What to expect
Royal Caribbean Cruise
Adult-only pool, amazing shows & numerous bars
Delicious Cuisine
Italian, Asian, American & more
Multiple Destinations
Palermo, Ephesus, Mykonos & Crete
- <
- >
About this trip...
About the trip
Discover new experiences on every shore – and on every deck. When you're not exploring onshore, catch a film on the poolside screen or tee up for a game of mini golf. Looking to unwind or break a sweat? Indulge in some 'me time' at Vitality℠ at Sea Spa and Fitness Centre. If you love world-class dining and stellar entertainment, you’ll love a holiday getaway onboard Brilliance of the Seas®. This headliner levels up adventure with exciting destinations and favourite onboard activities. Sip craft cocktails at a rotating bar with spectacular views. And catch non-stop entertainment that will make you sing along and laugh out loud. There’s no curfew on adventure onboard Brilliance of the Seas®. When the sun sets, hit the R Bar for a classic cocktail, or swirl and sip your way to rosé-coloured happiness at Vintages. And don’t miss the amazing shows onboard, like the Broadway-inspired production Now and Forever, and the sultry dance showcase, Tango Buenos Aires.Activity Level:
What's this?What's Included:
Return Flights LGW/Barcelona/Athens/LGW & Transfers
Inside Sole Occupancy Stateroom
Full Board
With a group of 10 or over
Fully Financially Protected
What's extra:
- Cabin upgrades – prices available on request
- Deluxe Drinks Packages prices available on request
- Classic Soda Package prices available on request
- Ultimate Dining Package prices available on request
- Pre-Paid Gratuities – £96 (Can be added up to 48 hrs before the sail date) A 18% gratuity is automatically added to all beverages and mini bar items.
- Shore Excursions - Advance reservations and purchases may be made up to May 14, 2025.
- Insurance click here
Itinerary
- Barcelona
- At Sea
- Sicily (Palermo), Italy
- At Sea
- Chania (Souda), Crete, Greece
- Ephesus (Kusadasi), Turkey
- Mykonos, Greece
- Athens (Piraeus), Greece
What You'll Be doing
Day One: Depart the UK
Depart the UK for Barcelona, Spain where we join Brilliance of the Seas.
- Lunch & dinner included
Day Two: Day at sea
As we sail towards our first port of call, explore our new home from home and find all the wonderful things that Brilliance of the Seas has to offer. There are numerous bars and restaurants, not to mention the pool areas. Then this evening, enjoy a Broadway style show in the theatre.
- Full Board
Day Three: Sicily (Palermo), Italy - 07:00 18:00
Sicily, the largest island in the Mediterranean Sea, is a captivating destination rich in history, culture, and natural beauty. Known for its diverse landscapes, ancient ruins, and vibrant traditions, Sicily offers a unique blend of experiences for visitors. Palermo, the capital of Sicily, is known for its rich history, vibrant street life, and architectural wonders. Highlights include the Palermo Cathedral, Palazzo dei Normanni, and the bustling Ballarò Market. Catania: Located at the base of Mount Etna, Catania boasts impressive Baroque architecture, vibrant nightlife, and access to the famous volcano. Key attractions include Piazza del Duomo, Teatro Romano, and Via Etnea.
Syracuse: Known for its ancient Greek history, Syracuse features the well-preserved Greek Theatre, the Ear of Dionysius, and the beautiful island of Ortigia, which is the historic heart of the city.
Taormina: A picturesque hilltop town with stunning views of the Ionian Sea and Mount Etna. Taormina is famous for its ancient Greek Theatre, charming streets, and nearby Isola Bella.
Whether you're exploring ancient ruins, savouring local cuisine, or relaxing on beautiful beaches, Sicily offers a memorable experience.
- Full Board
Day Four: At sea
As we cruise toward Chania, Crete - spend the day relaxing on this beautiful ship.
