Those last sentiments are exactly why I'm thinking Princess and not Mariner. For a decent size room w/balcony AND pre cruise which offers better accommodations (travel reports on the Mariner's precruise hotels arent' great, to put it mildly) and better itinerary for us, I'm thinking Princess for almost 1/2 the amount of the Mariner. A few sodas/drinks and even 10$20 a day in tips still doesn't add up to the charges on the Mariner. Don't get me wrong, I'd much prefer the Mariner, but I just can't see spending so much for a few amenities that I can do without when considering $5000 or $6000 more. AND a precruise package that I'm not thrilled with. If I do a precruise privately (w/o Mariner), it's about $35000 ea. for 4-5 nights. So, with the additional cost of the Mariner plus the precruise, you're talking a WHOLE lot more than the princess. Their precruise is included and includes many of the places we want to see - Mariner does not. Still deciding though........
I would rather do the Mariner....Just re-checking all the options. confused

Thanks for the input!!
j.