Exploring Royal Caribbean’s Fleet: Everything You Need to Know About Their 28 Cruise Ships

From cutting-edge vessels launched this year to beloved older ships featuring timeless appeal, here’s everything you should know about each Royal Caribbean cruise ship.

Provided by Royal Caribbean

While primarily recognized for its vibrant entertainment options and thrilling activities — including bumper cars, ice skating, surfing, and indoor skydiving simulators — Royal Caribbean caters to a wide range of travelers. It’s no wonder this cruise line is among the most favored worldwide. With more than 25 ships in its armada, choosing the ideal vessel for your journey can be quite challenging.

As per Jesse Foutz, an expert in Royal Caribbean vacations at the travel agency Marvelous Mouse Travels, there are “three key factors to keep in mind when selecting the Royal Caribbean ship that suits your preferences.” Firstly, think about your cruise destination, remembering that not every ship can reach every port, which will help to narrow down your choices. After settling on a destination along with your preferred embarkation and disembarkation ports, consider who you’ll be sailing with. For example, Foutz suggests that families with young children might want to focus on family-friendly amenities like splash pads and pools when making their decision. Finally, reflect on the onboard experiences you desire. Though each Royal Caribbean ship provides various activities and entertainment, Foutz points out that the specific offerings can differ significantly, even among vessels of the same class. “I always recommend creating a list of activities or entertainment you’re interested in,” he advises Travel + Leisure, “and then exploring which ships provide those features.”

Having previously sailed with Royal Caribbean, I fully resonate with Foutz’s observations. During my Caribbean cruise on the Oasis of the Seas, I was astounded by the myriad of activities available. Every day and night at sea was meticulously filled with excitement: ziplining? Absolutely. Silent discos? Certainly. Riding the carousel onboard? Without a doubt! While I took great pleasure in all the entertainment this large ship offered, I could also understand why some travelers, particularly couples and adult friends, might lean towards a more intimate and refined experience, which can be found on the line’s smaller, older vessels. With this in mind, I highly recommend that cruisers reflect on their travel companions as well as the type of onboard atmosphere they desire.

To assist in identifying which ship best aligns with your needs, T+L has curated an extensive list of all currently operating Royal Caribbean ships, featuring key amenities and other essential information.

Courtesy of Royal Caribbean

Inaugural Year: 2024

Ship Class: Oasis

Ship Capacity: 5,668 guests

Utopia of the Seas is the latest addition to Royal Caribbean’s fleet, having launched just this past summer. The cruise line has referred to this vessel as the “world’s biggest weekend,” with sailings departing from Port Canaveral in Florida. In her review, T+L contributor Stefanie Waldek suggested, “Don’t try to do everything. Instead, choose a few activities from the endless daily program and see how your cruise experience unfolds. From my time on Utopia of the Seas, I’ve discovered that there are two essential experiences onboard: the Aqua80sToo show and dining at the Royal Railway, a brand-new venue for Royal Caribbean.”

Courtesy of Royal Caribbean

Inaugural Year: 2024

Ship Class: Icon

Ship Capacity: 5,610 guests

Icon of the Seas, which made its debut from Miami earlier this year, holds the title of the largest cruise ship in the world. This remarkable 20-deck vessel is designed to cater to every guest’s desires, featuring over 40 dining and bar options, including the cruise line’s first-ever swim-up bar. It also presents eight unique “neighborhoods,” with one area dedicated solely to suite guests, and an expansive water park boasting six thrilling slides—be sure to try the 46-foot tall Frightening Bolt, the highest slide available at sea. Choose from 28 different stateroom categories, with the most extravagant being the three-story Ultimate Family Townhouse, which can reach prices exceeding $75,000 per week on certain voyages.

Courtesy of Royal Caribbean

Inaugural Year: 2022

Ship Class: Oasis

Ship Capacity: 5,734 guests

This impressive ship, based in Port Canaveral, showcases all of Royal Caribbean’s hallmark features and amenities. It includes eight unique neighborhoods, one of which is exclusively for suite guests, alongside mini golf, waterslides, and the Wonder Playscape designed for children. When hunger or thirst strikes, travelers can choose from more than 30 bars and restaurants.

