Royal Caribbean is one of the largest family-friendly cruise lines offering a variety of vacations to destinations across the globe. Royal Caribbean’s fleet currently includes 26 cruise ships which vary greatly in terms of size and amenities.

If you are considering a cruise with the brand, we have put together this comprehensive guide to Royal Caribbean ships by size including the ship classes, passenger capacity, amenities, and more to help you decide which ship is the right fit for your next family vacation.

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Guide to Royal Caribbean Ships By Size

How many Royal Caribbean ships are there?

There are currently 26 ships in the Royal Caribbean fleet with two more debuting in 2024. Icon of the Seas and Utopia of the Seas will both debut next year offering even more family vacation options with the cruise line.

Icon of the Seas will be in a class of her own when she debuts. The Icon Class of ships will offer many firsts for the brand, including new neighborhoods, new entertainment, and new onboard amenities.

While we have not learned many details about Utopia of the Seas just yet, she will be the 6th Oasis Class ship in the fleet.

What are the sizes of Royal Caribbean ships?

Royal Caribbean ships vary greatly in size, which means there is an ideal ship for all types of travelers. Icon of the Seas will break records as the largest cruise ship by size when she sets sail in early 2024. Icon of the Seas is 250,800 GT of fun!

On the other hand, the smallest (and oldest) ship in the Royal Caribbean fleet is Grandeur of the Seas with a gross tonnage of close to 74K.

Royal Caribbean ships ranked biggest to smallest

• Icon of the Seas (2024)- 250,800 GT, 5610 guests at double occupancy
• Wonder of the Seas (2022)- 236,857 GT, 5734 guests at double occupancy
• Symphony of the Seas (2018) – 228,081 GT, 5518 guests at double occupancy
• Harmony of the Seas (2016) – 226,963 GT, 5479 guests at double occupancy
• Oasis of the Seas (2009) – 226,838 GT, 5602 guests at double occupancy
• Allure of the Seas (2010) – 225,282 GT, 5484 guests at double occupancy
• Spectrum of the Seas (2019) – 169,379 GT, 4246 guests at double occupancy
• Odyssey of the Seas (2021) – 169,300 GT, 4198 guests at double occupancy
• Ovation of the Seas (2016) – 168,666 GT, 4180 guests at double occupancy
• Anthem of the Seas (2015) – 168,666 GT, 4180 guests at double occupancy
• Quantum of the Seas (2014) – 168,666 GT, 4180 guests at double occupancy
• Freedom of the Seas (2006) – 156,271 GT, 3926 guests at double occupancy
• Independence of the Seas (2008) – 154,407 GT, 3858 guests at double occupancy
• Liberty of the Seas (2007) – 154,407 GT, 3798 guests at double occupancy
• Navigator of the Seas (2002) – 139,999 GT, 3388 guests at double occupancy
• Mariner of the Seas (2003) – 139,863 GT, 3344 guests at double occupancy
• Explorer of the Seas (2000) – 137,308 GT, 3286 guests at double occupancy
• Adventure of the Seas (2001) – 137,276 GT, 3114 guests at double occupancy
• Voyager of the Seas (1999) – 137,276 GT, 3602 guests at double occupancy
• Brilliance of the Seas (2002) – 90,090 GT, 2142 guests at double occupancy
• Jewel of the Seas (2004) – 90,090 GT, 2191 guests at double occupancy
• Radiance of the Seas (2001) – 90,090 GT, 2143 guests at double occupancy
• Serenade of the Seas (2003) – 90,090 GT, 2123 guests at double occupancy
• Enchantment of the Seas (1997) – 82,910 GT, 2252 guests at double occupancy
• Rhapsody of the Seas (1997) – 78,491 GT, 1998 guests at double occupancy
• Vision of the Seas (1998) – 78,340 GT, 2050 guests at double occupancy
• Grandeur of the Seas (1996) – 73,817 GT, 1992 guests at double occupancy

Understanding Cruise Ship Classes

When discussing Royal Caribbean ships by size, it is important to understand cruise ship classes.

Cruise lines are large companies that manage a fleet of several ships. While each cruise line has its own “style”, there are usually significant differences among the ships even within the cruise line.

For instance, there are different dining options, entertainment options, and onboard amenities between ships. It would take you hours to research each ship individually. Thus, it is helpful to know that cruise ships are grouped into “classes”. The ships within each class are of similar size and design. Further, they often feature similar amenities and venues.

