Radiance, Splendour of the Seas to be Upgraded

 Splendor of the Seas.

Photo courtesy of Royal Caribbean

While prospective passengers are whipped into a frenzy over Royal Caribbean's forthcoming Allure of the Seas, the line quietly announced some major changes were on the way to two popular favorites: Radiance of the Seas and Splendour of the Seas.

Built in 2001, Radiance of the Seas remains one of the line's most popular ships and is thought of by many to strike the perfect balance between size and amenities.  That list of amenities will grow next year, when she enters drydock in May, before the start of her Alaska 2011 season. 

During this time, four new specialty restaurants will be added: the Samba Grill Brazilian Steakhouse,  the Mexican-themed Rita's Cantina, Italian-themed Giovanni's Table, and the casual, deli-style Park Café. 

A new Diamond Lounge for Crown and Anchor Members, upgraded children's facilities, WiFi throughout the ship, and new flat-panel, interactive televisions in every stateroom round out the changes coming to Radiance of the Seas.

The real winner here, though, may be Splendour of the Seas.  Launched in 1996, she is the second-oldest member of the Vision-class of ships, and the fourth oldest in the fleet.  But Royal Caribbean is not ready to count her out.

In 2011, Splendour of the Seas will receive two new specialty restaurants and the casual Park Café, in addition to new children's facilities, a new Diamond and Concierge lounge, flat panel televisions in ever stateroom, and WiFi installed throughout the ship.

While the drydock will see all public rooms and staterooms refreshed and revitalized, the big story here is the one that was described in the least detail in the line's press release: Splendour of the Seas is to receive "new balcony staterooms."  Details on where these would be located, and what category they fall into, weren't immediately available.

For more information on either ship, be sure to visit Royal Caribbean's website.