I found that my experience on the Radiance was quite a bit different than some negative reviews already posted, which just indicates that cruising is a very subjective experience and all reviews should be considered carefully.

Yes the ship is the older style, which I personally like. I have been on the larger ships, they all have pros and cons. Radiance has lots of glass and comfy places to sit and watch the scenery go by while staying warm. The ship recently went thru a renovation and the carpets, furniture, fixtures etc are mostly in excellent condition. The crew kept the public areas clean and fresh smelling. There is now a separate movie theater showing recent releases. The outside movie was not used much since it was in the mid 40s and rain almost all of the cruise (choice of mvoies was humorous - Frozen, March of the Penguins, Alaska)The casino was actually pleasant, very few times did it seem at all smokey, most times there was a fruity scent piped in. There is a smoke free bar area. The theater went with permanent seats instead of the fold up ones that nip your fingers, great sight lines. Entertainment was outstanding in all of the shows and the musicians throughout the ship. My cabin was well maintained, my only complaint is that after the rehab the large light bar over the bed was eliminated and there are now no good reading lights. Yes there is the dreaded cloth curtain, little hint that works is to bring along some heavy clothespins or magnets to weigh it down, no clinging to you and no water on floor. Also, I buy a dollar package of sponges to line the soap bar, keeps shampoo bottles from slipping thru.

As to the service, I would rate it outstanding. I had an issue with My Time Dining the first night, spoke with a headwaiter and it was corrected the next night. Dining room service was excellent, food is the new normal for RCI, some don't like it. New policy of having the Loyalty Ambassador work away from the next cruise sales area was welcome, able to drop in and get questions answered. Every where I went on the ship crew members would smile and say hello. The Captain was out and about, as were the senior officers. Read more