If you're considering a cruise with Royal Caribbean, you're in for a treat. With a fleet that spans multiple classes of ships, each with its own distinct personality and offerings, Royal Caribbean has something for everyone. Whether you're seeking thrilling activities, luxurious amenities, intimate experiences, or breathtaking views, there's a ship class tailored just for you.

In this guide, we'll set sail through the different classes of Royal Caribbean ships, uncovering their unique features, onboard attractions, and the type of traveler they best cater to. So, grab your sunscreen and get ready to discover which Royal Caribbean ship class will make your dream cruise a reality!

Introduction to the Different Classes of Royal Caribbean ships

Royal Caribbean International boasts a diverse fleet of ships, each belonging to a unique class, offering an incredible range of experiences for cruise enthusiasts. Let's explore the different classes of Royal Caribbean ships:

Oasis Class: The Oasis Class comprises the largest and most impressive ships in the fleet. With awe-inspiring features and amenities, these giants redefine the concept of cruising.
Quantum Class: The Quantum Class combines innovative technology with exhilarating activities. These ships offer a perfect fusion of modernity and adventure.
Freedom Class: The Freedom Class strikes a balance between size and amenities, making it a favorite among many cruisers. These ships provide a diverse mix of activities, entertainment, and dining options.
Voyager Class: The Voyager Class offers a fantastic cruise experience, packed with excitement and variety. These ships may be slightly smaller and older, but they come with an impressive array of amenities.
Vision Class: The Vision Class is the go-to choice for those seeking a more intimate cruise experience. These ships offer a warm and welcoming ambiance, along with delightful features and traditional nautical decor.
Radiance Class: The Radiance Class ships provide an intimate and relaxed cruising experience. With extensive use of glass, these ships offer breathtaking panoramic views and a serene atmosphere.

In addition to the existing classes, Royal Caribbean is continually innovating and developing new ships. The upcoming Icon class promises to be even larger and more extraordinary, with the first ship, Icon of the Seas, set to debut in early 2024.

Watch our review of Icon of the Seas:

It's important to note that not all attractions and venues are present on every ship. While some features may be consistent across the fleet, certain amenities like the FlowRider surfing simulator are exclusive to specific classes of ships.

When it comes to choosing a ship, newer vessels tend to be larger and offer more amenities. However, older ships can provide a unique and intimate experience preferred by some passengers. These older ships often sail distinctive and longer itineraries, adding to the allure of their charm.

With such a diverse fleet, Royal Caribbean caters to a wide range of preferences and interests, ensuring there's a perfect ship for every cruiser's taste.

With that in mind, let's delve into each class and discover the distinct features and highlights they offer:

Oasis Class

First up, we have the giants of the sea, the Oasis class. These behemoths redefine what it means to cruise. They are the largest ships in the Royal Caribbean fleet, boasting incredible features and amenities.

The Oasis Class consists of the following ships:

Oasis of the Seas (2009)
Allure of the Seas (2010)
Harmony of the Seas (2016)
Symphony of the Seas (2018)
Wonder of the Seas (2022)

Oasis Class Cruise Ship — Oasis Class are the largest ships in the Royal Caribbean fleet.
PHOTO: CRUISE WITH BEN AND DAVID

Once onboard, you'll find a wide array of activities and entertainment options. There are two FlowRider surf simulators available for those seeking some water-filled thrills. For adrenaline junkies, there's a zip line that spans across nine decks in the air. Other outdoor options include a mini-golf course, sports court, rock climbing walls, and a carousel.

On select ships, you might also come across the Ultimate Abyss, which is the tallest slide at sea, standing 10 stories high.

Activities on Oasis Class ships — Oasis Class feature many activates!
PHOTO: CRUISE WITH BEN AND DAVID

There are three pools on these ships, accompanied by waterslides. For children, there's the Splash and Play Zone - an area specifically designed for them. Adults can head over to the Solarium, a quiet space perfect for sunbathing. Additionally, hot tubs are scattered throughout the ship for when you want to relax.

