Royal Caribbean Ships Ranked: Best and Worst Revealed by Cruisers

Picking the perfect Royal Caribbean ship can feel like a big decision—each one has its own vibe, features, and quirks. Whether you’re chasing adventure, luxury, or family fun, we’ve got you covered with a detailed breakdown of the entire fleet. From the brand-new Icon of the Seas to tried-and-true classics like Oasis of the Seas, this guide dives into what cruisers really love (and what might need a little tweaking).

Whether you’re planning your next getaway or just dreaming of the ocean, you’ll find everything you need right here. Let’s set sail!

Let’s explore Royal Caribbean’s impressive fleet, starting with the top-rated ships that have dazzled cruisers and working our way down to those that might need a bit more sparkle.

How the Data Was Collected

I analyzed over 600 comments from Royal Caribbean cruisers across forums, social media, and review platforms to create these rankings. By focusing on patterns in feedback—like excellent dining, top-notch service, or issues such as overcrowded areas and embarkation delays—I developed a scoring system that weights both positive and negative sentiment. The goal is to give you rankings you can trust, backed by real-world experiences and insights from the cruising community.

1. Icon of the Seas

Icon of the Seas Front View
Photo from Royal Caribbean Press Center

Class: Icon
Launched: 2024
Capacity: 7,600 passengers
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (4.8/5)

Icon of the Seas is a game-changer for Royal Caribbean, featuring jaw-dropping features with plenty of fun for every kind of cruiser. Start with the AquaDome—a futuristic glass-covered space where you’ll find panoramic ocean views during the day and dazzling live shows at night. Feeling adventurous? The Category 6 Waterpark is packed with slides that’ll have your heart racing, while the Surfside neighborhood is a win for families looking for a mix of fun and relaxation.

And let’s not forget the nightlife. Whether you’re into laid-back cocktail lounges or high-energy clubs, Icon has you covered. This ship isn’t just big—it’s designed to impress at every turn.

Common Praises:

  • Cruisers love the Surfside zone, with one reviewer calling it “the ultimate escape for kids and parents alike.”
  • Foodies rave about the variety on Icon of the Seas—from the sizzling steaks at Chops Grille to the playful shakes and burgers at Johnny Rockets. For a more adventurous meal, try Izumi’s sushi rolls and teppanyaki.

Common Critiques:

  • With its massive size, some areas of Icon of the Seas—like the pool deck—can get busy on sea days. Arrive early to snag the best spots.
  • One cruiser shared, “It’s an incredible floating city, but you’ll need a few days to find your way around.”

Highlights:

  • AquaDome
  • Category 6 Waterpark
  • Surfside family neighborhood

2. Utopia of the Seas

Utopia of the Seas
Photo from Royal Caribbean Press Center

Class: Oasis
Launched: July 19, 2024
Capacity: Approximately 5,668 passengers
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (4.8/5)

Royal Caribbean’s newest addition to the Oasis class, Utopia of the Seas, is earning positive attention. It is the fleet’s second vessel to operate using liquefied natural gas (LNG), which is an eco-friendly fuel source. But don’t let the eco-friendly label fool you—this ship is all about fun.

Catch an acrobatic show at the AquaTheater, zip down the Ultimate Abyss, or unwind with a cocktail at one of the ship’s many lounges. Foodies will be spoiled for choice, too, with over 20 restaurants serving everything from casual comfort food to high-end culinary creations. Whether you’re traveling with family or looking for a romantic escape, Utopia delivers an unforgettable experience.

Common Praises:

  • Diverse Entertainment: Cruisers often praise the variety of entertainment, from high-energy shows in the AquaTheater to interactive performances throughout the ship. One guest remarked, “The Aqua80 show was a masterpiece, combining acrobatics and music flawlessly.”
  • Exceptional Dining: With over 20 restaurants, including unique experiences like the Royal Railway immersive dining, passengers are spoiled for choice. Cruisers describe the dining options as “a culinary journey that exceeded all expectations.”

Common Critiques:

  • Sheer Size: The ship’s vast size can be daunting for first-time cruisers, with some reporting challenges navigating between neighborhoods. As one passenger shared, “It’s a floating city—amazing but overwhelming at first.”
  • Activity Demand: High-demand attractions, such as the FlowRider and zip line, often require careful planning to avoid long wait times.

