The Ship
This Review Has Two
Parts
The Ship
The Cruise
By: Tom Ogg
CruiseReviews at aol.com
Itinerary: 8-Day Alaska Southbound
Sailing Date: August 21st, 2009
Age: Baby Boomer
Occupation: Self Employed
Number of Cruises: Lots
The Setup:
This was a family cruise with my wife's brother and sister. We had cruised on
the Carnival Splendor in the late spring and had had a wonderful time. Joanie
and I are diehard Royal Caribbean, Celebrity and Azamara fans and wanted our
family to understand why. I am a Diamond Plus member and Joanie is a Diamond
member.
The Radiance of the Seas at Anchor
Summary
in Advance:
While the
Radiance of the Seas loses its stature as a WOW! ship within Royal Caribbean's
fleet every day that passes, she is still a wonderful experience. I would highly
recommend this cruise for anyone interested in seeing and experiencing the
maximum that Alaska can deliver in a 7-night cruise. The ship is wonderful, the
itinerary is delightful with many surprises and the overall experience a value
packed return for the pricing that this ship was offering.
The Ship:
Radiance of the Seas was launched in April of 2001
and is one of four Radiance class ships in Royal Caribbean's fleet. At 90,090
gross tons, she is much smaller than the Voyager class (142,000 tons) and
Freedom class (158,000 TONS) but her
features and design are superior to any other class of ship, in my opinion.
Inside
Cabin 2013
We were located in an inside cabin (2013) and was pleasantly surprised when
we
entered it. Most inside cabins make use of every available square inch and tend
to be very compact indeed. This cabin appeared quite large and my first
impression was positive. Many people believe that inside cabins are somehow less
desirable than outside, or ocean view cabins. I actually prefer inside cabins,
as they are so much easier to sleep in, as when the door is closed and the
lights are out, it is extremely dark inside. All the way in the back of the
cabin is the sleeping area. Our bedding was configured into a queen size bed, but
the mattresses separate into two twin beds as well. A large mirror hung over the
bed and there was a nightstand on either side of the bed for storage. There is
also a lamp affixed to the wall on either side that offered both a small reading
light, as well as a traditional lamp. The cabin’s telephone is located on one of
the nightstands.
In the
sitting area there is a large sofa and coffee table with a lamp affixed to the
wall serving the sofa. The television resides right above
the refrigerator on a pullout shelf that swivels so that one may turn the
television screen so that it may be seen while lying in bed. A safe with two
additional shelves make up the balance of the first cabinet. A large desk/make
up counter dominate the area between the entertainment area and the beginning of
the closet area. There are three shallow drawers on either side plus a wide, but
shallow center drawer. The desktop was quite ample for all of my electronics and
there are two-110 volt American outlets and two additional European outlets. I
brought along a surge protector with 6-outlets on it and it came in very handy.
Between my electronics and Joanie's various utensils, having enough outlets made
all the difference. Also, there was a hair dryer in one of the drawers that had
enough power to actually dry hair. The desk offers two tall narrow
mirrors on either side that conceal additional shelving for miscellaneous items
and between two large make up lights is a very large mirror. Closets line the
balance of the cabin on the same side with two large hanging areas and a floor
to ceiling shelf in the center. All in all, there is a considerable amount of
storage space in the cabin.
The bathroom
door is across from the closets and reveals a well-lit sink and counter top with
a 3-sided mirror. The mirror on the right hides three large shelves for storage
of toiletries and other items. The towels for the bathroom are stored in a rack
over the toilet and there is an ample shower with a shower curtain enclosure.
A Tour of the Ship
Investigating the Radiance of the Seas takes a long time as it is so unique
and interesting, you just can't take it all in the very first time you see it.
Let me take you on a tour of the ship. We will go to the main elevator bank and board
the two elevators that will take us to deck 13 and the entrance to the Starquest
Disco.
The Entrance to the Starquest Disco
Deck 13
The elevator lets us out in front of the
entrance to the Starquest Disco, the Radiance of the Seas disco, bar and
observation lounge. This is the home of the Viking Crown Lounge and the main
part of it is the Starquest Disco.
The Starquest Bar
We met in the disco on a couple of occasions
and it was a perfect place to meet.
The Hollywood Odyssey
Another part of the Viking Crown Lounge is the
Hollywood Odyssey, the ship's cigar club and bar. We had our welcome aboard
cocktail party in this room and it was quite nice.
The Statue of Marilyn
Monroe Outside of the Hollywood Odyssey
I especially liked the
statue of Marilyn Monroe that resided just outside the
entrance to the Hollywood Odyssey. On sea days they also use
this area for specialty seminars, coffee tasting and other special events.
