best royal caribbean cruise ship 2023

Best Royal Caribbean Cruises

Read Best Cruises Methodology

Find Cruises

Call to plan a cruise: 1-833-468-6732

with a cruise advisor

Odyssey of the Seas

Launched in July 2021, the Odyssey of the Seas holds 5,498 passengers and 1,550 crew members. Royal Caribbean's latest ship is the first Quantum Ultra Class vessel to sail in the United States. As a member of this class, Odyssey of the Seas offers standout amenities like RipCord by iFLY, billed as the only skydiving simulator available at sea, and the FlowRider, a 40-foot-long surf simulator. There is also the North Star observation capsule, which hoists guests 300 feet above sea level over the cruise ship to enjoy unparalleled views below. 

In addition to these thrilling activities, the ship comes equipped with standard facilities like pools, an arcade, a spa, a fitness center with classes, kids clubs and shopping venues. There are also 15 dining options, ranging from Japanese fare to all-you-can-eat buffets to Starbucks. For drinks, the ship offers nine bars and lounges, giving passengers plenty of places to enjoy libations. Entertainment options include theatrical performances, live music, a casino, outdoor movie nights and more. 

As far as cabins go, cruisers can choose between Interior, Ocean View, and Balcony staterooms, as well as suite accommodations and new Virtual Balcony rooms. These technologically advanced cabins feature floor-to-ceiling displays that project real-time views of the sights and sounds from the outside of the ship. 

Odyssey of the Seas sails to ports in Europe, as well as to various destinations in the Caribbean from Fort Lauderdale, Florida and Cape Liberty, New Jersey.

Symphony of the Seas

The 6,680-passenger, 2,200-crew-member Symphony of the Seas set sail in 2018 and features 18 decks packed with activities.

For heart-pounding fun, travelers will find a surf simulator, an indoor ice skating rink, two 40-foot rock walls, a zip line and a 10-story slide. Meanwhile, relaxation seekers can unwind in the spa, sip cocktails made by robotic bartenders or stroll through the Central Park -inspired neighborhood.

Onboard snacks and meals are served at 20 quick-service and sit-down eateries. The Main Dining Room is where the ship's traditional, complimentary dinners are provided nightly, but specialty options like a steakhouse, a bistro and a Johnny Rockets outpost are also available. What's more, cruisers can dine at Jamie's Italian, a restaurant helmed by celebrity chef Jamie Oliver.

After filling up on gourmet fare, passengers can retreat to their cabins, all of which include work desks, flat-screen TVs and minibars. Guests can choose from 149-square-foot Interior Staterooms, some of which have virtual balconies with real-time views of the ocean, or opt for upgraded cabins with furnished balconies and up to 1,524 square feet of space. Select suites also feature two bedrooms, whirlpool tubs and dining rooms.

Symphony of the Seas departs from Cape Liberty, New Jersey, Miami , Fort Lauderdale, Rome and Barcelona for sailings throughout the Caribbean and Europe.

U.S. News Insider Tip: If you’re on one of the 19 Royal Caribbean ships that have a FlowRider, like Symphony of the Seas (which has two!), reserve a private lesson with a pro. For a small fee, you'll save yourself some embarrassment and get more ride time. – Skye Sherman, Contributor

Wonder of the Seas

Wonder of the Seas, which embarked on its maiden voyage in March 2022, holds 7,084 passengers and 2,204 crew members. The ship measures 1,188 feet long and 215 feet wide, and it weighs 235,600 gross tons. It surpasses its sister ship, Symphony of the Seas , as one of the largest cruise ships in the world.  

Guests can enjoy plenty of thrill activities on board, such as the Ultimate Abyss – a 10-story dark tunnel slide – or the 40-foot-long FlowRider surf stimulator. The ship also offers a fitness center, shopping venues, rock climbing, a carousel and clubs for kids and teens. When it's time to dine, cruisers have the option of 21 dining venues ranging from Italian fare to Southern cuisine. Travelers can also indulge in a few cocktails at 14 bars and lounges.