- Full Board
Day Five: Chania (Souda), Crete, Greece - 08:00 17:00
Chania (Souda), located on the north-western coast of Crete, Greece, is a captivating destination known for its rich history, charming architecture, and stunning natural beauty. Old Town Chania: The picturesque harbour is one of Chania’s most iconic spots, with its 16th-century Venetian lighthouse, colourful buildings, and waterfront cafes. Built by the Venetians in the 17th century, Firka Fortress offers panoramic views of the harbour and houses the Maritime Museum of Crete. Explore the labyrinth of narrow streets lined with shops, tavernas, and historic buildings, reflecting a blend of Venetian, Turkish, and Greek architecture. Chania offers a delightful mix of historical sites, beautiful beaches, and vibrant local culture.
- Full Board
Day Six: Ephesus (Kusadasi), Turkey - 09:00 19:00
Ephesus, located near the modern town of Selçuk in Turkey, is one of the most well-preserved ancient cities in the world and a significant archaeological site. This ancient city, once a major centre of commerce and culture in the Roman Empire, offers a fascinating glimpse into ancient civilization with its impressive ruins and historical significance. Originally a Greek city, later becoming a major Roman metropolis, it played a crucial role in the ancient world due to its strategic location on the trade routes between Europe and Asia. Ephesus was a prominent centre for early Christianity. The Apostle Paul lived in Ephesus for several years, and the city is one of the seven churches of Asia mentioned in the Book of Revelation. It is also traditionally associated with the Virgin Mary and is believed to be the location of her last home. Library of Celsus: One of the most iconic structures in Ephesus, the Library of Celsus was built in the 2nd century AD to honour the Roman Senator Celsus. It was once one of the largest libraries in the ancient world, housing over 12,000 scrolls. Great Theatre: This massive theatre, which could hold up to 25,000 spectators, is an architectural marvel. It was used for gladiatorial contests, concerts and plays, and it remains an impressive sight today.
Temple of Artemis: Once considered one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, the Temple of Artemis was a grand structure dedicated to the goddess Artemis. Though only a single column remains today, it gives a sense of the temple's former grandeur.
The Basilica of St. John: Located on Ayasuluk Hill, this basilica was built by Emperor Justinian in the 6th century over the believed burial site of St. John the Apostle. It provides stunning views of the surrounding area.
- Full Board
Day Seven: Mykonos, Greece - 07:00 19:00
The iconic 16th-century windmills overlooking the town and harbour are a symbol of Mykonos. They offer great photo opportunities, especially at sunset. Little Venice is a charming neighbourhood where colourful houses are built right on the water's edge. Matogianni Street is the main shopping street lined with designer boutiques, souvenir shops, cafes, and restaurants. A short boat trip from Mykonos, Delos is one of the most important archaeological sites in Greece. The birthplace of Apollo and Artemis, it features extensive ruins, including temples, statues, and mosaics.
Panagia Paraportiani - This is a unique church complex comprising five small churches. Its whitewashed structure and location near the sea make it one of the most photographed sites on the island.
The best times to visit Mykonos are late spring (May to June) and early autumn when the weather is pleasant, and the crowds are smaller.
Mykonos Town is best explored on foot due to its narrow streets.
- Full Board
Day Eight: Athens (Piraeus), Greece 05:00
After a final breakfast on board, we disembark the Brilliance of the Seas and transfer to the airport for our flight back to the UK. We hope you take lots of amazing memories with you from your time discovering these fabulous ports.
- Breakfast included
Accommodation
Brilliance of the Seas
Nothing beats spending a few hours poolside on any cruise ship, especially this one. The vibe at the pool onboard Brilliance of the Seas® is chill in the morning, making it a great go-to spot to catch up on your reading or just enjoy the sunshine. Soak up the sun or savour the shade on expanded pool decks, with complimentary loungers, live music and the opportunity to enjoy a frosty cocktail.
While Brilliance of the Seas® is home to several top-notch specialty restaurants, you can easily indulge in delicious meals at no additional cost throughout your escape. Some of the top free places to eat onboard include the buffet-style Windjammer, which features a rotating selection of international fare, and the casual Park Café, where you can snack on delicious deli sandwiches, steaming bowls of soup, crisp salads and decadent deserts. For an upscale, multi-course dinner that’s also included in your cruise fare, head to the main dining room. It’s the best formal dining onboard, and it won’t cost you a penny.