The Radiance of the Seas Rock Climbing Wall
Moving aft from the Viking Crown Lounge one
finds Royal Caribbean's signature rock climbing wall on the aft side of the
funnel. It never seemed crowded to me and it was more private than on most of
the Royal Caribbean ships.
The miniature Golf Course
Across the bridge from the rock wall is the
miniature golf course. One can simply show up, grab a club and ball and start
playing a round of golf. From here we will head down the stairs and go to the
very aft fantail of deck 12.
The Seaview Cafe
On the starboard side of the ship is the
Seaview Cafe. If this were a Voyager class ship, this is where Johnny Rockets
would be located, but on the Radiance class ships it is the home of the Seaview
Cafe.
The Interior of the Seaview Cafe
The dining venue offers salads, sandwiches and other tasty treats and is
available without reservations. I especially enjoyed the clam chowder soup in a
Sourdough Bread Bowl and fish and chips. It offers both indoor and outdoor seating and is
a great place for a light lunch.
The Radiance of the Seas Sport Court
Forward of the Seaview Cafe is the location of
the ship's Sport Court. It offers a full basketball half-court and can be used
for other sporting activities, as well. While popular with teens, it never really seemed
to be too busy.
Adventure Ocean Youth Area
Forward of the
Sports Court inside is the location of Adventure Ocean, the youth area on the
ship.
The Ocean Adventure Kids Pool
The outside
area surrounding Ocean Adventure features a great children's pool that was not
only safe for young children, they simply loved it.
The Ocean Adventure Kids Pool Slide
One of the most
popular features of Ocean Adventure seemed to be the slide at the Ocean
Adventure kid's pool. There were constantly kids going down the slide having a
great time.
The Radiance of the Seas Main Pool Area
Moving forward
from the Ocean Adventure complex, we get our first view of the main pool area.
At first blush it seems somewhat small for this size of ship, however, deck 12
offers a considerable number of lounge chairs for those wanting to lie out in
the sun.
The Sky Bar
The Sky Bar was
indeed popular. Overlooking the pool area, many folks relaxed in the lounge
chairs on deck 12 and used the services of the Sky Bar.
The Crown and Anchor Lounge
Moving inside
one sees the Crown and Anchor Lounge, home of Royal Caribbean's loyalty program.
This lounge is absolutely breathtaking. It seems to literally float several
decks above the lobby connected to the rest of the ship by narrow walkways to
gain access. In the very
center of the Crown and Anchor Lounge one finds the unique glass topped area
where you can look directly down at the Centrum lobby of the Radiance of the
Seas. It is this sort of effect that really sets the Radiance class ships apart
from all others. Don't miss a visit to the lounge. Also, take advantage of Royal
Caribbean's loyalty program and sign up to become a member of the Crown and
Anchor Society. Their loyalty program is the best in the business.
The Day Spa Entrance
Moving past the
pool and entering the forward section of deck 12 presents us with the entrance
to the Day Spa entrance.
The Fitness Facility
There is a complete
fitness facility with cardiovascular machines, free weights and regular fitness
machines that are all state-of-the-art equipment..
The Solarium
The Radiance of the Seas Solarium Pool
Deck 11
From the bottom of the stairs we will make our way aft past the locker rooms and
enter the fabulous solarium. As you can
easily see, the solarium is a visual treat (not to mention a treat for all of
your senses). I found that the solarium was relaxing beyond belief. The Solarium
Bar served the entire area of the Solarium and was never crowded. Continuing aft
through the Solarium will deliver you to the Radiance of the Sea's main pool
area. On the other side of the Solarium is a small sandwich dining venue for
those looking for smaller portions and sandwiches, pizza and other treats.
The Pool Area
The pool area
was heavily used during this cruise and finding a lounge chair by the pool
became difficult after lunch on sea days. Royal Caribbean has a policy requiring
that folks do not reserve lounge chairs for folks not by the pool and the towel
policy requires that folks are responsible for their towels when they leave, as
they are charged against their room if unaccounted for. These policies make the
best of what could be a difficult situation. In addition to the pool there are 2
Jacuzzis that are also heavily used.
The Pool Totem Pole
I especially liked the totem
pole that was located on deck 12 overlooking the entire
pool area. It seemed to validate that we were on an
Alaskan cruise.
The Entrance to the Windjammer Cafe
Moving aft
still, as we leave the pool area and go by the main elevator bank we enter the
Windjammer Cafe. This is a real treat! The wood flooring, paneling, ceiling
treatments and furnishings give on a feeling of being on a large, but opulent
sailing vessel. There are a number of food stations serving breakfast and lunch
and I found the food excellent.
Various Views of the Windjammer Cafe
The Windjammer
is open for Breakfast and serves many selections. There is a fresh omelet
station where omelets and eggs are prepared to order and also a station where
breakfast meats (usually ham) are carved. The drink station is unique, as coffee
and juices are poured by staff rather than being self serve. At first I didn't
like this set up, as well as the more traditional self-serve, but I grew to like
it much better.
