royal caribbean international best cruise ships

The 2024 Ranking of Royal Caribbean Ships: From Best to Worst!

March 18, 2024

Hello, cruise lovers!

In this article, we’re going to look at the best and worst Royal Caribbean ships .

I have created a ranking, updated to 2024, that considers various factors such as entertainment, cabins, age of the ship, and quality of food.

The methodology for this ranking incorporates an innovative blend of quantitative data and qualitative assessments .

Specifically, I’ve analyzed passenger reviews from reputable sources such as TripAdvisor and Cruise Critic , and I’ve integrated them with my own expert evaluations to ensure a well-rounded perspective on each ship’s merits.

Below, you will find the resulting ranking . I created it in the most accurate way possible, but as always, I remind you that all opinions are personal and may vary from person to person.

Table of Contents

1. Allure of the Seas

Allure of the Seas is considered the best ship by Royal Caribbean.

Although it is not very new (started sailing in 2010), it’s still a massive cruise ship that offers a huge variety of activities and amenities, making it the favorite among cruise travelers.

Guests love the ship’s spacious and comfortable rooms , ranging from budget-friendly interior cabins to luxurious suites.

Most of the reviews especially praised the exceptional service , with friendly and attentive staff that was always ready to create a memorable experience for passengers.

In terms of entertainment , Allure of the Seas captures the essence of Royal Caribbean’s signature offerings. Broadway-style shows, ice skating performances, and high-diving acts.

The ship also has numerous bars, lounges, and areas that provide plenty of options for relaxing and socializing .

Allure is also considered one of the best ships for families thanks to the children’s programs and family-friendly activities. For example, on board, you can find a surfing simulator, a zip line, and a mini-golf. There are also dedicated spaces and activities for teenagers .

Moreover, the quality of food and variety of options have received high marks from passengers . Most of the guests liked the big selection of restaurants and cafes, which satisfy all tastes.

Despite its many positives, some passengers noted that the ship’s size can be overwhelming . A few reviews said that some areas can get too crowded, especially during peak times.

2. Symphony of the Seas

Symphony of the Seas earns second place with many positive reviews on several aspects.

It’s one of the largest cruise ships in the fleet (227,700 tons), and has an impressive selection of cabins from interior rooms to luxurious suites, ensuring there’s something for every budget and preference.

Passengers appreciate the variety of things to do on board . From sports to games, from the spa to the pools and waterslides.

The ship is also highly praised by travelers for its excellent food . Dining on Symphony of the Seas is a highlight, with over ten complimentary dining options (live Windjammer and Solarium Bistro), and a wide range of specialty restaurants like El Loco Fresh offering a wide range of international and American dishes

If you want a preview of what you can eat on this cruise ship you can take a look at the Royal Caribbean menus !

However, like the previous one, some passengers note the ship’s size can make it feel crowded at times , and a few people also mentioned that the bathrooms are a bit too small in certain cabins.

3. Harmony of the Seas

3rd place for Harmony of the Seas . Basically, all the first 3 positions are taken by ships of Oasis Class.

Harmony has very similar activities and entertainment options to the previous ones.

Passengers loved the 10-story Ultimate Abyss slide , the zip line, and the FlowRider surf simulator.

Many passengers also appreciated the presence of specific areas for adults and children like the adults-only Solarium and the kid-friendly Splashaway Bay.

I think it’s the perfect ship for families . The only downside I found was that the food that was a bit too repetitive , and there were not enough varieties of pasta (but this is from an Italian’s point of view).

4. Oasis of the Seas

Oasis of the Seas , the first ship of the Oasis class launched in 2009. Wow this makes me feel old!

By the way, this is the fourth Oasis-class ship among the top positions. Passengers really love all the ships in this class.

What do people say about this ship? Well, a lot of passengers love that it is divided into neighborhoods like Central Park and the Boardwalk because it provides a unique experience while at sea.

Very positive reviews also for Broadway-style musicals like CATS and Grease and all the entertainment options in general.

Like the previous ships, most of the critics talk about the level of crowdedness . A few guests said that it may ruin the experience for guests looking for a more intimate atmosphere.

5. Mariner of the Seas

Finally, in fifth position there’s a Royal Caribbean ship that is a little different…it’s Mariner of the Seas .

It’s quite an old ship of the Voyager class, it was launched in 2003 so more than 20 years ago. Even after all these years it still ranks in a very good place !

A good number of reviews highlighted the ship’s commitment to quality and variety in its culinary offerings ​, in particular with the restaurants Jamie’s Italian and Izumi Hibachi & Sushi. Moreover, passengers love the more relaxed atmosphere on board .

The main criticism is related to the itinerary . Mariner focuses primarily on Caribbean destinations so it offers only limited ports and short cruises .

6. Freedom of the Seas

Position number 6 in the ranking for Freedom of the Seas.

This Royal Caribbean ship was launched in 2006 and was last renovated in 2020.

It’s a 156,271-ton ship and can host a bit more than 4,500 passengers. This could be considered a medium-sized ship and I personally think it’s also one of the best in terms of size. It’s not too big and not too small .

On board, you will find all the attractions and areas that are on modern cruise ships. Sports fields, swimming pools, water slides, bars with live music, and a large theater.

At the same time, since it is not too big, it is also easy to move through all the decks , and not too crowded.

I really liked it…of course, I’d love to hear your thoughts! If you’ve tried it, let me know in the comments whether you liked it.

7. Odyssey of the Seas

Position number 7 for Odyssey of the Seas , one of the newest ships in the Royal Caribbean’s fleet.