Indoors, you'll find multiple lounges, bars, shops, and a large casino. Dining options are plentiful, with both inclusive and extra-charge choices available including 150 Park Central which is unique to the Oasis class of ship.

The AquaTheatre is found on all Oasis Class cruise ships.
PHOTO: CRUISE WITH BEN AND DAVID

In terms of entertainment, the Aqua Theater features water-based performances. There's also a Broadway-style theater showcasing original productions, and an ice-skating arena that hosts shows and even allows guests to ice skate.

It's worth noting that there are some differences among the ships. Allure of the Seas, for instance, doesn't have many of the larger features like waterslides due to suspended upgrades. The newest ship, Wonder of the Seas, has a modified layout featuring a relocated buffet and a dedicated suite area with a private lounge, restaurant, and sun deck.

The Ultimate Abyss is the longest dry slide at sea.
PHOTO: CRUISE WITH BEN AND DAVID

Pros and Cons of the Oasis Class

Pros: Endless entertainment, diverse dining options, expansive onboard amenities, and sheer grandeur.

Cons: Due to their size, they can feel crowded during peak times, and getting from one end to the other may require some walking. The ships also have a lack of sea views with many venues offering no view of the ocean. The ships lack intimacy as they are so large.

Central Park Allure of the Seas — Central Park on Oasis Class ships feature real plants.
PHOTO: CRUISE WITH BEN AND DAVID

Who is the Oasis Class best for?

The Oasis Class is an ideal choice for families, especially those with children and teenagers, given the wide variety of activities and entertainment options that cater to this age group.

In addition, those who crave constant stimulation and desire a plethora of entertainment options will find the Oasis Class to be a perfect fit. The abundance of amenities and activities ensures there's never a dull moment, making it an excellent option for guests who want to keep boredom at bay.

Quantum Class

Anthem of the Seas docked in Southampton. PHOTO: CRUISE WITH BEN AND DAVID

The Quantum Class is a perfect fusion of innovative technology and exhilarating activities. These ships can be seen as a more mature version of the Oasis class.

The Quantum Class includes the following ships:

Quantum of the Seas (2014)
Anthem of the Seas (2015)
Ovation of the Seas (2016)
Spectrum of the Seas (2019)
Odyssey of the Seas (2021)

Aboard these ships, attractions such as the North Star - a glass capsule that ascends above the ship for panoramic views - and RipCord by iFLY, a skydiving simulator, are available. Other features unique to the Quantum class include bumper cars, roller skating, and the transformative Two70° venue, which merges live performances with digital imagery.

Sky Diving on Royal Caribbean — The Sky Diving simulator on Anthem of the Seas is incredible.
PHOTO: CRUISE WITH BEN AND DAVID

The Quantum class ships are designed to cater to both cold and hot weather conditions. Many of the main attractions are indoors, and out of the three pool areas, two are covered, including both a family solarium and an adults-only solarium.

Indoors, you'll find the typical wide array of dining options, shopping venues, and large casinos.

Quantum of the Seas pool spaces include both Outdoor and indoor pools.,
PHOTO: CRUISE WITH BEN AND DAVID

Pro and Cons of the Quantum Class

Pros: Stunning venues like Two70° with sea views, suitability for cold climate cruises, and a plethora of entertainment and activities.

Cons: None of these ships feature waterslides. The ships' large capacity means they can get crowded at times and lack intimacy. Additionally, several activities, including iFly and the North Star, come with extra charges.

Pool bar on quantum of the seas — The indoor family pool is perfect for cold weather cruises.
PHOTO: CRUISE WITH BEN AND DAVID

Who is the Quantum Class best for?

The Quantum Class is well-suited for adults and families with older kids who enjoy unique activities. However, it may not be the top choice for those wanting a traditional, intimate cruise experience.