In between boast-worthy destinations and social-feed-filling adventures onboard, you'll discover flavours that raise the bar. Like prime cuts of steak at Chops Grille℠ and Italian favourites at Giovanni's Table. Not to mention a Far East feast at Izumi and wines from around the world at Vintages (charges apply)
If you’re cruising with other adults (or just want a little bit of alone time), you can grab a comfy lounge chair at the Solarium. This tranquil haven is open to guests aged 16 and older and features its own whirlpool and lagoon-like pool, plus plenty of space to unwind in the shade or the sunshine. It has its own bar, too, so you can indulge in your favourite vacation libations at any time during your visit. Like the main pool deck, admission to the Solarium is included at no additional cost.
If you’re a wine lover you’ll want to check the Cruise Planner app for wine tastings taking place during your Brilliance of the Seas® sailing
Royal Caribbean cruises are known for their incredible onboard entertainment, and every show onboard this beloved cruise ship is a total winner. Brilliance of the Seas® hosts two spectacular musicals onboards. There’s Broadway Now & Forever , a celebration of classic Broadway stage hits, and Tango Buenos Aires, a dazzling showcase of Argentina’s most iconic dance styles. The ship also hosts hilarious game shows for adults in the evenings, pop-up performances poolside and so much more, at no additional cost.
If you’re craving a more relaxed, low-key night at sea, you’ll love the ship’s free outdoor movie nights. They’re hosted on the pool deck, equipped with a huge projector screen where you can cosy up with loved ones and watch silver-screen classics and recent blockbuster hits. Just bring a towel and snuggle up in one of the deck’s many lounge chairs.
These are just some of the many fun free onboard activities and attractions that await when you sail on Brilliance of the Seas®.
Facilities include
Unique dining options including speciality restaurants, room service, different bars and lounges, full service Vitality at Sea Spa and state-of-the-art Fitness Centre. Shop the biggest designer names and onboard exclusives, all at prices you won't find on land. Swiss timepieces, alcoholic drinks, fine jewellery, beauty and high fashion are all here, tax and duty free, plus special sale savings. match guarantee. Why watch a film inside? Lounge on the pool deck with an ocean breeze, the moon and film stars on a grand scale. The 20.4 m2 film screen presents newly released films, live sporting events and more at the pool area on selected ships (weather permitting). Check your watch: it’s 'me' time. Discover the Solarium, a relaxing indoor-outdoor retreat just for our adult guests. Perfectly positioned at the front of every Royal Caribbean® ship, the crystal canopy area presents fantastic views and stays warm while you enjoy swimming pools, whirlpools and lounge area, as well as cascading lagoons on selected ships.
Room includes
Royal Caribbean's staterooms include a wide array of amenities for you to enjoy.
What's Included:
Dedicated Stateroom Attendant, Daily Cleaning Service, Exclusive Bedding Collection, Stateroom Climate Control, Ample Wardrobe And Storage, In-Room HDTV, In-Room Safe, Hairdryer, Deluxe Toiletries: Shampoo, Conditioner & Body Wash
Dates & Prices
Frequently asked questions
What happens if there is no Solos Tour Leader on board?
If there is no Solos Tour Leader on board due to low numbers, don’t worry you can join the Royal Caribbean-hosted meetups for solo travellers on the ship, which is a great way to meet others on board. Details will be posted at reception, on your Stateroom TV or in the daily newsletter, The Cruise Compass, which is delivered each evening to your stateroom listing all activities for the following day.
How much luggage can I bring onboard a Royal Caribbean cruise ship?
Each guest is permitted to carry a reasonable amount of personal property (including luggage) aboard the vessel; however, for your comfort and convenience, it is recommended that you limit the number of pieces you take.
PLEASE BE AWARE THAT IF YOU ARE ON A FLY-CRUISE YOU WILL BE RESTRICTED TO THE BAGGAGE ALLOWANCE OF YOUR AIRLINE.
