This was our third cruise with RCI and first on their Radiance Class of ship.Previously we had cruised on the Legend OS and the Explorer OS so this gave us a good contrast with the smaller Legend and larger Explorer.This was my least favorite ship of the three and would probably not book this class again.On all 3 cruises we have sailed in Suites as we prefer fewer cruises but more "perks" and larger accommodations.Overall I was very pleased with just about everything on this cruise except for the few SNAFUs I will cover later.
We had spent 3 days in San Diego prior to departure at the US Grant hotel..which for a hotel advertising itself as part of the "Luxury Collection" certainly leaves a lot to be desired in the area of service.No doubt it is a beautifully restored and furnished property but it seems that the staff attitude needs an overhaul.Little things like a pot of coffee pre ordered the night before for a 6am delivery to the room that when phoned to locate at 6.10am and being told "Oh yes its on its way" and then again at 6.30 upon phoning room service being told "Oh we don't have a record of the order..Sorry" Not major disasters but at a hotel claiming to be "Luxury" and charging "Luxury" prices certainly very annoying.
Check in on Mar 22 was a breeze.We arrived at the port at 11am and after ridding ourselves of our luggage we proceeded inside to find check in was open.Formalities took about 10 mins and we were on board by 11.25am.As usual rooms are not available until 1pm so we wandered off to the windjammer for a buffet lunch.Ran into a few of our CC friends (group shirts are a great idea BTW) so killing time until 1pm was a breeze.
Great storage space.Minuscule balcony.Quiet location yet close to elevators/stairs.Close to concierge lounge.WiFi doesn't work in cabin but many Hot-Spots close by.