Its inaugural sailing was on 31 July 2021 and it was officially christened during a ceremony in Port Everglades on 13 November 2021.

Although it is one of the newest ships, it is not among the largest because it is part of the Quantum class, whose ships are smaller than those of the Oasis class.

Since it’s very modern, a lot of the guests are fascinated by the innovative experiences such as the North Star, which lifts guests over 300 feet above sea level, and Ripcord by iFly, a skydiving simulator.

Despite its many positives, some guests found some minor problems like some elevators that were often broken and theater shows that always coincided with dinner times .

They seem to be only minor issues, so I hope they have been resolved now.

8. Icon of the Seas

Icon of the Seas is Royal Caribbean’s newest ship. It entered service in January 2024 and it’s both the biggest ship by the cruise line and the biggest ship in the world .

As you can imagine, Icon of the Seas is packed with thrilling attractions and entertainment options. For example, you will find Category 6 Waterpark, the largest waterpark at sea .

Since the ship is so new, there are still not many reviews so its position in the ranking could vary a lot in the next months .

However, the first reviews seem to be a bit mixed . Some travelers found the ship to be a major disappointment due to the presence of many children and crowded spaces, while others praised it as the best cruise experience, praising its beautiful design and the many onboard activities.

We will see how things evolve. I will definitely update this ranking as soon as new reviews are published.

If you’ve been on Icon of the Seas remember that you can send me your opinions both through the comments below or by email to [email protected].

9. Serenade of the Seas

From Serenade of the Seas , reviews start to get a bit more mixed.

This ship is quite small, it can only accommodate about 2,480 passengers.

Some passengers love it because its size guarantees a more intimate cruising experience compared to larger ships . So, it caters well to those seeking a quieter, more relaxed cruise experience.

On the other hand, some passengers think that the Serenade is a bit too small and its offerings are somewhat outdated considering that it was last renovated in 2012.

10. Independence of the Seas

Independence of the Seas was launched in 2008 but was renewed only 10 years later, in 2018 with the Royal Amplified program .

The multi-million-pound makeover added a few interesting characteristics like the new aqua park Splashaway Bay which now has new waterslides, water cannons, fountains, and pools.

The guests really liked some particular features of this ship like the full-service spa , the specialty dining options like the poolside “ Fish & Ships “, and innovative attractions such as the SkyPad virtual reality bungee/trampoline and the Puzzle Break escape room.

It’s interesting to note that, even after the renovation, quite a few people say that t he pool and Solarium can get crowded during peak times , and it’s too difficult to find a free spot.

11. Liberty of the Seas

Liberty of the Seas is a ship that is particularly suited for families and first-time cruisers .

Families particularly enjoyed the wide range of activities available, and many reviewers recommend taking advantage of the drink packages offered by Royal Caribbean for a better experience with kids.

However, dining on this ship received mixed reviews. Some passengers said that the quality was exceptional, while others felt certain dining venues, like Chops Grille, did n ot meet their expectations in terms of quality compared to the price​ .

Moreover, many passengers were disappointed by the absence of an Izumi restaurant , as this Japanese specialty dining option is a favorite on many other Royal Caribbean ships.

12. Adventure of the Seas

Adventure of the Seas still delivers quite a good cruising experience despite being an older ship.

It underwent a renovation in 2016 that added modern features like the FlowRider, new waterslides, and new dining options including Izumi and Chops Grille.

Some passengers said that the embarkation process was a bit too slow and a few of them recommended adding The Key program which offers early boarding among other benefits.

In the end, this ship features a mix of traditional and upgraded amenities, often compensated by the great helpfulness of the on-board staff.

13. Navigator of the Seas

Navigator of the Seas could be considered a medium-sized ship.

It was launched in 2002 but has all the family-friendly activities you’d expect on a cruise ship. For example the glow-in-the-dark laser tag, the escape room, the rock-climbing wall, the surf simulator, and also the Blaster which is considered one of the biggest waterslides on a cruise ship .

Despite its many amenities, the Navigator of the Seas isn’t without its drawbacks. While the ship includes some modern features like virtual balconies in inside cabins, it lacks quieter, more peaceful spaces, like spacious adult-only areas .

Moreover, some cabins lack a few conveniences like multiple outlets and USB ports.

14. Jewel of the Seas

Jewel of the Seas offers a nice vacation experience overall.

Many reviews talked about the great bar staff and the exceptional service . However, while the ship offers a good variety of dining options, some guests feel that the Windjammer lunch buffet could be improved .

Also, the entertainment has room for improvement, different guests asked for more diverse options and some more engaging entertainment alternatives.

Despite these points, it’s considered a good choice for a cruise, especially for couples.

15. Wonder of the Seas

Wonder of the Seas is the last Royal Caribbean ship added to the Oasis class.

It was launched only in 2022 and is one of the newest and largest ships in the entire fleet .

This ship has some incredible features like the two-story Ultimate Family Suite , which features an indoor slide, air hockey, table tennis, and butler service.

The dining options are equally impressive with a vast selection of food choices . The Windjammer Buffet on Wonder of the Seas is the largest in the Royal Caribbean fleet.

But this ship has some flaws too. For example, I can’t understand why the splash pad and water slides were placed next to the adults-only solarium .

In addition, sometimes the layout of the decks seems too confusing. In my opinion, when ships get bigger, you need to simplify the decks instead of complicating them.

However, we must admit that Royal Caribbean is the best cruise line when it comes to innovation, and this ship proves it.

16. Radiance of the Seas

Position number 16 of the ranking for Radiance of the Seas , a small ship that can host about 2,450 passengers.