Highlights:

  • The Ultimate Abyss: This thrilling dry slide, stretching 259 ft. (79 m), offers an adrenaline-pumping descent from the upper decks to the Boardwalk neighborhood.
  • Perfect Day at CocoCay: Many itineraries include stops at Royal Caribbean’s private island, featuring the new adults-only Hideaway Beach and water attractions perfect for all ages.

Utopia of the Seas is designed to offer something for everyone, from families looking for adventure to couples seeking luxury and relaxation. Its cutting-edge features and great service make it a standout in the Royal Caribbean fleet.

3. Symphony of the Seas

Symphony of the Seas
Photo from Royal Caribbean Press Center

Class: Oasis
Launched: 2017
Capacity: 6,680 passengers
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (4.7/5)

Looking for a cruise that balances excitement with elegance? Symphony of the Seas might be your best choice. As one of Royal Caribbean’s largest ships, it’s packed with features like the Ultimate Abyss slide and Central Park’s lush gardens. The ship is designed for cruisers of all ages, offering everything from FlowRider surf simulators to Broadway-caliber shows.

Common Praises:

  • Cruisers can’t stop talking about the AquaTheater’s high-energy performances, complete with jaw-dropping stunts and live music.
  • Dining options, such as Jamie’s Italian and Wonderland, earn glowing reviews.

Common Critiques:

  • Crowding at the buffet during peak hours is a recurring theme.
  • Some cruisers note that its size can be overwhelming for first-time cruisers.

Highlights:

  • AquaTheater
  • Central Park
  • Ultimate Abyss

4. Wonder of the Seas

Wonder of the Seas Exterior
Photo from Royal Caribbean Press Center

Class: Oasis
Launched: 2022
Capacity: 6,988 passengers
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (4.6/5)

Wonder of the Seas stands out in the cruise world by combining luxury, entertainment, and variety. As an Oasis-class ship, it suits every traveler, whether you’re into exciting activities, delicious meals, or simply enjoying the sunshine. Its vibrant sections, modern amenities, and superb dining make sure everyone has a great time.

Common Praises:

  • Suite Neighborhood Excellence: Suite cruisers rave about the private retreat, complete with exclusive dining, a dedicated pool, and next-level service. One guest described it as “a slice of paradise within a bustling ship.”
  • Unforgettable Dining: From tender steaks at Chops Grille to playful meals at Johnny Rockets, the dining experiences tend to exceed expectations. Izumi’s sushi is a favorite for those craving something fresh and flavorful.
  • Family-Friendly Thrills: Cruisers love the variety of activities, from the Perfect Storm water slides to the Boardwalk’s carousel. “Our kids never ran out of things to do,” one parent shared.

Common Critiques:

  • It’s Big (Really Big): While the size is exciting, some travelers find navigating the ship overwhelming, especially on the first day.
  • Crowded Attractions: Popular spots like the zip-line and water slides can get busy, so plan your day wisely or visit during quieter times.

Highlights:

  • Suite Neighborhood
  • Specialty dining options
  • Vibrant nightlife

5. Harmony of the Seas

Harmony of the Seas
Photo from Royal Caribbean Press Center

Class: Oasis
Launched: 2015
Capacity: 6,687 passengers
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (4.5/5)

Harmony of the Seas is all about adventure and relaxation. The ship’s Solarium is a favorite for those seeking tranquility, while thrill-seekers flock to the FlowRider and zip-line. The Bionic Bar, with its robot bartenders, brings a bit of futuristic fun to the cruise.

Common Praises:

  • The Solarium is described as “an oasis of calm amidst the action.”
  • Families appreciate the wide range of activities.

Common Critiques:

  • Crowds at popular venues like bars and the Windjammer buffet are a frequent complaint.
  • Show reservations can be challenging to secure.

