The Carnival Radiance, a transformed Triumph-class ship from Carnival Cruise Line, offers a cheerful holiday for up to 2,984 passengers. Originally launched as Carnival Victory in 2000 and refurbished with a $200 million makeover in 2020, this vessel blends updated facilities with family-friendly appeal, creating a welcoming atmosphere for all.
Guests can anticipate a holiday blending relaxation and activity. Days offer waterslides, spa treatments, or sports, while evenings feature comedy, live music, or dining under the stars. The ship’s mid-sized layout is easy to navigate, though indoor venues like the buffet and casino may feel cramped during peak times. The crew’s attentiveness creates a friendly atmosphere, and family-friendly features like Seuss at Sea ensure fun for kids. Couples and solo travellers enjoy adult-only areas and nightlife, making Carnival Radiance a versatile cruise experience.
Reception Areas: Bright and Accessible
The Grand Atrium, a three-deck hub with a glass ceiling and tropical-themed decor, greets guests with a spacious, light-filled space on Deck 3. Guest services and shore excursion desks provide efficient assistance, while the nearby Atrium Bar serves drinks with live music. Ocean Plaza on Deck 5 offers a relaxed lounge with sea views, ideal for socialising or planning the day. The ship’s layout and clear signage ensure easy navigation, though some guests note crowded pathways during peak times.
Dining: Diverse and Tasty Options
Carnival Radiance’s dining caters to a range of preferences. The Pacific and Atlantic dining rooms serve daily-changing menus with flexible or fixed seating via the Carnival Hub app. The Lido Marketplace buffet offers international dishes, while Guy’s Burger Joint, BlueIguana Cantina, and Pizzeria del Capitano provide casual burgers, tacos, and 24-hour pizza. Specialty dining includes Big Chicken, a Shaquille O’Neal concept with fried chicken, Bonsai Sushi, and Fahrenheit 555 Steakhouse for premium cuts, though some guests report inconsistent steak quality. Cucina del Capitano serves Italian dishes with a lively atmosphere.
Entertainment: Engaging for All Ages
The ship’s entertainment keeps guests entertained day and night. The Liquid Lounge hosts Playlist Productions with music and dance shows, though seating can be limited. The Punchliner Comedy Club offers family-friendly and adult-only performances, popular but often requiring early arrival. Families enjoy the WaterWorks water park with its AquaTunnel slide, SportSquare’s ropes course, and a mini-golf course. The Seaside Theatre screens films outdoors, and Seuss at Sea brings Dr. Seuss-themed activities like storytime. The Serenity Adult-Only Retreat provides a quiet pool area, though some guests note limited shade.
Accommodation: Spacious and Practical
With 1,448 cabins across 13 decks, Carnival Radiance offers interior, ocean-view, balcony, and suite options. Interior cabins measure 185 square feet, while Premium Vista Balcony staterooms wrap around the ship’s aft for panoramic views. The Captain’s Suite, at 505 square feet with a 150-square-foot balcony, accommodates up to five guests. Cloud 9 Spa cabins include thermal suite access and plush bathrobes. All rooms feature comfortable beds and flat-screen TVs, though some guests note limited outlets. Thirty-one wheelchair-accessible cabins ensure inclusivity.
Hospitality: Friendly and Attentive
The crew’s approachable service fosters a welcoming environment. Room stewards provide daily cleaning and towel animals, with complimentary 24-hour room service offering sandwiches and desserts. The Cloud 9 Spa offers massages, a thermal suite, and complimentary sauna access, though it lacks a hydrotherapy pool. Staff at bars and dining venues maintain a warm demeanour, though some guests report occasional delays at peak times. Camp Ocean, Circle C, and Club O2 keep kids and teens engaged, offering parents relaxation time.
Standout Features
The 2020 refurbishment added Big Chicken, Guy’s Pig & Anchor Bar-B-Que Smokehouse, and an onboard brewery crafting ThirstyFrog Red ale. The WaterWorks water park, with its 200-foot slides, and SportSquare’s ropes course add active fun. The RedFrog Pub and Alchemy Bar serve Caribbean-inspired drinks and craft cocktails, while the Serenity Adult-Only Retreat offers a tranquil escape. Enhanced Wi-Fi, updated in 2023, ensures connectivity, though some guests report slow speeds during peak usage.
