Date: Thu, 8 Feb 2007 21:27:37 -0500 (EST)
From: "JC Marion" <jaymar41@earthlink.net>
Subject: Review - Radiance of the Seas- January 28 - February 3, 2007

This was our 5th cruise on RCCL and this time we did it on the cheap because it was close to a last minute decision and we got a super low rate for an ocean view cabin down on Deck 2. Embarkation was smooth at Port Everglades (Fort Lauderdale) and we were off. This was our first time on this class of ship (previously the old Nordic Prince, Sovereign, Navigator, and Adventure) and we liked the glass wall effects especially on the elevators. Key West was cold (for them) at 66 degrees, but coming from a wind chill of -10 it was fine. We took the Trails of Margaritaville tour offered by RCCL and it was interesting and well worth the cost. Cozumel, Grand Cayman, and Montego Bay, Jamaica, all had sunny and mid eighties or better, and each stop was great. The cabin steward was almost invisible, but was first class as was the dining room staff. The breakfast buffet every morning was superb (we have learned not to bother with the main dining room except for dinner). The layo ut of the ship was very convenient even though it does not have the "street" set up of Navigator class ships. Guest relations staff went out of their way to be helpful whenever needed, and the captain (A Canadian ! ) seemed to be enjoying himself among the cruise passengers. If you are just a couple, an important part of the cruise is having nice interesting dinner companions, and we were certainly lucky in this regard. All in all this was one of the better cruises we have experienced and I would heartily recommend this ship to either first timers or veteran cruisers.