Radiance of the Seas is a wonderful ship. Not too big. Not too small. The decor was recently updated and is very nice. The dining experience in the Windjammer (casual, cafeteria style) was very good. The food was as good or better than the main dining room, without the hassle of having to dress-up. The food in the main dining room was fine, except the steaks are underwhelming.
Entertainment was very good, except for the comedians (perhaps the Australian humor is not our style - rough language). The musicians in both the theater and in the assorted lounges are outstanding!
Embarkation and disembarkation in Sydney can be inconvenient when the ship requires tendering (whenever the Ovation is in port), but provided the benefit of an equivalent harbor tour (at no extra charge).
The ports of call are wonderful. We will return!!!!
Ship experiences
Food and Dining
3 out of 5
Onboard Activities
5 out of 5
Plenty to do... trivia, 2 pools, lots of lounges, cinema theater, fitness center, rock climbing wall, putt putt, basketball, volleyball, kiddie water slide, and 2 gyroscopically leveling billiard tables.
Entertainment
5 out of 5
Musicians and ship's production shows are excellent.
Service and Staff
5 out of 5
If was called "sir" so many times, I thought I must have been previously knighted by the Queen.
Ship Quality
5 out of 5
Fantastic. We loved the decor, and our stateroom was much larger than the equivalent "class" on Enchantment of the Seas. The crew went through extraordinary measures to assure a clean and germ-free environment.
Cabin / Stateroom
5 out of 5
Much more room than Enchantment of the Seas. Still a small bathroom (DON'T DROP THE SOAP WHILE IN THE SHOWER), but this is no different than any other ship when talking about non-suite cabins.
Add a couple of nights to stay in the heart of Sydney. The Circular Quay area is next to the main port with convenient access to Sydney's excellent water taxis and Train systems. It walking distance to them, plus walking distance to the iconic Sydney Opera House, botanical gardens, and the Rocks (shopping/dining).
You MUST take the Excursion to the Akaroa highland farm (sheep farm). The shuttle drive is very scenic. The farm is owned by Murray and his family. They are very friendly. You'll hear great history, observe a sheep shearing, and observe their gentle dogs herding the sheep.
Dunedin is beautiful. The architecture is gorgeous - train station and churches. See the botanical gardens (walking distance from downtown) and the Cadbury chocolate factory. See the free museum next to the train station.
Thanks for the review, nice to know the ship has been updated and the food ok. First time cruise. Do we need to book shows or anything else in advance? We be on the ship in 10 days time.
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