Spring break next year?

[lesleyswimcoach]

I have been on 5 cruises. 3 Carnival sensation, Glory and Horizon. I also did 1 celebrity before kids and RCL brilliance of the seas when the kids were little. We loved the horizon this year and really want a bigger/equivalent ship. I’d love some thoughts on the following boats/itineraries. Especially from people that have done both cruise lines.  

 

RCL Mariner 4 day Nassau And Cocoa Cay. Closest port and we could drive. Looks like a great boat. Never had a flow rider before on a boat. We would spend a few days on either side in that area.  Definitely most affordable since we can use drink package at CoCo Cay and be able to drive.

 

RCL  independence 5 day Labadee and Falmouth.  Probably would need to fly but can use drink package at Labadee. 

Mostly interested since 1 extra day at sea. 

 

Carnival Magic 6 day Grand Turk, Half Moon and Amber Cove. LOVE the ports but can’t use drink package. Also boat missing a lot of the bells and whistles of Horizon. We probably would fly but TA gives better incentives for RCL. 

I get casino discounts with Carnival and the kids(teens)have friends they made this year from horizon who cruise carnival every year. We just aren’t close to the next level to worry about loyalty perks. I just wish Horizon was doing different itineraries next year and it would be an easy decision since we loved it. 

Anyone who has sailed these, I’d love feedback. Especially if you can compare with Horizon. 

 

[tallnthensome]

I've done the Indy and it's a nice ship and we like the promenade deck ...... but that itinerary sucks. The Mariner OTS is like 16 years old but Nassau sucks. I'd easily choose the 6 day Magic for the length and ports are better. 

[lesleyswimcoach]

The Mariner got a $120 million makeover this year. flowrider , escape room, and other things that appeal to teens.  Also COCay his also gotten s face lift. I agree Nassau sucks but can do a short excursion:)