BRILLIANCE OF THE SEAS
The anti-megaship. Known as a "Super Yacht" for its glass construction, this vessel offers ocean views from nearly every public venue.
- Guests
- 2,142
- Tonnage
- 90,090
- Crew
- 848
- Last Refurb
- 2018
*Technical drydock completed 2025.
The Prodigy Verdict
The Glass Ship.
In an era of floating theme parks, Brilliance of the Seas remains a favorite for purists. As a Radiance Class vessel, she features over 3 acres of exterior glass. You can see the ocean from the elevators, the atrium, and nearly every dining venue. She lacks the FlowRiders and ice rinks of her younger sisters, but she compensates with manageable size and an intimacy that mega-ships cannot replicate.
- Couples seeking a quieter Royal experience
- Destination-heavy itineraries (Europe/Alaska)
- Travelers who want to look at the sea, not a wall
- Relaxation focus; no water slides or FlowRider
- Classic cabin design with fewer high-tech features
- Pace is quieter; may be slow for active teens
The Zones
Unlike the neighborhood concept of the mega-ships, Brilliance flows traditionally from bow to stern.
The Centrum
A spectacular 9-story vertical atrium that serves as the ship's heart. It features glass elevators facing the sea and hosts aerial acrobatics at night.
The Colony Club
Located aft on Deck 6, this is a multi-room lounge featuring self-leveling pool tables and distinct seating areas. It is the best spot for a quiet drink.
Solarium
An adults-only retreat with a retractable glass roof, cascading waterfalls, and a pool that stays warm regardless of the weather outside.
Schooner Bar
The nautical soul of the ship. Heavy on teak, rope accents, and the scent of gunpowder, this piano bar is the prime gathering spot for trivia and sing-alongs.
Viking Crown
Perched high on Deck 13, this iconic architectural marvel offers 360-degree panoramic views by day and transforms into the Starquest nightclub after dark.
The Cinema
A dedicated movie theater on Deck 6, a rarity on modern ships. It screens films throughout the day in a proper theater setting, not just on the pool deck.
Adventure Ocean
The hub for kids and teens on Deck 12. While smaller than on Oasis class, it offers dedicated programming, a teen disco, and an outdoor kids' slide and pool area.
Vitality Spa
A full-service spa and fitness complex. The thermal suite here is particularly notable for its floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking the bow of the ship.
Dining & Provisions
The dining lineup mixes Royal classics with unique Radiance-class touches.
Chops Grille
Steakhouse
The fleet-wide staple. Expect excellent filet mignon and massive sides. On Brilliance, the venue has windows looking out to sea.
Park Cafe
Solarium Deli
Hidden inside the Solarium. This is the place for the famous "Kummelweck" roast beef sandwich. It is often less crowded than the Windjammer.
Giovanni's Table
Italian Trattoria
Family-style Italian dining. The focaccia and pasta dishes are highlights. It offers a more rustic vibe than the newer "Giovanni's Kitchen."
Minstrel Dining
Main Dining Room
A spectacular two-story venue with a waterfall focal point. It serves multi-course breakfast and dinner daily, plus lunch on sea days.
Windjammer
Marketplace Buffet
The primary buffet. Unlike on newer ships, this Windjammer features an open-air aft dining terrace, perfect for breakfast with a wake view.
Izumi
Sushi & Hot Rock
Located on Deck 12. Focuses on sushi rolls and "Hot Rock" (Ishiyaki) grilling. Note: This location does not feature the full Teppanyaki tables.
Vintages
Wine Bar
A cozy venue on Deck 6 offering an extensive wine list by the glass or bottle, often accompanied by a small menu of tapas-style bites.
Chef's Table
Exclusive Experience
An intimate, reservation-only 5-course dinner hosted in a private enclave of the Colony Club, complete with wine pairings and chef presentation.
Where It Sails
Brilliance is a globetrotter, moving with the seasons to maximize good weather.
- Summer '26: Greek Isles & Med
- Fall '26: Boston & Canada
- Winter '26/27: San Juan (S. Caribbean)
The San Juan deployment is excellent for reaching deep Southern Caribbean islands (St. Lucia, Barbados) that Florida ships can't reach in 7 days.
Check Availability
See which regions are currently open for booking.
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Cost Reality
Brilliance often offers a lower entry price than the mega-ships, but specialty dining adds up.
- Minstrel Dining Room
- Windjammer Buffet
- Park Cafe & Solarium Access
- Mini Golf & Sports Court
- Chops Grille (~$55+)
- Giovanni's Table
- Chef's Table Experience
- Izumi (A la carte)
The Chef's Table is located in a private area of the Colony Club. It is one of the most intimate dining experiences in the fleet.
The Vibe Check
Is this ship for you? It is refined, not rowdy.
Classic Nautical. You will see a lot of wood, brass, and deep blues. It feels like a ship, not a mall.
Slightly older skew than Icon/Oasis class, but still family-friendly. Great for multi-generational groups where grandma wants peace and the kids want a pool.
Ready for the views? Check pricing below.
Cabin Recon
The rooms are traditional but comfortable. Avoid the noise of the Centrum if you are a light sleeper.
Interior Stateroom
Compact (approx 165 sq ft) and efficient. A good budget option if you plan to spend all your time in the Solarium.
Aft-Facing Balcony
Decks 7, 8, 9, 10. These balconies are huge compared to the side balconies and offer wake views that are mesmerizing. Book these first.
Owner's Suite
Over 500 sq ft of luxury with a separate living area. Includes Concierge Club access and priority boarding.