Accommodations include Interior, Ocean View, Balcony and Suite staterooms. If you're looking for something more spacious, check out the ship's all-new Suite Neighborhood. Located on the upper decks, these suites offer guests ample private quarters to recharge during the cruise. Amenities included in the exclusive suites include priority boarding, a members-only dining facility and a dedicated check-in line. For families, the new neighborhood may be of particular interest because it features the Ultimate Family Suite. The family suite offers two floors of space with stunning ocean views, in-suite movies and video games and a kids slide between the floors.  

Wonder of the Seas sails from Orlando , Florida, to ports in the Caribbean.

Allure of the Seas

The 6,826-passenger Allure of the Seas, unveiled in 2010, is among the largest cruise ships in the world. There are a whopping 2,054 crew members on board to cater to passengers' needs. Along with signature line amenities like rock climbing walls and ice skating rinks, the ship houses seven unique neighborhoods with a variety of activities, shows and dining options. The ship underwent a $165 million refurbishment in 2020, which added approximately 50 new staterooms, the Ultimate Abyss (the tallest slide at sea), redesigned kids and teens spaces, new dining venues and more.

Other standout features include a zip line that descends 10 decks, two surf simulators and a science lab. Plus, with 19 dining options – and a Starbucks at sea – every member of the family will be satisfied.

In terms of lodging, about 65% of cabins feature balconies, and all staterooms are appointed with TVs and minifridges. Interior staterooms are the most economical option, but those who splurge on Suites are granted larger balconies and concierge service. Crowd-free areas might be difficult to find due to the outrageous capacity of the ship, but some recent cruisers praise the nonstop activity and entertainment. 

Allure of the Seas departs from Miami, Orlando, Florida, and Galveston , Texas, for sailings in the Caribbean.

Harmony of the Seas

Welcoming up to 6,687 passengers and 2,200 crew members, Harmony of the Seas is one of the largest cruise ships in the world. Launched in 2016 and tuned up in 2021, the ship features Royal Caribbean staples like surf simulators and rock climbing walls, as well as innovative amenities like the Ultimate Abyss (a 10-story slide) and three multistory waterslides. Plus, while younger passengers play in the arcade or at age-appropriate clubs, adults can relax at the spa or sip cocktails at multiple bars and lounges.

After working up an appetite, guests can choose from 20 dining options. Past cruisers especially praised the multitude of specialty restaurants, which range from Mexican to Japanese fare and require reservations and an additional fee.

When it comes to lodging, Harmony of the Seas offers a wide variety of cabin categories, with more than 70% of cabins featuring balconies. While Interior staterooms are the most economical choice, those looking for a little more space and luxury should consider upgrading to a Suite, which range from Junior Suites to four-bedroom Villa Suites. While all cabins offer flat-screen TVs and minibars, suites include access to a private restaurant, lounge and sun deck.

Harmony of the Seas sails from Miami and Galveston, Texas , to destinations throughout the Caribbean.

Mariner of the Seas

Introduced in 2003 and overhauled in mid-2018, Mariner of the Seas features passenger favorites like the Escape Room, the Izumi Japanese restaurant and a surf simulator. During the ship's refurbishment, Royal Caribbean also added 100 new staterooms, updated cabins and public spaces and added fan-favorite restaurant Jamie's Italian by chef Jamie Oliver.

Though the 4,000-passenger ship features a 1-to-3 crew-to-passenger ratio, recent cruisers said the vessel still maintains a high level of customer service. When it comes to dining, the ship offers 11 venues, including a multilevel main dining room. The ship's 10 bars and lounges and onboard entertainment, which includes Broadway-style shows, earn a consistent nod of approval from past cruisers. Kids have plenty of age-appropriate entertainment, too, including youth programs and teen lounges. Mariner of the Seas touts three pools and six whirlpools. These areas of the ship attract a high concentration of children.

Past travelers were generally complimentary of the staterooms. Similar to its sister ships, Mariner of the Seas offers four stateroom categories: Interior, Ocean View, Balcony and Suite. All staterooms include flat-screen TVs and Wi-Fi accessibility. 

Mariner of the Seas departs from  Orlando , Florida, and Galveston, Texas, for sailings in the Caribbean, Bermuda and the  Bahamas .