Each guest has the option to carry their luggage on board or check-in luggage prior to boarding. Luggage may include suitcases, trunks, valises, satchels, bags, hangers containing clothing, toiletries and similar items. Here are some recommendations for packing only cruise essentials.
We recommend that guests personally carry any boarding documentation such as passports, visas, citizenship documents and family legal documents plus all medications. To minimize the potential for diversion or loss of medications, we advise that all medications remain in their original, labelled prescription containers. It is also advisable to pack at least three days of extra medication in the event of an unexpected change in the itinerary of the voyage. It is also a good idea for guests to pack a small carry-on bag with a change of clothes, and bathing suit. That way they don't have to wait for their checked bags to arrive in their stateroom.
Luggage may be locked only with a TSA approved lock.
Any carry-on luggage must be able to fit through the x-ray screening machines. These machines vary in size from port to port, however generally they are similar to those found at airport security check points. Guests wishing to carry their luggage with them during boarding should note that their stateroom may not be immediately available to store their luggage.
Can I take my hair straighteners/curling iron onboard?
Yes, you can bring along your curling irons and hair straighteners, so you can choose between the tousled beach look and smouldering poker straight hair.
Is there a kettle in my room?
On sailings from the UK there's a kettle in your stateroom. We also include tea bags and milk. Coffee is available to order from room service.
What laundry services are available onboard all Royal Caribbean cruise ships?
For safety concerns self-service laundry facilities are not provided onboard our ships, but we do offer washing, pressing and dry cleaning services. We do not provide irons in the staterooms as they constitute a fire hazard.
We also run wash and fold specials during the voyage. This is an additional service offered beyond our regular laundry service. Guests can now send smaller clothing items to be washed and folded for the fixed amount of $34.99 per bag. Fit as much as you can into the bag provided for you and we'll take care of the rest. Please ask your stateroom attendant for more information. Availability may vary.
* All prices are in US. Dollars and are subject to change without notice.
What internet options are available on board Royal Caribbean cruise ships?
There are 2 options to stay connected while onboard.
1. VOOM Wireless Internet Access (Wi-Fi) All you need is a wireless device with wifi capability.
2. Wired (iCafes) Internet stations are available onboard, the location of which vary depending on the ship.
VOOM is available onboard all ships fleetwide. Prices for internet access vary and are subject to change. Log on to the to the network ""royal-wifi"" using your device, open your browser and follow instructions to log on.
What electrical plug sockets are there on Royal Caribbean ships?
All Royal Caribbean ships are equipped with North American standard, 110 volts AC and standard European 220/230 volts AC plug outlets.
What is a Cruise Compass?
The Cruise Compass keeps you in-the-know about everything there is to see and do both onboard and off. Think show times, restaurant open times, when and where bingo will be played, and what shops have sales. It also provides details about the amazing ports you’ll visit and so much more. Don’t leave your stateroom without it! It’s easy to pack into your bag or pocket so that you don’t skip a beat! Plan your cruise your way and enjoy everything your ship has to offer.
The Cruise Compass is placed in your stateroom each evening for the following day. Also, on select ships, your Cruise Compass will be loaded onto the Royal Caribbean International App. This way you can plan your time onboard straight from your mobile device! Check out the App Store or Google Play to download the app.
What should I do on the first day of my cruise?
Here are some things you need to know about those moments just after you hop onboard. Head to your Assembly Station to confirm with the shipboard team that you have successfully completed your mandatory safety training on our Royal App. If you did not complete it prior to embarking, we will make a simple and easy demonstration so you can begin your vacation as soon as possible and feeling safe.
Enjoy a meal at our different available venues before heading to your stateroom. If the spa or fitness classes are your thing, we suggest making your appointments on the first day, as the most popular treatments and times fill up fast. Quench your thirst onboard with a beverage package.
The ultimate in convenience and value, pay one set price and enjoy a vacation of endless refreshment. If specialty dining is more of your thing, check out our dining packages where you can experience several unique restaurants and enjoy great savings.
