Brilliance of the Seas Review

Excellent cruise for a week-end getaway!

Review for the Western Caribbean Cruise on Brilliance of the Seas
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10+ Cruises • Age 60s

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Additional details

Sail Date: Mar 2015
Cabin: Large Ocean View Stateroom

We chose this cruise for a short (4 day) getaway. We used "Parktologist" parking lot @ $8/day. Dropped off car and was taken to the cruise ship terminal promptly. We arrived at the terminal about 11:30, the lines to check in were short and quick, and were on the ship by 12:00. RC didn't open the rooms until 1:00, so we had to keep our carry on luggage with us until then. We choose a lower level inside cabin on deck 2 this trip. The deck 2 hallway is narrower than most hallways, and the room felt a little tighter than most rooms I've been on. We disembark from deck 2 in Cozumel, so it was very easy to get on and off the ship, no waiting for a elevator. The rest of the ship is quite nice. We dined early dining. Meals are good, but I think quality has gone down over the last 10 years. The wait staff worked very hard to keep us happy.

When in Cozumel, we took a taxi to Chankannab park. Warning about taxis: The driver kept asking if we had a reservation. Also tried to "upsell" us on a snorkel package. You don't need reservations to go to the park and we already had our own snorkel equipment with us. Don't let the taxi drivers take advantage of you! The park is quite enjoyable. We snorkeled, relaxed at the beach, and had lunch at one of the restaurants. Did some shopping near the port terminal before heading back to the ship.

The last night, the ship introduced a brand new show. It was excellent. This cruise is one of my favorite get aways. Royal Caribbean did a great job.

Cabin Review

Large Ocean View Stateroom

Cabin F

First, the hallway on deck 2 is narrower than most decks. There are waterproof locking doors that protrude into the hallway. The guest section is shorter than other floors and is served by only the center elevates . The beds, bathroom, and other features were the same as other cruise ships I've been on. For excursions, you will exit the ship from this deck, so it is very easy to come and go, not having to wait for the elevators.

Port Reviews

Tampa

Parked at Parktologist lot $8/day. Service was great. Had us on a van and at the port in about 15 minutes. Embankment staff was quick, lines were short and fast. We were on the ship w/in 30-45 minutes.

Cozumel

Went on our own to Chankannab National park. Took a taxi from the ship terminal to the park. Be warned: Taxis will try to "upsell" you on the way. He asked if we had a reservation at the park. We did not, but I knew we didn't need one. He then tried to sell us a snorkeling package. We had our own snorkel gear and snorkeling at the park is free.

The park is great! Arrived about 9:00 (local time) and went snorkeling, relaxed by the beach, then had lunch at one of their local restaurants. Stayed until about 2:00, then went back by the port and shopped a the local stores. Great Port of Call!

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