Brilliance of the Seas ship stats

  • Price:

    $$$$
  • Size:

    L
  • Total Passengers:

    2,501
  • Total Crew:

    859
  • Passenger to Crew Ratio:

    2.91
  • Built:

    Dec 2001
  • Refurbished:

    Jan 2018
  • Number of Decks:

    13
  • Total Cabins:

    1,074
  • Cabin Categories:

    22
  • Gross Tonnage:

    90,090
  • Length:

    962
  • Beam:

    106

Brilliance of the Seas overview

Traveling to more than 12 countries across Northern Europe and the Caribbean, Brilliance of the Seas has some of the industry's most exciting and diverse itineraries. Passengers can roam the emerald hills of Ireland, explore Amsterdam's canals, or sink into a white sand beach in the Caribbean. This midsized Radiance-class ship offers a sophisticated cruise experience that's ideal for couples and families who prefer superior service.

Fresh from its 2018 dry-dock refurbishment, Royal Caribbean's Brilliance of the Seas sports new Oasis-class amenities and activities, including expanded dining options, nightlife, and Broadway-style entertainment. The sports deck offers fun for the whole family with a rock-climbing wall, waterslides, mini-golf, and sports courts. The Adventure Ocean club and Royal Babies and Tots nursery offers award-winning science programs and complimentary childcare, so parents can participate in adult activities. After basking in the sun and hitting the dance floor, cruisers can indulge in one of the complimentary restaurants. Savor a special meal at Giovanni's Table, or sample Royal Caribbean's signature Kummelweck roast beef sandwich.

Brilliance of the Seas itineraries and departure ports

Cruises sail from Tampa, Boston, Amsterdam, and Barcelona for ports in North America, Scandinavia, and Europe. Brilliance of the Sea itineraries with ports of call in Key West and Cozumel originate in Tampa. Boston departures take travelers on longer 7- and 11-night journeys between Aruba and Nova Scotia. If you've wanted to try a transatlantic cruise, sail aboard Brilliance between Tampa and Amsterdam. Additional European routes include regional destinations in the British Isles, Spain, the Azores, and the Baltic. Starting in the first quarter of 2021, the ship will operate in North America and the Caribbean exclusively.

Best for

Brilliance of the Seas is one of Royal Caribbean's best ships for couples. Travelers can expect personalized service and ample onboard activities with a slightly more sophisticated ambiance and smaller crowds.

You should know

Compared to other members of the Royal Caribbean fleet, Brilliance is smaller and relatively low key. For some travelers, motion sickness may be an issue, especially in cabins closer to the front of the ship. Additionally, the overall cruising experience is geared toward families and couples. The ship doesn't offer the nonstop nightlife that some singles may enjoy.

Activities on Brilliance of the Seas

Kids' activities aren't the main focus on Brilliance of the Seas, but they are an important part of Royal Caribbean's brand. From complimentary childcare in the Royal Babies and Tots Nursery to the water slides at Adventure Beach, Deck 12 offers numerous amenities for families traveling with young children, tweens, and teens.

Adults can take in the views from the Promenade Deck or enjoy the quiet atmosphere of the Solarium, which is one of the line's most beloved amenities. The Library & Card Room is another spot where guests can relax in plain sight. At sea, adults can enjoy a perfect evening at Vintages wine bar or the Schooner Bar. Additionally, Royal Caribbean hosts numerous parties and theme nights, such as the Latin Fiesta and 70s Disco Night, for added fun after dark.

Brilliance of the Seas ship highlights

  • Three pools and three whirlpools
  • Poolside movie nights
  • Rock-climbing wall
  • Table tennis and billiards
  • Miniature golf and sports courts
  • Teen Optix club and video arcade
  • Adventure Ocean activities
  • Inclusive Royal Babies and Tots nursery
  • Royal Mystery escape room by Puzzle Break
  • Original productions, including Now and Forever
  • Twelve complimentary and paid dining venues
  • Bars and lounges, including the Vintages winebar
  • Live music in the Schooner Bar and English Pub
  • Themed events, including the 70s Disco Party
  • Vitality Spa and Fitness Center
  • Adults-only Solarium

Brilliance of the Seas cabins

Brilliance of the Seas cabins are available in four standard grades. Passengers can choose from one of 429 interior rooms, 247 ocean-view cabins, and 65 suites. Additionally, the ship offers a high percentage of balcony cabins, which gives travelers an excellent opportunity to book a stateroom with a view. Standard amenities include a flatscreen TV, minibar, desk/vanity, and radio. Cabins and bathrooms feature plenty of outlets and storage for suitcases, carry-ons, and formal wear. Most staterooms accommodate up to four adults or children if you're traveling with friends or family.