What is the Stay Awhile program?
Why spend your time at the airport when you can continue your adventure onboard? With our new Stay Awhile program, extend the last day of your cruise and remain on the ship enjoying all your favorite amenities, making even more vacation memories.
* The Stay Awhile program is available on select Europe sailings only.
Can you exchange cash for local currency onboard or at the port?
There are limited currency conversion options onboard, however we do accept most major currencies and convert them to US dollars with applicable conversion rates, and at a limit of USD $950 per person per day. There are not always exchange facilities available or open in the ports.
NB: CURRENCY ON BOARD IS USD.
How do I get luggage tags?
The Royal guest document (eDocs - electronic document) issued includes a bag tag specific to the guest ship, sailing date, stateroom and deck number. The bag tag also provides information on how it should be used. In addition, generic bag tags are available at the pier on the day of boarding.
What is the dress code onboard all ships?
When you’re onboard, the right look will vary by venue. But here are a few types of suggested attire you’ll see, grouped by item. Casual: You’re on vacation – relax! Jeans, polos, sundresses and blouses are all the right amount of laid back. Please keep swimwear to the Pool Deck. Shorts are welcomed for breakfast and lunch. Smart Casual: Think of this as a step up from your typical dinner wear. Dress to impress with collared shirts, dresses, skirts and blouses, or pantsuits. Jackets, sports coats and blazers are snazzy and welcomed.
Formal: Make it a night out in your best black-tie look – suits and ties, tuxedos, cocktail dresses or evening gowns. There can be 1-3 formal nights during a sailing and is at the ship’s discretion. Formal nights: 3/4/5 night cruises - usually on Day 2 6 night cruises - usually on day 2 and 5 7 night cruises - are usually on Day 2 and 6 Oasis and Allure use Day 2 and 5 on Western itineraries and Day 2 and 6 on Eastern itineraries. Please note that bare feet are not allowed at any time in any venue and tank tops are not permitted in the Main Dining Room or Specialty Dining venues for dinner.
What documents do I need to board the ship?
In order to board the ship, guests will need to bring the following documents: Health Status Questionnaire: to be completed on the Royal Caribbean app before you board. Government Identification: Accepted forms of identification vary based on nationality, departure port and disembarkation port. See details below to learn what forms of identification are accepted.
Travel Visas (if applicable): Visa requirements vary depending on nationality and the country you are sailing from, see guidance here. Accepted Forms of Identification All guests will also need a form of identification to board the ship. Accepted forms of identification vary based on nationality, departure port and disembarkation port. Accepted Identification for International Guests (non-U.S. Citizens): Europe sailings: National ID cards issued in the European Union (EU) & European Economic Area (EEA) are accepted for travel to Schengen countries only and must be valid for at least three months from the return date. Some itineraries may include a port of call outside the Schengen area. For those sailings, national ID cards will not be accepted, and passports are required for travel. EU countries: Austria, Belgium, Bulgaria, Croatia, Republic of Cyprus, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Ireland, Italy, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Netherlands, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain and Sweden. UK citizens (including children and infants) must have their own full 10 year (5 year for children) passport with at least 3 months validity from the end of the cruise on sailings in the EU (Schengen area). On sailings leaving the EU (Schengen area): passport must be valid for 6 months after return home.
For further passport, visa and health advice for your destinations please visit the FCO (UK) or DFA (Ireland) websites, have a look at our visa page* or refer to our Booking Conditions. EEA countries: The EEA includes EU countries and also Iceland, Liechtenstein and Norway. Switzerland is not an EU or EEA member but is part of the single market. For US Sailings: Non-US Citizens will require a passport valid at least 6 months after your cruise ends and the necessary visa for entry into the United States. On Transatlantic and Transpacific sailings European and Chinese guests will require ESTA (Europe) and EVUS (China). ESTAs are mandatory for everyone travelling to the US. You must apply for an ESTA no later than 72 hours before departing for the United States. Real-time approvals are not available and arriving at the airport without a previously approved ESTA will likely result in being denied boarding.