While there might be slight differences between ships within a class, these sister ships are largely the same.

Across all of the Royal Caribbean cruise ship classes, you will find a mix of casual dining options, a traditional main dining room, a main theater, and several lounges and bars for nightlife and entertainment. There are also other standard cruise amenities like a gym, spa, onboard shopping, and a casino.

The good news is that many of these family-friendly activities, dining, and entertainment are included in the Royal Caribbean cruise fare.

Royal Caribbean also offers a standard level of service and predictable cabin categories across all cruise ship classes.

Icon Class

The Icon Class is the newest and largest class of Royal Caribbean ships by size. The first ship in the Icon Class, Icon of the Seas, is currently under construction at the Meyer Turku shipyard in Finland. There are also two additional ships planned in this class as well.

From what we know so far about Icon of the Seas, this class of ship will be a game-changer yet again for Royal Caribbean! Icon of the Seas will measure in at 250.8K gross tons and carry over 5600 passengers at double occupancy.

Icon of the Seas will feature 20 total decks, 2,805 staterooms, 7 pools, 9 whirlpools, and 6 record-breaking waterslides. Further, Icon will be the cruise line’s first ship powered by liquefied natural gas (LNG). Along with shore power connection and waste heat recovery systems, this new ship will be the cruise line’s most sustainable to date.

Icon of the Seas will sail year-round, 7-night Eastern and Western Caribbean vacations from Miami when she debuts. Further, every cruise will visit Perfect Day at CocoCay in the Bahamas.

With new neighborhoods like Thrill Island and Chill Island, the ultimate family Surfside neighborhood, the first suspended infinity pool, the brand new Aqua Dome, new stateroom categories, and so much more, we can’t wait to get onboard Icon of the Seas.

Oasis Class

Currently, Royal Caribbean’s Oasis Class ships are in a league all of their own, when it comes to size and amenities. The Oasis Class of ships was the largest when its flagship Oasis of the Seas debuted in 2009. And it still is!

The Oasis Class will feature a total of six ships. These include 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), and Utopia of the Seas (2024). These ships measure in at up to 235K gross tons and carry up to 5700 passengers at double occupancy.

These world record breaking vessels offer plenty of onboard activities for all types of cruisers. In fact, they are so large they even have their own neighborhoods.

Central Park is an open-air space nestled in the middle of the ship. This area is a beautifully designed greenspace with some of the best specialty restaurants. It also provides a romantic atmosphere for al fresco dining and bars.

The Boardwalk is an outdoor neighborhood located aft on the ship. This colorful and lively area is reminiscent of a seaside pier. The Aqua Theater is the main feature of this neighborhood. This large outdoor venue hosts one of a kind diving and aerial acrobatic shows. Another focal point of the Boardwalk is the carousel and the handcrafted horses.

Further, Wonder of the Seas debuted the first Suite Neighborhood in the fleet. This new neighborhood gives Royal Suite guests the first-ever Suite Sun Deck located all the way at the top of the ship. This neighborhood is complete with a plunge pool, bar, and plenty of loungers. There’s also familiar favorites such as Coastal Kitchen and the Suite Lounge for guests to enjoy.

In addition, Oasis Class ships are home to Broadway entertainment in the main theater, a zip line, an ice skating rink, and the Flowrider surf simulator. The ships (except Allure of the Seas) also feature the Perfect Storm waterslides and the Ultimate Abyss.

The Oasis Class offers some unique dining options too. Symphony of the Seas was the first ship to debut Hooked Seafood, a casual seafood restaurant. Portside BBQ also debuted on the amplified Oasis of the Seas, in addition to the El Loco Fresh casual eatery and Playmakers Sports Bar and Arcade.

Additionally, The Mason Jar is a brand new specialty restaurant on Wonder of the Seas, bringing southern cooking to the high seas. This casual venue serves up all your homestyle favorites in a farmhouse-style venue alongside live country music and some tasty cocktails at the nearby bar. Thankfully, Royal Caribbean also offers drink packages so you can try out all the delicious drinks.

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Quantum Ultra Class

The Quantum Ultra Class is a sub-class of the previous Quantum Class. These ships offer many of the same features of their predecessors. They also have a few amenities of other recently amplified ships in the fleet and some new additions all of their own.

The first ship in the Quantum Ultra class to debut was Spectrum of the Seas. This nearly 170K gross ton ship was built specifically for the Chinese market and set sail in 2019. Spectrum of the Seas accommodates just under 4,300 guests.

