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While best known for its flashy entertainment and adventurous activities — from bumper cars and ice skating to surfing and indoor skydiving simulators — Royal Caribbean offers something for all types of travelers. As such, it’s no surprise why it’s one of the world’s most popular cruise lines. However, with over 25 ships in its fleet, selecting the perfect ship for your trip is no easy feat.
According to Jesse Foutz, who specializes in Royal Caribbean vacations at the travel agency Marvelous Mouse Travels, there are “three factors to consider when choosing which Royal Caribbean ship will best fit your needs.” First, consider where you want to cruise, and keep in mind that not all ships can access all ports. This will automatically help you narrow down your options. Once you’ve finalized a destination — as well as desired embarkation and disembarkation ports — consider who you’ll be cruising with. For example, says Foutz, those traveling with younger children might want to prioritize kid-friendly amenities, like splash pads and pool offerings, in their decision-making process. Last but not least, consider what you want to do on board. While every Royal Caribbean ship offers activities and entertainment, Foutz notes that the specific types can vary, even within a given class. “I always suggest coming up with a list of activities or entertainment you want in a ship,” he tells Travel + Leisure, “and then searching which ships offer those things.”
As someone who has sailed with Royal Caribbean in the past, I wholeheartedly agree with Foutz’s sentiments. On a Caribbean cruise aboard Oasis of the Seas, I was blown away by all the activity offerings. Each day (and night) spent at sea, I purposefully jam-packed my itinerary: Ziplining? Check. Silent discos? You bet. Riding the onboard carousel? Of course! While I thoroughly enjoyed all this mega-ship had to offer, though, I could also see why others — couples and adult friend groups, for instance — may prefer a more intimate, refined experience, which can be found on the line’s smaller, older ships. With that in mind, I can’t recommend enough for cruisers to consider who they’re traveling with along with what kind of onboard ambience they’re hoping for.
To help determine which ship is best suited to your specific needs, T+L has compiled a full list of all current Royal Caribbean ships, complete with standout amenities and other important insights.
Utopia of the Seas
Courtesy of Royal Caribbean
Inaugural Year: 2024
Ship Class: Oasis
Ship Capacity: 5,668 guests
Utopia of the Seas is Royal Caribbean’s newest ship, launched just this summer. The cruise line has dubbed the ship the “world’s biggest weekend,” offering sailings from Port Canaveral in Florida. In her review of the ship, T+L contributor Stefanie Waldek advised, “Don’t try to do everything. Instead, pick a few things to do off the never-ending daily program, then see how your sailing unfolds. If I learned anything during my stint on Utopia of the Seas, it’s that there are two must-dos onboard: the Aqua80sToo show and dinner at the Royal Railway, a brand-new venue for Royal Caribbean.”
Icon of the Seas
Courtesy of Royal Caribbean
Inaugural Year: 2024
Ship Class: Icon
Ship Capacity: 5,610 guests
Icon of the Seas, which first set sail early this year from Miami, is the world’s largest cruise ship. The behemoth 20-deck vessel truly offers something for everyone, including 40+ restaurants and bars (including the line’s first-ever swim-up bar), eight distinct “neighborhoods” (including one exclusively for suite guests), and a sprawling water park equipped with six slides (don’t miss the 46-foot-tall Frightening Bolt, the tallest slide at sea). Take your pick of 28 stateroom categories, the most luxe of them being the three-story Ultimate Family Townhouse, which on some sailings can run you upwards of $75,000 per week.
Wonder of the Seas
Courtesy of Royal Caribbean
Inaugural Year: 2022
Ship Class: Oasis
Ship Capacity: 5,734 guests
This staggering Port Canaveral-based ship offers all of Royal Caribbean’s signature features and amenities, such as eight distinct neighborhoods (including one exclusively reserved for suite guests), mini golf, waterslides, and the Wonder Playscape for kiddos. When hunger or thirst calls, cruisers can make their way to one of over 30 bars and restaurants.
Odyssey of the Seas
Courtesy of Royal Caribbean
Inaugural Year: 2021
Ship Class: Quantum Ultra
Ship Capacity: 4,198 guests
One of the line’s other supersized new ships, Odyssey of the Seas offers laser tag, bumper cars, a skydiving simulator, and the FlowRider surf simulator. For the best views, head to the North Star observation capsule, which whisks you 300 feet above sea level.