Highlights:

  • Solarium
  • FlowRider
  • Bionic Bar

6. Oasis of the Seas

Oasis of the Seas Exterior
Photo from Royal Caribbean Press Center

Class: Oasis
Launched: 2009
Capacity: 6,780 passengers
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ (4.3/5)

Oasis of the Seas, the ship that set new standards in cruising, keeps impressing travelers. Its 2019 Amplification added features like water slides, enhanced dining venues, and the ever-popular Playmakers Sports Bar. Central Park and the Boardwalk remain highlights for cruisers seeking a mix of serenity and fun.

Common Praises:

  • Cruisers adore the entertainment options and family-friendly atmosphere.
  • One cruiser shared, “Adventure Ocean was a hit with our kids, and the shows were top-notch.”

Common Critiques:

  • Crowding during peak hours, especially in public areas, can be frustrating.
  • Some cruisers note the ship shows its age despite the updates.

Highlights:

  • Central Park
  • Zip-line
  • Playmakers Sports Bar

7. Allure of the Seas

Allure of the Seas
Photo from Royal Caribbean Press Center

Class: Oasis
Launched: 2010
Capacity: 6,780 passengers
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ (4.4/5)

For more than ten years, Allure of the Seas has delighted passengers with its vibrant vibe and top-notch entertainment. The ship provides excitement and calm, featuring lively spots like the Boardwalk and peaceful areas like Central Park.

Common Praises:

  • Cruisers love the high-energy entertainment. One cruiser raved, “Watching Mamma Mia on board was an unforgettable experience!”
  • The variety of dining options, including Giovanni’s Table and Samba Grill, consistently impresses foodies.

Common Critiques:

  • Some staterooms show their age, despite the Amplification updates.
  • Embarkation at certain ports can feel chaotic, according to several cruisers.

Highlights:

  • Broadway shows (Mamma Mia)
  • Amplified dining and bar options
  • Spacious layout

8. Odyssey of the Seas

Odyssey of the Seas
Photo from Royal Caribbean Press Center

Class: Quantum Ultra
Launched: 2021
Capacity: 4,198 passengers
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ (4.3/5)

Odyssey of the Seas brings a modern twist to cruising with its Quantum Ultra-class features. The ship includes standout amenities like the SeaPlex with bumper cars and virtual reality games, as well as Two70, a high-tech entertainment venue offering immersive shows. This ship is perfect for tech-savvy cruisers and families looking for cutting-edge experiences.

Common Praises: Cruisers frequently praise the SeaPlex as a hub of family fun, with one guest noting, “Our kids couldn’t get enough of the bumper cars!” The ship’s sleek design and variety of activities make it a favorite for families and multi-generational groups.

Common Critiques: Some cruisers felt the dining options were repetitive and found crowding in popular venues like the SeaPlex frustrating during peak times.

Highlights: SeaPlex, Two70 venue, modern amenities.

9. Quantum of the Seas

Quantum of the Seas
Photo from Royal Caribbean Press Center

Class: Quantum
Launched: 2014
Capacity: 4,180 passengers
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ (4.2/5)

As the first Quantum-class ship, Quantum of the Seas set the stage for innovative cruising. Signature attractions include the North Star observation pod and the RipCord by iFLY skydiving simulator. Its combination of smart technology and luxurious amenities makes for a memorable cruise for everyone.

Common Praises: Cruisers love the variety of onboard activities and the unique features. One cruiser mentioned, “The North Star provided stunning views, and the crew went above and beyond to make it special.”

Common Critiques: Some passengers noted that the ship’s layout can be confusing at first, and dining reservations were difficult to secure during peak times.

Highlights: North Star pod, RipCord by iFLY, modern entertainment options.

10. Freedom of the Seas

Freedom of the Seas
Photo from Royal Caribbean Press Center

Class: Freedom
Launched: 2006
Capacity: 4,515 passengers
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ (4.2/5)

Freedom of the Seas is a popular mid-sized ship offering something for everyone. Following its Royal Amplification in 2020, the ship now features the Perfect Storm water slides, a reimagined pool deck, and updated dining venues. Families especially enjoy the relaxed vibe and manageable size, making it an ideal choice for first-time cruisers.

Common Praises:

  • The FlowRider surf simulator and new water slides are major hits with families.
  • Many cruisers compliment the friendly crew, with one saying, “The staff treated us like family from start to finish!”

