When someone says, "I'm going on a cruise!" there's a good chance they're talking about Royal Caribbean — and for good reason. Since 1968, Royal Caribbean has been redefining what it means to set sail, introducing innovations such as the first rock climbing walls at sea, mega-ships with real Central Parks and even skydiving simulators. Fast forward to today, and they're home to the largest cruise ship in the world, Icon of the Seas. Plus, the entire Royal fleet is filled with high-energy entertainment, cutting-edge technology and destinations across the globe. In this post, we're taking you on a tour of all the ships in the fleet to help you narrow down the perfect ship for your cruise vacation.
Royal Caribbean's cruise ships are some of the largest and most advanced in the industry. Currently, there are 28 ships (and more on the way!) that sail to destinations worldwide. The lineup includes some of the biggest cruise ships ever built. The fleet is made of seven classes, each with its own atmosphere, dining venues and amenities. Icon Class leads with record-breaking thrills and family-friendly neighborhoods. Oasis Class brings massive, resort-style ships loaded with entertainment. Quantum Class pushes the limits with high-tech attractions. The other classes bring a more traditional cruise experience, with smaller ships and unique itineraries.
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Icon Class
The Icon Class ships are the largest in Royal Caribbean's fleet, designed with the latest technology. Icon of the Seas debuted in 2024 as the biggest cruise ship in the world, sailing from Miami with attractions such as The Pressure Drop, the first free-fall slide at sea and Crown's Edge, a skywalk that drops and swings riders over the ocean. The AquaTheater is where you can witness water stunt shows, while Splashaway Bay and Water's Edge are water play areas for families.
There are seven pools and 10 whirlpools are scattered throughout the top decks. Dining includes over 40 restaurants and bars, from gourmet meals at Lincoln Park Supper Club to casual bites at Basecamp. Desserted serves over-the-top milkshakes, and The Lemon Post has themed drinks for both kids and adults. The ship also has an arcade and plenty of entertainment throughout.
The second Icon Class ship, Star of the Seas, will launch in August 2025 and sail from Port Canaveral, Florida. A third ship, Legend of the Seas, is set to arrive in summer 2026, with plans to sail in Europe. A fourth, yet unnamed ship is scheduled for 2027.
Quantum Class
The Quantum Class was built for adventure. These ships are loaded with skydiving simulators, bumper cars and the North Star — a panoramic glass capsule that lifts guests high above the ocean. The Quantum Ultra ships are a sub-class that takes things a step further with added entertainment and redesigned spaces such as Splashaway Bay and Virtual Adventure Zone.
Quantum of the Seas set sail in 2014 and carries around 4,900 guests and sails to both Alaska and Australia. Anthem of the Seas followed in 2015, sailing from the Pacific Northwest, for Alaskan, Asian and Australian itineraries. Ovation of the Seas launched in 2016 and splits its time between Mexico, Australia and Asia.
The Quantum Ultra Class started with Spectrum of the Seas in 2019, which sails from Shanghai and Hong Kong. Odyssey of the Seas debuted in 2021 and is based in Fort Lauderdale, offering Bahamian and Mediterranean cruises. Both Quantum Ultra ships carry about 5,600 passengers and feature exclusive dining, entertainment and high-tech experiences.
Across this class, you'll find Broadway-style shows, the RipCord by iFLY skydiving simulator, the North Star glass observation capsule and the SeaPlex, which transforms from a bumper car arena to a sports court. There's also the FlowRider surf simulator, rock climbing walls and a wide variety of lounges, bars and specialty restaurants.
Oasis Class
Royal Caribbean flipped the script when the Oasis Class launched in 2009, which at the time, were the biggest cruise ships in the world. These ships are really like floating cities and hold over 6,600 guests at full capacity. They are designed with seven unique neighborhoods, including the Central Park area filled with real trees and the Boardwalk with its own carousel.
Oasis of the Seas (2009) sails from Florida to the Caribbean and the Bahamas. Allure of the Seas (2010) follows similar routes from Fort Lauderdale. Harmony of the Seas (2016) and Symphony of the Seas (2018) stick to Caribbean sailings, while Wonder of the Seas (2022) homeports in Port Canaveral with itineraries to the Caribbean and Bahamas. Utopia of the Seas (2024) is the newest, focusing on shorter, weekend cruises from Port Canaveral. The seventh Oasis ship is expected to debut in 2028!
Across the class, guests will find AquaTheater stunt shows, ice skating performances, the Ultimate Abyss dry slide and surf simulators. Dining includes everything from casual boardwalk bites to an upscale steakhouse.
Freedom Class
Before the Oasis Class took the title, the Freedom Class ships were the largest at sea when they debuted in 2006. These ships hold around 4,500 guests and are known for their eclectic atmosphere with both classic and modern cruise experiences.
Freedom of the Seas (2006) is based in Miami, sailing to the Caribbean and the Bahamas. Liberty of the Seas (2007) sails to the Bahamas, Canada, Bermuda and the Caribbean. Independence of the Seas (2008) offers short Bahamian getaways, and trips to the eastern and western Caribbean, plus Northern European sailings.
Highlights include the FlowRider surf simulator, laser tag, an ice skating rink and hoppin' entertainment venues. These ships have been upgraded over the years to include new water slides, updated dining options and refreshed pool decks.
Voyager Class
Launched in 1999, the Voyager Class introduced the Royal Promenade, an indoor shopping and dining street that became a regular spot on larger ships. These ships carry about 4,000 guests and make for a fun, well-balanced cruise without the overwhelming size of the newer ships.