Spectrum of the Seas
Courtesy of Royal Caribbean
Inaugural Year: 2019
Ship Class: Quantum Ultra
Ship Capacity: 4,246 guests
Adventure awaits aboard Spectrum of the Seas, where young — and young-at-heart — cruisers can spend sea days rock climbing, skydiving (yes, you read that right: the line has a partnership with iFLY, a chain of indoor skydiving facilities), and riding bumper cars, the latter of which can be found at the SeaPlex activity center. Grown-ups can indulge in some R&R at the spa or soak up the sun from the adults-only solarium, while teens can hang in their own dedicated spaces.
Symphony of the Seas
Courtesy of Royal Caribbean
Inaugural Year: 2018
Ship Class: Oasis
Ship Capacity: 5,518 guests
Embark on a Symphony of the Seas sailing from either New Jersey or Florida and prepare to be dazzled by its array of activities, like slides, laser tag, a zipline, and so much more. Among the 30-plus bars and restaurants is Wonderland Imaginative Cuisine, found on only a few Royal Caribbean ships. This specialty dining experience is a culinary connoisseur’s dream, complete with creative cocktails and edible works of art. Diners here choose dishes based on natural elements: earth, sea, fire, ice, and sun. Sugar Beach, the onboard candy shop, is another highlight that will delight every cruiser’s sweet tooth.
Harmony of the Seas
Courtesy of Royal Caribbean
Inaugural Year: 2016
Ship Class: Oasis
Ship Capacity: 5,479 guests
Currently cruising from Galveston, Texas, the 5,479-guest Harmony of the Seas is a water lover’s oasis with multiple pools and an abundance of aquatic activities, including a water park specifically designed for little ones and three waterslides that cruisers can race down. It’s also worth noting that Harmony was the first Royal Caribbean ship to feature the 10-story Ultimate Abyss slide, which is among the tallest at sea. For even more thrills, embark on a zipline ride nine stories above the beloved Boardwalk neighborhood.
Ovation of the Seas
Inaugural Year: 2016
Ship Class: Quantum
Ship Capacity: 4,180 guests
Whether you prefer rock climbing or skydiving, Ovation of the Seas is teeming with adrenaline-pumping activities. Plus, prepare to be dazzled by 360-degree sea views from the North Star observation deck. The nightlife scene is equally exciting, with discos, theme nights, and thrilling performances galore.
Anthem of the Seas
Courtesy of Royal Caribbean
Inaugural Year: 2015
Ship Class: Quantum
Ship Capacity: 4,180 guests
Anthem of the Seas offers many of the same fun-filled activities found on its sister Quantum Class ships, including bumper cars, surfing and skydiving simulators, and a climbing wall. (However, it is worth noting that Anthem does not offer laser tag.) While the kids are at play, grown-ups can hit up the Bionic Bar, where the bartenders take the form of highly skilled robots that shake, stir, and sling refreshing drinks.
Quantum of the Seas
Courtesy of Royal Caribbean
Inaugural Year: 2014
Ship Class: Quantum
Ship Capacity: 4,180 guests
Quantum of the Seas entered the Royal Caribbean fleet a decade ago and remains just as spectacular today, focusing primarily on journeys in Alaska that cruise to and from Seattle. On board, families of all ages can try their hand(s) at escape room challenges and laser tag battles before retreating to their staterooms. Speaking of cabins, it’s worth noting that some interior staterooms feature virtual balconies — a technology that Royal Caribbean first offered on the Quantum.
Allure of the Seas
Courtesy of Royal Caribbean
Inaugural Year: 2010
Ship Class: Oasis
Ship Capacity: 5,496 guests
The award-winning Allure of the Seas is a massive vessel, clocking in at 18 decks and nearly 5,500 passengers at double occupancy. It only makes sense that a ship of such an impressive size would offer equally amazing attractions and activities. Experience the vibrant Boardwalk neighborhood from new heights via zipline, scale the 40-foot rock climbing wall for stunning sea views, or let loose with the little ones at the H2O Zone Water Park.