Common Critiques:

  • Some diners feel the buffet options don’t match the variety on newer ships.
  • Poolside events often get crowded.

Highlights:

  • Perfect Storm water slides
  • Reimagined pool deck
  • Family-friendly activities

11. Voyager of the Seas

Voyager of the Seas
Photo from Royal Caribbean Press Center

Class: Voyager
Launched: 1999
Capacity: 3,840 passengers
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ (4.1/5)

Voyager of the Seas offers a classic cruising experience with modern upgrades from its Royal Amplification. Highlights include the Perfect Storm water slides and a refreshed pool deck. Its mid-size appeal makes it a versatile option for families and seasoned cruisers alike.

Common Praises: Cruisers appreciate the range of activities and the friendly atmosphere. One comment noted, “Voyager has just the right mix of energy and relaxation.”

Common Critiques: Some felt the staterooms were dated compared to newer ships, and others noted limited specialty dining options.

Highlights: Perfect Storm slides, ice skating rink, family-friendly vibe.

12. Ovation of the Seas

Ovation of the Seas
Photo from Royal Caribbean Press Center

Class: Quantum
Launched: 2016
Capacity: 4,180 passengers
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ (4.0/5)

Ovation of the Seas is designed for scenic cruising, making it a favorite for Alaska and Australia itineraries. Its Quantum-class features include the North Star observation pod and Two70, providing stunning views and innovative entertainment.

Common Praises: Cruisers love the panoramic vistas and unique itineraries. One guest commented, “The Alaskan glaciers viewed from the North Star were unforgettable.”

Common Critiques: Dining variety and crowding at peak times in popular venues were noted as areas for improvement.

Highlights: Scenic itineraries, North Star pod, Two70 venue.

13. Anthem of the Seas

Anthem of the Seas
Photo from Royal Caribbean Press Center

Class: Quantum
Launched: 2015
Capacity: 4,180 passengers
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ (3.9/5)

Anthem of the Seas is a tech-forward ship offering innovative features like the North Star observation capsule, which lifts cruisers high above the ship for stunning panoramic views. The ship offers plenty of entertainment options, including the Two70 venue with robots, projection displays, and live shows. If you’re looking for a mix of modern style and adventure, Anthem is perfect for you.

Common Praises:

  • Cruisers often highlight the innovative design, with one stating, “The North Star was worth the wait and an unforgettable experience!”
  • The Two70 shows are a frequent favorite for their creativity and wow factor.

Common Critiques:

  • Some cruisers feel the layout can be confusing at first.
  • Dining in the main restaurant doesn’t always match the quality of specialty options.

Highlights:

  • North Star observation capsule
  • Two70 high-tech venue
  • Modern, sleek design

14. Enchantment of the Seas

Enchantment of the Seas
Photo by Craig Stanfill, Flickr

Class: Vision
Launched: 1997
Capacity: 2,446 passengers
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐☆ (3.9/5)

Enchantment of the Seas is a smaller ship known for its intimate atmosphere and laid-back vibe. With features like bungee trampolines and poolside movie screens, it’s a great option for short getaways or those who prefer a less crowded experience.

Common Praises: Cruisers often compliment the attentive staff and relaxed pace. One guest wrote, “It’s not the biggest ship, but it has a lot of heart.”

Common Critiques: Some cruisers felt the age of the ship showed in its decor, and a few mentioned limited dining and entertainment options compared to larger vessels.

Highlights: Intimate vibe, bungee trampolines, friendly service.

15. Mariner of the Seas

Mariner of the Seas
Photo from Royal Caribbean Press Center

Class: Voyager
Launched: 2003
Capacity: 4,000 passengers
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ (3.8/5)

Mariner of the Seas has gained popularity for shorter cruises, thanks to its 2018 Royal Amplification. The ship now offers thrilling features like the virtual reality trampoline, water slides, and a reimagined pool deck. It offers a great mix of fun and relaxation, especially for weekend cruises.

Common Praises:

  • Cruisers love the variety of activities for shorter cruises. One cruiser shared, “The Sky Pad was a game-changer for me and my kids!”
  • Mariner’s refreshed pool deck and new eateries, like Playmakers Sports Bar, are standout additions that guests love.

