This month I spent 14 days circumnavigating New Zealand aboard
Royal Caribbean’s new Sydney-based superliner and fleetmate of
summer regular Rhapsody of the Seas.
Undertaking its inaugural Australian season, Radiance of the Seas is
fresh from a refurbishment that has added six dining venues (from a
hot dog stand to a Japanese restaurant), another lounge, a poolside
cinema screen, wi-fi internet throughout the ship, and improved kids
facilities to keep the little ones entertained.
The first three days at sea provided ample time to experience these
features, as well as novelties such as the nightclub’s revolving bar, an
African-themed solarium and self-levelling pool tables.
Starting with the food, I would definitely recommend paying US$70
for the dining package, which gets you dinner in four restaurants
(Chops Grille, Giovanni’s Table, Izumi and Samba Grill) for the price
of three. An extra US$50 adds the Chef’s Table.
If you only want to try one, the top pick among passengers seems
to be the Chops Grille steakhouse.
The main restaurant, Cascades, is generally good but some meals
were hit-and-miss and the wine service can be frustratingly slow.
You can choose traditional seating (fixed time and table), which
allows passengers to get to know each other throughout the
fortnight, or your own dining time.
For snacks, kids will love the Boardwalk Dog House, while adults
may prefer the Park Café for sandwiches, salads, soup and
quesadillas.
In regards to the bars, alcohol prices are reasonable, particularly for
cocktails, which are priced around $8.95.
The wine list is disappointing, especially considering the ship is
sailing among some of the world’s best winery regions, but wine
packages (available for purchase online pre-cruise and in the
restaurant) allow access to better options.
For beer lovers, the new British pub, Quill & Compass, has an
excellent global selection – and the Aussie Bar, in a corner of the
Colony Club, offers a happy hour every evening.
The Mexican-themed Rita’s Cantina also has a happy hour on
margaritas – and these things are huge.
The best atmosphere is in the Schooner Bar, especially on the
nights when the incredibly talented Ed Manego is singing and
playing piano, or the Sky Bar (overlooking the pool) during the day.
But the Concierge Club is the best place for two reasons: Beresford,
the very cool bartender from Barbados; and the drinks are free from
5-8pm.
The catch is that you have to be staying in a suite or be a Diamondlevel
member of Royal Caribbean’s Crown & Anchor Society.
In the mornings, continental breakfast is available in the club, away
from the crowds, and the friendly concierge, Juan Diego from
Panama, is also on hand to make reservations for the ship’s
restaurants, spa treatments and shore excursions.
While having a drink, don’t miss the chance to play (or watch) a
game of pool in the Colony Club – no matter how rough the seas, the
balls do not roll. It’s my favourite example of engineering expertise
on the whole ship!
Stay tuned for further reviews about cruising around New Zealand
on Radiance, the most modern ship based in Australia today.
For details, see www.royalcaribbean.com.au or call 1800 754 500
for a brochure.