Despite its modest size, it boasts a vast collection of both complimentary and specialty dining venues, making it a good choice for food lovers .

A thing that I particularly like about this ship is the design that maximizes natural light . Basically, half of its exterior is glass, including outside elevators that span 12 decks and offer panoramic sea views from many bars and lounges.

The negative aspects? Well, you will not find the most adventurous activities like ice skating or the FlowRider, which are available on larger Royal Caribbean ships. For this reason, I would not recommend it for families .​

17. Ovation of the Seas

Ovation of the Seas is a Quantum-class ship that was launched by Royal Caribbean in 2016.

It can definitely be considered a modern cruise ship thanks to its engineering, design, and unforgettable experience that can offer.

During the years Ovation of the Seas traveled to many destinations including Asia, Australia, New Zealand, and Alaska. For this reason, I wouldn’t be surprised if many of you had tried it .

If you haven’t, you should know that this ship is packed with high-tech entertainment and attractions, making it impossible to experience a dull moment.

However, some passengers have reported that venues struggle to accommodate guests at peak times , which can ruin the overall experience.

Remember, if you’ve been on any of these ships, I’d love to hear about your experience. You can share your thoughts in the comments section at the bottom of the page.

18. Brilliance of the Seas

Brilliance of the Seas offers a mix between a classic and a modern cruising experience.

It is an old ship (launched in 2002) but the entertainment and the activities that are included make it feel like a modern cruise ship.

For example, there’s a spacious fitness center and a good-sized spa , a rock climbing wall, and a mini-golf course that is accessible to all guests.

Moreover, this ship has a a positive reputation for its cleanliness and for the well-maintained cabins that are perfect to provide both comfort and convenience.

However, some passengers have noted areas for improvement. For example, the ship has been critiqued for limited late-night dining options and the quality of its buffet . There have also been comments about the ship catering more to an older crowd compared to newer, larger ships​.

19. Anthem of the Seas

In position number 19 we find a big ship again, it’s Anthem of the Seas part of the Quantum class .

Anthem of the Seas stands out for its array of entertainment and dining options. On board there’s a big choice of restaurants , lounges , bars, and venues that are perfect to dine , relax, or have fun .

For families, this ship provides some very good age-appropriate activities and areas . For example, for kids ranging from 6 months to 17 years old, there’s a Science Lab for hands-on experiments and exclusive teen areas like The Living Room and Fuel Teen Disco.

Anthem of the Seas also shines in its entertainment offerings, with some of the best theme nights that you can find on Royal Caribbean’s ships .

Some passengers have shared concerns over cabin layout. A few guests said that too many rooms have limited balcony views and that their TV had sound quality problems.

20. Enchantment of the Seas

Enchantment of the Seas is one of Royal Caribbean’s oldest ships . It was first launched in 1997, was lengthened in 2005, and renovated in 2013.

Despite the refurbishment, it still lacks some modern features like USB outlets, updated décor in cabins and public spaces, and some attractions like water slides.

Reviews are generally mixed, with many complimenting the friendly staff and enjoyable experiences aboard, but others expressing disappointment, particularly when comparing amenities and experiences with other Royal Caribbean’s larger ships.

Moreover, some travelers have experienced motion sickness due to the ship’s size , suggesting it might not be the best choice for those prone to seasickness​.

21. Voyager of the Seas

Voyager of the Seas was the first ship of the Voyager class. It can accommodate a bit more than 3,800 guests and has a gross tonnage of 138,194 tons.

Although not very small, it is still a rather old ship dating back to 1999 , even though it underwent a renovation in 2019.

Passengers have shared various experiences, highlighting both positive aspects and areas that could be improved.

For example, many passengers loved the professional and kind crew that often made voyages pleasant, despite occasional challenges posed by weather affecting the stability of the ship.

The food was generally considered good . There are different options from the Asian dishes at Izumi, to the rustic Italian flavors at Giovanni’s Table and the prime cuts of meat at Chops Grille.

Overall it remains a solid choice for those looking to explore some particular destinations like the Western and Eastern Caribbean, and the Mediterranean. However, passengers need to be aware that this is not a very modern ship.

22. Rhapsody of the Seas

Rhapsody of the Seas provides a cozy and intimate small-size cruise experience that seems to excel in personalized services.

This is Royal Caribbean’s second oldest ship and also one of the smallest.

It was launched in 1997 and it can “only” carry 2,416 passengers.

This ship is generally praised for its cleanliness and maintenance . Cabin sizes and amenities like comfortable bedding and good water pressure in showers receive positive feedback, with some noting the ship might not be the best choice for solo travelers due to the lack of fellow solo guests.

Other travelers found the service, crew, and beautiful port destinations enjoyable enough to overlook the negative things of the ship . Others have expressed disappointment, particularly when comparing it to newer or larger ships, indicating a need for improvements in menu options and entertainment.

23. Explorer of the Seas

Explorer of the Seas is a Voyager-class ship launched by Royal Caribbean in 2000. It offers a variety of activities and experiences suited for every generation, therefore I think it could be a good choice for people looking for fun and relaxation at the same time.

Passenger reviews are generally positive , highlighting enjoyable ports, comfortable trips, and a broad array of onboard activities.

Some feedback indicates the ship could feel full, especially when traveling with many children, and that this can affect the enjoyment of amenities like pools and hot tubs.

Moreover, it may show some signs of aging but I personally like the diverse destinations that this ship offers.