Common Critiques:

  • Staterooms feel smaller than on newer ships, which some find less appealing.
  • Dining in the Windjammer buffet could offer more variety, according to a few cruisers.

Highlights:

  • Sky Pad trampoline
  • Perfect Storm water slides
  • Great value for shorter itineraries

16. Liberty of the Seas

Liberty of the Seas
Photo by WikiEK, Wikimedia Commons

Class: Freedom
Launched: 2007
Capacity: 4,960 passengers
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ (3.8/5)

Liberty of the Seas offers classic cruise charm along with modern updates thanks to its Royal Amplification. The Perfect Storm water slides and refreshed restaurant lineup make Liberty of the Seas a hit with families and first-timers alike.

Common Praises:

  • Families enjoy the onboard water slides and spacious staterooms. One guest noted, “The kids loved the slides, and we appreciated the thoughtful layout.”
  • The dining venues, including Giovanni’s Italian Kitchen, earn high marks.

Common Critiques:

  • Some cruisers mention that the entertainment options aren’t as dynamic as on Oasis-class ships.
  • The ship’s age occasionally shows, despite its Amplification updates.

Highlights:

  • Perfect Storm water slides
  • Family-friendly atmosphere
  • Updated dining options

17. Serenade of the Seas

Serenade of the Seas
Photo from Royal Caribbean Press Center

Class: Radiance
Launched: 2003
Capacity: 2,476 passengers
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ (3.7/5)

Serenade of the Seas offers a quieter, more intimate cruise experience, making it a favorite for scenic itineraries like Alaska. The ship’s smaller size provides a relaxed atmosphere, complemented by panoramic views and an elegant design.

Common Praises:

  • Cruisers love the personal feel, with one saying, “The crew made us feel like family!”
  • The ship’s large windows and outdoor spaces are ideal for enjoying nature.

Common Critiques:

  • The ship’s intimate size means fewer restaurants, but the quality of meals still wins over cruisers.
  • Some mention the entertainment doesn’t match the excitement found on Oasis or Quantum-class vessels.

Highlights:

  • Scenic itineraries
  • Intimate atmosphere
  • Elegant design

18. Navigator of the Seas

Navigator of the Seas
Photo from Royal Caribbean Press Center

Class: Voyager
Launched: 2002
Capacity: 3,386 passengers
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ (3.7/5)

Navigator of the Seas is known for offering both fun and relaxation, thanks to its 2019 Royal Amplification. Features like the Perfect Storm water slides, FlowRider, and lively pool deck make it an excellent choice for families and active cruisers.

Common Praises:

  • The amplified features are a big hit, with one cruiser noting, “The Perfect Storm slides were the highlight of our trip!”
  • Many appreciate the friendly crew and manageable size.

Common Critiques:

  • Some find the staterooms a bit outdated compared to newer ships.
  • The entertainment options, while enjoyable, don’t rival the bigger classes.

Highlights:

  • Perfect Storm slides
  • Reimagined pool deck
  • Family-friendly activities

19. Adventure of the Seas

Adventure of the Seas 2
Photo by Roger W, Flickr

Class: Voyager
Launched: 2001
Capacity: 3,807 passengers
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ (3.6/5)

Adventure of the Seas offers a classic Royal Caribbean experience with family-friendly features like ice skating and the rock climbing wall. Adventure of the Seas offers entertainment such as Broadway-style shows and the FlowRider surf simulator, and restaurants such as Jamie’s Italian and Izumi.

Common Praises:

  • Cruisers love the range of activities, with one guest sharing, “It’s a fantastic ship for bonding with the kids.”
  • The relaxed atmosphere and diverse dining options are also noted highlights.

Common Critiques:

  • Some feel the ship could use further updates to compete with newer vessels.
  • The entertainment, while good, doesn’t match the caliber of larger ships.

Highlights:

  • Ice skating rink
  • Rock climbing wall
  • Family-friendly atmosphere

20. Brilliance of the Seas

Brilliance of the Seas
Photo by Ahecht, Wikimedia Commons

Class: Radiance
Launched: 2002
Capacity: 2,543 passengers
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ (3.6/5)

Brilliance of the Seas is a Radiance-class ship designed for scenic cruising and intimate experiences. With large windows and a laid-back atmosphere, it’s a top choice for nature-focused itineraries in the Alaska or the Mediterranean.

