visually stunning sets. One cruiser described the ice skating shows as “unlike anything you’d expect on a ship and a must-see for all ages.”
If you’re seeking quieter evenings and cozy venues with live music, the Mariner provides the spots for relaxation. One cruiser shared, “Mariner’s entertainment feels more intimate but just as captivating.”
Verdict
Navigator of the Seas has the best, most lively nightlife and energetic shows compared to Mariner. However, it seems that entertainment on both ships gets rave reviews.
Your Home at Sea: Staterooms and Suites
Both ships offer a variety of staterooms, including interior, oceanview, balcony, and suite options. Whether you’re traveling solo or with family, there’s something for everyone, but each ship has unique highlights.
One of the most innovative design features on any cruise ship is the virtual balconies on Royal Caribbean’s Navigator of the Seas. This is a floor-to-ceiling LED screen in interior staterooms with real-time ocean views. One cruiser described it as a game-changer for budget-conscious travelers who want to feel connected to the sea.
You also have the choice of an interior room with a balcony or window overlooking the promenade. It is a nice touch for budget-conscious travelers who cannot afford an oceanview stateroom but don’t want the confines of an interior cabin.
Mariner of the Seas also has some excellent cabin options. Solo travelers especially love the studio staterooms because they don’t have to fork out for a double-occupancy cabin. Also, some panoramic oceanview studies have floor-to-ceiling windows.
Verdict
Navigator of the Seas comes out on top regarding value-for-money for its cabins. It has a wide range of staterooms, including balconies and windows on some interior rooms and virtual balconies. However, solo travelers may find better deals on Mariner due to the solo cabins.
Tips from Seasoned Cruisers: Insider Advice
Planning a cruise on Navigator of the Seas or Mariner of the Seas? Insider tips from seasoned cruisers can make all the difference. From hidden gems to smart dining strategies, these expert recommendations will help you maximize your time and create unforgettable memories on your chosen ship.
Navigator of the Seas
Seasoned cruisers recommend heading to the top deck of The Lime & Coconut for incredible sunset views when leaving port on the first day. It’s an unforgettable experience watching the land fade away as you sip a refreshing tropical cocktail.
Craving thrills? I’d suggest heading to the Blaster Aqua Coaster early in the morning or late afternoon to avoid long lines. And here’s a top tip for embarkation day regardless of the cruise ship—reserve a table in a specialty dining room to snag great first-day deals and avoid buffet chaos. On Navigator, I’d strongly recommend Hooked Seafood.
Mariner of the Seas
On Mariner, the bridge-viewing area is a hidden gem, offering a rare behind-the-scenes look at ship navigation—a must-see for curious cruisers. To avoid crowds, book dinner at Jamie’s Italian or Izumi Hibachi on port days for a more relaxed dining experience and good deals. Families will love starting their day at the Perfect Storm slides, which are gentler and ideal for bonding time.
For quieter evenings, many cruisers suggest visiting the Bamboo Room for handcrafted cocktails and retro vibes in peace and quiet. On the pool deck, seasoned travelers recommend finding loungers on the upper deck for a less crowded sunbathing spot.
Final Decision: Which Ship Will You Sail?
Navigator of the Seas is your go-to for non-stop excitement, with thrilling water slides, buzzing nightlife, and a vibrant social vibe. Think rooftop sunsets at The Lime & Coconut and adrenaline-pumping rides on the Blaster Aqua Coaster.
Mariner of the Seas, on the other hand, offers a more relaxed, family-friendly getaway with cozy spaces, gentler slides, and a laid-back pool deck. It’s the perfect choice for recharging while still enjoying fun activities like ice skating shows and panoramic oceanview suites.
Thrills or tranquility? Party vibes or peaceful retreats? With Navigator and Mariner, the choice is yours!
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