Royal Caribbean Ship Classes Comparison 2024 by Size & Age

Royal Caribbean Cruise Line has 28 cruise ships each with its own unique amenities and experiences. With so many ships to choose from, finding the right one might seem overwhelming. But don’t worry, Royal Caribbean has grouped its ships into different classes to make it easier for you to pick based on what you like.

By learning about each Royal Caribbean ship class, you can create your perfect cruise whether you prefer relaxing by the pool or trying adventurous activities like zip-lining.

Let’s explore the various Royal Caribbean Ship Classes to help you find your ideal floating paradise.  

Royal Caribbean Ships by Class 2024

Royal Caribbean has 8 classes that include: 

• Icon Class 
• Oasis Class 
• Quantum Ultra Class 
• Quantum Class 
• Freedom Class 
• Radiance Class 
• Voyager Class 
• Vision Class  

When choosing the best Royal Caribbean ship, the age of the ship doesn’t always show its quality. Newer ships like those in the Icon and Quantum Ultra classes have modern amenities and advanced technology. Older ships like those in the Voyager and Vision classes have classic designs and cozy atmospheres.  

Each class has unique features for different preferences. The Oasis class is big with lots of entertainment, while the Radiance class is more relaxed with great views and natural light. Choosing the best Royal Caribbean Class Ships depends on what you like and want during your cruise. 

Royal Caribbean Ship Classes by Age 

This table show the different Royal Caribbean ship Classes by age: 

Class	Ships Launched Between
Icon	2024 and 2026
Oasis	2009 and 2028
Quantum Ultra	2019 and 2021
Quantum	2014 and 2016
Freedom	2006 and 2008
Radiance	2001 and 2004
Voyager	1999 and 2003
Vision	1996 and 1998

Royal Caribbean Ship Classes by Size 

Royal Caribbean ship classes vary significantly in size, with the largest classes dwarfing the smaller ones. Icon Class ships are about three times larger than Vision Class ships in terms of Size (Gross Tonnage). The Icon Class ships, like Icon of the Seas, have a gross tonnage of about 250,800 GT, while Vision Class ships are around 78,000 GT.

This massive difference in size allows Icon Class ships to offer more amenities, larger public spaces, and a greater variety of cabin options. They can also accommodate significantly more passengers – over 6,000 compared to the Vision Class capacity of around 2,400 guests. 

Here is the Royal Caribbean Ship Classes Comparison by size 

Class	Average Gross Tonnage
Icon	250,800 GT
Oasis	229,000 GT
Quantum Ultra	169,000 GT
Quantum	169,000 GT
Freedom	155,000 GT
Voyager	138,500 GT
Radiance	90,000 GT
Vision	78,000 GT

Royal Caribbean Ship Classes Chart (Amenities Comparison) 

Here’s a brief comparison of amenities across different Royal Caribbean Ship Classes to help you decide which Royal Caribbean Ship Class is best for you: 