24. Quantum of the Seas

Position number 24 for Quantum of the Seas . I must say that I am very surprised to see this ship so low in the rankings, especially since it is a fairly new ship, launched in 2014 .

It offers a good range of dining experiences , with multiple main dining rooms, and very interesting specialty restaurants like Jamie’s Italian and Wonderland, where the dining is as much about the experience as it is about the food.

Quantum also excels in entertainment with venues like the Two70 with its immersive productions, and a variety of activities including a skydiving simulator, rock climbing, and even bumper cars in the SeaPlex .

Overall, Quantum of the Seas offers a complete cruise experience thanks to the innovative features that were introduced with the Quantum class.

Why is it so low in the rankings then? Well, many people found the ship too crowded and a lot of passengers considered it extremely negative.

25. Spectrum of the Seas

Spectrum of the Seas is also part of the Quantum Ultra-Class and it’s even newer than Quantum of the Seas, it was launched only in 2019.

This ship is slightly larger than its Quantum Class counterparts and has some exclusive features like a private swimming pool and a restaurant for those staying in suite-class accommodations. It also has the Ultimate Family Suite, which has a two-story playground complete with a private 3D cinema and a slide for the kids.

Spectrum of the Seas mostly sails in the Asia-Pacific region , offering departures from Shanghai, Hong Kong, and Singapore to various destinations in Asia.

The problem of this ship is the same as the previous one. It’s in this position on the list because passengers say it is too crowded .

Many complain about the long lines, the always full pools, and the difficulty of finding free spaces.

26. Vision of the Seas

Penultimate place in the ranking for Vision of the Seas.

It was launched in 1998 and refurbished in 2013 with minor updates in 2017 and 2022. According to the reviews, the ship shows signs of age , even though public areas are clean and well-maintained.

The ship offers a variety of itineraries departing from Baltimore, including popular routes to the Bahamas, Bermuda, Canada, New England, and the Southern Caribbean.

This makes Vision of the Seas a good choice for those looking to explore these regions but potential cruisers need to manage expectations regarding the ship’s age compared to larger, newer ships in the Royal Caribbean fleet.

27. Grandeur of the Seas

In last place, and therefore ranked as Royal Caribbean’s worst ship, is Grandeur of the Seas.

This is Royal Caribbean’s oldest and smallest ship , so it’s no surprise that it’s at the bottom of the list.

Some passengers said that, despite its age, Grandeur offers a comfortable and intimate atmosphere, with attentive service and a focus on creating a memorable cruise experience.

However, you should be very aware of the ship’s limitations , such as the fewer balcony cabins available and the small size of cabins, which may show signs of wear.

Moreover, the dining options are way more limited. For example, from what I have seen, the buffet has a limited selection of dishes compared to the larger ships. Additionally, a guest highlighted an issue with the ship’s capability to cater adequately to special dietary needs , such as gluten-free options, which resulted in a negative experience.

Lastly, this ship lacks most of the top-deck attractions of larger ships, and therefore families, particularly those with teens and tweens, may find it a bit challenging to keep the younger entertained.

Choose it only if you are aware of these aspects and are looking for a smaller, more intimate cruise ship.

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Royal Caribbean cruise ships ranked by size from biggest to smallest — the complete list

Are you looking for the most activity-packed, megaresort-like Royal Caribbean cruise ships at sea? If so, you'll want to get on one of the biggest Royal Caribbean cruise ships.

The biggest Royal Caribbean cruise ships are, by nature, the Royal Caribbean ships with the most pools, waterslides and other deck-top activities, as well as the most onboard restaurants, bars and showrooms. They have the biggest casinos and spas among ships in the Royal Caribbean fleet as well as the most cabins and suites — and the most variation in cabin and suite types.

With room for 6,000 passengers or more, the biggest Royal Caribbean ships are truly massive resorts like you find at such landlocked destinations as Orlando and Las Vegas. If you're in the "bigger is better" camp when it comes to a resort experience, these are the Royal Caribbean ships for you.

For more cruise guides, news and tips, sign up for TPG's cruise newsletter .

Still, Royal Caribbean doesn't just operate massive vessels. The Miami-based cruise giant also operates quite a few relatively small cruise ships that carry just 2,000 or 3,000 people and have a much more intimate feel. In some cases, these vessels are just half or a third of the size of Royal Caribbean's biggest ships. These ships, notably, have far fewer deck-top activities and interior venues than the biggest Royal Caribbean cruise ships.

The smallest Royal Caribbean cruise ships are best for vacationers who like a more intimate, less crowded resort experience.

Related: The 6 classes of Royal Caribbean ships, explained

To ensure you end up on the right Royal Caribbean ship for you, it pays to study which Royal Caribbean ships are the biggest and which are the smallest before booking.

Here is every Royal Caribbean ship currently in operation ranked from biggest to smallest.

