The Mariner of the Seas is part of the Voyager Class of ships operated by Royal Caribbean International. When the Voyager Class debuted, it revolutionized the cruise industry by introducing features that had never been seen at sea, such as the Royal Promenade (an indoor "main street" with shops and bars), an ice-skating rink, and a rock-climbing wall. The Mariner is the fifth and final ship in this class, benefiting from several design improvements over its older sisters like the Voyager and Explorer. In 2026, the Mariner of the Seas remains a favorite among "short-haul" cruisers because it underwent a massive "Royal Amplified" renovation, adding modern features like the Sky Pad (a virtual reality bungee trampoline), the "Perfect Storm" waterslides, and updated dining venues like Playmakers Sports Bar. While it is smaller than the newer Oasis or Icon-class giants, its Voyager-class heritage means it still offers a high-action, family-friendly environment with a "traditional" cruise layout. At approximately 138,000 gross tons and a capacity for about 3,800 guests, it occupies the "sweet spot" of being large enough for endless activities while still being small enough to visit a wider variety of ports.