My husband and I are both seniors who have cruised over 40 times since 1990. The Brilliance was our 24th cruise on RCI. We flew into MIA the night before and arrived at the pier the next day about 11:30 A.M. As Diamond Club members we assumed we would be among the first to check in but this was far from being the case. The line for Platinum/Diamond/Suites was much longer than the line for Deck 8 so we chose the latter. Even so it was over an hour later before we got to the desk. Having used the on-line check-in we assumed it wouldn't take long to complete the process but there but it did. Upon finally leaving the desk with our room keys in hand we were directed to another long line and began another long wait while both Welcome Aboard and then security pictures were taken. We have never encountered a longer or more frustrating embarkation on any other ship we've ever sailed on. Rumors had it that the ship had a delay with its disembarkment that day and thus the tie-up. Regardless of the reason, it took us an appalling 2 hours to get from the pier to the Windjammer for lunch.

We had been on the Brilliance several years ago and were pleasantly surprised to see she was just as beautiful and elegant as before. It was in such immaculate condition that we thought it had been re-furbished but found out that will not take place until April.

The entertainment was excellent and included Merril Osmond (elder brother of Donnie and Marie) and Marty Allen and his wife who received a standing ovation. Read more