Common Praises:

  • Cruisers mention the peaceful atmosphere, with one saying, “Watching glaciers from the glass-enclosed lounges was unforgettable.”
  • The smaller size creates a more personal cruising experience.

Common Critiques:

  • Dining options feel more limited compared to larger ships.
  • Some mention that the decor and entertainment could use modernization.

Highlights:

  • Panoramic views for scenic cruising
  • Relaxed, intimate atmosphere
  • Ideal for nature-based itineraries

21. Vision of the Seas

Vision of the Seas
Photo from Royal Caribbean Press Center

Class: Vision
Launched: 1998
Capacity: 2,416 passengers
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐☆ ☆ (3.2/5)

Vision of the Seas offers a classic cruising experience, favored by those who appreciate a more intimate ship size and a focus on scenic voyages. It underwent a major refurbishment in 2013, introducing features like an outdoor movie screen, updated staterooms, and popular dining venues such as Chops Grille and Izumi. While the ship was enhanced with updates, some areas still reflect its age, including worn carpeting and slightly dated cabin decor.

Common Praises:

  • Cruisers highlight its peaceful ambiance and panoramic views, with one cruiser stating, “The smaller size made it feel personal, and the scenery was incredible.”
  • Many enjoy the personalized service provided by the attentive crew, which creates a homely vibe.

Common Critiques:

  • While updates have modernized parts of the ship, some cruisers have noted that certain areas, like cabins and public spaces, show signs of wear.
  • A few travelers commented on limited entertainment and dining options compared to Royal Caribbean’s newer ships.

Highlights:

  • Elegant and intimate design.
  • Features such as Izumi and Chops Grille introduced during the refurbishment.
  • Scenic itineraries offering stunning ocean views.

Vision of the Seas remains an ideal choice for cruisers seeking a serene and traditional cruising experience, but it may not appeal to those looking for the latest features and entertainment.

22. Explorer of the Seas

Explorer of the Seas
Photo by JoachimKohlerBremen, Wikimedia Commons

Class: Voyager
Launched: 2000
Capacity: 3,286 passengers
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ (3.5/5)

Explorer of the Seas provides a mix of adventure and relaxation, offering classic Royal Caribbean activities like the ice skating rink and rock climbing wall. Its Royal Amplification has introduced new dining options and activities, enhancing its appeal for families and couples.

Common Praises:

  • Cruisers love the mix of activities, with one saying, “Ice skating on a cruise ship? That’s something I’ll never forget!”
  • The variety of scenic itineraries is another highlight.

Common Critiques:

  • Some mention that the ship feels dated compared to others in the fleet.
  • Though recently updated, the dining venues are fewer compared to Royal Caribbean’s larger ships.

Highlights:

  • Ice skating rink
  • Rock climbing wall
  • Scenic itineraries

23. Grandeur of the Seas

Grandeur of the Seas
Photo by Master0Garfield, Wikimedia Commons

Class: Vision
Launched: 1996
Capacity: 2,446 passengers
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐☆☆ (3.4/5)

Grandeur of the Seas is a Vision-class ship that offers a more intimate cruising experience for those who prefer smaller, less crowded vessels. Known for its classic charm and attentive service, Grandeur underwent refurbishments in recent years to refresh staterooms and public areas. Still, some structural details and outdated decorations reveal its age, pointing to the need for updates.

Common Praises: Cruisers often praise the personalized service and smaller size, which creates a cozy, home-away-from-home vibe. One cruiser noted, “The crew made every effort to make our experience fantastic, and the intimate size meant we got to know other cruisers easily.”

Common Critiques: Some passengers still point to signs of aging in areas that were not fully updated, such as the pool deck and older fixtures in staterooms. A common refrain is that “while the ship is charming, it’s clear it belongs to an earlier era.”

Highlights:

  • Refurbished staterooms and updated public spaces.
  • Intimate, less crowded cruising experience.
  • Excellent crew service that creates a welcoming atmosphere.