Odyssey of the Seas is the second ship in this class. This ship’s debut was delayed until the fall of 2021 due to the impacts of the pandemic.

Odyssey of the Seas features two familiar favorites from the Quantum Class ships, the RipCord by iFLY sky diving simulator and the North Star aerial gondola. Thrill-seekers will be happy to know that Odyssey also has the Sky Pad which debuted on the amplified Mariner of the Seas.

Additionally, this ship is home to the SeaPlex, a revolutionary indoor space with bumper cars and roller skating.

Odyssey of the Seas features a multi-level resort style pool deck with two pools, plenty of comfy lounge furniture, and the popular Lime and Coconut Bar. Further, two signature Quantum Class entertainment venues Two70 and the Music Hall are found on Odyssey.

In addition to some of the Royal Caribbean dining staples, Odyssey of the Seas features a brand-new Teppanyaki restaurant and the re-imagined Giovanni’s Italian Kitchen. Not to mention, the ship debuts The Effectors, one of the best signature main theater shows at sea.

Quantum Class

Royal Caribbean’s Quantum Class of ships ushered in a new, innovative era of cruising when its flagship Quantum of the Seas debuted in 2014. Additional ships in this Royal Caribbean cruise ship class include Anthem of the Seas (2015) and Ovation of the Seas (2016).

The Quantum Class of ships is approximately 169K gross tons and accommodates just under 4,200 passengers. With many of the signature features located indoors, the Quantum Class is the perfect pick for cold weather cruises like Alaska.

Quantum of the Seas was the first ship in the fleet to debut several new features and amenities. One of these additions was the Bionic Bar. With specialty drinks ordered from an iPad, your cocktails come alive from two automated robots. Yes, that’s right, robotic bartenders!

As mentioned above, Quantum Class ships were the first to introduce the high flying feats, North Star and Ripcord by iFLY, as well as the interactive SeaPlex. These thrilling attractions did replace popular Royal Caribbean staples like the Studio B ice rink.

Though, they really gave the brand an edge against its competitors for families of all ages.

In terms of entertainment venues, Royal Caribbean hit a homerun with the addition of Two70 and the Music Hall. Two70 is a digitally enhanced venue with transformative HD vistarama screens and roboscreens that become part of the action during signature production shows.

Additionally, the Music Hall is a first of its kind concert venue at sea with tribute bands.

When it comes to dining, the Quantum Class did not disappoint either. Besides your traditional main dining rooms, this class of ships offers plenty of specialty dining options, including Wonderland. This Alice in Wonderland inspired restaurant features an eclectic menu and an out-of-this-world dining experience.

Freedom Class

Royal Caribbean’s Freedom Class of ships were the largest ships in the world when Freedom of the Seas debuted in 2006. At 156K gross tons, these ships carry just over 3,700 passengers. Additional ships in this Royal Caribbean cruise ship class include Liberty of the Seas (2007) and Independence of the Seas (2008). When considering Royal Caribbean ships by size, these ships are larger versions of the Voyager Class.

While not as large as the Oasis or Quantum Class of ships, the Freedom Class still features several family friendly activities. These ships are home to the Studio B ice rink, miniature golf, a rock-climbing wall, the signature Flowrider, Splashaway Bay for the little ones, and more.

In fact, this class was the first to feature the Flowrider surf simulator.

All three ships in this class have waterslides on the sports deck. Liberty of the Seas even features Tidal Wave, the first boomerang style slide at sea.

During its refurbishment in 2019, Independence of the Seas received laser tag, an escape room, and the Sky Pad. The Sky Pad is an outdoor bungee trampoline experience with virtual reality components. The ship also received some new restaurants including Playmakers, Izumi, and Fish & Ships.

Freedom of the Seas was the most recent ship in this class to undergo the Royal amplification process.

Freedom of the Seas received several new features including waterslides, a new Caribbean pool deck featuring the Lime and Coconut bar, laser tag, and an extensive update to the kids and teens areas. In terms of restaurants, Freedom is now home to Giovanni’s Italian Kitchen, Izumi Hibachi and Sushi, and the poolside El Loco Fresh.

Freedom of the Seas is now sailing short cruises from Miami and is definitely one of the best Bahamas cruises!

