Alaskan Brilliance
Our cruise to Alaska in June of 2023 on Brilliance of the Seas not only was a bit different from the typical cruises of the Bahamas and Caribbean due to the weather, but it also embarked 4 days after I found out I was pregnant! Morning sickness and rough seas brought a whole new perspective to cruise food. While the motion of the rough seas is certainly not ideal in early pregnancy, the abundance of food options and relaxed schedule makes cruising a great option to consider during those early weeks. Note: Royal does not allow pregnant cruisers who have entered or will enter their 23rd week at any point during the cruise. Be sure to check the website or with Royal before booking for latest rules.
Brilliance of the Seas, a Royal Caribbean Radiance Class ship, is on the smaller side of the fleet (though not the smallest), but is a wonderful option for Alaska as the large ships are unable to traverse into the smaller waterways.
While the ship lacks the Promenade and the extensive dining options that are now on the newest and largest ships, it didn’t lack what was most needed by this pregnant lady…the late night pizza.
The main dining room featured the new (though now not so new) Royal menus based on theme nights (see example menus below). Each night was based on a different area of the world, but many of the items from the previous menu still made their appearance throughout the week (Spaghetti Bolognese, New York Strip, Shrimp Cocktail, and Caesar Salad to name a few). The classics section that previously remained the the same each night was gone. One intention of the new menu was to cut down options to reduce dining time. Unfortunately I didn’t make it through many dinners to get a good feel on the pace change. It did seem that there were fewer waiters/assistant waiters than pre-COVID so they seemed a bit more hurried.
While I didn’t make it through every dinner, our wait staff was wonderful and often offered to pack up food for my husband to bring back to the room. Having the option of skipping the main dining room for the buffet is a great alternative as there are various options to choose from for those facing the dreaded food aversions or cravings.
Despite the morning (all day sickness) the various food options, morning continental room service breakfast (included with warm food options for additional fee), and laid back schedule saved the vacation (not to mention the scenery itself). While the experience was still great, I wouldn’t recommend Alaska or the North Atlantic for a cruise destination if you are facing morning sickness as the potential for rough seas can exacerbate those unpleasant feelings.
Positives of cruising while pregnant:
Flexible daily scheduling
Various food options available at the buffet to satisfy cravings
Bartenders were willing to make mocktail versions of drinks including the guava sangria!
Continental breakfast room service available (can pay $$ for room service throughout the day)
Downsides of cruising while pregnant:
Rough seas can make sickness worse especially if you are in the dining room of the smaller ships
Certain excursions are not recommended
Hot tub use and certain spa services not recommended
Surrounded by temptation for alcohol and foods your doctor may not recommend
Depending on number of sea days and location you may be in areas with less medical care than your home area
Overall I would recommend considering a cruise while pregnant, but would avoid the early weeks if you are facing sickness and consider a location with traditionally calmer seas on a larger ship to minimize feeling the motion.