Adventure of the Seas

Adventure of the Seas (first launched in 2001) underwent an extensive renovation in January 2018. It boasts modern amenities like an outdoor movie screen and Wi-Fi (for an extra fee). Other highlights include an ice skating rink, a surf simulator and a rock climbing wall. 

There are seven dining venues across the ship, the newest of which is the Izumi Japanese specialty restaurant. While adults can relax at the ship's nine bars and lounges, youngsters can mix and mingle at age-appropriate youth clubs and a teens-only disco. Among other onboard amenities, Adventure of the Seas features an abundance of pools and whirlpools, including an indoor/outdoor pool and lounge area exclusive to adults called the Solarium.

When it comes to lodging, recent cruisers found staterooms to be comfortable and spacious. Cabins come in four categories – Interior, Ocean View, Balcony and Suite – and about 60% offer ocean views. The ship's 2018 revamp brought with it new Interior and Ocean View staterooms, as well as a new Suite Lounge. While it may be difficult to find quiet spaces on the 3,807-passenger ship, recent guests were still complimentary of the service on board and the 1-to-3 crew-to-guest ratio. 

Adventure of the Seas sails to various destinations in the Caribbean from Fort Lauderdale , Florida and Orlando , Florida. The ship also completes transatlantic voyages.

Oasis of the Seas

The 6,771-passenger Oasis of the Seas saw an extensive refurbishment in late 2019, unveiling the line's first dedicated karaoke venue, a live music space with a large dance floor, brand-new dining options (including a barbecue restaurant), three waterslides, new bars and more. 

While this ship is not for those seeking secluded spaces, most cruisers say the seven distinct onboard neighborhoods make up for that. The behemoth ship features designer boutiques and larger staterooms than other ships in the fleet.

Like other Royal Caribbean vessels, Oasis of the Seas offers four cabin categories: Interior, Ocean View, Balcony and Suite. Interior rooms average about 150 square feet, while Suite category cabins can span anywhere from 287 to 1,524 square feet and include added amenities like Jacuzzis and expansive balconies.

While recent cruisers were impressed with the ship's abundant amenities, they noted that with 2,109 crew members, there aren't many tailored onboard experiences – especially when the ship is filled to capacity. Oasis of the Seas caters to those looking for nonstop onboard action.

Oasis of the Seas sails from Miami , Fort Lauderdale, Florida, Barcelona and Rome to destinations in the Bahamas , the Caribbean, Europe and the Mediterranean. The ship also offers transatlantic voyages.

U.S. News Insider Tip: On Oasis-class ships, stop at Vitality Café for protein shakes and fresh juices. – Skye Sherman, Contributor

Vision of the Seas

Most recently updated in late 2018 (with the exception of routine maintenance in 2022), the 2,514-passenger, 742-crew-member Vision of the Seas offers Royal Caribbean staples like diverse dining venues and nonstop entertainment. Past cruisers especially praise the ship's appealing decor and the Solarium, an adults-only pool and lounge area. 

In terms of food, travelers can choose from the main dining room, the buffet and several casual eateries. Cruisers recommend springing for a meal at the ship's specialty restaurants, which range from the Chops Grille steakhouse to the Izumi Asian venue. Food in the main dining room received mixed reviews, but travelers praised the service around the ship.

When it comes to daytime activities, guests can try rock climbing, swim in the pools (which can become crowded) or play games in the casino. There are also sushi- and cupcake-making classes available.

In terms of lodging, Vision of the Seas touts four staterooms categories: Interior, Ocean View, Balcony and Suite. Interior cabins range from 136 to 252 square feet, while Suites on the opposite end of the spectrum range from 243 to 1,140 square feet. Opt for a balcony-equipped Suite and you'll enjoy cushier extras like whirlpool bathtubs. All cabins include amenities like flat-screen TVs and vanity areas. 

Vision of the Seas departs from Baltimore for itineraries in the Caribbean, New England and Canada.

Anthem of the Seas

Debuted in 2015, Anthem of the Seas offers impressive amenities like the first at-sea skydiving simulator and a 360-degree observation pod that allows cruisers to dangle 300 feet above the sea.