Voyager Class

Next up in terms of Royal Caribbean ships by size is the Voyager Class which debuted in 1999. At 138-140K gross tons, these ships carry 3,800-4,000 passengers. This Royal Caribbean cruise ship class includes Voyager of the Seas (1999), Explorer of the Seas (2000), Adventure of the Seas (2001), Navigator of the Seas (2002), and Mariner of the Seas (2003).

The Voyager Class was the first in the Royal Caribbean fleet to have a Royal Promenade and the Studio B ice rink. The ships also all include a rock-climbing wall, the Flowrider, miniature golf, and a sports court.

Quite a few ships in the Voyager Class have received updates including Voyager, Navigator, and Mariner. Unfortunately, Explorer’s and Adventure’s amplification were delayed due to the pandemic. While Explorer did not receive a full update, the ship did get the Perfect Storm waterslides during a recent dry dock in 2023.

Voyager of the Seas received her amplification in 2019. During this process, the ship received the Perfect Storm waterslides, laser tag, and additional staterooms.

Navigator of the Seas received a bit more of an extensive makeover in 2019 as well. New additions include a Caribbean pool deck, the Lime and Coconut Bar, and waterslides on the outdoor decks. The ship also received a number of new bars and restaurants. These additions include Playmakers Sports Bar, the Bamboo Room, Hooked Seafood specialty restaurant, Jamie’s Italian specialty restaurant, and Starbucks.

Finally, Mariner of the Seas received her amplification in 2018. The most notable additions were the Perfect Storm waterslides and the Sky Pad trampoline experience. The ship also received a new laser tag and escape room, as well as some new bars and restaurants.

Our favorites include the Bamboo Room and Playmakers.

Mariner of the Seas offers cruises of varying lengths from Florida visiting Perfect Day at CocoCay, while Navigator of the Seas is now sailing from LA to the Mexican Riviera.

Radiance Class

Royal Caribbean’s Radiance Class of ships debuted in 2001. At 90K gross tons, these ships are much smaller than the other mega-ships in the cruise line’s fleet. These ships carry just over 2,100 passengers.

Ships in this Royal Caribbean class include Radiance of the Seas (2001), Brilliance of the Seas (2002), Serenade of the Seas (2003), and Jewel of the Seas (2004).

A defining feature of the Radiance Class of ships is the amount of glass and outward facing views. This makes Radiance of the Seas a top choice year after year for Alaska cruises.

Being much smaller in size, these ships can also visit more unique destinations that can’t accommodate some of the newer mega-ships. The Radiance Class also shifts in design from the large indoor Royal Promenade to a more intimate Centrum.

Radiance Class ships might not have all the bells and whistles of the larger ships, but they still offer plenty of dining options, amenities, and entertainment.

Royal Caribbean’s signature specialty restaurants Chops Grille, Izumi, and Giovanni’s Table can be found on these ships, In addition, there is also the main dining room and other casual eateries like the Windjammer buffet.

You will also be able to enjoy signature Royal Caribbean bars like the Schooner Bar and nightly entertainment in the main theater. In addition, these ships feature pools, whirlpools, a solarium, miniature golf, a rock-climbing wall, a sports court, self-leveling pool tables, and Adventure Ocean kids areas.

Vision Class

The Vision Class is now the oldest of the Royal Caribbean cruise ship classes. In terms of Royal Caribbean ships by size, they are also the smallest ships in the fleet. The Vision Class consisted of three pairs of sister ships, each with somewhat different size and design.

Legend of the Seas and Splendour of the Seas were sold in 2017 and 2016 respectively; however, Grandeur of the Seas (1996), Enchantment of the Seas (1997), Rhapsody of the Seas (1997), and Vision of the Seas (1998) are still part of the Royal Caribbean fleet.

Further, unlike other Royal Caribbean ship classes, the Vision Class is not named for the first ship built but rather the last.

Vision Class ships are also known for having lots of glass and ocean views. Grandeur of the Seas and Enchantment of the Seas were originally around 73K gross tons. Though, Enchantment was lengthened by 73 feet in 2005 making it over 82K gross tons. Rhapsody and Vision are slightly under 79K gross tons. This class carries 2,000-2,250 passengers.

Again, the smaller size makes these ships ideal for visiting more unique ports of call.

While these ships were all revitalized within the past ten years, they do not feature the latest and greatest amenities of modern day cruise ships. Still, you will find a rock-climbing wall, the adults Solarium, mini golf, and an outdoor movie screen. These ships also have a main theater with nightly entertainment, a main dining room, the Windjammer buffet, and at least one specialty restaurant.

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