Passengers: 2,143
Best for: Fun-seeking passengers who love the look of a traditional cruise ship
Sails: The Arctic, Bermuda, the Caribbean, Central America, Mexico, New England and Canada, Northern Europe
At a Glance: This elegant, mid-sized ship is covered in acres of glass, giving passengers a window to the watery world outside.
It’s Intimate
Many passengers automatically think “megaship” when they think Royal Caribbean. But fans of mid-size ships will find plenty to love about the line’s Radiance class vessels, each of which carry fewer than half the passengers than the line’s Quantum- and Oasis-class vessels, allowing it to stop at ports the bigger ships can’t go.
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The Views Are Amazing
If you had to pick one thing that distinguishes a Radiance class ship from the rest of the Royal Caribbean fleet, you’d probably say “all that glass.” From glass elevators to huge floor-to-ceiling windows to the glass-enclosed nine-story atrium, passengers have a view to the outdoors from almost everywhere in the ship.
You Won't Get Bored
Serenade of the Seas may have the feel of a traditional cruise ship, but it still offers many of Royal Caribbean’s signature activities, such as a rock-climbing wall, a basketball court, poolside movie screen, and mini golf, plus a video arcade and Adventure Ocean youth program for the kids. And if you’re in the mood for a workout, you can always hit the fitness center where you’ll find lots of classes (yoga, tai chi) to help you burn off that buffet.
Relaxation Is a Priority
If chilling by the pool with a book is your idea of a good time, this is the ship for you. There are three pools onboard, including the adults-only Solarium pool, which has a retractable glass roof. De-stress even more at the Vitality Spa, which offers everything from body wraps and massage to acupuncture and Botox.
There’s Plenty to Eat
When you’re not sampling the local cuisine onshore, you’ll have several onboard options to choose from. For dinner, do the main dining room or pay an extra fee to eat steak at Chops Grille, Japanese at Izumi, or Italian at Giovanni’s Table. Or opt for the intimate five-course, wine-paired feast at Chef’s Table. After, head to Vintages wine bar to finish off the night with a glass of port.
