We just disembarked this morning from the Radiance after a ten day cruise to the Mexican Riviera. We had not sailed RCI for about 9 years, the last being the Radiance, as we usually sail with Princess. All of the crew on the Radiance were extremely friendly more so than what we have encountered with Princess. They always tried to do that little bit extra and engaged in conversation. We were so lucky to have an excellent cabin attendant (Vic), waiter (Nicolas), assistant waiter (Sherret), cruise director (Dan). All four were the best ever in the 8 cruises we have taken. The Captain's announcements which were a couple of times each day were informative and humorous. The Captain was not a stuffed shirt which was great to see for a change.
The ship is beautifully decorated. RCI definitely spends more money on the decor than other similarly priced competition. The Schooner bar and Colony Club are works of art.
Unfortunately, there is a downside. We found the diner portions large but the menu selection suspect. The menu was lacking shellfish and had several repeats. The desserts were nice but not creative in variety. No creme brule which was a surprise. The Windjammer was better laid out, larger, nicer decorated than say the Horizon Court on Princess; but, the food selection was less and once again lacking shellfish, e.g. scallops, mussels etc.
The shops on board were lacking in men's and lady's signature clothing where on Princess there is a significant selection of both and the stock is changed or refreshed throughout the cruise.
We cannot understand why RCI does not allow passengers to bring wine on board or provide laundry facilities while the competition does. $25 for a bag of laundry that is no larger than a plastic grocery bag was a bit excessive.
The ports of call were very nice except I wouldn't rush back to Zihuantanejo (very dirty). Ixtapa is pretty but I would suggest avoiding the excursion that take you to the Isla of Ixtapa (small beach, primitive lunch, the kids at the dock hassle you for a tip).
In conclusion, I would travel RCI again for those positives outlined above;but, if it came to two similar cruises and itineraries I would select Princess as a result of the better menu, quality of food, laundry, shops and wine policy.
The ship is beautifully decorated. RCI definitely spends more money on the decor than other similarly priced competition. The Schooner bar and Colony Club are works of art.
Unfortunately, there is a downside. We found the diner portions large but the menu selection suspect. The menu was lacking shellfish and had several repeats. The desserts were nice but not creative in variety. No creme brule which was a surprise. The Windjammer was better laid out, larger, nicer decorated than say the Horizon Court on Princess; but, the food selection was less and once again lacking shellfish, e.g. scallops, mussels etc.
The shops on board were lacking in men's and lady's signature clothing where on Princess there is a significant selection of both and the stock is changed or refreshed throughout the cruise.
We cannot understand why RCI does not allow passengers to bring wine on board or provide laundry facilities while the competition does. $25 for a bag of laundry that is no larger than a plastic grocery bag was a bit excessive.
The ports of call were very nice except I wouldn't rush back to Zihuantanejo (very dirty). Ixtapa is pretty but I would suggest avoiding the excursion that take you to the Isla of Ixtapa (small beach, primitive lunch, the kids at the dock hassle you for a tip).
In conclusion, I would travel RCI again for those positives outlined above;but, if it came to two similar cruises and itineraries I would select Princess as a result of the better menu, quality of food, laundry, shops and wine policy.
