EMBARKATION: We flew to Miami from Atlanta; arriving about 12:30pm. After a short cab ride (20 minutes), we arrived at the pier and had our luggage quickly off-loaded by a waiting porter. The terminal is quite nice and the RCCL representatives are friendly and most helpful. We were able to check in through the priority line which had no waiting. After less than five minutes, we were headed for the ship.

THE SHIP: The Brilliance was docked behind the Majesty of the Seas; a ship we had cruised before when it was new. At that time the Majesty was a large vessel. Now it pales in size next to the Brilliance. The Brilliance is truly beautiful. Unlike many other cruise lines ships, this one does not have the appearance of a mammoth floating shoe box. There are graceful curves along the sides and an abundance of open areas and glass walls. The exterior of gleaming white shows no signs of aging or abuse.

We were greeted by members of the cruise director staff when we boarded on the Promenade deck and directed to the elevators. Our cabin was on deck ten forward. The exterior curves of the ship gave a break in the corridors; deleting the usual look of a long carpeted bowling alley lane. I noticed no wear to the carpet. The walls of the corridor were decorated with scenes from London and shadow boxes of London souvenirs. Our cabin was of the usual RCCL configuration and size. The balcony was equipped with two chairs and a small table. The cabin was nicely decorated and showed little if wear. Read more