Oasis of the Seas
Courtesy of Royal Caribbean
Inaugural Year: 2009
Ship Class: Oasis
Ship Capacity: 5,602 guests
When I set sail aboard Oasis of the Seas, I saw families, couples, groups of friends, and (pretty much) everyone in between. What’s more, with dozens of incredible activities, it’s pretty much impossible to be bored on board. Highlights include laser tag, a zipline, an escape room, and the Splashaway Bay aqua park, which is ideal for little ones. My best evenings aboard Oasis were spent dancing at the silent disco, belting turns at the karaoke bar, or simply perusing the shop, restaurant, and greenery-filled Central Park neighborhood, one of the cruise line’s most famous attractions.
Independence of the Seas
Courtesy of Royal Caribbean
Inaugural Year: 2008
Ship Class: Freedom
Ship Capacity: 3,864 guests
Launched in 2008 and refurbished in 2018, Independence of the Seas alternates between New Jersey, Florida, and Southampton, England. On board, cruisers can pass the time playing mini golf, hanging ten on the FlowRider, or racing each other down the waterslides. Little ones will love Splashaway Bay, which offers small slides, water cannons, fountains, pools, and whirlpools. Among the many drinking and dining options are the aforementioned Sugar Beach and Royal Caribbean favorite Playmaker Sports Bar & Arcade, which is — you guessed it — one part sports bar and pub, one part arcade.
Liberty of the Seas
Courtesy of Royal Caribbean
Inaugural Year: 2007
Ship Class: Freedom
Ship Capacity: 3,798 guests
Liberty of the Seas is an older ship that hasn’t been refurbished in several years, but don’t let that deter you from getting on board. In fact, the vessel — which cruises from New Jersey, Florida, and England — is chock-full of things to do. Don’t miss the Tidal Wave, which is the first boomerang-style slide at sea and one of the ship’s several slides. Alternatively, go rock climbing, try your hand at ice skating, or catch one of the Broadway-caliber performances and thrilling live shows, both of which are Royal Caribbean staples.
Freedom of the Seas
Courtesy of Royal Caribbean
Inaugural Year: 2006
Ship Class: Freedom
Ship Capacity: 3,926 guests
While Freedom of the Seas initially launched in 2006, it was refurbished in 2020 to offer some of the cruise line’s newest — and most exciting — activities, like laser tag and waterslides. The vessel also boasts a rock climbing wall, surf simulator, mini golf, and even pickleball courts. It currently sails out of Miami and Fort Lauderdale.
Jewel of the Seas
Courtesy of Royal Caribbean
Inaugural Year: 2004
Ship Class: Radiance
Ship Capacity: 2,191 guests
Like the rest of its Radiance Class sister ships, Jewel of the Seas offers a more intimate and laid-back cruising experience than the line’s latest over-the-top mega-ships. On board, cruisers will find Royal Caribbean favorites like a rock climbing wall, a dazzling casino, an adults-only solarium, and captivating performances to entertain folks of all ages. Jewel sails from various ports depending on the season, from Galveston to Amsterdam.
Mariner of the Seas
Courtesy of Royal Caribbean
Inaugural Year: 2003
Ship Class: Voyager
Ship Capacity: 3,344
An older ship focused on short Caribbean cruises, Mariner of the Seas offers something of a middle ground between the line’s more modern mega-ships and the slightly smaller vessels of the Radiance and Vision classes. Onboard highlights include multiple waterslides, the FlowRider surf simulator, and a slate of food and drink options that includes a restaurant by Jamie Oliver and an at-sea Starbucks.
Serenade of the Seas
Courtesy of Royal Caribbean
Inaugural Year: 2003
Ship Class: Radiance
Ship Capacity: 2,143 guests
Serenade of the Seas, which can accommodate 2,143 guests at double occupancy, is among the cruise line’s smallest ships. But what it lacks in passenger capacity, it more than makes up for in entertainment and activity offerings, like mini golf and rock climbing. The ship was originally built for Alaska cruising, featuring amenities like a pool with a retractable roof and nearly three acres of exterior glass for soaking up the postcard-worthy scenery and captivating wildlife.
Navigator of the Seas
Courtesy of Royal Caribbean
Inaugural Year: 2002
Ship Class: Voyager
Ship Capacity: 3,388 guests
Although Navigator of the Seas is an older ship, its 2019 refurbishment brought it up to speed (more in line with Royal Caribbean’s newest offerings). The vessel, which sails from Los Angeles, offers two unique waterslides plus a mini golf course. Additionally, as part of the 2019 refurbishment, the pool’s surface area was doubled and the deck spruced up to provide ample space for lounging, swimming, and soaking up the sun. Lastly, beauty aficionados can visit the onboard blow-dry bar.
