Brilliance of the Seas
Brilliance of the Seas / Royal Caribbean International
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Solarium
Solarium / Royal Caribbean International
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Main Dining Room
Main Dining Room / Royal Caribbean International
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Rock-climbing wall
Rock-climbing wall / Royal Caribbean International
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Main Theater
Main Theater / Royal Caribbean International
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Basketball Court
Basketball Court / Royal Caribbean International
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Brilliance of the Seas

Our Ship Review
Deal Expert / Travel Blogger

The second of Royal Caribbean’s four Radiance-class sisters, 2002’s Brilliance of the Seas got a little brighter after a face-lift in 2013 and the addition of several new features during a 2018 refit. The result? This 2,142-guest ship now offers a terrific array of dining choices and entertainment options. Compared to the biggest cruise ships out there, this one feels mid-sized, which is great for anyone who doesn’t want to be overwhelmed by a vessel carrying two or three times as many passengers.

What We Love

The Active Fun: If you’re up for a challenge, you can tackle the Rock Climbing Wall on deck 13 or stroll back to Fairways of Brilliance for a round of mini-golf. The ship also features a running track, a sports court (yes, there’s pickleball), and dozens of workout options in the Vitality Spa & Fitness Center.

Acres of Glass: This floating glass palace features floor-to-ceiling windows in many of the public spaces, as well as glass elevators for sweeping views of the sea and approaching ports of call.

Best Known For

Restaurants Galore: Choose from eight dining venues including Izumi for pan-Asian fare and sushi, Giovanni’s Table for family-style Italian, and Chops Grille for steaks and seafood. 

Entertainment Extravaganza: In addition to the sprawling casino and large multi-level theater for Broadway-style shows, there are more than a dozen bars and lounges, including an English-style pub, the 1960s-style R Bar, Vintages wine bar, the nautical-themed Schooner Bar, and a pool bar.

Who It's Best For

Families: Plenty of spaces are geared toward adults, from the spa and solarium to the many entertainment venues and intimate alternative restaurants, but kids are catered to as well. There’s a nursery for the youngest (6 months to 3 years), a playroom for those ages 3 to 11, and a teen center for youth 12 and up. And don't forget the kiddie pool with waterslide, video arcade, climbing wall, mini-golf course, and the half-basketball court for all ages.

Couples: Particularly during non-school breaks, Brilliance is a great option for couples of all ages who crave romantic dinners and a variety of evening entertainment, including Vintages wine bar, the top-deck Starquest nightclub, and aerial performances in the towering Centrum atrium.

Don't Say We Didn't Warn You

Cozy Cabins: With standard inside and outside cabins measuring just 164 to 167 square feet and bathrooms the size of closets, you may want to seriously consider a cabin with a balcony for the extra space.