Radiance of the Seas Amenities: What’s Free Onboard

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. 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, laid-back 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 by running into the same people over and over again throughout my 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, Royal Caribbean-style Rock Climbing Wall that offers breathtaking views. And spectacular Broadway-style shows that make for the perfect evening out at sea.

Plus, if you’re a foodie like me, the Radiance of the Seas 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 Radiance of the Seas amenities.

Key Takeaways

● Radiance of the Seas has four room layouts to choose from, including interior, ocean view, balcony and suite, so your group can have the type of stay they’re dreaming of.

● The ship is equipped with countless activities and experiences for people of all ages. From pools, a movie theater and waterslides to the Sports Court, a gym and Adventure Ocean® Youth Program, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.

● For foodies, Radiance of the Seas amenities include mouth-watering menus from around the world, like Dog House, Park Café and the always-favorite Windjammer restaurant.

● Explore Royal Caribbean cruises on Radiance of the Seas to get first-hand experience with the many free things onboard.

1. Lounge in Your Cabin

2. Get In The Game At The Sports Court

One of my favorite free things to do when sailing on board 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.

3. Enjoy Mini Putt In Paradise

One of my favorite free things to do when sailing on board 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.

4. 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.

5. Soak Up The Chill Vibes At The Solarium

The Radiance of the Seas Solarium 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.

6. Scale The Rock Climbing Wall

7. Savor Delicious, Fuss-Free Flavors

With so many free things to do on board 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.

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 Radiance of the Seas restaurants are included in your cruise fare.

8. 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 Café 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 the Windjammer restaurant, 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.

9. Scope Out Kids’ Programming

Thought the pools, waterslides and movie theater were where your kids would spend all their time? There are also several programs designed for children — from your little ones to your older teens. The award-winning Adventure Ocean is an immersive play experience created for individuals ages 6 months to 12 years old. From the Play Place and interactive tinker time at Workship to spaces for babies and younger kids to crawl and run, this program has it all.

For the teens in your group, Optix Teen Disco on Deck 12 is set up like a club, with dance floors, comfortable seating and a nonalcoholic bar. There’s also a video arcade with many games for your kiddos to play either alone or with friends.

10. 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.

Experience the Radiance of the Seas Amenities for Yourself

When it comes to free things to do onboard Radiance of the Seas, these are only 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 the Vitality℠ at Sea Spa, 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 to start planning your getaway.

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

Once you have the itinerary picked out, you’re ready to book your trip. Explore all Radiance of the Seas cruises today.