1. Icon of the Seas

Maiden voyage: 2024 Size: 250,800 gross tons Passenger capacity : 5,610

2. Wonder of the Seas

Maiden voyage: 2022 Size: 235,600 gross tons Passenger capacity : 5,734

3. Symphony of the Seas

Maiden voyage: 2018 Size: 228,081 gross tons Passenger capacity: 5,518

4. Harmony of the Seas

Maiden voyage: 2016 Size: 226,963 gross tons Passenger capacity: 5,479

5. Oasis of the Seas

Maiden voyage: 2009 Size: 226,838 gross tons Passenger capacity: 5,602

6. Allure of the Seas

Maiden voyage: 2010 Size: 225,282 gross tons Passenger capacity: 5,484

7. Spectrum of the Seas

Maiden voyage: 2019 Size: 169,379 gross tons Passenger capacity: 4,246

8 (tied). Ovation of the Seas

Maiden voyage: 2016 Size: 168,666 gross tons Passenger capacity: 4,180

8 (tied). Anthem of the Seas

Maiden voyage: 2015 Size: 168,666 gross tons Passenger capacity: 4,180

8 (tied). Quantum of the Seas

Maiden voyage: 2014 Size: 168,666 gross tons Passenger capacity: 4,180

11. Odyssey of the Seas

Maiden voyage : 2022 Size: 167,704 gross tons Passenger capacity: 4,284

12. Freedom of the Seas

Maiden voyage: 2006 Size: 156,271 gross tons Passenger capacity: 3,926

13 (tied). Independence of the Seas

Maiden voyage: 2008 Size: 154,407 gross tons Passenger capacity: 3,634

13 (tied). Liberty of the Seas

Maiden voyage: 2007 Size: 154,407 gross tons Passenger capacity: 3,798

15. Navigator of the Seas

Maiden voyage: 2002 Size: 139,999 gross tons Passenger capacity: 3,388

16. Mariner of the Seas

Maiden voyage: 2003 Size: 139,863 gross tons Passenger capacity: 4,000

17. Explorer of the Seas

Maiden voyage: 2000 Size: 137,308 gross tons Passenger capacity: 3,286

18 (tied). Voyager of the Seas

Maiden voyage: 1999 Size: 137,276 gross tons Passenger capacity: 3,602

18 (tied). Adventure of the Seas

Maiden voyage: 2001 Size: 137,276 gross tons Passenger capacity: 3,114

20 (tied). Jewel of the Seas

Maiden voyage: 2004 Size: 90,090 gross tons Passenger capacity: 2,191

20 (tied). Serenade of the Seas

Maiden voyage: 2003 Size: 90,090 gross tons Passenger capacity: 2,143

20 (tied). Brilliance of the Seas

Maiden voyage: 2002 Size: 90,090 gross tons Passenger capacity: 2,142

20 (tied). Radiance of the Seas

Maiden voyage: 2001 Size: 90,090 gross tons Passenger capacity: 2,143

24. Enchantment of the Seas

Maiden voyage: 1997 Size: 82,910 gross tons Passenger capacity: 2,252

25. Rhapsody of the Seas

Maiden voyage : 1997 Size: 78,419 gross tons Passenger capacity: 1,998

26. Vision of the Seas

Maiden voyage: 1998 Size: 78,340 gross tons Passenger capacity : 2,050

27. Grandeur of the Seas

Maiden voyage: 1996 Size: 73,817 gross tons Passenger capacity: 1,992

What is the biggest Royal Caribbean ship?

The biggest Royal Caribbean cruise ship is the just-unveiled Icon of the Seas . Measuring 250,800 gross tons, it's not only the biggest Royal Caribbean ship but also the biggest cruise ship ever built by any line. It's loaded with more bars, restaurants, theaters and deck-top attractions than you'll find on any other ship at sea.

Icon of the Seas is the first in a new series of ships at Royal Caribbean that are bigger than anything seen before. The series is called the Icon Class.

How big is Icon of the Seas?

At 250,800 gross tons, Icon of the Seas is more than 6% larger than Royal Caribbean's 1-year-old Wonder of the Seas , which previously was the biggest ship in the Royal Caribbean fleet (and the biggest ship operated by any line). Icon of the Seas can carry up to 7,600 passengers — a new record for a passenger ship. That's about 7% higher than the maximum capacity of Wonder of the Seas, which can hold up to 7,084 passengers.

The bigger passenger capacity is partly due to the ship's greater focus on family travelers. Icon of the Seas was built with a lot more cabins that have plenty of extra bunks to accommodate families with many children. It also has more amenities geared toward families. This includes a new-for-the-line outdoor "neighborhood" called Surfside dedicated to families with young children.

What is the smallest Royal Caribbean ship?

The smallest Royal Caribbean cruise ship is Grandeur of the Seas. Measuring just 73,817 tons, it's just a third the size of Icon of the Seas.

Grandeur of the Seas dates to 1996, a time when cruise ships were built far smaller than they are today and with far fewer venues. At 27 years old, it's the oldest vessel in the Royal Caribbean fleet and probably will be phased out sometime in the next few years.

Except for a rock climbing wall, Grandeur of the Seas has none of the gee-whiz Royal Caribbean top-deck attractions found on newer Royal Caribbean vessels, such as skydiving simulators and giant water parks. For the most part, its top deck is lined with pools, whirlpools and sunning areas, as is typical for ships built in the 1990s.

That said, Grandeur of the Seas has a loyal following among Royal Caribbean fans who prefer smaller and more intimate ships.

Are bigger Royal Caribbean ships coming?

Royal Caribbean currently has three new cruise ships on order, all of which will be among its biggest cruise ships ever — if not the biggest.

The first to arrive in July will be Utopia of the Seas , the sixth and final vessel in the line's iconic Oasis Class series. Launched in 2009 with the debut of Oasis of the Seas, the Oasis-class ships have dominated the world of mega-size cruise ships since that year. At the time the class began rolling out, the vessels were around 40% bigger than the next-biggest cruise ships, and they have continued to be the biggest and most amenity-laden ships in the world ever since.

Utopia of the Seas is expected to be roughly the same size as Wonder of the Seas, Royal Caribbean's second-biggest cruise ship. But it'll be smaller than the line's biggest ship, Icon of the Seas.