Staterooms also boasts innovative features, including family-friendly adjoining cabins and Interior rooms outfitted with "virtual balconies" that show real-time views of the ship's location. All cabin categories (Interior, Ocean View, Balcony and Suite) include flat-screen TVs and minifridges.

Guests won't need to spend much time in their cabins, though. The ship offers a multitude of activities, ranging from daytime spa treatments, rock climbing and bumper cars to nightly shows and casino games. When it's time to eat, travelers can choose from 14 dining venues, including six signature restaurants for an extra fee. Guests praised the new technology on board, including smart wristbands that eliminate the need for room keys.

With a capacity of 4,905 guests and 1,500 crew members, Anthem of the Seas passengers can expect crowded common areas during peak times. 

Anthem of the Seas departs from Dubai, United Arab Emirates, Cape Liberty, New Jersey,  Singapore and Southampton, England, for sailings in the Bahamas , the Caribbean, Asia and Europe. The ship also offers transatlantic voyages.

Disclaimers about ship ratings: A ship’s Health Rating is based on vessel inspection scores published by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). If a ship did not receive a CDC score within 22 months prior to the calculation of its Overall Rating, its Health Rating appears as N/A; in such a case, the ship’s Overall Rating is calculated using the average Health Rating of all CDC-rated ships within the cruise line. All ship Traveler Ratings are based on ratings provided under license by Cruiseline.com.

If you make a purchase from our site, we may earn a commission. This does not affect the quality or independence of our editorial content.

Royal Caribbean Ships Ranked From Best To Worst

This post may contain affiliate links. if you click one, i may earn a commission at no cost to you. as an amazon associate, i earn from qualifying purchases..

Royal Caribbean is the ocean cruise line with the most ships. At the time of writing this list, there are 27 ships in the fleet, and more are on the horizon.

The newest ship currently sailing is Icon of the Seas, which launched in 2024, while the oldest is Grandeur of the Seas, still going strong since she launched in 1996.

The big question is whether the newer, bigger ships for Royal Caribbean are all better than the older ships, or whether the classic ships are still more popular with cruisers.

So let’s find out – here are the Royal Caribbean cruise ships ranked from best to worst, which isn’t necessarily the same ranking as the newest Royal Caribbean ships to the oldest .

How I gathered the data

Before we get to the list, some context is important. This isn’t just my personal opinion. While that might be interesting, it is extremely subjective since it would just be based on one person.

Instead, I’ve looked at the reviews of all the ships from three of the biggest independent cruise websites – Cruise Critic , Cruiseline.com and TripAdvisor . These websites aren’t biased towards any cruise line or ship, they simply host thousands of reviews from real customers.

That’s why I’ve chosen them – they’ll give the best average scores. By that, I mean they won’t be skewed by one or two really bad experiences, or one or two higher-than-usual scores either.

Also, this isn’t a list ranking the ships from “good” to “bad”. This is from best to worst. and the worst average score of any ship is 3.4 out of 5, which is still pretty good. You’ll be surprised by which ship it is though.

What Are The Top 5 Royal Caribbean Ships?

According to the average customer review scores, the top 5 Royal Caribbean ships are:

• Icon of the Seas
• Symphony of the Seas
• Allure of the Seas
• Oasis of the Seas
• Harmony of the Seas

The Best Royal Caribbean Ships By Reviews

Now, let’s take a closer look at the best and worst Royal Caribbean cruise ships to see what exactly it is that people like and don’t like about these ships.

1. Icon of the Seas

The newest ship in the Royal Caribbean fleet is also the biggest ship in the world – and as such, she is packed with exciting things to see and do.

She is also quite expensive from a cruise fare perspective, so it’s fascinating to see that guests do love her – reviews are extremely positive, showing that people do feel like they’re getting value for money.

Guests have commented on just how many different activities there are to try, the wide range of dining options for all ages, and just the impressive scale of the ship.

Obviously crowding can still be a bit of an issue on a ship that hosts over 7,000 passengers when full, but she’s usually big enough that it’s rarely a problem.

2. Symphony of the Seas

Symphony of the Seas is an Oasis-class ship and scores highly thanks to the amazing range of activities on offer, including some that are more musically themed in the spirit of the ship’s name.