Amenities	Icon Class	Oasis Class	Quantum Class	Quantum Ultra Class	Freedom Class	Radiance Class	Voyager Class	Vision Class
Arcades	✓	✓	✓	✓	✓	✓	✓	✓
Adults-Only Solarium	✓	✓	✓	✓	✓	✓	✓	✓
Adventure Ocean Kids Club	✓	✓	✓	✓	✓	✓	✓	✓
Spa	✓	✓	✓	✓	✓	✓	✓	✓
Casino	✓	✓	✓	✓	✓	✓	✓	✓
Pools & Whirlpools	✓	✓	✓	✓	✓	✓	✓	✓
Rock Climbing Wall	✓	✓	✓	✓	✓	✓	✓	✓
FlowRider	✓	✓	✓	✓	✓	✗	✓	✗
Central Park	✓	✓	✗	✗	✗	✗	✗	✗
Aquatheater	✓	✓	✗	✗	✗	✗	✗	✗
Baby Splash Zone	✓	✓	✓	✓	✓	✗	✗	✗
Bionic Bar	TBC	✓ except Allure	✓	✓	✗	✗	✗	✗
Bumper Cars	✗	✗	✓	✓	✗	✗	✗	✗
Carousel	✓	✓	✗	✗	✗	✗	✗	✗
Ice Skating	✓	✓	✗	✗	✓	✗	✓	✗
iFLY Skydiving	✗	✗	✓	✓	✗	✗	✗	✗
Indoor Pool	✗	✗	✓	✓	✗	✗	✗	✗
North Star Observation Pod	✗	✗	✓	✓	✗	✗	✗	✗
Zip Line	✗	✓	✗	✗	✗	✗	✗	✗
Pool Tables	✗	✗	✗	✗	✗	✓	✗	✗
Roller Skating	✗	✗	✓	✓	✗	✗	✗	✗
Sky Pad Virtual Reality Trampolines	✗	✗	✗	✓	✓ Independence only	✗	✓ Mariner only	✗
Ultimate Abyss Dry Slide	✗	✓ except Allure	✗	✗	✗	✗	✗	✗
Water Slides	✓	✓ except Allure	✗	✗	✓	Only for kids	✓ except Explorer	✗
Wonderland Restaurant	TBC	✓ except Allure & Oasis	✓	✓	✗	✗	✗	✗

Royal Caribbean Icon Class

Icon Class Ships are given below: 

The Icon Class is Royal Caribbean’s newest and most innovative class of ships.  

• Icon of the Seas (Launched in 2024) 
• Star of the Seas (Yet to be launched in 2025) 
• Unnamed Ship (Yet to be launched in 2026) 

Only Icon of the Seas in Icon Class is currently sailing, but Star of the Seas, is available for booking. Its first trip is on 17 Aug 2025. 

Size and Capacity 

• Gross Tonnage: 250,800 GT 
• Passenger Capacity: 5,610 (double occupancy), up to 7,600 at maximum capacity 
• Crew Capacity: 2,350 

Amenities & Entertainment 

The Icon class ship Icon of the Seas is the biggest cruise ship in the world. Icon of the Seas started sailing in January 2024 from Miami. Royal Caribbean Icon of the Seas is 6% bigger than Royal Caribbean Oasis Class ships. Icon of the Seas is the first ship in the fleet to be powered by LNG, making it an eco-friendly cruise ship.  

Icon of the Seas has many dining options, including specialty restaurants and free choices. There are over 20 dining venues, like Empire Supper Club and Izumi in the Park. For entertainment, there are AquaTheater shows in the AquaDome, ice skating shows in Absolute Zero, and Royal Theater productions.  

Icon of the Seas has 28 stateroom options, including new family friendly suites like the Ultimate Family Townhouse with a slide and private cinema and inside staterooms.   

The ships have advanced technology for sustainability, fast internet, and a mobile app for guests. There are also sports and activities like the FlowRider surf simulator, rock climbing walls, and a mini-golf course. Wellness options include the Vitality Spa, a modern fitness center, and a jogging track. 

The Icon of the ship is divided into 8 neighborhoods, including 3 neighborhoods like Central Park, Royal Promenade and Suite Neighborhood are common with Oasis Class ships, along with 5 new ones that include AquaDome, Chill Island, Surfside, Thrill Island, The Hideaway. 

Neighborhoods 

Icon Class ship Icon of the Seas has 8 neighborhoods: 

AquaDome 

• A transformative space with a 55-foot waterfall, AquaTheater and lounge space 

Thrill Island Features 

• Category 6 water park with 6 record-breaking slides 
• Crown’s Edge, part skywalk, part ropes course, part thrill ride 
• FlowRider surf simulator and rock-climbing walls, 

Chill Island Features 

•  Seven pools, including the largest pool at sea 

Surfside Features 

• Dedicated family neighborhood with a pool and kid-friendly dining venues 
• Water’s Edge pool with splash area for kids 

Royal Promenade 

• It includes indoor bars, restaurants, lounges and food stalls. 

Central Park 

• It is an open-air neighborhood with live plants and al fresco dining 

The Hideaway 

• It is located at the back of the ship. It looks like a beach resort with a large infinity pool, bar, whirlpools, and seating areas. This area is more suitable for adults rather than families with children. 

