Cruise

Royal Caribbean Cruise Ships Ranked In Order [Best To Worst]

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An unforgettable cruisecation should be on Royal Caribbean as it offers a wide range of vessels, each with its own unique and exciting features. But with various options, choosing the perfect ship can feel overwhelming.

Your ideal ranking depends on what you're looking for in a cruise. Therefore, this guide is for the rescue as we will explore popular picks based on customer reviews.

1. Icon of the Seas

The Icon of the Seas is certainly one of the best in the Royal Caribbean fleet that boasts the latest record-breaking "Category 6" suspended coaster and a variety of water slides.

This ship also incorporates many eco-friendly features, appealing to all kinds of visitors including environmentally-conscious travelers as well.

Sails From: Miami, Florida

Sails To: Caribbean

Duration: 5-7 days

Class And Type: Icon-class cruise ship

Year Of Build: 2024

In Service: Since January 27, 2024

Refurbished: -

Crew: Approximately 2,350 

Capacity: 5,610

2. Symphony of the Seas

Royal Caribbean International's Symphony of the Seas launched its first voyage on April 7, 2018. The tour started in Barcelona, Spain, and then made stops in Naples and Civitavecchia (a port for Rome) in Italy. 

This vessel proudly offers Broadway-caliber shows, ice skating spectaculars, live music venues, comedy clubs, and even a casino.

Similarly, if you identify as a thrill seeker, this vessel has a wide range of activities to cater to your taste such as a 10-story plunge down a near-vertical drop, zipline, flowrider surf stimulator & more.

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Sails From: Miami, Florida & Bayonne, New Jersey, USA

Sails To: Caribbean

Duration: 7-10 days

Class And Type: Oasis-class cruise ship

Year Of Build: 2018

In Service: Since March, 2018

Refurbished: -

Crew: Approximately 2,300

Capacity: 5,518

3. Odyssey of the Seas

The Odyssey of the Seas sailed its inaugural voyage in 2021. This vessel boasts a state-of-the-art theater called Two70°, which features a 270-degree panoramic screen that creates an immersive experience for shows, presentations, and events.

It also has a multi-level activity center named, The SeaPlex complex, offering activities such as bumper cars, roller skating, a rock climbing wall, and even a trapeze school all under one roof.

Sails From: Fort Lauderdale, Florida & Europe 

Sails To: Caribbean and Europe

Duration: 7-10 days

Class And Type: Quantum Ultra class cruise ship

Year Of Build: 2020

In Service: Since April 2021

Refurbished: -

Crew: Approximately 1,500

Capacity: 4,800

4. Allure of the Seas

The Allure of the Seas by Royal Caribbean International offers a vibrant nightlife. Their entertainment menu is jampacked with Broadway-caliber shows, a casino, clubs, and bars.

It also features a fine dining experience showcasing global flavors, from the taste of Italy at Giovanni's Table to various specialty restaurants.

Source : royalcaribbean

Sails From: Fort Lauderdale, Florida & Europe 

Sails To: Caribbean and Europe

Duration: 7-10 days

Class And Type: Oasis-class cruise ship

Year Of Build: 2009

In Service: Since December 2010

Refurbished: 2015

Crew: Approximately 2300

Capacity: 5,400

5. Oasis of the Seas

When it launched in 2009, the Oasis of the Seas was a groundbreaking ship that impressed its visitors with its innovative design, exciting activities, and an array of amenities. This ship is not just for couples, as it caters to families with a variety of activities to keep young ones entertained. 

Here, children can enjoy the Splashaway Bay water park, the Adventure Ocean youth program with age-appropriate activities, and the arcade. Similarly, parents can also enjoy some kid-free time thanks to the excellent childcare options available onboard.

Sails From: Fort Lauderdale, Florida & Europe 

Sails To: Caribbean and Europe

Duration: 7-10 days

Class And Type: Oasis-class cruise ship

Year Of Build: 2009

In Service: Since November 2009

Refurbished: 2014

Crew: Approximately 2300

Capacity: 5,400

6. Harmony of the Seas

Like its Oasis-class counterparts, Harmony of the Seas features the seven distinct neighborhoods concept, and a variety of thrilling activities like ultimate Abyss slide, FlowRider, and Zip Line.

In addition, it boasts some world-class entertainment such as AquaTheater, Broadway shows, and a vast array of dining options.

Source : instagram

Sails From: Port Everglades, Fort Lauderdale, Florida & Europe 

Sails To: Caribbean and Europe

Duration: 7-10 days

Class And Type: Oasis-class cruise ship

Year Of Build: 2015

Since May 2016

Refurbished: 2019

Crew: Approximately 2300

Capacity: 5,479

7. Wonder of the Seas

As of May 2024, Wonder of the Seas is the world's largest cruise ship by gross tonnage. This translates to vast amounts of space with multiple options for public areas, restaurants, and activities.

Unlike its other counterparts, this vessel features a mind-boggling array of over 20 dining venues, including some new concepts like The Mason Jar, serving Southern classics with a twist, and The Iconic Suite Dining, an exclusive experience for suite guests.

Sails From: Port Everglades, Fort Lauderdale, Florida

Sails To: Caribbean 

Duration: Depends on the itinerary

Class And Type: Oasis-class cruise ship

Year Of Build: 2022

In Service: Since March 2022

Refurbished: -

Crew: Approximately 2300

Capacity: 5,734

8. Mariner of the Seas

Mariner of the Seas provides a good balance between intimacy and variety. In this vessel, one can enjoy spacious public areas, and comfortable staterooms with a range of dining options.

Although this vessel is small in comparison to the new ones, the amenities and features it offers will not disappoint you. This ship has an ice skating rink where you can watch live shows or even lace up your skates and enjoy the fun.

Sails From: Port Canaveral, Florida

Sails To: Caribbean and Bahamas 

Duration: 3- 7 days

Class And Type: Voyager-class cruise ship

Year Of Build: 2003

In Service: Since March 2003

Refurbished: 2020

Crew: Approximately 1,185

Capacity: 3,114

9. Anthem of the Seas

Anthem of the Seas caters to the needs of all kinds of travelers from thrill seekers to relaxation lovers. For adrenaline junkies, this ship offers simulated skydiving without ever leaving the ship.

Whereas for the relaxation seekers, this vessel offers an adult-exclusive retreat featuring a whirlpool and pool, a vitality spa, and spacious staterooms to unwind.

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Sails From: New York City, USA & Southampton, England 

Sails To: Caribbean and Europe 

Duration: 7-10 days

Class And Type: Quantum-class cruise ship

Year Of Build: 2015

In Service: Since April 2015

Refurbished: 2020

Crew: 1,185

Capacity: 3,114

10. Vision of the Seas

Vision of the Seas is for people looking for a classic cruise experience at a relaxed pace, with good food and various activities to keep them entertained. As this vessel was launched in the late 90's, passengers might get a slighter older feel compared to the new ones. 

But if you appreciate staying away from technology and enjoying the serenity and calm of the ocean, this one is the best option for you. Regarding its amenities, Vision of the Seas has multiple pools and whirlpools, a rock climbing wall, and an an adults-only retreat with a pool, whirlpools, and a bar.

Sails From: New York City, USA & Southampton, England 

Sails To: Caribbean and Europe 

Duration: 7-10 days

Class And Type: Quantum-class cruise ship

Year Of Build: 2015

In Service: Since April 2015

Refurbished: 2020

Crew: 1,185

Capacity: 3,114