For International Sailings: Non-US Citizens will require a passport book valid at least 6 months after your cruise ends and the supporting visa for entry and exit from the country, if applicable. For cruises departing Australia calling into only Australian ports, Australian citizens require either a valid passport or government issued pictured and laminated ID card to be used as identification. Children aged 17 years and under will require a passport or Birth Certificate to travel or government issued photo ID. Children under 16 years of age, who do not have a passport or Photo ID, must have a copy of their birth certificate or their parents Medicare Card. For all other nationalities, a passport (plus visa if needed in Australia) is required.
Where do I find my cruise reservation documents?
Your cruise documents will be released from 50 days prior to sailing, but it can depend on all parts of the booking being correct and, if not, they may not be released until nearer the cruise. As you have reserved your cruise through Solos, your cruise documents are sent to them, assuming your reservation is finalised and your payments have been made.
Will holds be placed on my credit card when I create an onboard account?
Yes. Just like some land-based hotels, guests can expect to see an initial $99.75 pending charge or authorisation on their credit card. This pending amount is used to secure funds for anticipated onboard purchases. Purchases made onboard over the initial $99.75 will generate additional holds. While the holds aren’t charges, they do reduce your available credit. Most holds are released by the time your cruise ends and final charges are settled; however, some may take up to 30 days. Royal Caribbean International® doesn’t control how long the holds remain, your bank or financial institution determines the duration of these holds. If you register a card and change to another card or cash during your sailing, you may still see holds on the original card.
How do I setup a Royal Caribbean SeaPass or Onboard Expense Account?
An Onboard Expense Account, also known as your Seapass® onboard account, is the cashless system used for all onboard purchases and services. Depending on your ship, SeaPass cards are handed out at the pier or will be in your stateroom waiting for you. The account can be set-up with either a credit card, debit card or as a cash account during check-in or at the pier. For each purchase made onboard the ship you will receive a receipt.
A preliminary statement will be delivered to your stateroom on the day prior to the final morning of your cruise vacation for your review. A final statement will be e-mailed to you shortly after departing the ship on the last day of your cruise. If you set up your account with a card, shortly after departing the ship on the last day of your cruise, Royal Caribbean International® will automatically post the final charge to your card on file. Guests on a cash account will need to settle their statement onboard prior to disembarking. Important Information:
Throughout the cruise, daily authorisations (holds) will be placed on your card to ensure funds are available for your purchases. If you register a card and change to another card or cash during your sailing, you may still see holds on the original card. While the holds aren’t charges, they do reduce your available balance. Most holds are released within 3 to 5 business days, however, depending on your bank this may take up to 30 days. Royal Caribbean International does not control how long the holds remain as the length of time is determined by your financial institution.
When can I check-in for my Royal Caribbean cruise?
When it’s time to check in, we recommend you use the Royal Caribbean app to check in. The app provides a quick and easy check-in process so you can start your vacation sooner. Updates include: Your arrival time at the terminal - a scheduled arrival time at the terminal on your sail date The required Health Questionnaire – only available in advance in the app Our reimagined Safety Briefing - Simply tap the Safety icon on the homepage to launch the Safety Briefing, whether you’re in the terminal or you’ve just stepped onboard, to complete the first steps of the Safety Briefing before heading to your assigned Assembly Station.
Remember all guests must complete the Safety Briefing before the ship can sail. Extended app check in window - Check in using the app until 8am the morning of your sailing As before, guests may also check in using our website up to 48 hours before sailing. Guests must complete check in, however, using the app or at the terminal. We highly recommend completing check in using the app for the easiest, fastest, and complete check-in experience. Royal Caribbean International requires guests to be checked in no later than 60 minutes prior to the scheduled sailing time*.
Guests arriving late will not be permitted to sail. Once you have completed the Check-In process at the terminal, your SetSail Pass will become activated in the App for boarding.
Does Royal Caribbean provide hair dryers in their rooms?
Yes, each one of our rooms is provided with a hairdryer to style your hair.
