We chose the Brilliance because friends of ours live in Tampa and we wanted to get together with them for a nice vacation. The embarkation process was quick and easy. We arrived at port around 11 am and we were onboard with a drink in our hands by 11:30. This was our second sailing on the Brilliance and we had much more fun this time because we knew the ship and what to expect. All of the staff were very friendly. There were a few that went above and beyond and they made our trip extra special. Randy our stateroom attendant was outstanding. He joked and laughed with us every day. By the end of the week he was like family and we were sad to say goodbye. There was one bartender Aston that we found by accident one night when we went back to the Colony club to watch karaoke. He was hilarious and so much fun!! We sought him out specifically every night. The entertainment director was a blast (I wish I could remember his name) I bumped into him one night in the MDR and he started salsa dancing with me.

Both of our excursions at two different ports were cancelled due to rough seas (we were supposed to snorkel) Nobody can make the weather cooperate so we made the best of things. Oh and by the time we got back onboard, our excursions were fully refunded to our sea pass account. The food was good. I think next time I will try some specialty dining just to experience it. We tried the spa for the first time, I don't think I would necessarily spend the money to do it again, it was good but for the price I will skip it next time. I was especially disappointed at the end after feeling so relaxed to get a 15 minute speech trying to force me to buy their products.

Overall, we had such a great time that we decided to book for next year. Which happened to be another great experience with Next Cruise. The person we dealt with was so helpful. He explained some things we did not know as far as room choices and which side of the boat you want to be on to get the best views coming into port. We booked on the 8th deck of the Independence for next February. Disembarkation process was also fast and easy. We did the self disembark and carried our luggage off with us. We were through customs and in a cab by 8 am. We enjoyed this vacation so much we came home and bragged to all of our friends how well we were treated and what a great time we had that 8 other couples booked with us for next year!