Western Caribbean Cruise
Below is a MRR and PLR article in category Travel Leisure -> subcategory Cruises.
Western Caribbean Cruise Experience
A Journey Aboard the Radiance of the Seas
Embarking on a Western Caribbean cruise aboard the Radiance of the Seas on November 28, 2004, was a delightful experience. Having previously sailed on the larger Adventure of the Seas, we had high expectations for Royal Caribbean, and overall, we weren't disappointed.
Stateroom Comfort
Our inside aft cabin was spacious and well-lit, providing ample closet and drawer space. Interestingly, the double beds were more comfortable than our previous experience, as we didn't feel the gap between the two mattresses. However, the shower could use improvement, as the curtain didn't quite prevent water from spilling out, unlike the superior double glass door system on the Adventure. Despite minimal neighbor noise, the cabin was perfect for a restful night's sleep. We found little need for a window or balcony, spending most of our time either at port or exploring the ship.
Dining Experience
The Cascades dining room offered enjoyable meals, though breakfast options remained constant. While lunch was satisfactory, some dinner items were hit or miss. Portions seemed smaller compared to the Adventure, often leading us to the Windjammer for additional bites. Despite some cramped seating in Cascades, the Windjammer's self-serve setup offered a broader range of dining choices. The specialty restaurants, Portofino and Chops Grille, required a $20 fee, but we found the included meals adequate. Other travelers mentioned that the specialties weren't exceptional. The late-night Seaview café, with sandwiches and burgers, was a nice touch, though we found it disappointing that coffee and tea weren't complimentary, unlike on the Adventure.
Exceptional Service
The service from our stateroom attendants and dining staff was exemplary, living up to Royal Caribbean's high standards.
Engaging Entertainment
The Aurora Theatre hosted a variety of evening shows featuring the ship's talented crew and guest performers, providing enjoyable entertainment. However, we would have preferred a more varied mix of acts each night rather than separate evenings dedicated to music, comedy, or magic. The addition of live music around the ship was a delightful bonus.
Onboard Amenities
Despite being smaller than the Adventure, the Radiance boasted excellent amenities, including a gym/spa, mini golf, pools, and shops. While internet access was available, it felt pricey at 50 cents per minute. Daytime activities included art auctions, cooking demonstrations, and dance classes, although we felt the Adventure offered a bit more variety. Embarkation and disembarkation went smoothly, though the casino on the 6th level had poor ventilation, allowing cigarette smoke to drift into nearby areas, which was bothersome for non-smokers like us.
Conclusion
Our cruise aboard the Radiance of the Seas was enjoyable. However, when comparing it to the larger Adventure of the Seas, the latter edges out slightly due to features like its expansive promenade. Given the choice, we'd prefer the larger ship for future voyages. Nonetheless, the Radiance still provides a fantastic experience, particularly for first-time cruisers. Seasoned travelers might expect more if they've experienced the luxuries of larger or higher-end ships.
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