Courtesy of Royal Caribbean

Inaugural Year: 2021

Ship Class: Quantum Ultra

Ship Capacity: 4,198 guests

Another impressive addition to the fleet is Odyssey of the Seas, which features exciting activities such as laser tag, bumper cars, a skydiving simulator, and the FlowRider surf simulator. For stunning panoramic views, take a ride in the North Star observation capsule, ascending 300 feet above the ocean.

Courtesy of Royal Caribbean

Inaugural Year: 2019

Ship Class: Quantum Ultra

Ship Capacity: 4,246 guests

Embark on an adventure aboard Spectrum of the Seas, where both the young and the young-at-heart can enjoy thrilling sea days. Engage in rock climbing, experience the excitement of skydiving through a partnership with iFLY, an indoor skydiving facility, and enjoy some fun riding bumper cars at the SeaPlex activity center. Meanwhile, adults can unwind at the spa or bask in the sun at the adults-only solarium, while teens can enjoy their own designated spaces.

Courtesy of Royal Caribbean

Inaugural Year: 2018

Ship Class: Oasis

Ship Capacity: 5,518 guests

Set sail on the Symphony of the Seas from either New Jersey or Florida and get ready to be amazed by its plethora of activities, including slides, laser tag, a zipline, and much more. Among the over 30 bars and restaurants is Wonderland Imaginative Cuisine, a unique dining experience found on only a select few Royal Caribbean ships. This specialty venue is a culinary enthusiast’s paradise, boasting innovative cocktails and edible masterpieces. Guests have the opportunity to select their meals inspired by natural elements: earth, sea, fire, ice, and sun. Another enticing feature is Sugar Beach, the onboard candy shop, guaranteed to satisfy every sweet lover’s cravings.

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 serves as a paradise for water enthusiasts, showcasing a variety of pools and a plethora of aquatic adventures. This includes a dedicated water park for young children and three exciting waterslides for guests looking to race each other. Notably, Harmony boasts the honor of being the first Royal Caribbean vessel to feature the impressive 10-story Ultimate Abyss slide, which ranks among the tallest at sea. For those seeking even greater excitement, a zipline experience awaits nine stories above the popular Boardwalk area.

Inaugural Year: 2016

Ship Class: Quantum

Ship Capacity: 4,180 guests

Whether you enjoy rock climbing or skydiving, Ovation of the Seas is filled with exhilarating activities. Get ready to be amazed by 360-degree ocean views from the North Star observation deck. The nightlife is just as thrilling, featuring lively discos, themed nights, and captivating performances.

Courtesy of Royal Caribbean

Inaugural Year: 2015

Ship Class: Quantum

Ship Capacity: 4,180 guests

Anthem of the Seas features a plethora of exciting activities similar to those on its sibling Quantum Class vessels, such as bumper cars, surfing and skydiving simulators, and a climbing wall. (It’s important to mention that Anthem does not include laser tag.) While the children enjoy the fun, adults can unwind at the Bionic Bar, where innovative robots serve as bartenders, expertly mixing and serving refreshing beverages.

Courtesy of Royal Caribbean

Inaugural Year: 2014

Ship Class: Quantum 

Ship Capacity: 4,180 guests  

Quantum of the Seas joined the Royal Caribbean fleet ten years ago and continues to impress, particularly on voyages to Alaska that depart from Seattle. On board, families can engage in escape room challenges and laser tag games before heading back to their staterooms. Notably, some interior staterooms are equipped with virtual balconies — a feature that Royal Caribbean introduced with the Quantum.

Courtesy of Royal Caribbean

Inaugural Year: 2010

Ship Class: Oasis

Ship Capacity: 5,496 guests

Recognized for its excellence, Allure of the Seas is a colossal cruise ship, featuring 18 decks and accommodating nearly 5,500 guests at full capacity. A ship of such remarkable dimensions naturally provides a range of incredible attractions and activities. Experience the lively Boardwalk area from exhilarating heights with a zipline, conquer the 40-foot rock climbing wall for breathtaking sea vistas, or have fun with the kids at the H2O Zone Water Park.