The Windjammer's
Outdoor Seating
Lunch found
many selections once again. There is a traditional buffet, a sandwich counter, a
pasta station, a salad bar and a dessert area. It is very easy to get around and
I never found the Windjammer to have a crowded feeling to it, as one usually
finds in ship's buffet venues. I especially enjoyed the ourdoor seating that was
available. Even in inclement weather, it was comfortable and not at all croweded.
Windjammer Desserts
Were Excellent
While I never
took dinner in the Windjammer Cafe, many in our group did and said it was a
wonderful casual alternative to the main restaurants. It was also very popular
with families. All in all, I would give the Windjammer Cafe on the Radiance of
the Seas top honors. While I am not a dessert person, the Radiance offered some
pretty temptin desserts every day. From here we will head back aft to the main stairwell and
walk down to deck 10.
The Yacht Club
Deck 10
Deck 10 is all passenger cabins with the exception of the Yacht Club and the
Concierge Lounge. The Yacht Club is simply a small meeting place where folks can
relax and chat. However, if you look closely at the picture, it gives you an
excellent idea of how the entire ship is furnished. Note the inlaid wood
flooring, the exquisite wood paneling and wood moldings and the unique detail in
the ceiling. The furniture is first class and every where you look there is art,
flowers and elegant touches.
The Entrance to the Concierge Club
One of the
major benefits of being a Diamond Member of the Crown and Anchor Society (10 or
more cruises on Royal Caribbean) is the
ability to use the Concierge Lounge on Royal Caribbean's Radiance and Voyager
class ships.
The Concierge Lounge Interior
There is a full
bar and both hot and cold appetizers in the evening. The Concierge on the
Radiance, Mr. Juan was attentive and greeted everyone with a warm welcome
as they entered. He remembered my wine choice after the first night and served
me a glass of Chardonnay upon entering the club. While I did not partake in the
morning treats that were offered, a continental breakfast was offered along with
specialty coffee drinks every morning in the club. This is a huge benefit.
The Concierge Club Sitting Area and Computer
There is also a
computer connected to the Internet for your use in the club and while you need
to use your onboard Internet account, it is a very private way to conduct your
online business. From the Concierge Club we will head back to the stairwell and
head down to deck 9.
The Radiance of the Seas Library
Deck 9
As we pass by the main elevator bank from the stairwell, the library makes its
residence here. While seemingly small, everyone was able to find books of
interest and it was never crowded. The balance of deck 9 is entirely passenger
cabins.
The Explorer's Lounge
Deck 8
Deck 8 is entirely passenger cabins with the exception of the Explorer's Lounge.
I am not quite sure of what this lounge was for, but it
was there and everytimeI checked, it was empty.
Business Services
Deck 7 is the location of
the
Business Services where one can conduct business on the Internet and with the
off line computers, as well.
The Colony Club Self Leveling Pool Tables
Deck 6
Aahhh, deck 6. This is the epitome of the beauty of the Radiance class ships. We
will start the tour in the very aft section of deck 6 in the Card Room that is
tucked away in a corner of the Colony Club.
The Entrance into the Colony Club
The Colony Club
is the ships alternative entertainment venue and is the scene of many of the
themed parties on the Radiance. The Captain's Welcome Aboard party and Crown
and Anchor parties are also held here.
The Colony Club Dance Floor
There is also
dancing available most evenings in the Colony Club and you can see that the
dance floor is very generous.
The Self Leveling Pool Tables
The Colony Club
is broken into several smaller areas each offering a unique environment. The
self leveling pool tables were a blast to shoot pool on. We enjoyed them one
evening for the entire night.
One of the Colony Club Bars
The Colony Club
bars were awesome. They give you that "local pub" feeling even though you know
that you are on a ship in the middle of the ocean.
A Colony Club Room
You can see the
unique character of the Colony Club. It was one of my favorites on the
Radiance. Moving forward from the Colony Club we enter the Schooner Bar. Let
me say here and now, I love Royal Caribbean's Schooner Bars more than anything.
They are creative and impressive. The Schooner Bar on the Radiance is the best
of the best.
The Schooner Bar
The Schooner Bar
Check out the
various areas of the Schooner Bar and I am sure you will agree.
The Schooner Bar Boat
This is one of
the most spectacular bars on any ship. I loved its attention to detail and the
use of wood in the flooring, walls and ceiling.
The Schooner Bar
Sailboat Model
The bar just invites you to
lounge around and take everything in.
Chops Grill
The entrance to
one of the specialty alternative dining venues, Chops Grill, is located in the
Schooner Bar. Chops is a wonderful restaurant serving steaks and other chop
selections. There is a $25 service fee for dining here, but it is well worth it.