Royal Caribbean also has two more vessels similar to Icon of the Seas on order from shipyards for delivery in 2025 and 2026, respectively. Both ships are expected to be as big or bigger than Icon of the Seas.

Related: The ultimate guide to Icon of the Seas itineraries, attractions and more

What's the difference between bigger and smaller Royal Caribbean ships?

Royal Caribbean's biggest ships have room for many more onboard venues and attractions than Royal Caribbean's older ships. That makes them more alluring for vacationers who prefer a big, bustling megaresort experience to a stay at a smaller resort.

On Royal Caribbean's biggest Oasis-class vessels, for instance, you'll find three separate main pool areas, a kiddie splash zone, surfing simulators, a miniature golf course, a basketball court and even a zip line. And that's just on their top decks. Inside the vessels, you'll find more lounges, bars, restaurants and shops than you can imagine — plus huge casinos, spas and showrooms with Broadway-style shows. They even have indoor ice skating rinks.

The line's new Icon of the Seas has a similar array of amenities.

Related: The ultimate guide to Royal Caribbean

Royal Caribbean's smallest ships are a half to a third smaller than the Oasis Class and Icon Class vessels and lack many of the above features. They have a much more intimate feel, at least in the pantheon of relatively big, mass-market ships, and they hold far fewer people. While Oasis Class and Icon Class ships can hold more than 5,400 passengers at double occupancy, the line's four oldest vessels (known as the Vision class) are only designed to carry about 2,000 passengers at double occupancy.

Royal Caribbean's smallest ships are a good choice for someone who wants to try Royal Caribbean but isn't eager to travel with huge crowds. The smallest ships in the Royal Caribbean fleet thus appeal to a subset of Royal Caribbean fans who prefer more intimacy in a cruise vessel and don't mind giving up some onboard amenities to get it. They are also often less expensive on a per-day basis for cruisers.

Related: Don't miss out on these Royal Caribbean loyalty perks

Additionally, because of their size, the smallest Royal Caribbean ships can operate itineraries to places that aren't as easy for big ships to visit. Not all ports in the world can handle a ship the size of Icon of the Seas.

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The 4 newest royal caribbean ships.

Explore the newest amenities onboard including surf simulators, fine dining and more.

The Newest Royal Caribbean Ships

Courtesy of Royal Caribbean International

Royal Caribbean's highly anticipated Icon of the Seas is set to debut in 2024.

The world's biggest and most ambitious cruise lines never stop building out their fleet of ships, and Royal Caribbean International is no exception. The Florida-based cruise line currently boasts 28 incredible vessels for cruisers of all ages, including the four newest ships that have been added to the fleet since 2021. An even newer ship, Star of the Seas, is also being constructed with a planned launch date during the summer of 2025.

If you're interested in trying out one of the most over-the-top cruise ships sailing the world today, consider Royal Caribbean's newest vessels from the last few years. Read on to learn about the brand-new Icon of the Seas, the jaw-dropping action offered on the Wonder of the Seas, the Utopia of the Seas and the Odyssey of the Seas and all the amenities and unique experiences they have to offer.

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Icon of the Seas

Scheduled to set sail in early 2024, the Icon of the Seas is one of the most celebrated and anticipated new cruise ships across all the major cruise lines. This Icon Class vessel was built to dazzle and entertain cruise passengers of all ages, and it features eight unique neighborhoods, seven pools and the largest waterpark at sea.

In total, Icon of the Seas offers 2,805 individual staterooms with space for 7,600 guests at maximum and 2,350 crew members. The vessel is 1,198 feet long with gross tonnage of 250,800.

• Sails to: The Icon of the Seas will offer alternating seven-night sailings between the Eastern and Western Caribbean. The vessel's Western Caribbean itinerary includes stops at Costa Maya and Cozumel in Mexico, Roatan in Honduras and Perfect Day at CocoCay in the Bahamas . The alternative itinerary also stops at the cruise line's private island , as well as Basseterre in St. Kitts and Nevis and Charlotte Amelie in St. Thomas. All itineraries will depart from Miami .
• Cabin types: Cabins on the Icon of the Seas are spread across eight unique neighborhoods with their own themes and amenities. Cruisers will find the basic interior, ocean view and balcony staterooms they would expect. The ship also features 179 suites that vary in size and in terms of their features, with some really spacious and over-the-top options. For example, the vessel's Ultimate Family Townhouse (UL) is more than 1,700 square feet with three stories, a multi-level slide, an outdoor space with a ping pong table and more.
• Dining options: Icon of the Seas offers 11 included dining options plus room service that's available 24/7. There are also nine unique specialty restaurants on board, including options like Izumi Hibachi and Sushi, the Empire Supper Club and Chops Grille Steakhouse. A Starbucks is also available.
• Features: The Icon of the Seas boasts the largest cruise ship pool at sea, as well as seven pools and nine whirlpools in total. There are also six record-breaking waterslides located in what Royal Caribbean says is the largest waterpark at sea. Nightlife and entertainment options run the gamut from the ship's dueling piano bar to its jazz and blues club to its AquaTheater with mesmerizing shows that feature incredible diving feats and acrobatics.

Read: The Top Party Cruises

Utopia of the Seas

Royal Caribbean's Utopia of the Seas is another vessel that is set to debut in 2024 with sailings from Port Canaveral, Florida. This Oasis Class ship will offer up a total of 2,834 guest rooms and is 1,188 feet in length and 236,860 gross tons in size.

The ship has space for 5,668 passengers at double occupancy and eight different neighborhoods with cabins for guests. Interestingly, this huge ship will not offer seven-night sailings throughout the Caribbean and will instead focus on offering three-night and four-night itineraries, at least at first.