Voyager of the Seas (1999) sails in the Caribbean, Europe and Australia. Explorer of the Seas (2000) alternates between the Caribbean and Europe. Adventure of the Seas (2001) is based in Florida, heading to the Caribbean. Navigator of the Seas (2002) offers cruises from Los Angeles to Mexico. Mariner of the Seas (2003) sticks to the Caribbean, sailing from Galveston, Texas.
Radiance Class
The Radiance Class ships are known for their floor-to-ceiling windows. These ships are a great pick for scenic destinations. These midsize ships carry around 2,500 guests and have a more laid-back vibe while still packing in plenty of activities.
Radiance of the Seas (2001) and Serenade of the Seas (2003) sail to Alaska in the summer and the Caribbean in the winter. Brilliance of the Seas (2002) has Caribbean and Mediterranean itineraries. Jewel of the Seas (2004) sails to the Bahamas and the Caribbean.
Highlights of Royal Caribbean's Radiance Class ships include glass elevators, an outdoor movie screen, self-leveling pool tables, a lush solarium and sunlit glass-covered spaces. These ships are for travelers who care more about visiting unique destinations rather than just the ship itself.
Vision Class
Built in the late '90s, the Vision Class ships are smaller, carrying around 2,400 guests. They're a good fit for folks who want an easygoing atmosphere and are looking to visit unique ports that bigger ships can't reach.
Grandeur of the Seas (1996) sails in the Caribbean. Rhapsody of the Seas (1997) has Southern and Western Caribbean itineraries. Enchantment of the Seas (1997) has a mix of Caribbean and Bahamian itineraries from Tampa, Florida. Vision of the Seas (1998) sails from the Northeast and offers itineraries to Bermuda, Canada and the Southern Caribbean.
Highlights include Broadway-style shows, a bungee trampoline, a mini-golf course, an outdoor movie screen, a rock climbing wall and a solarium with a retractable roof.
Royal Caribbean Private Island Destinations
Now that we've covered the Royal Caribbean's cruise ships, we'd be amiss if didn't mention Royal's private island destinations. These destinations are included on select itineraries, so if visiting one is a priority, check which ships and sailings stop there before booking.
Perfect Day at CocoCay is a stop for most Bahamian and Caribbean cruises, including those on Icon, Oasis and Freedom Class ships sailing from Florida and the East Coast. The island has Thrill Waterpark, home to Daredevil's Peak, the tallest waterslide in North America, and the Caribbean's largest freshwater pool at Oasis Lagoon. Chill Island and Harbor Beach are quieter areas, while the exclusive Coco Beach Club (upgrade option) has private cabanas and an infinity pool.
Perfect Day Mexico is coming in 2027 and will be part of select Western Caribbean itineraries. While details are still in the works, you can expect beaches, pools restaurants and bars similar to CocoCay.
Labadee, Haiti, is a 260-acre private resort area for Eastern and Southern Caribbean cruises on larger ships including Oasis and Quantum Class. It's known for the Dragon's Breath Flight Line, one of the longest overwater zip lines in the world (a half-mile!), and the Dragon's Tail Coaster, a mountain coaster with ocean views. Additionally, there is Arawak Water Park, private beach areas and a local artisan market in Town Square.
The Royal Beach Club in Nassau, opening in December 2025, will be available on select Bahamian itineraries. This is an all-inclusive beach experience that comes with an additional fee. It will feature private cabanas for rent, family-friendly entertainment options, unlimited food and drinks, multiple pools and beach areas and a more elevated beach. Day passes will range from $160-$199 per person. A second Royal Beach Club in Cozumel is scheduled to open in 2026.
Royal Caribbean Cruise Ships — Which One Is Right for You?
With all this information, the next big question is: How do you choose the best ship for your cruise? It really comes down to what matters most to you.
If you want the newest ships with cutting-edge entertainment, record-breaking water slides and endless dining options, start your search with the Icon Class or Oasis Class. These are the biggest and most feature-packed ships in the fleet.
If you just want to get on a cruise as soon as possible (hey, we get it!), your best option is to pick a ship that sails from a port near you. This saves time and money on travel so you can get to the fun faster.
If budget is your top priority, look for ships that offer shorter 3- to 4-night cruises, sail during the off-season and choose a departure port you can get to, on the cheap. These factors can help you score the best deals.
If it's all about the destination rather than the ship, focus on the itinerary first. Take your pick from Alaska's glaciers, the Mediterranean's historic cities or a Caribbean beach escape, let the ports of call guide your decision.
How to Save on a Royal Caribbean Cruise
There are some great deals hoppenin' right now that can make your trip more affordable. On select cruises that are three nights or longer, kids 12 and under can sail for free. As long as there are two paying adults in a stateroom, up to two kids can cruise at no extra cost.
There are also perks for longer sailings. If you book a balcony or suite on a six-night or longer cruise, you'll get a specialty dining experience for two on select sailings. Plus, some itineraries even offer up to $1,000 in onboard credit. It's worth checking out which discounts are available — you might be able to stretch your budget further than you think!
And there ya have it, an overview of all the Royal Caribbean cruise ships. So, we gotta know ... which ship do you have your sights set on? Let us know in the comments below!
Related: Top Reasons We Love Sailing On Royal Caribbean with Kids
Related: Meet the Ships in the Disney Cruise Line Fleet
Keep hopping!