Suite Neighborhood 

• The top decks of the ship, decks 16 to 19, form the last neighborhood. These decks have suites and some cheaper cabins. There are outdoor lounges, small pools, hot tubs, and two special restaurants and bars for suite guests. 

Royal Caribbean Oasis Class

Oasis Class Ships are given below: 

• Oasis of the Seas (Launched in 2009)  
• Allure of the Seas (Launched in 2010)  
• Harmony of the Seas (Launched in 2016)  
• Symphony of the Seas (Launched in 2018)   
• Wonder of the Seas (Launched in 2022)  
• Utopia of the Seas (Yet to be launched on 19 July 2024)   
• Oasis 7 (Yet to be launched in 2028) 

Size and Capacity 

• Gross Tonnage: Gross Tonnage Size of Oasis Class Ships range from 225,282 to 236,860 GT 
• Passenger Capacity: Over 6500 
• Crew Capacity: Around 2,200  

Amenities & Entertainment 

There are currently five ships sailing in Oasis class (Oasis of the Seas, Allure of the Seas, Harmony of the Seas, Symphony of the Seas, and Wonder of the Seas). Royal Caribbean Utopia of the Seas is set to debut in July 2024. It is being built at the same shipyard at which Wonder of the Seas was Built.

Here you can read Wonder of the Seas size comparison.

The Royal Caribbean Oasis class ships were the largest in the world until the Icon of the Seas arrival. Oasis Class Ships sail to the Bahamas and Caribbean, with some ships going to the Mediterranean. 

Oasis of the Seas, Allure of the Seas, Harmony of the Seas, Symphony of the Seas ships feature 7 neighborhoods, while Wonder of the Seas and Utopia of the Seas has 8 neighborhoods.

The 7 neighborhoods like Royal Promenade, Boardwalk, Central Park, Pools & Sports Zone, Entertainment Place, Youth Zone, Vitality Spa & Fitness are common on all Oasis Class ships, except The Suite Neighborhood is available only on Wonder of the Seas and Utopia of the Seas.  

These ships have three main pool areas, a kids splash zone, surfing simulators, a basketball court, a mini-golf course, and a zip line. Inside the ships, there are many lounges, bars, restaurants, shops, casinos, spas, and showrooms. Each ship also has an indoor ice-skating rink.

There are various dining options, both complimentary and specialty ones for an extra fee.  

Accommodations offer different stateroom categories like interior, ocean view, balcony, and suites. Some unique options include Virtual Balcony rooms and Loft Suites. The guests can enjoy Suite Perks like butler service and free drinks and dining.  

Some ships in the series have extra attractions like giant waterslides and the 10-story Ultimate Abyss slide. The newest and largest ship in the series, Wonder of the Seas has unique features like a dedicated suite area with a private lounge, restaurant, and sun deck.  There are plenty of activities on board, so everyone can do what they like.  

Royal Caribbean Quantum & Quantum Ultra Class

Quantum and Ultra Quantum Class Ships are given below: 

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

Size and Capacity 

• Gross Tonnage: 168,666 to 169,379 GT  
• Passenger Capacity: Over 4200 
• Crew Capacity: over 1,500 

Amenities & Entertainment 

There are 3 ships in the Quantum class; Quantum of the Seas, Ovation of the Seas, Anthem of the Seas, and 2 in the Quantum Ultra class that include Spectrum of the Seas and Odyssey of the Seas. The difference between Quantum Class and Quantum Ultra Class is not much. 

One key difference between the Quantum Class ships and other Royal Caribbean ships is that the Quantum Class ships have more indoor attractions, making them suitable for sailing in cooler regions like Alaska, Australia, and Northern Europe. They also offer cruises in a variety of destinations, including China.  

Quantum Class ships have unique features that families love. Quantum Class ships are popular with people of all ages. They have something for everyone, whether you are new to cruising or a seasoned traveler.

