What’s Free Onboard Radiance Of The Seas

The Dazzling Views Aren’t The Only Thing That’s Complimentary Onboard This Top-Rated Radiance Class Ship.

By Amanda Mesa | Published on September 21, 2023

As cruise ships continue to break records in terms of size, scope and onboard attractions, I often find myself drawn to smaller, more intimate vessels. Don’t get me wrong — plunging down the tallest slide at sea, racing along next-level water slides and having multiple pools to choose from every day totally makes for an unforgettable getaway. But I’ll always have a soft spot in my heart for ships like Radiance of the Seas®️, with its acres of glass that offer unrivaled views, laidback atmosphere and ability to dock at hard-to-reach, wanderlust-worthy ports. Capable of hosting just 2,000 guests, it makes it easy — and inevitable — to get to know your fellow cruisers during the course of your vacation. In fact, I’ve forged many lifelong friendships on ships just like this, simply because you run into the same people over and over again throughout your getaway.

While I could spend one day after another soaking up the sunshine poolside without ever getting tired of it, Radiance of the Seas offers plenty of other fun and exciting activities to fill your downtime at no additional cost to you. There’s a sports court where you can burn off some energy with basketball, volleyball or even table tennis. A nine-hole mini golf course where you can put your putting skills to the test. A 40-foot rock climbing wall that offers breathtaking views. And spectacular Broadway-style shows that make for the perfect evening out at sea.

If you’re a foodie like me, this ship checks all the boxes for delicious meals. It’s home to four free dining options that serve up flavors from every corner of the world — from German bratwursts to Moroccan ahi-spiced tuna, tangy duck a l’Orange and delicatessen delicacies that will transport you straight to the streets of New York City. And because every bite is included in your fare, you can sample totally different dishes whenever you like throughout your sailing without going out of pocket. Keep reading to learn more about the top free things to do onboard Radiance of the Seas.

1. Get In The Game At The Sports Court

One of my favorite free things to do when sailing onboard Radiance of the Seas is to hit the Sports Court. You can practice your dunk shot solo on the basketball court or face off with someone else for some one-on-one action. And there’s always someone looking to form teams for an impromptu volleyball match — it’s a great way to make friends and meet your fellow travelers while burning off some of the delicious food available onboard. If you prefer not to break a sweat — but still crave some friendly competition — try a table-tennis tournament on Deck 11. Though the sport is a bit less physical than basketball or volleyball, matches can be just as intense and thrilling. Use of the Sports Court and equipment is free for cruise guests, and you don’t need to make a reservation. Simply show up and bring your A-game.

2. Enjoy Mini Putt In Paradise

Another go-to for me onboard Radiance of the Seas is the cruise ship’s mini golf course — especially when the sun is shining, and the sea breezes are nice and cool. Perched on the ship’s uppermost deck, Fairways of Radiance is a nine-hole course that’s open 24 hours a day, every day of your sailing. Putters, balls, scorecards and pencils are provided to guests at no additional cost, and games are included in your cruise fare. The views are also free and truly awe-inspiring. Play as many times as you like, whenever you like, during your cruise. But take it from me — the golden-hour glow of sunset makes for an especially spectacular experience.

3. Hit The Gym

Though it may not seem as exciting as some of the other activities onboard, workouts on Radiance of the Seas are actually a really cool way to start or end your day. The ship is home to a complimentary, state-of-the-art gym with beautiful ocean views sure to elevate every moment on the treadmill, elliptical or stationary bike. The gym also offers a full roster of fitness classes led by trained instructors — like yoga, Pilates, spinning and sculpting — and many of them are available to cruise guests free of charge. Just check your Cruise Planner App for the class schedule or visit the gym’s front desk.