24. Rhapsody of the Seas

Rhapsody of the Seas
Photo from Royal Caribbean Press Center

Class: Vision
Launched: 1997
Capacity: 2,416 passengers
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐☆☆ (3.0/5)

Rhapsody of the Seas provides a classic cruising experience, appealing to those who enjoy a relaxed vibe without the hustle and bustle of larger ships. It’s especially popular for its smaller size, which means fewer crowds and a more intimate experience.

Common Praises: Cruisers appreciate its friendly service and intimate size. One guest shared, “The ship felt personal, and the staff went out of their way to make us comfortable.”

Common Critiques: The decor and amenities feel dated compared to modern ships, and the dining options are more limited.

Highlights:

  • Relaxing, low-key cruising experience.
  • Excellent service and a personal touch.
  • Great choice for those seeking simplicity.

25. Jewel of the Seas

Jewel of the Seas
Photo from Royal Caribbean Press Center

Class: Radiance
Launched: 2004
Capacity: 2,702 passengers
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐☆☆ (3.2/5)

Jewel of the Seas is designed for scenic cruising, with a glass-centric design that provides unparalleled panoramic views. Nearly every public area, from the Solarium to the dining venues, features floor-to-ceiling windows that make the surrounding scenery a central part of the experience. This feature makes Jewel particularly popular for itineraries in Alaska and Northern Europe, where breathtaking landscapes take center stage.

Common Praises:

  • The panoramic views are a standout, with one guest remarking, “The ocean views from this ship are simply unbeatable.”
  • The relaxed ambiance appeals to older cruisers or those seeking a slower pace.

Common Critiques:

  • While Jewel of the Seas excels in scenic cruising, some guests wished for more variety in the culinary offerings.
  • The ship’s age is noticeable, and entertainment can feel limited.

Highlights:

  • Glass-centric design with panoramic views
  • Relaxing ambiance
  • Scenic itineraries

26. Spectrum of the Seas

Spectrum of the Seas
Photo by カテキン, Wikimedia Commons

Class: Quantum Ultra
Launched: 2019
Capacity: 4,246 passengers
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐☆☆ (2.8/5)

Spectrum of the Seas is tailored primarily to the Asian market, offering unique features like karaoke rooms and regional cuisine. A standout attraction is the Sky Pad, a virtual reality bungee trampoline that combines physical fun with cutting-edge tech. cruisers can bounce while wearing VR headsets to experience a thrilling, immersive journey through fantastical worlds.

Common Praises:

  • Cruisers enjoy the diverse dining options, with one noting, “The regional food options were a highlight of my trip.”
  • The modern design and amenities earn high marks, especially for families.

Common Critiques:

  • Overcrowding and inconsistent service were mentioned as issues.
  • Some feel the focus on the Asian market limits the broader appeal.

Highlights:

  • Sky Pad virtual reality trampoline
  • Regional cuisine
  • Modern amenities

Choosing Your Perfect Ship

After looking at every Royal Caribbean ship, one thing is clear—there’s no “one-size-fits-all” when it comes to cruising. The best ship for you depends on what sparks your excitement. Are you all about adrenaline-pumping slides and bustling nightlife? Or maybe you dream of quiet sunsets and personal service that makes you feel like royalty. Whatever your vibe, there’s a Royal Caribbean ship ready to make it happen.

But here’s the truth: no matter where these ships rank, every single one offers the chance to escape, explore, and create incredible memories. Even the smallest, oldest vessels still carry the heart of Royal Caribbean—the thrill of adventure, the comfort of great service, and those unforgettable moments you’ll talk about long after you’re back on dry land.

So, which ship feels like the right fit for you? Dive into the possibilities, and don’t just pick a ship—choose the memories you want to create. Because at the end of the day, it’s not the deck plans or dining reviews that matter—it’s the way cruising makes you feel alive. Happy sailing!

Adam Stewart
Adam Stewart

Adam Stewart is the founder of Cruise Galore. He is a passionate traveler who loves cruising. Adam's goal is to enhance your cruising adventures with practical tips and insightful advice, making each of your journeys unforgettable.

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