Brilliance of the Seas Review
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Additional details
I just returned from a five day cruise on The Brilliance of the Seas. This was my 8th cruise on RCCL and I was not sure what to expect. I have never said on this class of ship, all of my other trips were on Voyager, Freedom or Oasis class ships. I was surprised at how nice this ship was. The ship was very clean and it was easy to get around on. The crew and staff were all very friendly and helpful when dealing with them. I did miss the Royal Promenade, my favorite spot on the other RCCL ships.
We were seated at a large table with eight other people (Great group). I was not impressed with the menu choices but the food was good. Our waiter was a nice guy but was a bit disorganized but our assistant waiter was outstanding and she more than made up for the waiter. Of course the lobster dinner was the highlight for the trip for me and it was excellent.
The shows were all very good, The RCCL singers and dancers were good as always and the headliner show were very good. Karen Grainger a singer who does impressions of popular female singers was Great, one of the best shows I have seen on a ship.
Cabin Review
Superior Ocean View Stateroom with Balcony
My cabin was nice with more storage than a comparable room on Freedom of the Seas. My cabin attendant was vey nice and did a great job. The balcony was very large however there was little or no privacy on it due to its design. Balconies on the other deck were smaller but more private.
The room was very quiet and close to elevators making it easy to get around. I did think that the bed in my cabin could be replaced it was ok but not real comfortable. During the cruise I received a note that they were going to replace the carpet in my cabin but I asked them to reschedule as I planned to remain on the ship most of the port day in Cozumel.
I had one small problem with the toilet but it was correct within 15 minutes and I had no further issues.
Port Reviews
Key West
Key West is one of my favorite places to visit. I did not take a tour as I have been there several times. I met a friend who lives in the area for lunch at Margaritaville and then walked around on Duvall St. I stopped at Irish Kevins, Sloppy Joes and Mallory Square before returning to the ship. Key West is just a fun place to visit no matter what you do but I would recommend the Conch train for someone who has not been there before
Cozumel
I do not like Cozumel much. I go there because its part of a Western Caribbean cruise and seems to be a popular port. I did spent some time walking around with the shops inside the port area but I prefer to spend my time on the ship when there are fewer people on board. My friends went to a restaurant that they enjoy, Ponchos Patio and said that they had a nice time there as always.
I have been to Cozumel several times in the past and have done the snorkeling trips and beach days ant local resorts. I don't enjoy shopping there as people bother you the entire time so agin I prefer to stay on board and enjoy the day and the views from the ship.