Reviews are overwhelmingly positive and bad reviews don’t focus on specifics of the ship much, although the Main Dining Room service does get a couple of mentions – maybe from passengers used to smaller ships and therefore with less busy waiting staff?

3. Allure of the Seas

Ahh, the ship that made me fall in love with cruising! Before I stepped on board Allure of the Seas for my honeymoon back in 2013 I had never even seen a cruise ship and I had no idea what to expect.

Allure of the Seas was the second of the Oasis-class ships to launch, and while she’s considerably older than the most recent ships (launching 12 years before Wonder of the Seas), she still offers an amazing experience, helped by a refurbishment in 2015.

Positive reviews still rave about the range of features and activities that kids will love , but another familiar criticism is around the service in the Main Dining Room, along with the quality of food in the Windjammer. At least there’s plenty of choice for restaurants if you don’t enjoy the food or service in those two venues.

4. Oasis of the Seas

The first Oasis-class ship, Oasis of the Seas launched all the way back in 2009 and has wowed guests for many years now. The sheer size of the ship is still incredible, and not an inch is wasted – there is so much to see and do that you need more than one cruise just to see it all.

While the ship is overwhelmingly popular in reviews, there are a couple of negative comments that mention a lack of organisation – long waits for tables or bar service, and poor communication. These are in the minority, and for the most part, Royal seems to handle the staffing of this massive ship well.

5. Harmony of the Seas

It’s not really surprising that four of the five Oasis-class ships occupy some of the top places on this list. Harmony of the Seas rounds out the top 5, with people again loving the sheer volume of things that kids and grown-ups can see and do during their time at sea.

The same minor complaints that other Oasis-class ships have received are repeated for Harmony, and if anything they are a little more common – minor issues with service and staffing, with longer waits than expected. Again, most people rave about everything, including how helpful the crew are.

6. Mariner of the Seas

Proof that the newest ships aren’t always the best – Mariner of the Seas is the 6th best in terms of scores despite being the 16th eldest of the ships in the fleet!

Mariner was the last Voyager-class ship to launch and it strikes a really good balance between activities and atmosphere.

The Voyager Class introduced some of Royal’s most popular features, such as the ice rink and has since been upgraded with extra water slides , but Mariner of the Seas never feels too busy or in-your-face. Reviews keep referring to it as a “really nice” ship – great for getting a taste of the Royal experience without feeling crowded.

7. Serenade of the Seas

The first Radiance-class ship in this list and the third to launch, Serenade of the Seas is a great example of what makes this ship class stand out – it focuses more on creating a relaxing, classical cruise experience without trying to cram in as many different features.

Positive reviews focus on that traditional experience and the peaceful atmosphere, while negative comments sometimes mention the difference in quality with larger ships, particularly the evening entertainment which doesn’t have the same West-End feel. Not so much of an issue if your itinerary is more important to you, which is good since this ship is sailing Royal’s Ultimate World Cruise .

8. Freedom of the Seas

Freedom of the Seas is the highest ranked of the Freedom-class ships. The balance of size vs. crowds keeps the Freedom of the Seas popular with guests, since there is loads to see and do but not the same packed-out atmosphere of the Oasis-class ships.

Minor quibbles in the reviews mention the food quality in the Main Dining Room again, and staff not always knowing details about the facilities onboard.  

9. Odyssey of the Seas

Odyssey of the Seas is the best example of the Quantum Class, with all the innovative tech including the incredible Two70 venue and the SeaPlex providing hours of entertainment.

The only complaints I found that were relevant to the ship were that the Main Dining Room was a little uninspired, and the ship felt a bit crowded since there was so much to see and do, but on a ship not quite big enough to contain it all.

10. Liberty of the Seas

Liberty of the Seas was the second of the Freedom-class ships and, just like Freedom, she has a great range of things to enjoy on board, including all of Royal’s most popular features that had been invented by the time she debuted.

The main criticisms are that the evening entertainment isn’t quite as good as that one newer ships, and the food in the Main Dining Room and Windjammer are a little uninspiring, but again she remains popular despite her age.