Excellent service, a great presentation and the overall ambiance makes Chops
Grill a very special dining choice
The Portofino Restaurant.
The Portofino
Restaurant is the Radiance of the Sea's other alternative dining venue. A group
of us had dinner here on one evening and had a less than stellar experience. It
was as if the Pilipino staff had elected it as their own personal restaurant to
display their contempt for the passengers dining there. There is a $20.00 per
person service fee and actually, I would have suspected that they should have
paid us instead. Perhaps it was just the evening, or the specific staffing, but
I would find it difficult to dine there again. It is hard to believe that the
management of Portofino is on the same ship as the management of Chops. I would
give the Portofino Restaurant a 2 and Chops an 8 or 9. That should say it all.
A word of advice to Royal
Caribbean: If you are going to charge additional service
fees, make sure that the value proposition is there. Our
experience at Portofino was pathetic and might cost you
a valued repeat cruiser if it were repeated. The meal
quality was poor, the presentation uninspiring, the
service slow and the ambiance "Chucky Cheeseish". I
could even do better and I know nothing about running a
restaurant.
The Champagne Bar
Moving forward
past the stairwell we enter the Champagne Bar. This is a beautiful bar that
offers wine and champagne by the glass or bottle. I enjoyed a glass of wine here
on more than one occasion and thoroughly enjoyed it.
Casino Royale
The Radiance
of the Seas offers a huge casino with many slots and a good number of gaming
tables.
The Casino Bar
The casino bar seemed to be
always busy and is one of the designated smoking areas
on the Radiance.
The Casino Tables
The casino is quite large
and offers gaming tables, slot machines, and just about
every other kind of gaming opportunity available.
The Sports Bar
The Sports Bar is another
smoking venue, so we did not spend much time here.
However, many people did, as
games of interest were played here every day.
F
The Aurora Theater
There are shows
every evening of this cruise and I understand that they are great. Some in our
group attended the shows, but I tended to simply enjoy the dinner crowd I was
with and then turn in . I didn't make it to one show.
Deck 5
Walking down the stairwell outside of the upper entrance to the AuroraTheater, we arrive at the lower entrance. If we head aft we come to the art
gallery (home of the ship's on board art auctions) and then the photo shop and
gallery.
The Photo Gallery
The Photo
Gallery was a very popular spot and was well located so as not to cause any
congestion on the ship The photographers were always available, but not
invasive. The ship's
Conference Center was on the port side of the ship and was state-of-the-art for
a cruise ship conference facility.
The Shopping Arcade
There are many
shops on the Radiance and they offer a wide variety of products.
Just One of The Stores on the Radiance
There seemed to
be sales every day in the shopping arcade.
Another Radiance Shop
I think shoppers will be very happy
with what they find.
Royal Caribbean Online
Royal Caribbean
Online is the Radiance of the Sea's Internet Cafe. There are a few "hot Spots"
around the ship for wi-fi access, but not in the cabins. The Internet Cafe
itself is rather slow, so I would suggest taking your notebook computer and
using the wi-fi to access your email and such. You can download your email,
handle it off-line and then go back online to upload it.
Latte-Tudes Coffee Bar
I loved Latte
Tudes Coffee Bar. The served "Seattle's Best" coffees and their specialty coffee
drinks were excellent and reasonably priced.
The
Cascades Dining Room
Moving aft
still we arrive at the entrance of the Cascades Restaurant. This restaurant is
simply beautiful.
Another View of the Cascades Restaurant
Our dining
experienc3e was marked by our less than attentive waiter. He had a difficult
time remembering who's wine was who's and kept pouring the wrong wine into the
wrong glasses. Once was forgivable, twice irritating and beyond the third time,
downright incompetent. The food quality was also not as good as it has been in
the past, but I would suggest that it was because of the poor yields that Alaska
had been generating this year. We were cruising for much less than in years
past.
Deck 4
Heading down to deck 4 is another visual treat. The lower level of the Minstrel
Restaurant dominates the aft portion of the ship and the forward portion of deck
4 is all passenger cabins.
The Atrium Bar
However, the
main lobby of the Radiance is very stunning. In the center of everything is
the Lobby Bar. This is a hub of activity and is also an excellent meeting place.
There is always something going on and it is easy to access.
The Atrium
This shot was
taken from a higher deck but shows clearly how interesting the Atrium area is.
This serves as the center of activity and one passes through it going from one
venue to the next.
The Guest Relations
Desk
The Tour Desk and Guest Relations Desk are both located off of the
Lobby Bar. I was very impressed with the Guest Relations staffing. There were
always plenty of people working the desk to avoid the
long lines generally associated with these services on
other ships. They were always pleasant and helpful.
Deck 3 and
deck 2
These decks are all passenger cabins.
The Ship
The Cruise
