FAQ
Where does the ship go/what is the itinerary?
The Radiance of the Seas leaves from Sydney on 13th November 2018 and sails to the Pacific Islands with stop overs in Noumea (New Caledonia), Mystery Island (Vanuatu) and Lifou (New Caledonia). All beautiful tropical destinations with fabulous Shore Excursions & Tours available. It then sails back to Sydney on 21st of November, 2018 arriving into port at dawn for disembarkation.
Will I be able to get off at the Ports of Call? How much will Shore Excursions & Tours cost?
Yes, when we stop off in all Ports of Call you will get the chance to take part in the Shore Excursions & Tours or even just get off the Ship and explore for yourself at your own pace. Once you board the Radiance of the Seas you will get a list of the different types of day trips available for the upcoming Port – if there is a specific trip you would like to do, it is recommended you book it as soon as possible at the Shore Excursions Desk. The tour prices vary, based on duration & type. Some trips will be shorter tours around the city etc. and only be around AUD$25+ per person, whereas a full day trip with snorkeling facilities etc. can range up to AUD$150+ per head.
How do I pay for drinks and merchandise on board?
You will receive your key card at check in which is the only form of payment on board, no cash is exchanged. This key card is the key to your room and identification on board, so it is recommended you take it with you everywhere you go on the ship. Although all meals and performances are paid for (excluding specialty dining options), if you would like to purchase duty-free souvenir, shore excursion’s or alcoholic beverages etc., you will need to use your seapass card.
At the end of the cruise, you can pay your account either by cash (all purchases made are in $USD) or simply charge to your credit card. There are drink packages available. It is recommended that you purchase these packages either on-line prior to sailing or on the first day once you’ve boarded the ship.
Will there be beverage packages available to purchase on this cruise?
Beverage packages will be available on this cruise, however they will not be available to book until closer to sailing date, approximately 2 months prior which is when all of our passengers will be provided with online check in details where you can log in and pre-purchase add-ons such as drink packages, specialty dining and shore excursions.
Please note: Any guest wishing to purchase an alcoholic beverage package must do so for all guests of legal drinking age in the same stateroom, for sailings on or after December 31st, 2017. We cannot make any exemptions to this rule, even if a medical certificate is presented.
Are there any children’s facilities onboard?
In short, yes! Simply visit the ONBOARD page and you will be directed to full detailed information about the facilities onboard for the young ones (and not so little ones anymore) under the tab “FOR THE KIDS”.
Is entertainment on board free?
All Bravo 2018 artist performances, dance classes and entertainment is included in your ticket price. NOTE* Some extra Royal Caribbean shipboard activities such as bingo and fitness classes incur a minimal charge. Refer to your cruise compass daily in-room newsletter for further information whilst onboard.
What else is included in the price of the cruise?
Your cabin fare entitles you to the following:
8 night cruise aboard Royal Caribbean’s “Radiance of the Seas”
All meals, activities, entertainment and entertainment (excluding drinks, specialty restaurants & duty free shopping) on board
Port charges and government taxes.
Are all the restaurants on board included in the price of the cruise?
Short answer: No, not all of them. The Radiance of the Seas has now added some new specialty restaurant options. You can dine at Giovanni’s Table, a casual Italian trattoria with indoor and al fresco seating, Izumi which offers Asian-fusion cuisine, Brazillian churrasco style Samba Grille or at premium american-style Chops Grille, Royal Caribbean’s signature steakhouse. Unique to the Radiance of the Seas venture “south of the border down mexico way” and visit Rita’s Crab Shack. There will be a modest charge if you choose to dine at any of these specialty restaurants.
Additionally is also premium dining/wine pairing experience the Chef’s Table, where you can experience a once-in-a-lifetime culinary experience. Naturally, you can still choose complimentary fine dining at the Cascades Restaurant, Windjammer Buffet, Park Café or even grab a quick bite at the Boardwalk Doghouse – specializing in New York style Hot-Dogs (a late night must-do after a long night of partying!)
Will the food be suitable for gluten intolerant people?
Royal Caribbean International pride themselves on their fantastic cuisine and understand the diversity of passengers’ food requirements. If you have any specific food requirements, such as lactose/gluten intolerance, veganism etc, simply tell your travel agent when booking. There are vegetarian options on every menu.
How many dance floors are there on the ship?
There are many dance floors on board. “The Colony Club”, “Quill & Compass”, “The Viking Crown Lounge”, the two-tier pool deck for poolside dancing, “The Centrum” & “Teen Disco”.
What type of clothes shall we pack? Do we need casual/formal attire? Are there any theme nights onboard?
Shorts, t-shirts, slacks, trousers, casual skirts, blouses and sundresses are all perfect during the day, whether indoors or out.
Suggested guidelines for nights are:
Casual: Sport shirts and slacks for men, sundresses or pants for women
Smart Casual: Jackets for men, dresses or pantsuits for women
Formal: There are no formal nights onboard however some passengers choose to “frock up” for the Captain’s Cocktail Party.
What types of shops are there on the ship?
There are many different types of shops on the Radiance of the Seas, boutique stores that sell the best of the best brand names along with clothing and souvenirs, all at Duty Free prices!
What can we do to reduce the effect of motion sickness?
The Radiance of the Seas is a modern ship fitted with stabilizers that will make the biggest wave seem like a tiny little movement. We are also travelling at the smoothest time of year, in an area of ocean that is known for smooth sailing. If by any chance you do feel unwell once you get on board, complimentary sea sickness ginger tablets can be obtained from the Purser’s Desk, or you can visit the medical staff onboard.
Is there a deck plan of ship and cabins?
Simply visit the ONBOARD page and visit the 'Deck Plan' tab to view the Radiance of the Seas deck plan.
What exclusive benefits does a guest receive when booking a suite?
Our cruises offer an enhanced programme for Suite Guests staying in the following suites:
Royal Suite, Owners Suite, Owners Suite (Two Bedroom), Grand Suite, (Excludes Junior Suites).
These perks include the following:
• Priority check-in
• Personalised attention throughout the cruise with the complimentary Concierge Club service
• Priority tender tickets on selected ports of call
• Full breakfast, lunch and dinner dining room menus available for in-room dining
• Luxury spa bathrobes and premium amenities for use on-board
• Complimentary ironing service on formal night
• Priority departure