11. Independence of the Seas

For three years, Independence of the Seas was one of the largest ships in the world along with her Freedom-class sisters. She was also one of the best ships for UK cruisers, being based in Southampton for a few seasons in a row. She now offers Caribbean cruises year-round, but in 2025 she makes her grand return to the UK. Exciting!

Like other Freedom-class ships, she has a lot to see and do – more than the older Voyager-class and Radiance-class ships but surpassed by the newer ship classes. Most people love the balance of size and features against the crowds, with any negative comments focussing on the ship needing an update in some places.

12. Adventure of the Seas

Adventure of the Seas enjoys the same reputation as Mariner of the Seas – another Voyager-class ship, she has a good selection of activities for kids and adults to enjoy, including water slides, the FlowRider and the rock climbing wall, but with a little less of the bustle of the mega-ships of later classes.

The comments from people that were less than impressed are quite varied – poor ship design, an older average passenger, and a ship that looked a little tired and needed updating. For a ship that’s over 20 years old though, she has plenty of life in her yet.

13. Navigator of the Seas

Staying with the Voyager-class and Navigator of the Seas, which launched in 2002, still gets a lot of praise for how she has added exciting attractions to a ship that has been going for quite some time.

Like her sister ships, there’s a good balance between fun and size, although not quite as much variety as the larger Freedom, Quantum and Oasis-class ships.

Navigator is definitely feeling her age a little though. Rooms could do with some quality updates, including things we take for granted now like USB ports, while the shows are a little more traditional and could be better. 

14. Wonder of the Seas

I’m a little surprised that Wonder of the Seas is this far down the list, especially when the other Oasis-class ships are all ranked so highly. She does still have an excellent average score, so it’s not like she isn’t popular.

Wonder of the Seas has taken the Oasis-class concept and refined it to its best. Expect amazing dining venues, the best suites at sea (including some stunning two-storey accommodations) and just so much to see and do, from the FlowRider , to the zip-line, to the water slides, to the live shows, and so on.

15. Jewel of the Seas

Jewel of the Seas was the final Radiance-class ship to launch back in 2004 and while she’s a little worn in places, most people still have a really positive cruise experience thanks to her tranquil atmosphere and good service.

The biggest criticisms for Jewel seem to be levied at the food quality, which many say has taken a downturn in the last couple of years. This mainly applies to the Main Dining Room but a couple of people mention other restaurants too.

16. Radiance of the Seas

Radiance of the Seas was the first of the Radiance-class ships to be built for Royal Caribbean and over 20 years later, she is still a popular choice for those who want a relaxing cruise with a little bit of that Royal Caribbean flair. She may be one of the better Royal Caribbean ships for adults , though many still prefer the bars and restaurants on newer ships too.

Positive comments touch on the smaller ship size and how it doesn’t feel crowded at all, although some reviewers have mentioned it is looking a little tired and could do with some more updates.

17. Brilliance of the Seas

The second of the Radiance-class ships to launch for Royal Caribbean, Brilliance of the Seas shares a similar atmosphere to her sisters – less packed with the modern activities and more aimed at a slightly older crowd who enjoy a traditional cruise experience.

The ship is talked about positively for its service in the most part, but some cruisers have mentioned the decor looking a little tired and needing an update, or the quality of the food not being the same as on more modern ships.

18. Ovation of the Seas

Despite Odyssey of the Seas being ranked eighth in this list, it’s surprising to see how the other Quantum-class ships have fared – we have to wait until position 17 to get to the next one, which is Ovation of the Seas.

Generally, people love the innovative features such as the North Star and the Two70 entertainment venue, but there are inconsistencies in guests’ experiences, whether it’s occasional poor food, or bad management of busier sea days, which have led to some mixed reviews.

19. Rhapsody of the Seas

It’s taken until the 19th position on the list but we’ve reached the first of the Vision-class ships for Royal, the oldest class still sailing for the fleet. Rhapsody of the Seas launched in 1997 and while she is one of the smallest ships in the fleet, she still gets good reviews for her service, entertainment and dining choices.

Understandably, criticism tends to be levelled at the age of the ship. She has been refurbished, but there are still signs she’s an older ship – particularly in the lack of modern soundproofing, which means engine noises can be heard more throughout the ship.

