AAA. November 2023.
If you are looking to cruise with Royal Caribbean but can’t decide which of its 29 ocean-going vessels to choose from, here’s a quick breakdown for you. Royal Caribbean ship classes are broken into six groups, each constructed around the same time with the same basic design. Most offer similar amenities with slightly different looks, but understanding the classes will help you pick the right ship for your next vacation.
OASIS CLASS
The Oasis class ships—Oasis of the Seas, Allure of the Seas, Harmony of the Seas, Symphony of the Seas, Wonder of the Seas, and Utopia of the Seas—are the largest cruise ships in the world with a capacity of 9,000 crew and passengers on each. Expect mega floating cities with seven distinct neighborhoods, offering a variety of experiences to keep all ages engaged. There’s zip lining, rock climbing, waterslides, chart-topping nightlife, and over 20 specialty and complimentary restaurants.
QUANTUM CLASS
Quantum of the Seas, Anthem of the Seas, and Ovation of the Seas are large ships with a capacity of up to 5,600 people and a focus on action-packed onboard adventures. This is where you will find the industry’s first sky diving simulator, bumper cars, laser tag, and trapeze school at the largest indoor activity space at sea, SeaPlex®. Robotic bartenders, an all-glass observation capsule, and the first robotic entertainment at sea also make this Royal Caribbean’s most innovative class.
QUANTUM ULTRA CLASS
Spectrum of the Seas and Odyssey of the Seas are versatile ships that can go practically anywhere in the world, carrying upwards of 5,500 passengers. This class offers the signature Royal Caribbean experiences—like sky diving and surfing, resort style pools, locally inspired dining, entertainment, and more.TST CRUISE
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VOYAGER CLASS
Voyager-series ships are shorter in ship length and carry around 3,100 passengers. Voyager of the Seas, Explorer of the Seas, Adventure of the Seas, Mariner of the Seas, and Navigator of the Seas are ideal for those looking for short, adventure-packed vacations. Some of these ships have laser tag courses, virtual reality, bungee trampolines, and kiddie splash zones. The Navigator of the Seas also has the longest waterslide at sea.
FREEDOM CLASS
You won’t find over-the-top attractions on the Freedom-class ships—Freedom of the Seas, Independence of the Seas, and Liberty of the Seas—but there’s enough to keep everyone entertained. These classic Royal Caribbean ships were the first to feature a FlowRider® surfing simulator. You will also enjoy multiple pools, eateries, shops, casinos, and spas on board.
RADIANCE CLASS
If you are looking to cruise with fewer people but still want a relatively big ship, opt for Radiance-class ships—Jewel of the Seas, Brilliance of the Seas, Serenade of the Seas, and Radiance of the Seas. These smaller ships have fewer amenities, but still host a half-dozen restaurants, three pools, a rock climbing wall, a miniature golf course, an adults-only solarium, a spa, a casino, and a theater.
VISION CLASS
Dating back to the 1990s, the Vision Class is made up of Enchantment of the Seas, Grandeur of the Seas, Vision of the Seas, and Rhapsody of the Seas. These are some of the oldest and smallest ships in the Royal Caribbean portfolio. There are fewer onboard attractions, but departures offer a chance to visit more ports.
ICON CLASS
Coming soon, the Icon of the Seas (2024) and Star of the Seas (2025) will accommodate over 7,000 passengers. There will be eight neighborhoods across 20 decks featuring six record breaking waterslides, seven pools, and 9 whirlpools.
~ Written for and published by AAA – The Extra Mile. All rights reserved.