Freedom Class

Liberty of the Seas
PHOTO: CRUISE WITH BEN AND DAVID

The Freedom Class, strikes a balance between size and amenities, making it a favorite among many cruisers.

The Freedom-class includes:

Freedom of the Seas (2006)
Liberty of the Seas (2007)
Independence of the Seas (2008)

Once the world's largest cruise ships, they now seem more modest compared to newer Royal Caribbean vessels. Resembling the second-generation Voyager class in design and layout, these ships still maintain a sense of intimacy despite their size.

Their decor leans towards a traditional nautical theme with abundant wood and gold hues, setting them apart from the Quantum and Oasis classes.

The Royal Promenade, a hub of shops, bars, and lounges.
PHOTO: CRUISE WITH BEN AND DAVID

Aboard, you'll find attractions like the FlowRider surf simulator, rock-climbing wall, ice-skating rink, water park, and miniature golf course. They also feature multiple pool areas, a spacious spa featuring steam and sauna rooms that are free to use, and ample sunbathing space. Some renovated ships, like Independence of the Seas, even house an escape room.

Golf Course on Freedom of the Seas.
PHOTO: CRUISE WITH BEN AND DAVID

At the heart of Freedom Class ships is the Royal Promenade, a hub of shops, bars, and lounges. Dining options are plentiful, with a mix of included and specialty restaurants. Some ships also host Broadway productions like Hairspray and Greece in their large theaters, while the ice arena doubles as a Laser Tag venue.

The sea-view venues, including the Viking Crown lounge, add another layer of charm.

FlowRider is a feature on many Royal Caribbean.
Photo: Cruise with Ben and David

Pro and Cons of the Freedom Class

Pros: Diverse mix of activities, entertainment, and dining options, all in a slightly smaller package than the Oasis and Quantum classes.

Cons: Potentially crowded venues during peak times and limited availability for popular activities. Additionally, older ships that haven't been updated might seem outdated.

Who is the Freedom Class best for?

The Freedom Class ships are well-suited for a wide range of cruisers. Families will appreciate the abundance of activities and entertainment options available for both children and adults. With features like the water park, FlowRider surf simulator, and dedicated kids' areas, families with children of all ages will have plenty to keep them engaged and entertained. Additionally, the Freedom Class offers a great balance for those seeking a mix of relaxation and excitement. Couples and groups of friends can enjoy the variety of dining venues, shows, and nightlife options while still having ample space to unwind and enjoy the onboard amenities.

Voyager Class

Voyager class ships offer a fantastic cruise experience for travelers seeking excitement and variety.

Ships in the Voyager Class include:

Voyager of the Seas (1999)
Explorer of the Seas (2000)
Adventure of the Seas (2001)
Navigator of the Seas (2002)
Mariner of the Seas (2003)

Despite being smaller and older, these ships come packed with an impressive array of amenities. Onboard, you can find rock-climbing walls, a sports court, an ice-skating rink, three pool spaces, waterslides, and multiple hot tubs. Some feature laser tag courses, and Adventure of the Seas is the only ship in this class with a splash zone for kids.

Navigator of the Seas pool deck was renovated in 2019
PHOTO: Royal Caribbean

The Royal Promenade, the main shopping hub, houses several bars and a variety of dining options. Additionally, these ships boast a large theater and an ice arena that hosts ice shows.

These ships have a lower passenger capacity, offering a more manageable and less crowded cruising experience. The decor echoes the traditional nautical theme seen in the Freedom class, with plenty of sea-view venues that allow passengers to soak in the stunning ocean vistas - a feature that sets it apart from the Quantum and Oasis classes.

Pros and Cons of the Voyager Class ships

Pros: Smaller ships but still offering a wide range of activities, entertainment, and dining choices to suit different tastes.

Cons: Some of the ships in this class are a bit older, so the décor and facilities may not be as modern as on newer ships.

Who is the Voyager Class best for?

The Voyager Class are ideal for families, as they offer amenities and attractions that cater to both children and adults. The variety of onboard facilities, including rock-climbing walls, ice-skating rinks, and multiple pool areas, ensures that there is something for everyone.