20. Anthem of the Seas

I was pretty surprised to see Anthem of the Seas so low on this list, considering it’s one of the best ships you can sail on from the UK and it’s packed with great features. And a lot of reviewers do agree.

Honestly, most of the negative reviews seem to be aimed at Royal Caribbean as a whole rather than the ship itself – particularly for the high cost of activities and speciality dining on board.

As this ship has mostly British cruisers on board, perhaps they’re used to not having to pay for these things when they cruise with British cruise lines like P&O Cruises? Or perhaps the Brits just like to moan? (I’m British and I suspect that’s partly true).

The ship itself is generally seen in a really positive light, although one or two have mentioned it gets quite busy during peak season. I cruised in the school holidays and I can attest that it did feel bust with so many kids onboard.

21. Enchantment of the Seas

Enchantment of the Seas was the third of the Vision-class ships to launch, debuting in 1997. Eight years later, the ship was lengthened, making her slightly bigger than her sister ships. She is still considerably smaller than later ships in the fleet, so don’t expect the same amount of activities for younger guests.

Adults will probably appreciate Enchantment more, with a good selection of bars and places to eat. The entertainment is a little less exciting than on the bigger ships, according to some guests, but the food gets better reviews on Enchantment of the Seas than it does on similarly-aged Royal ships.

22. Voyager of the Seas

The next Voyager-class ship in this list was the one that started the class in 1999, and helped create the experience we expect from Royal Caribbean now – features such as the ice skating rink, rock climbing wall and Royal Promenade debuted on the ship.

While she was once seen as a huge ship, she’s now dwarfed by larger ships from all major cruise lines, but she still gets a lot of positive reviews for the good mix of activities without feeling crowded.

She could do with another refresh, if she’s to remain sailing with the cruise line, as reviews do mention dated decor and signs of wear and tear.

23. Explorer of the Seas

The first ship built in this millennium for Royal Caribbean, Explorer of the Seas was the second Voyager-class ship to launch and continued the theme of exploring new and exciting activities including plenty of fun features for adults and kids alike. Reviews mention how Explorer gets the balance between size and excitement right.

The ship could probably do with another refurbishment if it’s going to keep sailing for Royal Caribbean though – there are areas that are either getting old or need a really deep clean to revitalize them, according to some past guests.

24. Grandeur of the Seas

The oldest ship in the Royal Caribbean fleet , Grandeur of the Seas debuted all the way back in 1996 and is still getting mostly positive reviews from her guests. The people who book cruises on Grandeur like the fact she’s a smaller ship, with only one or two reviews mentioning the lack of things to do.

There are enough restaurants and bars to keep things fresh, which is good as one of the bigger criticisms is the quality of food in the Main Dining Room – the other, understandably, being the ship needing some more updates to make it feel more modern.

25. Vision of the Seas

Vision of the Seas launched in 1998 and despite being the last Vision-class ship to arrive, she was the one that lent her name to the class of ship. She’s considerably smaller than much of the fleet, so some criticism in reviews comes from passengers who didn’t realise there wouldn’t be much to do on board.

But most have done their research and have left positive feedback on the atmosphere and the service, while reviews of the food are mixed, leaning towards positive.

26. Quantum of the Seas

Quantum of the Seas debuted in 2014 as the first of the new Quantum-class ships, with some fantastic features making their first appearance for the cruise line, including North Star, Two70 and the Bionic Bar.

Looking at the reviews, the reason it scored lower seems to be some recurring ship problems leading to cancelled excursions – and with Quantum sailing Alaska, the excursions play a huge part in the experience. Hopefully, the ship issues are resolved.

27. Spectrum of the Seas

Surprised by the ‘worst’ cruise ship in the fleet? I know I am. One of the newest ships in the fleet, Spectrum of the Seas was the fourth Quantum-class ship to sail for Royal Caribbean and the first of the Quantum Ultra sub-class, ships that are slightly larger. She is packed with amazing features, which is why it’s a little surprising that she’s so low on this list.

Again, her review scores are still mostly positive, but there are a few comments that she just feels too crowded and that the crew aren’t great at managing queues to make sure things run smoothly onboard.

