Radiance of the Seas, Royal Caribbean’s Radiance Class flagship, went into dry dock last week in British Columbia and will remain there until 10 June to transform her into Australia’s biggest and newest superliner.

The countdown has begun and e-Travel Blackboard is giving you more of an insight into what cruisers can expect before she hits our shores in 5 months time.

“Radiance of the Seas is already the best ship to be based in the region – the newest, largest and most innovative – but what we’re doing is taking an already great ship and transforming her into a truly spectacular ship. And best of all – Australians will be amongst the first in the world to enjoy the enhancements,” Gavin Smith, managing director Royal Caribbean Cruises Australia said.

Single Cabins – BREAKING NEWS

In a first for Royal Caribbean and Australia, ‘Radiance of the Seas’ will feature single cabins in response to the rising popularity of solo cruisers.

Six single cabins will be added and, if successful, they will also be featured on other ships in the fleet.

“We’ve listened to our guests and there is clearly demand from our single travellers to have dedicated single cabins at affordable prices. So we’ve taken the opportunity during this revitalisation to add them to our range of accommodation offerings on Radiance of the Seas,” said Adam Armstrong, commercial manager, Royal Caribbean Cruises Australia.

“As well as being able to give single guests even more choices than ever on Radiance of the Seas, we continue to offer special single rates on selected cruises throughout the year on all our fleet.”

Prices are yet to be confirmed, however they will be considerably lower than the current single supplement payable.

Poolside

Following the success on her big sisters ‘Allure of the Seas’ and ‘Oasis of the Seas’, Radiance too will feature an outdoor movie screen on the pool deck.

Showcasing first-run movies and major sporting events, the large screen over the pool area will be the place to go to relax under the stars.

Dining

With 7 additional dining options slated as part of her multi-million dollar revitalisation, ‘Radiance of the Seas’ will soon offer more dining choices than any other cruise ship sailing in Australian waters.

Samba Grill
The Brazilian steakhouse will offer 13 main-course meats and seafoods all carved tableside in true churrascaria-style along with a varied selection of salads, soups and appetizers served on a buffet.

Rita’s Cantina
Experience casual Mexican-fare at this onboard favourite with an extensive margarita menu to boot.

With live acoustic performances and dancing, Rita’s Cantina is set to cater to families by day and adults by night.

Giovanni’s Table
A traditional Italian trattoria featuring home-style cooking with fresh ingredients that even your Nonna will approve of!

Park Café
Set to be located near the adults-only Solarium, the ‘Park Café’ will serve deli-style fare including made-to-order salads, sandwiches and coffee.

Izumi
Featuring hot and cold selections of traditional Japanese dishes, ‘Izumi’ will showcase the fresh, mouthwatering flavours of this region including sushi rolls, sashimi and sukiyaki among others. 

Boardwalk Dog House

As the name suggests, this outdoor venue will offer a range of hot dogs and toppings to satisfy the largest of hungers.

Chef’s Table
Dining just got more stylish with the ‘Chef’s Table’ catering to an exclusive 14 guests per sitting who will be privy to a specially-prepared selection of gourmet meals chosen by a featured chef.

Paired with wine, the menu will be presented by the chef and guests will also be given the chance to enjoy a cocktail party with their fellow diners.

Bars

Quill & Compass
A bona fide English pub will welcome passengers post dry dock featuring a comprehensive selection of imported beers and ales and live music.

Loyalty Lounges & Technology

‘Crown & Anchor Society’ members will be rewarded further with an all new ‘Diamond Lounge’ and ‘Concierge Lounge’ granting them access to complimentary breakfast and an evening open bar.

Wi-fi will also be enhanced as part of the revitalization with access throughout the ship 24-7.

Interactive televisions will feature in each stateroom allowing passengers to book shore tours, order room service or check their SeaPass balance.

Royal Babies & Tots Nursery

A fully-staffed and trained nursery will offer parents the opportunity for adults only time for only US$8 per hour.

Catering to babies from 6-17 months and toddlers from 18-36 months, parents can breathe a sigh of relief with exclusive to Royal Caribbean specially-designed programming and playgroups designed by Fisher-Price® and Crayola®.

Click here to view images of Radiance entering dry dock at the Victoria Shipyards, British Columbia