• Sails to: The all-new Utopia of the Seas will offer shorter sailings to the Bahamas. The ship's three-night sailings will stop only at the cruise line's private island, Perfect Day at CocoCay, whereas four-night sailings from Port Canaveral stop at the cruise line's private island and at Nassau, Bahamas.
• Cabin types: The Utopia of the Seas has interior rooms, ocean view rooms and balcony rooms just like other ships. Upgraded room options also abound and include a range of luxury suites at sea. For example, you can book the iconic Ultimate Family Suite, a Solarium Suite with Wraparound Windows, a Royal Loft Suite and more.
• Dining options: There are 10 different included dining experiences on the Utopia of the Seas, with room service also offered 24 hours a day. These include a Main Dining Room experience, several cafe options, a pizzeria, a coastal kitchen with California and Mediterranean-inspired cuisine and more. In addition, there are 10 different specialty restaurants that can also be booked on the Utopia of the Seas, and a Starbucks is on board. Special dining experiences include a hibachi and sushi restaurant, a seafood restaurant, a Chef's Table experience for up to 16 diners at a time, a Johnny Rockets and more.
• Features: Utopia of the Seas has everything you would expect in a new Oasis Class ship from Royal Caribbean. For example, passengers will find five huge pools, eight hot tubs, three water slides, 23 different bars and two on-board casinos. Other features include an ice-skating rink, two rock climbing walls, a zip line, a basketball court, two FlowRider Surf simulators and of course the line's famous AquaTheater. Like other Royal Caribbean ships, Utopia of the Seas also features special spaces for kids and teens, including dedicated clubs, an Imagination Studio and an on-board arcade.

Read: The Largest Cruise Ships in the World

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Wonder of the Seas

Sailing the friendly seas since March 2022, the Wonder of the Seas boasts more individual rooms and suites than Icon of the Seas. The Oasis-class ship features 2,867 staterooms with a total guest capacity of 7,084. There are also eight unique neighborhoods for cruisers to choose from, each with its own decor and flair.

This Royal Caribbean vessel is also huge at 1,188 feet long and 235,600 gross tons. A total of 2,204 crew members run the ship and assist guests.

• Sails to: Wonder of the Seas is currently sailing from Port Canaveral, Florida and offers seven-night Eastern and Western Caribbean itineraries. The Eastern itinerary includes stops in Charlotte Amelie, St. Thomas and Phillipsburg, St. Maarten as well as Perfect Day at CocoCay. Meanwhile, the Western loop stops at the cruise line's private island as well as Cozumel and Costa Maya in Mexico and Roatan, Honduras.
• Cabin types: Wonder of the Seas also offers all the normal cabin types you would expect, including interior rooms, sea view rooms and balcony staterooms. There are also over-the-top suites to choose from, including an Ultimate Family Suite, a Royal Suite, an Owner's Suite and more.
• Dining options: Nine complimentary dining options are included on the Wonder of the Seas, with a main dining room, a buffet option and plenty of other eateries available to grab a bite to eat. There are also 11 unique specialty restaurants on board, including a steakhouse and a seafood restaurant, a Johnny Rockets, a sushi and hibachi restaurant and Giovanni's Italian Kitchen and Wine Bar. For coffee lovers, a Starbucks is also on board.
• Features: The Wonder of the Seas has its own Central Park, along with 11 different bars, as well as special kids and teens-only areas like a social club and an arcade. Other notable features include the vessel's AquaTheater, rock-climbing walls, whirlpools, laser tag and more. There are also 19 swimming pools, an ice rink and a casino on the Wonder of the Seas.

Read: The Top Cruises for Teens

Odyssey of the Seas

Royal Caribbean's Odyssey of the Seas is a Quantum Ultra Class cruise ship that's smaller than the other newest vessels from the line. The impressive ship completed its first sailing in 2021 when it became the first ship of its class to sail from the United States. Odyssey of the Seas currently departs from Fort Lauderdale, Florida and other ports and offers a range of six-night and seven-night sailings throughout the Caribbean in the coming months.

Up to 4,198 guests can sail on the Odyssey of the Seas with double occupancy, and 1,612 crew members are on board to tend to their every need. The ship is approximately 1,138 feet long and is 167,704 gross tons.

• Sails to: Odyssey of the Seas will depart from various ports in the United States and elsewhere in the world in the coming years. For example, there are upcoming six-night sailings from Fort Lauderdale that include stops in Labadee, Haiti and Puerto Plata, Dominican Republic in addition to Perfect Day at CocoCay. The vessel will complete a 14-day transatlantic cruise in April and May of 2024, which begins in Fort Lauderdale and ends in Rome, Italy. From there, the vessel will offer Greek Islands cruises from Rome before moving back to Cape Liberty (New York), New Jersey in the fall of 2024. At that point, itineraries will include stops in Port Canaveral, Florida, Nassau in the Bahamas and Perfect Day at CocoCay.
• Cabin types: Odyssey of the Seas offers interior staterooms, ocean view rooms and balcony staterooms. Guests can also book interior rooms with a virtual balcony that boasts a floor-to-ceiling virtual view of the outdoors. Over-the-top suites available on the Odyssey include an Owner's Loft Suite, a Royal Loft Suite, a Grand Loft Suite and more.
• Dining options: As a smaller vessel with considerably fewer passengers than Royal Caribbean's Oasis Class and Icon Class ships, Odyssey of the Seas has fewer dining options overall. Guests can dine at seven included eateries including a main dining room, a bistro, a cafe and the main ship buffet. There are also seven specialty restaurants and experiences on board including the Chef's Table, a Chops Grille and a sushi and hibachi restaurant. Like other newer ships from Royal Caribbean, the Odyssey also has its own Starbucks.
• Features: The Odyssey has eight dedicated bars and lounges on board, bumper cars, laser tag, a rock-climbing wall, an outdoor movie screen and a casino, along with kid and teen features like an arcade, a kids' splash area and a social club. A FlowRider surf simulator is on board, as well as a sky diving simulator. Note that the Odyssey of the Seas doesn't have an AquaTheater like Oasis Class ships.