Brilliance of the Seas dining

Brilliance of the Seas restaurants include 12 unique dining venues, so there's something for everyone. Passengers can enjoy a light breakfast or lunch in the Windjammer Cafe, Minstrel Dining Room, or Solarium cafe. Between meals, select a grab-and-go item from the all-inclusive Park Cafe on your way to the next stop. If you're celebrating an anniversary, a birthday, or a special occasion, a reservation at one of the specialty restaurants is a must. Travelers can choose from the tried-and-true Chops Grille steakhouse, the Izumi sushi bar, or Giovanni's Table, which serves Italian favorites family-style.

Brilliance of the Seas ratings:

  • Cabin / Stateroom 4.4
  • Children's Programs 3.8
  • Destinations and Excursions 4.2
  • Embarkation and Disembarkation 4.6
  • Entertainment 4.0
  • Food and Dining 4.1
  • Onboard Activities 4.0
  • Service and Staff 4.6
  • Ship Quality 4.4

Brilliance of the Seas cabins

1074 cabins and 22 cabin categories.

Inside Cabin

Inside

4.4
(125 Reviews)
Avg. Size: 165 sq. ft. Avg. Cost: $96/night
Oceanview Cabin

Oceanview

4.5
(147 Reviews)
Avg. Size: 196 sq. ft. Avg. Cost: $111/night
Balcony Cabin

Balcony

4.3
(339 Reviews)
Avg. Size: 187 sq. ft. Avg. Cost: $160/night
Suite Cabin

Suite

3.6
(44 Reviews)
Avg. Size: 534 sq. ft. Avg. Cost: $315/night

View All Brilliance of the Seas Cabins

Brilliance of the Seas dining

Park Cafe

Park Cafe

5.0
(1 Review)
Windjammer Cafe

Windjammer Cafe

4.8
(17 Reviews)
Cafe Latte-Tudes

Cafe Latte-Tudes

4.8
(13 Reviews)

View All Brilliance of the Seas Dining Options

Brilliance of the Seas onboard activities

Vintages

Vintages

5.0
(1 Review)
Jogging Track

Jogging Track

5.0
(2 Reviews)
Jewelry Shop

Jewelry Shop

5.0
(1 Review)
Viking Crown Lounge

Viking Crown Lounge

5.0
(1 Review)

View All Brilliance of the Seas Onboard Activities

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1666 Brilliance of the Seas Reviews

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not worth it by aneilkamboj

Sail date: / Traveled as: Family (young children)
Ship: Brilliance of the Seas

Overall we had a memorable trip because we were able to spend time with our family and loved ones. However, it wasn't nearly as smooth and comfortable as other cruises I have been on. Average food, average entertainment, average service.

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6 Comments

Amazing Alaska Cruise by rcaribbean

Sail date: / Traveled as: Large Group
Ship: Brilliance of the Seas

We were a bit sceptical going on the Alaska cruise because of the cold. However, I am so happy we did. The experience was rewarding; which brough back many childhood memories and left with more appreciation for life. I saw the people of Alaska with less than we have but yet very happy. I returned and encouraged my family and friends to add Alaska to their bucket list.

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6 Comments

Considering what I paid it fell Short of Expectations by kenmasiello1

Sail date: / Traveled as: Couple
Ship: Brilliance of the Seas

Great Expense that fell WAY SHORT of expectations. Other than Juneau, the shore stops were a waste of time in my opinion, Only thing that was good was the weather and the temperature. We had little rain the days were were on land and temperatures were comfortable. Most of my family and others on our ship came home with Covid. Crew did everything they could to make it safe but when you have that many people in a confined space like a ship it is inevitable you will get sick.

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9 Comments

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747 Brilliance of the Seas tips

snoangl123

Jun 14, 2013

Go to the solarium for lunch (excellent). Go to the solarium late for a swim and Jacuzzi, it's very relaxing and a good way the prepare for sleep.

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maydaybaby

Apr 11, 2013

Lounge above the library is an undocumented, comfortable hot-spot for wifi. The solarium is also a hot spot, but watch the cushions in the solarium if you sit on them in dry clothing -- they look dry even when wet.

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