Brilliance of the Seas
Courtesy of Royal Caribbean
Inaugural Year: 2002
Ship Class: Radiance
Ship Capacity: 2,142 guests
Brilliance of the Seas offers itineraries from a wide array of ports in Europe and North America. Onboard highlights include an expansive arcade along with a mini golf course. Like many other Royal Caribbean ships, this one also boasts a 40-foot rock climbing wall.
Adventure of the Seas
Courtesy of Royal Caribbean
Inaugural Year: 2001
Ship Class: Voyager
Ship Capacity: 3,114 guests
Based in Port Canaveral, Adventure of the Seas underwent a major refurbishment in 2018. Today, it has waterslides, mini golf, a surf simulator, and (so much) more to keep the kids and adults entertained for hours — or days — on end. Pool parties, outdoor movie nights, live music, captivating performances, and an arcade are just the icing on the cake.
Radiance of the Seas
Courtesy of Royal Caribbean
Inaugural Year: 2001
Ship Class: Radiance
Ship Capacity: 2,143 guests
Cruise in style aboard Radiance of the Seas, where the pools and whirlpools provide great views of the ship’s Caribbean, West Coast, and Alaskan destinations. In the evenings, guests can attend poolside dance parties or outdoor movie screenings; otherwise, they’re welcome to make their way to one of the bars or lounges for cocktails, or one of the theaters to catch live entertainment offerings.
Explorer of the Seas
Courtesy of Royal Caribbean
Inaugural Year: 2000
Ship Class: Voyager
Ship Capacity: 3,286 guests
Explorer of the Seas splits its time between Europe and the U.S. Passengers of all ages will find something fun to do on board — ice skating, mini golf, surfing, pool parties, and, well, you name it! While we wouldn’t blame you if you spent the evenings relaxing in your stateroom, you can also attend dance performances, musicals, and game shows. Teens, meanwhile, can groove to the beat at the onboard teen disco.
Voyager of the Seas
Courtesy of Royal Caribbean
Inaugural Year: 1999
Ship Class: Voyager
Ship Capacity: 3,602 guests
An extensive 2019 refurbishment helped catapult the 1999 Voyager of the Seas into the 21st century with dueling waterslides and exhilarating laser tag. Today, it cruises to and from several embarkation ports across the U.S. and Europe.
Vision of the Seas
Courtesy of Royal Caribbean
Inaugural Year: 1998
Ship Class: Vision
Ship Capacity: 2,050 guests
Vision of the Seas is best for passengers craving a refined cruising experience sans the flashier bells and whistles. Though lacking over-the-top amenities like surf simulators, it offers a great set of basics, including a casino, a rock climbing wall, outdoor movie nights, a tranquil adults-only solarium, and plenty of the world-class performances for which Royal Caribbean is known.
Enchantment of the Seas
Courtesy of Royal Caribbean
Inaugural Year: 1997
Ship Class: Vision
Ship Capacity: 2,252 guests
Enchantment of the Seas currently cruises out of Tampa. Little ones will have a blast playing in the splash deck (what the carrier describes as “an interactive play fountain”), while older kids can scale the rock climbing wall. Additional amenities include an arcade, an outdoor movie screen, and an adults-only solarium.
Rhapsody of the Seas
Courtesy of Royal Caribbean
Inaugural Year: 1997
Ship Class: Vision
Ship Capacity: 1,998 guests
The 1997-era Rhapsody of the Seas sails from Tampa and from San Juan, Puerto Rico. It features two pools, six whirlpools, a rock climbing wall, and an outdoor movie screen for al fresco flicks. Wellness and fitness enthusiasts can spend sea days at the spa and fitness center in between loops on the outdoor jogging track. The fun-filled pool parties are a highlight.
Grandeur of the Seas
Courtesy of Royal Caribbean
Inaugural Year: 1996
Ship Class: Vision
Ship Capacity: 1,992 guests
Dating back to 1996, the 1,992-passenger Grandeur of the Seas is the oldest and smallest Royal Caribbean ship currently at sea. Since it lacks many amenities found on the line’s newer and larger ships, most guests can be seen soaking up the sun from the adults-only solarium or wading in one of the pools or whirlpools.
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