Find a Royal Caribbean cruise on GoToSea.

Look Out for Star of the Seas

Royal Caribbean is already offering limited information about its newest ship, the Star of the Seas. This vessel will also be an Icon Class ship like the Icon of the Seas, meaning it will be big and beautiful with all the bells and whistles.

The Star of the Seas is scheduled to debut in 2025.

Why Trust U.S. News Travel

Holly Johnson is a travel expert and content creator who has covered cruises and other family travel for more than a decade. She has cruised dozens of times with most of the major cruise lines and has ventured on itineraries throughout the Caribbean, Europe and the Middle East. Johnson used her personal experience and research expertise to write this article, along with information provided by Royal Caribbean.

You might also be interested in:

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Tags: Travel , Cruises , Royal Caribbean Cruises

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April 22, 2024

Royal caribbean group shares comprehensive update on its decarbonization journey.

Together, with its first Community Impact Report, the company details its progress its net-zero ambitions and supporting the communities it visits

MIAMI – April 22, 2024 – Today, Royal Caribbean Group (NYSE: RCL) released its annual Seastainability Report, outlining milestones the company reached on its mission to deliver the best vacation experiences responsibly. Driven by its SEA the Future initiative, the company has advanced its commitment to sustain the planet, energize communities, and accelerate innovation. In 2023, Royal Caribbean Group made significant progress toward its net zero vision including achieving more than half of the company’s carbon intensity reduction target, completing successful biofuel trials across Europe, and introducing the maritime industry’s first waste-to-energy system onboard a ship. “I am proud to share the encouraging results from our SEA the Future efforts in our annual Seastainability Report and our first Community Impact Report, which underscore the strength of our commitment to the environment, the communities we visit, and our people,” said Jason Liberty, president and CEO, Royal Caribbean Group. “Marking the halfway point to our carbon intensity target is a key milestone that builds on our history of innovation and collaboration as we continue driving forward solutions that advance the industry's net zero future.” The publication of its first Community Impact Report dives into the breadth of work Royal Caribbean Group completed in 2023 to engage communities, celebrate its culture, and promote economic resiliency in the destinations they visit.

The goals and strategies presented in both reports highlight Royal Caribbean Group’s progress in building toward a sustainable and better tomorrow . Highlights from the reports include:

Sustaining the Planet

• 6.8% reduction in carbon intensity , reaching more than half of its double-digit carbon intensity reduction target
• An expanded energy portfolio following successful biofuel trials which confirmed that “drop-in” percentages of the alternative fuel can be used without needing to modify engines or impact onboard technical systems
• Increased local sourcing globally, reducing miles traveled by 37% — supporting not only the communities it visits but also reducing its Scope 3 emissions in certain regions
• Helped protect marine species through Shellbank, an innovative genetic technology program , that matches DNA for critically endangered sea turtles to known locations in order to determine priority conservation sites and prevent illegal harvesting

Energizing Communities

• Launched Royal Caribbean International's Artist Discovery Program, prominently showcasing up-and-coming local Caribbean artists on board the company's newest ship Icon of the Seas
• Designed unique trainings for Bahamian entrepreneurs participating in the Small Business Development Centre’s (SBDC) Royal Caribbean Kickstarter Programme, created to empower local tourism-related businesses
• Introduced our first accessible Star Class suite on Royal Caribbean International’s Icon of the Seas

Accelerating Innovation

• Introduced the first at-sea waste-to-energy systems which debuted on Silver Nova and Icon of the Seas
• Began construction on first tri-fuel methanol capable ship , Celebrity Xcel
• Renewed partnership with University of Miami’s OceanScope committing additional funds, building on two decades of ocean conservation and research aboard Royal Caribbean Group ships

With a sustainability journey that began over 30 years ago, Royal Caribbean Group introduced an industry-leading recycling program Save the Waves and the first Environmental Officer onboard a cruise ship. Today the company continues to innovate and connect people to the world’s most beautiful places in a way that respects and protects the ocean and communities it visits. Laser focused on improving its energy efficiency, treating the water they use and diverting waste from landfill, the company is moving closer to Destination Net Zero ambition, its target to achieve net zero emissions by 2050.

Visit www.royalcaribbeangroup.com/sustainability to dive deeper into Royal Caribbean Group's 2023 Seastainability Report and learn more about how the company is collaborating to accelerate its transition to the energy platform of the future.

Media Contact: [email protected]

About Royal Caribbean Group Royal Caribbean Group (NYSE: RCL) is one of the leading cruise companies in the world with a global fleet of 65 ships traveling to approximately 1,000 destinations around the world. Royal Caribbean Group is the owner and operator of three award-winning cruise brands: Royal Caribbean International , Celebrity Cruises , and Silversea Cruises and it is also a 50% owner of a joint venture that operates TUI Cruises and Hapag-Lloyd Cruises. Together, the brands have an additional 8 ships on order as of December 31, 2023.

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