The Grand Mariner is a unique purpose built ship designed to travel where larger ships can’t. The retractable pilot house allows it to slip gently beneath low bridges in places like the Erie Canal and transit narrow locks and rivers. It is like sailing on a friend’s yacht with the comfort and safety of an American crew and friendly staff. It is comfortable, casual and homely and allows you to enjoy the pristine environments and small towns you travel past. There are 180° panoramas from the comfortable lounge and dining is an open seating policy so you can meet and dine with everyone on the cruise. Suites are air conditioned and cosy with either slide windows or portholes. Whilst the ship can take 96 people, Botanica will only be taking 80 making this a very relaxing experience.