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.
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.
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.