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The Top Things To Do Onboard Brilliance Of The Seas

This top-rated cruise ship makes it easy to fil all your sea days with unforgettable onboard activities.

By Amanda Mesa | Published on February 9, 2024

The perfect getaway looks different depending on who you ask. For some folks, nothing beats spending a string of days destressing and soaking up the sunshine poolside. For others, vacations are only as good as the activities available to fill every waking moment. But though everyone may have a unique idea of what constitutes the ideal escape, there are actually options out there that cater to a wide range of travelers — like cruising.

Now, there are plenty of cruise ships to choose from within that category, but one of my longtime favorites is Brilliance of the Seas. Smaller than the megaships that dominate travel headlines today, this beautiful gem offers a more intimate, low-key atmosphere that makes relaxing and bonding effortless — while still providing plenty of fun onboard attractions and activities to satisfy travelers of all ages.

From an outdoor mini golf course and a rock-climbing wall that yields awe-inspiring sea views, to a tranquil adults-only pool and incredible shows every night of your getaway, Brilliance of the Seas makes it impossible to feel bored during a sailing. And if you’re a foodie like me, you’ll find plenty of crave-worthy dining options to fill every day and night with plenty of flavor. Traveling with little ones? No problem — this ship offers all kinds of activities for kids, as well as Royal Caribbean’s award-winning Adventure Ocean®️ youth program. Keep reading for more details on some of the top things to do onboard this beloved cruise ship.

1. Rock-Climbing Wall

Staying active during a cruise onboard Brilliance of the Seas is easy, with so many cool onboard activities that involve moving your body. One of my favorites is the cruise ship’s rock-climbing wall. Located on Deck 13, it offers 40 feet of scalable fun with a great reward for those who manage to make it to the top — jaw-dropping sea views. Cruisers as young as six can harness up and make the ascent, and you don’t need a reservation. One of the best things about the rock-climbing wall is that it’s included in your cruise fare, so you can try it out again and again for free.

2. Sip, Tour, Brunch

I’ll admit brunching is one of my favorite things to do — especially while I’m on vacation. Onboard Brilliance of the Seas, this beloved pastime gets a bit of an educational twist in Sip, Tour, Brunch. If you sign up for this unique experience, you’ll get a fascinating behind-the-scenes tour of the galley led by the ship’s chef. Afterwards, you’ll be wined and dined with a delicious brunch and free-flowing sparkling wine in the dining room. The entire experience is about two-and-a-half hours and can be reserved for a fee via Cruise Planner.

3. Wine Tastings

If you can’t make the tour — or if you’re still craving some tasty vino after your bubbly-infused brunch — join one of the ship’s wine tastings. These happen on select days during each sailing and will typically be listed in your daily Cruise Compass. Each tasting delves into unique vintages and varieties from around the world — some of them so exclusive that you’ll only find them onboard a Royal Caribbean ship. From Bordeaux and Burgundies to chardonnay and shiraz, even the most discerning wine-lovers will surely find something that deserves a “cin, cin!”

4. Sports Court

I’m competitive by nature, so I love that Brilliance of the Seas has a sports court where I can challenge my relatives to a basketball or volleyball match — or just my husband to a high-stakes game of HORSE. If you’ve joined the pickleball craze, you’ll be pleased to know you can grab a paddle and hit the court onboard Brilliance of the Seas. Equipment and time on the Sports Court are free for cruise guests — and a great way to stay on top of your fitness goals during your vacation in a fun way.

5. Vitality Spa & Fitness Center

Prefer to crush your workout indoors? Brilliance of the Seas is home to a cutting-edge fitness center that offers all the cardio and weight-training equipment you could hope for — plus a variety of classes you can sign up for during your sailing. There’s also an incredible spa where you can unwind while enjoying pampering treatments, from wraps and facials to massages, acupuncture and even medi-spa treatments. The professionals here use top-of-the-line products from leading brands including Elemis®️, bliss®️, and La Thérapie, and there’s even a full-service salon offering manis, pedis and hairstyling.

6. Onboard Activities For Kids & Teens

For travelers aged three to 11, the Adventure Ocean youth program unlocks some of the top things to do onboard Brilliance of the Seas. This award-winning childcare program places kids into groups based on their age and fills each day with plenty of educational, interactive and engaging activities. Think arts and crafts, plays, scavenger hunts and more. And for teens, there’s a dedicated lounge that hosts pre-planning events throughout the day — along with plenty of room to unwind and mingle with other cruisers their age. Both Adventure Ocean and the Teen Lounge are free, too.

7. Outdoor Movie Nights

One of my favorite free things to do onboard Brilliance of the Seas is to settle in for a peaceful movie night under the stars. The ship plays classic films and current blockbusters on a massive projector screen by the pool — just check your daily Cruise Planner to see what’s on during any given night. There’s nothing quite like wrapping up in a beach towel, stretching out on a chaise lounger and getting whisked away by movie while the stars twinkle overhead, and the sea breezes ruffle my hair. If you’re craving a chill night out onboard, you’re going to love this complimentary experience.

8. Nightlife

If you’re a night owl who likes to live it up after the sun goes down, Brilliance of the Seas won’t disappoint. For a smaller ship, it packs in plenty of nightlife options. There are themed nights that range from decade-inspired dance parties to masquerades, impromptu live performances across the ship’s various bars and nighttime pool parties where talented DJs keep the beats going strong until the small hours. Head to the Schooner Bar for classic cocktails and lively singalongs accompanied by a professional pianist, drop into the Pig & Whistle for ice-cold brews and acoustic musicians or head to the Viking Crown Lounge late at night for a dance party unlike any other.

9. Spectaculars On Stage

I love cruises that offer Broadway-style shows — and Brilliance of the Seas checks the box. The three big titles onboard this ship are Tango Buenos Aires, Center Stage, and Now and Forever. The first is a celebration of Latin dance, from sultry enganches to quick-stepping corridas. The second covers all the bases of music, including knockout jazz, rock and swing performances by the ship’s talented singers — all set to mesmerizing dance choreography. And the third spotlights spellbinding renditions of hits from iconic musicals like Mamma Mia! and The Producers. All three are worth watching, and admission is completely complimentary to cruise guests.

These are just some of the top things to do onboard Brilliance of the Seas sailings. You can access a complete run-down of onboard activities, entertainment and dining, or get right to choosing the perfect itinerary onboard this fan-favorite cruise ship.