We were on the March 19-24, 2022 cruise out of Tampa. This was our first time on Brilliance. We recently moved to the area and decided to take this cruise because it's only 30 minutes to the port from our home and we really like RCCL. We booked a Grand Suite so we had priority boarding. We opted for the valet parking which is well worth the cost. Even if you don't do the valet, there is a parking garage across the street. Probably 5-10 minute walk. Be sure to come in close to the time you chose. Gone are the days where you can show up at 10am and get on the ship. At least not now. It was pretty easy and fast from handing off our car key to the valet to standing in a very brief line, to security and then to check in. Everyone was pleasant and helpful. It took about maybe 15-20 minutes and we were on the ship. I believe our sailing about 80% full.
Yes, the ship is a smaller one. No, it doesn't have a mega slide or merry go round. It is a great ship none the less in our opinion. It had some very elegant spaces like Vintages and the popular Schooner Bar was always hopping. The solarium pool area was really neat. We liked it out there and the little buffet area was great for a quick snack or drink in the bar area. There were lots of places to just sit and read a book or have a conversation. We enjoyed the suite lounge on Deck 13. It was a nice place to get away from the crowds and they had a happy hour every evening with light refreshments and snacks. The
Food:
Cabin: We had Grand Suite, 1600. It is all the way aft on deck 10. It was well appointed and roomy. The balcony isn't huge but it was plenty big for the two of us. The views cannot be beat from an aft cabin. The cabin was clean and our steward was friendly and very professional. We also got a kick out of the doorbell. The room could use a refreshing. There were some wear spots on the furniture and the bathroom was showing some wear as well. There was a shower curtain in the tub which was slightly annoying and the shower was dark. It needs a light or better yet a glass door.