Courtesy of Royal Caribbean

Inaugural Year: 2009

Ship Class: Oasis

Ship Capacity: 5,602 guests

When I embarked on my journey aboard Oasis of the Seas, I encountered families, couples, groups of friends, and pretty much everyone in between. With an array of fantastic activities, boredom is virtually impossible on board. Among the standout attractions are laser tag, a zipline adventure, an escape room, and the Splashaway Bay aqua park, perfect for younger guests. My most memorable nights on the Oasis included dancing at the silent disco, singing my heart out at the karaoke bar, or simply exploring the shops, dining options, and lush greenery of the Central Park neighborhood—a highlight of the cruise experience.

Courtesy of Royal Caribbean

Inaugural Year: 2008

Ship Class: Freedom

Ship Capacity: 3,864 guests

Debuting in 2008 and refreshed in 2018, Independence of the Seas operates its routes between New Jersey, Florida, and Southampton, England. Guests onboard can enjoy activities such as mini golf, surfing on the FlowRider, or competing on the waterslides. Children will especially appreciate Splashaway Bay, featuring small slides, water cannons, fountains, pools, and whirlpools. The ship presents a variety of dining and drinking options, including the popular Sugar Beach and the beloved Playmaker Sports Bar & Arcade, which uniquely combines the atmosphere of a sports bar and a gaming arcade.

Courtesy of Royal Caribbean

Inaugural Year: 2007

Ship Class: Freedom

Ship Capacity: 3,798 guests

Liberty of the Seas may be an older vessel that hasn’t seen a refurbishment in a while, but that shouldn’t stop you from experiencing all it has to offer. This ship, which departs from New Jersey, Florida, and England, is packed with activities. Make sure to experience the Tidal Wave, the first boomerang-style slide at sea, along with several other exhilarating slides. If you’re looking for more adventure, you can try rock climbing, take a spin on the ice skating rink, or enjoy one of the stunning live performances that are a hallmark of Royal Caribbean.

Courtesy of Royal Caribbean

Inaugural Year: 2006

Ship Class: Freedom

Ship Capacity: 3,926 guests

Though Freedom of the Seas was first set sail in 2006, it underwent a significant refurbishment in 2020, adding many of the cruise line’s latest and most thrilling attractions, such as laser tag and thrilling waterslides. The ship features a rock climbing wall, a surf simulator, mini golf, and even courts for pickleball. It now operates from Miami and Fort Lauderdale.

Courtesy of Royal Caribbean

Inaugural Year: 2004

Ship Class: Radiance

Ship Capacity: 2,191 guests

Similar to its sister ships in the Radiance Class, Jewel of the Seas provides a more personal and relaxed cruising atmosphere compared to the line’s more extravagant mega-ships. Onboard, guests can enjoy Royal Caribbean staples such as a rock climbing wall, an impressive casino, an adults-only solarium, and captivating performances that cater to all age groups. Jewel departs from a variety of ports based on the season, ranging from Galveston to Amsterdam.

Courtesy of Royal Caribbean

Inaugural Year: 2003

Ship Class: Voyager 

Ship Capacity: 3,344

An older vessel designed for brief Caribbean voyages, Mariner of the Seas provides a balanced experience between the cruise line’s newer mega-ships and the somewhat smaller Radiance and Vision series. Onboard attractions feature several waterslides, the FlowRider surf simulator, and an array of dining and drinking establishments, including a restaurant by Jamie Oliver and a Starbucks at sea.

Courtesy of Royal Caribbean

Inaugural Year: 2003

Ship Class: Radiance

Ship Capacity: 2,143 guests

Serenade of the Seas is designed to host 2,143 guests at double occupancy, making it one of the cruise line’s more intimate vessels. While it may offer fewer passenger spaces, it compensates with a rich array of entertainment and activities, including mini golf and rock climbing. Originally constructed for Alaskan voyages, the ship boasts features such as a pool with a retractable roof and nearly three acres of exterior glass, perfect for enjoying stunning views and incredible wildlife.

