Recently I had the opportunity to join Radiance of the Seas in Alaska for an Anchored in Excellence visit, as well as to see the results of the recent dry dock. The transformation in a number of the venues is unbelievable. Perhaps the biggest examples are the addition of the Quill & Compass, an authentic English pub offering an extensive selection of imported beers and ales, along with the variety of all the new dining venues. I was only onboard for three days, so it took a lot of effort to “sample” all of the experiences. It was a high caloric visit needless to say.
It was great to see the guest reactions onboard. We ate lunch at Rita’s Cantina, and every table was full. (We initially underestimated the demand and staffing, but have since addressed this.) Originally we were concerned that Rita’s Cantina wouldn’t be as desirable in Alaska as it will be in Australia because it is a space that is only partially enclosed, but it was a great experience and the guests were even enjoying frozen margaritas. It was really something to be sitting there and watching Orcas swimming alongside while we enjoyed chips and salsa!
The Boardwalk Doghouse, located outside the Windjammer, was definitely a crowd pleaser, as well as the Park Café, now located in the Solarium. The Park Café is often only discovered by guests two or three days into the cruise, and once they’ve experienced the famous Kummelweck sandwich, it becomes part of their daily routine. The Park Café is so popular we have to order more tables and chairs 
During the revitalization we also added Samba Grill, a Brazilian-style steakhouse experience, Izumi which offers traditional Asian dishes and the Hot Rock Plates that I’ve mentioned previously, Giovanni’s Table is a traditional Italian trattoria and a Chef’s Table where 14 guests may enjoy a specially prepared menu chosen by the evening’s featured chef. I’ve given Radiance the new unofficial name, “Dining of the Seas”.
The team onboard is very proud of what was accomplished in the revitalization process. We are currently working on our lessons learned, since Radiance was the first of the major revitalizations, and we want to capitalize on those things that worked really well, and learn from other things that didn’t go as well as we had hoped. For example, we have the opportunity to improve some of our communication between all the groups such as Hotel Operations, Marine Operations and New Build to ensure everyone is aware of what everyone else is doing and has shared expectations. We will meet as a team to review everything and use this as we embark on Splendour of the Seas in November.
In addition to finalizing everything from the dry dock, Radiance team is also working closely with Rhapsody of the Seas leadership to prepare for their new itinerary in Australia. Both our Australian office and Rhapsody have shared a number of good ideas to ensure we deliver the WOW when Radiance delivers her Australian experience.
As C&A Diamond members Radiance of the Seas has always been one of are favorites in the RCI fleet. Perfect size, beautiful ship and now you’ve even kicked it up a notch for dining fans like ourselves. Thanks so much and we can’t wait to sail on her again!
We are glad to hear you are excited to sail on Radiance again, Kerry. You’ll have to tell us which culinary experience you enjoyed the most after your next cruise with her.
We have been on the Radiance a few times. The new venues look outstanding & we look forward to our Alaska cruise-tour on her next August.
We are happy to hear you are excited about the new dining selections, Joel. We look forward to seeing you onboard next August.
Sorry to hear about the new name. Dining is only one of the many, many wonderful things aboard the RC ships. The name should include all of the aspects.
Hi Angela. Dining of the Seas is just the “unofficial nickname” that Lisa Bauer gave to her because of all the great new dining options she received. We agree, Radiance of the Seas does offer so much more than just fantastic dining. Thank you for your comment.
I was curious whether anything has been changed on the aft of deck 6. Ie the colony club etc, I loved our cruise on the radiance but the aft of deck 6 always seemed vacant. Has this also been updated or changed in anyway?
Many Thanks
Hi James, you’ll be pleased to hear that there were several enhancements made to deck 6 on Radiance of the Seas during her recent dry dock. The changes included the conversion of The Scoreboard Sports Bar into the Quill and Compass Pub. You can see the deck plan for Radiance of the Seas, and the enhancements made by deck level, here: http://bit.ly/p5CWKF.
Looks like a fabulous ship, cannot wait to go onboard and try my hand at everything, well done RCI, looking forward to our adventure of pleasure and leisure.
Thank you for the kind words, Jo. We look forward to seeing you soon.
Joining Radiance in Freemante Australia 0ct 31.2011, all looks and sounds fantastic! Looking forward to trying as many dining experiences as possible, any advice on best bar/venue? love the sound of the’Quill and Compass’.
Thanks,
Aussie Ian.
Hello Ian, there will be plenty of great options to choose from. We think you’ll enjoy the Quill and Compass as well as the many other venues, each one with a different atmosphere to please every mood. Have a great time onboard and let us know which venue you enjoy the most. Please feel free to share your experiences with us on our Facebook page.