Radiance of the Seas

Radiance of the Seas Overview

By Cruiseline.com

While most of Royal Caribbean’s fleet stays in the Caribbean year-round, Radiance of the Seas sails to some of the wildest, exotic destinations around the world. From the glaciers of Alaska to the shores of the South Pacific, passengers can view gorgeous vistas from a variety of excellent vantage points thanks to more glass and windows than any other Royal Caribbean ship. Glass elevators move passengers from deck to deck while they look out on the ocean or nearby destinations, and other views can be accessed from the nine-story atrium, exterior decks, and cabin balconies.

While Radiance of the Seas is more about cruising for the destination, that doesn’t mean there’s a shortage of things to do. Music lovers can participate in live piano sing-alongs or enjoy orchestral performances, and lounges on many of the decks make it easy for adults to find a suitable beverage, listen to live jazz or dance. Nursery services and a staff-run Ocean Adventure area for kids age 3 to 17 ensure younger family members are entertained and cared for while parents indulge in massages, spa treatments or sushi-making classes. Younger passengers can also enjoy time in the Challengers Arcade, H2O Water Park, or a Teen Disco that rages until 2 a.m. each night. And since the Radiance of the Seas holds about half the passengers of Royal Caribbean’s newest mega ships, the top decks, restaurants, and theaters rarely feel overly crowded.

Radiance of the Seas underwent a significant refurbishment in 2016: staterooms were updated, the pool deck was refreshed, and the onboard spa was completely redesigned. Radiance currently sails to Alaska from May through August and the South Pacific or Hawaii from September to April.

Best For

Since it sails to Alaska, Hawaii, and the South Pacific Radiance of the Seas is ideal for travelers looking for a change of pace from a typical Caribbean cruise.

Things to Consider

Unlike new Royal Caribbean ships that can hold upwards of 5,000+ passengers and are filled to the brim with cutting-edge technology, Radiance of the Seas is an older, smaller ship meant to explore off-the-beaten-path destinations. There’s less to do onboard, and it’s worth noting that while the ship is family-friendly, you will find fewer children onboard because of the longer sailings and more exotic destinations.

Ship Highlights

• Adventure Ocean and Royal Babies & Tots Nursery
• Lounges include the Solarium, Schooner Bar and Diamond Club
• Challengers Arcade for family-friendly gaming
• Casino Royale for adult gaming
• Specialty restaurants including Izumi, Chops Grille, Giovanni’s Table, and Chef’s Table
• H2O Zone water park
• Poolside bar
• Live orchestra and Performances at Aurora Theater
• Billiards room
• 70s disco party at Teen Disco
• Piano Sing-Alongs
• Sushi-making, fitness, and language classes
• Wine tastings