Quantum Class ships offer unique attractions like bumper car pavilions, roller skating, RipCord by iFLY, Seaplex, laser tag, skydiving simulators, whirlpools and North Star, a glass capsule that lifts passengers above the sea for 360-degree views.  

Quantum Class ships also have traditional Royal Caribbean amenities like pools, rock climbing walls, Outdoor Movie Screen, Adults-only Solarium pool area. and Broadway-style shows.

But they do not have ice skating rinks or water parks like other Royal Caribbean ships. Quantum Ultra-class ships have Sky Pad virtual reality trampolines, and the indoor pool has a retractable roof for sunny days.  

There are specialty restaurants, a la carte eateries, and free dining options on board. The bars and lounges include unique entertainment venues like the Music Hall and Two70 with moving robotic screens. 

Royal Caribbean Freedom Class

Freedom Class Ships Include 

• Freedom of the Seas (Launched in 2006) 
• Liberty of the Seas (Launched in 2007)  
• Independence of the Seas (Launched in 2008) 

Size and Capacity 

• Gross Tonnage: 154,407 to 156,271 GT 
• Passenger Capacity: Over 4350 
• Crew Capacity: Around 1365  

Amenities & Entertainment 

There are three ships in Freedom Class (Freedom of the Seas, Liberty of the Seas, and Independence of the Seas). They were launched between 2006 and 2008 and have been refurbished recently.

Recent refurbishments have added The Perfect Storm water slides, Escape rooms, Laser tag, updated dining venues, and refreshed public spaces and staterooms. The Freedom Class ships are smaller than the Quantum Class ships. 

Complimentary Dining options on these Class ships include the Main Dining Room, Windjammer Café, Café Promenade, and specialty restaurants like Giovanni’s Table, Izumi, Johnny Rockets, and Fish & Ships.

There are various bars and lounges on the ships, such as Boleros, Schooner Bar, Pool bars, and Playmakers Sports Bar & Arcade. You can also check Royal Caribbean Main Dining Room Menus.

Entertainment options include the Royal Theater for production shows, Studio B for ice skating shows, Casino Royale, and events on the Royal Promenade. Independence of the Seas also features SkyPad trampolines.

These ships were the first to have the FlowRider surf simulator. Other activities on board include rock climbing wall, mini-golf course, sports court, ice skating rink.  

There are multiple pools and hot tubs in the main pool area for relaxation, an adults-only Solarium, and a kids’ water park called Splashaway Bay. They do not have some of the over-the-top attractions like zip lines.  

Wellness facilities include the Vitality Spa and a fitness center with classes and equipment. Kids and teens have their own programs like Adventure Ocean and teen spaces.

Accommodation options range from interior staterooms to balcony staterooms and various suite categories, including the Royal Suite Class on some ships.  

The ships offer itineraries to the Caribbean, Bahamas, and Europe. They usually offer 3 or 4-night cruises from Miami or 7-night cruises from Galveston.  

You can also read about Freedom of the Seas vs Liberty of the Seas.

Royal Caribbean Radiance Class

Radiance Class Ships are given below: 

• Radiance of the Seas (Launched in 2001) 
• Brilliance of the Seas (Launched in 2002) 
• Serenade of the Seas (Launched in 2003)  
• Jewel of the Seas (Launched in 2004) 

Size and Capacity 

• Gross Tonnage: 90,090 GT 
• Passenger Capacity: Over 2450 
• Crew Capacity: Over 830 

Amenities & Entertainment 

There are four ships in Radiance class (Radiance of the Seas, Brilliance of the Seas, Serenade of the Seas, and Jewel of the Seas). Radiance Class Ships are smaller than Royal Caribbean’s massive Icon Class ships and Oasis Class ships, but still offer plenty of features.

Radiance Class Shipshave glass elevators and big glass windows in many public areas, so passengers can enjoy ocean views from many places. These ships are best for cruisers looking for a smaller, more relaxed experience with some classic cruise entertainment.  

There are different dining options like the Main Dining Room, Windjammer Café, Park Café, and specialty restaurants like Chops Grille, Giovanni’s Table, Izumi, and Chef’s Table.