Courtesy of Royal Caribbean

Inaugural Year: 2002

Ship Class: Voyager

Ship Capacity: 3,388 guests

Despite being an older vessel, Navigator of the Seas underwent a significant refurbishment in 2019 that brought it in line with Royal Caribbean’s latest offerings. The ship, operating from Los Angeles, features two distinctive waterslides along with a mini golf course. The 2019 upgrades also doubled the pool’s surface area and enhanced the deck to create plenty of space for guests to lounge, swim, and enjoy the sun. Furthermore, for those who appreciate beauty services, there is an onboard blow-dry bar available.

Courtesy of Royal Caribbean

Inaugural Year: 2002

Ship Class: Radiance

Ship Capacity: 2,142 guests

Brilliance of the Seas provides a variety of itineraries from numerous ports across Europe and North America. Onboard attractions feature a vast arcade and a mini golf course, along with a 40-foot rock climbing wall, a signature feature of many Royal Caribbean vessels.

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 significant renovation in 2018. It now features waterslides, mini golf, a surf simulator, and much more, ensuring that both kids and adults have endless entertainment options for hours or even days. The experience is further enhanced with pool parties, outdoor movie nights, live music, captivating performances, and an arcade, making it an unforgettable adventure.

Courtesy of Royal Caribbean

Inaugural Year: 2001

Ship Class: Radiance

Ship Capacity: 2,143 guests

Experience luxury on the Radiance of the Seas, featuring pools and whirlpools that offer stunning vistas of the Caribbean, West Coast, and Alaskan landscapes. As the sun sets, guests can join in on lively poolside dance parties or enjoy outdoor movie screenings. Alternatively, they can visit one of the bars or lounges for refreshing cocktails, or take in live performances at the various theaters on board.

Courtesy of Royal Caribbean

Inaugural Year: 2000

Ship Class: Voyager

Ship Capacity: 3,286 guests

Explorer of the Seas travels between Europe and the United States, offering a wide array of activities to entertain passengers of all ages. From ice skating and mini golf to surfing and lively pool parties, there’s no shortage of fun! While we wouldn’t blame you for choosing to unwind in your stateroom during the evenings, there’s also the opportunity to enjoy dance shows, musicals, and game competitions. For the teens, the onboard disco provides a perfect spot to dance the night away.

Courtesy of Royal Caribbean

Inaugural Year: 1999

Ship Class: Voyager

Ship Capacity: 3,602 guests

An extensive refurbishment in 2019 transformed the 1999 Voyager of the Seas, introducing features like exciting dueling waterslides and thrilling laser tag experiences. Currently, the ship embarks on voyages from various ports across the U.S. and Europe.

Courtesy of Royal Caribbean

Inaugural Year: 1998

Ship Class: Vision

Ship Capacity: 2,050 guests

Vision of the Seas caters to travelers seeking a more elegant cruising experience without the extravagant features typical of larger ships. While it may not boast attention-grabbing amenities like surf simulators, it still provides a solid array of essentials, such as a casino, a rock climbing wall, outdoor movie nights, a serene adults-only solarium, and an abundance of top-notch performances that Royal Caribbean is renowned for.

Courtesy of Royal Caribbean

Inaugural Year: 1997

Ship Class: Vision

Ship Capacity: 2,252 guests

Enchantment of the Seas is presently operating cruises from Tampa. Young children can enjoy themselves at the splash deck, which the cruise line refers to as “an interactive play fountain.” Meanwhile, older kids can challenge themselves with the rock climbing wall. Other features include an arcade, an outdoor movie screen, and a serene solarium exclusive to adults.

Courtesy of Royal Caribbean

Inaugural Year: 1997

Ship Class: Vision

Ship Capacity: 1,998 guests

Launched in 1997, the Rhapsody of the Seas embarks on journeys from Tampa and San Juan, Puerto Rico. This ship boasts two refreshing pools, six whirlpools, a thrilling rock climbing wall, and an outdoor movie screen perfect for enjoying films under the stars. Guests focused on wellness and fitness can take advantage of the spa and fitness center on days at sea, along with the outdoor jogging track. The lively pool parties onboard create unforgettable memories.

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 sailing the seas. Due to its smaller size and fewer amenities compared to the line’s newer and larger vessels, most guests can often be found relaxing under the sun in the adults-only solarium or enjoying a dip in one of the pools or whirlpools.

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