Well it just dawned on me that the Mariner is the sister ship to Voyager -- I had the Mariner confused with the Navigator, which I don't know much about. So it would certainly feel familiar! I've been chatting with my Mom, and we're seriously considering this switch. And Karen, yes I agree about the sea days! Mom was just telling me how on our Med cruise she was starting to get really tired of every day being go-go-go with the ports, and that she would LOVE to have some sea days to relax. Also, the flight is a big consideration -- the flights to Funchal and from Rome were just so horrible for us. To end the cruise right here at home would be fantastic!

Also, we'd be visiting more islands, some of the more obscure ones like Rarotonga and Nuku Hiva, which sounds interesting to me. I am a bit concerned about losing out on the water sports platform, and the fantastic PG diving program I've been reading about, but the reality is that was for me, not my Mom...I have no doubt Mom would be far more comfortable on the Mariner.

The choice is seeming a bit easier, but I still have lots to consider...more opinions are welcome!