There are bars and lounges like the Schooner Bar, R Bar, Viking Crown Lounge, Champagne Bar, and pool bars. Entertainment includes a main theater, casino, cinema, and live music venues.  

Activities on board include a rock-climbing wall, mini-golf course, basketball court, jogging track, video game arcade, pools and an adults-only solarium. But they don’t have all the fancy attractions like ice skating rinks and waterslides that larger ships have.  

There is a spa, fitness center, and programs for kids and teens. Accommodations include interior staterooms, ocean view rooms, balcony staterooms, and different suite options with perks.

These ships can visit smaller cruise ports, offering unique trips to the Panama Canal, Europe, Alaska, the Eastern Mediterranean, and Australia. 

Royal Caribbean Voyager Class

Voyager Clas Ships are given below: 

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

Size and Capacity 

• Gross Tonnage: 137,276 to 139,999 GT 
• Passenger Capacity: Over 4000 
• Crew Capacity: Over 1000 

Amenities & Entertainment 

Voyager Class ships are 20 years old and still offer a lot of fun activities. They are launched between 1999 and 2003 and three of the five Voyager class ships (Voyager of the Seas, Navigator of the Seas, and Mariner of the Seas) have been updated with more entertainment, activities, and dining options.

The Voyager Class ships are about 11% smaller than the Freedom Class ships. These ships were the first to have indoor shopping and dining on the Royal Promenade, rock-climbing walls and ice-skating rinks. 

The specific activities available vary by ship, so it’s best to check to see what each ship offers. For example, Navigator of the Seas has a larger pool deck with a bigger waterslide called The Blaster.

The other ships have different waterslides. Only three ships (Navigator of the Seas, Mariner of the Seas, and Voyager of the Seas) have laser tag. 

Mariner of the Seas also offers the SkyPad virtual reality bungee trampoline. Adventure of the Seas is the only ship with a kids splash zone. Other activities on these ships include multiple pools, whirlpools, an ice-skating rink, rock climbing wall, and mini golf. 

Voyager class ships also have dining options such as Chops Grille, Izumi, and an Italian restaurant, with some ships featuring Johnny Rockets. Mariner of the Seas has the Playmakers Sports Bar & Arcade. 

The ships offer itineraries to the Caribbean, Alaska, Europe, Asia, and Australia, with Voyager of the Seas focusing on Asia and Australia voyages. Voyager Class is a good choice for families looking for lots to do onboard, new features, and affordable prices. 

Royal Caribbean Vision Class

Vision Class Ships are given below:

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

 Size and Capacity 

• Gross Tonnage: 73,817 to 82,910 GT  
• Passenger Capacity: Over 2400 
• Crew Capacity: Over 740 

Amenities & Entertainment 

Royal Caribbean Vision Class ships are the smallest and have fewer attractions than other ships in the fleets. Despite being built in the 1990s, these ships are well-maintained and updated. They are designed with glass exteriors to offer great views.

Vision Class ships are popular with people who prefer a more intimate cruise experience and care more about the destinations they visit than the onboard activities.  

Dining options on board include the Main Dining Room, Windjammer Café, Park Café, and specialty restaurants like Chops Grille, Giovanni’s Table, and Izumi. Various bars and lounges, entertainment venues, and activities such as a rock-climbing wall, mini-golf course, and sports court are available for guests. 

There are pools, relaxation areas like the Solarium, and a spa and fitness center for guests to enjoy. Kids and teens have their own programs, and they also have the Adventure Ocean kids club to entertain children, making them a good choice for families and couples.

Enchantment of the Seas also has a bungee trampoline. Accommodations range from interior staterooms to balcony staterooms and suites. 

Unique features include the Centrum atrium, extensive ocean views, and a more intimate atmosphere compared to larger ships.  

They mostly sail in the Mediterranean, Alaska, New England, and Canada. Grandeur of the Seas mainly sails in the Caribbean. Sometimes trips are based in smaller ports like Baltimore or San Juan, Puerto Rico. 

FAQs – Royal Caribbean Ship Classes 2024