Vision Class

The Vision Class includes the following ships:

Vision of the Seas (1998)
Enchantment of the Seas (1997)
Grandeur of the Seas (1996)
Rhapsody of the Seas (1997)

Though smaller in stature, these ships exude a warm and welcoming ambiance. They boast delightful features like the Centrum, a striking atrium that hosts live music and aerial performances. Specialty dining options, a solarium, and roomy staterooms further enhance the onboard experience.

While you won't find significant attractions such as waterslides or FlowRiders like on other Royal Caribbean ships, these vessels offer multiple pool spaces, hot tubs, sunbathing areas, and even a rock climbing wall.

These ships may have fewer attractions, but they make up for it with their intimate layout and traditional atmosphere. The interiors are reminiscent of classic cruise ships, adorned with gold, marble, and wood decor. Plus, extensive glass windows provide plentiful sea views.

In terms of dining, these ships house at least one, often several, specialty restaurants that come with an additional charge, alongside the usual buffet and main dining rooms.

Pros and Cons of the Vision Class

Pros: A more intimate and relaxed atmosphere, perfect for travelers who prefer a smaller ship experience. Good for destination-focused itineraries. Lots of sea views. Generally cheaper cruising from secondary ports.

Cons: Fewer onboard amenities and entertainment options compared to larger ships. Ships are older.

Who is the Vision Class best for?

The Vision Class ships are best suited for travelers who prefer a more intimate and relaxed cruising experience. These ships cater to individuals and families who appreciate a quieter atmosphere and a closer connection to the sea. With their classic charm and smaller size, the Vision Class offers a delightful option for those seeking a more traditional cruise setting and a focus on destination exploration.

Radiance Class

The Radiance Class, which includes Radiance of the Seas, Brilliance of the Seas, Serenade of the Seas, and Jewel of the Seas, offers a cruising experience that is both intimate and relaxed.

A signature feature of the Radiance class is their extensive use of glass. The ships are built with over three acres of glass, including expansive glass walls and floor-to-ceiling windows that offer awe-inspiring panoramic views. Even the elevators on these ships provide ocean views, thanks to their unique glass design.

While these ships may not have as many high-profile attractions as newer vessels, there's still plenty to keep you entertained. Features include a climbing wall, a sports court, a mini-golf course, and multiple pool areas with ample sunbathing spaces. There's also an enclosed solarium and Adventure Beach - a dedicated pool area for kids complete with a small waterslide and shallow splash area.

Entertainment-wise, these ships boast the usual main theater featuring original productions. Unique to the Royal Caribbean fleet, they also have an onboard movie theater showing free movies throughout the day.

Another standout feature is the rotating bar at the top of the ship. This 360-degree rotating venue ensures you can enjoy stunning views no matter where you're seated.

Jewel of the Seas pool — These ships have multiple pool areas with ample sunbathing spaces
PHOTO: ROYAL CARIBBEAN

Although smaller in size, these ships don't skimp on dining options. They feature several specialty restaurants like Chops Grille, Giovanni's Table, and Izumi, alongside the usual main dining rooms and buffet. A wide array of bars and lounges further enhances the onboard dining and socializing experience.

Pros and Cons of the Radiance Class

Pros: A more intimate and relaxed atmosphere, perfect for travelers who prefer a quieter and more serene cruising experience. Less crowded. Abundance of glass allows for stunning views. Unique itineraries.

Cons: Smaller ships with fewer onboard amenities and entertainment options.

Who is the Radiance Class best for?

The Radiance class ships are well-suited for cruisers who value a more intimate and relaxed atmosphere, enjoying breathtaking views of the sea. They appeal to travelers who prefer a quieter cruising experience and appreciate the beauty of their surroundings. Families, couples, and individuals looking for a serene getaway will find these ships to be a perfect choice.

Guide to Different Classes of Royal Caribbean Ships