4. Soak Up The Chill Vibes At The Solarium

The Solarium onboard Radiance of the Seas is where I personally like to spend most of my sea days. This tranquil adults-only zone on Deck 11 has lagoon-like pools and whirlpools that are perfect for unwinding in, plus plenty of comfy spots to catch up on some reading — or some shuteye — in the shade or the sunshine. One of the most impressive things about the Solarium on this particular cruise ship is its beautiful crystal canopy. It covers the entire area, which means you can enjoy the views and relax in your swimsuit rain or shine, no matter the climate — even if you’re sailing past glaciers in Alaska or along misty fjords in Scandinavia.

5. Scale The Rock Climbing Wall

Another great included onboard activity that Radiance of the Seas offers is its 40-foot rock climbing wall. Captivating views are a given on this ship — after all, it has the most glass of any ship in the Royal Caribbean fleet — but you’ll enjoy some of the best scenery-scoping from the top of the Rock Climbing Wall. You don’t even have to be a seasoned climber to harness up and begin scaling. The only requirement for participants is that they be at least six years old.

6. Savor Delicious, Fuss-Free Flavors

With so many free things to do onboard this ship, having easy access to quick and convenient meals is important — at least, it is for those who tend to spend their sea days bouncing from one activity to another. Radiance of the Seas offers two wonderful fast-casual dining options — Dog House and Park Café. At Dog House, the menu is all about gourmet hot dogs and bratwursts you can load up with all your favorite toppings. Whether you’re craving a traditional dog or a smoked and spicy sausage, every option is mouthwateringly good. And at Park Café, guests can enjoy the quintessential deli experience — fresh-pressed paninis and sandwiches, crisp salads and the famous Kümmelweck, a roast beef sandwich that’s become a brand staple among longtime cruisers. To sweeten the deal, both of these onboard restaurants are included in your cruise fare.

7. Elevate Every Meal With Global Fare That Hits The Spot

In addition to the fast-casual eateries mentioned above, Radiance of the Seas also offers free dining options for those craving more substantial meals. Windjammer is a favorite among families and the perfect option if you’re looking for a casual buffet-style breakfast, lunch or dinner. In the morning, the spread features breakfast and brunch staples like made-to-order omelets, creamy yogurts, flaky pastries and fluffy pancakes — plus some international options that rotate on a daily basis. Lunch and dinner follow the same format, spotlighting an ever-changing array of dishes from Bangladesh to Buenos Aires and from Greece to Grenada.

And then there’s the Main Dining Room, an upscale dining venue that transforms dinner into a lavish, multi-course feast paired with five-star service and impeccable attention to detail. The menu here was also designed to take guests on a globetrotting culinary tour. It features rotating specialties that run the gamut from Mediterranean classics to Asian-inspired delicacies and beyond. While you don’t need to make reservations to dine at Windjammer, you will need to choose a seating time for meals in the Main Dining Room either before you set sail via the Cruise Planner App or onboard the ship.

8. Fill Every Night With Dazzling Entertainment

Yet another thing I love about cruising onboard Radiance of the Seas is that there’s always something to look forward to once the sun sets. The ship hosts two spellbinding original productions that could rival some of the best shows on Broadway. There’s Piano Man, a celebration of world-famous piano stars like Elton John and Barry Manilow. And there’s also City of Dreams, a multi-sensory feast that dazzles with extravagant costumes, electrifying choreography and cinematic scenery. Both are free for cruise guests to enjoy. The ship also hosts a slew of game shows ranging from Love & Marriage to Battle of the Sexes, though my favorite is the adults-only Quest — an onstage series of challenges that get progressively hilarious (and scandalous) as the show wears on.

When it comes to free things to do onboard Radiance of the Seas, these are some of my top picks. That said, the award-winning ship features plenty more activities and experiences available at no additional charge or for a fee — including an arcade fully stocked with modern and classic games, several lively bars manned by talented mixologists, wine tastings, movie nights under the stars and more. Check out the full list of things to do, or browse the ship’s most popular itineraries and start planning your getaway.

Disclaimer: Complimentary activities are subject to change and may vary by market and sailing.