Royal Caribbean Ship Reviews

Now, here’s a table showing the review score for each of the Royal Caribbean ships according to the most popular review sites. The table is ordered by the age of the ship, with the newest ships at the top.

Choosing The Best Royal Caribbean Ship For You

Even with the review rankings above, there isn’t really a single ship that’s best for everyone. It depends on what you’re looking for from your cruise because different ships appeal to slightly different tastes. There is of course a Royal Caribbean experience which means that all ships are similar, but not exactly the same by any means.

NEW DEALS JUST RELEASED!

Don’t miss the latest Royal Caribbean offers…

The most fun ship is probably Icon of the Seas since she has the most to enjoy onboard, but any of the Oasis-class ships are also a great option if your priority is variety.

If you want a cruise for adults-only then you’re likely better looking at the smaller, older ships such as Mariner of the Seas, or a modern option like Odyssey of the Seas.

The Best Royal Caribbean Ship Classes

Looking at the customer review data, it’s clear that the Icon Class seems to have already become the new favourite for guests, but that the Oasis-class ships are only just behind. It’s no wonder that Royal Caribbean keeps building bigger ships – guests love them!

Size clearly does matter too, since many of the Quantum-class ships are newer than some of the Oasis-class ones, but have fared a lot worse on rankings. They’re beautiful and innovative, but they aren’t the most popular options.

Of the older classes, the Freedom Class still remains popular, and it’ll be interesting to see how these scores hold up once Independence of the Seas returns to the UK in 2025.

But the oldest Vision-class ships are anchored near the bottom of the list, and could either use a significant upgrade if they’re to continue sailing for the cruise line.

The Bottom Line

So there you have it – every current Royal Caribbean ship ranked, and recommendations for the best ship depending on what you’re looking for from your cruise.

Remember that there isn’t really a single ‘best’ ship because that depends on what you want from your cruise.

Also – none of the Royal ships were badly reviewed, so even the ‘worst’ ones are still great.

While some reviews mention bad food, on the whole, Royal Caribbean has great food according to reviews. It could be that one bad meal or something not being cooked to the guests liking leads them to mention the ‘poor’ food when they review the ship.

Enjoyed this? See the Carnival cruise ships ranked and the NCL cruise ships ranked to see which ships in those respective fleets are the best and worst.

Related Posts:

• The Best Royal Caribbean Ships for Adults
• The Best Royal Caribbean Ships for Kids
• Royal Caribbean Ships by Size: Comparison Chart

If you found this interesting, please share!

Jenni Fielding is the founder of Cruise Mummy. She has worked in the cruise industry since 2015 and has taken over 30 cruises. Now, she helps over 1 million people per month to plan their perfect cruise holidays.

Read more about me

1 thought on “Royal Caribbean Ships Ranked From Best To Worst”

You forgot adventure of the seas also it has a massive casino realtive to its brothers in the same class. Oasis is best casino but adventure is largest per a capta.

Leave a comment Cancel reply

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

The 6 best Royal Caribbean ships for adults

Royal Caribbean is known for some of the world's largest cruise ships , over-the-top onboard amenities and some of the best entertainment at sea — perfect for young families. While Royal Caribbean does not run adults-only cruises, grownups traveling without children will be glad to know that certain ships seem tailor-made for couples, mom-and-daughter duos or parents traveling with their adult children.

With over 25 ships in its fleet, Royal Caribbean has a ship for every type of traveler, not just families with young kids. Whether you're looking for fewer upper-deck attractions and more places to relax outside or upscale dining and entertainment for a date night after an exciting day in port, this cruise line has you covered.

Also, most ships offer adults-only pools and lounges where you can escape from the younger cruisers on board if you so choose. Cruisers looking for a party scene can enjoy nightclubs open until the wee hours of the morning, and foodies can find an elevated dining experience at the line's many specialty restaurants.

For cruise news, reviews and tips, sign up for TPG's cruise newsletter .

For the avid traveler looking to get away from the standard Caribbean sailings, some of the line's ships have sailings that go to unique ports of call where you can immerse yourself in a new culture and indulge in local culinary delights.

If you're looking for a more grownup vacation, these are the six best Royal Caribbean cruise ships for adults.

Rhapsody of the Seas

Don't overlook Rhapsody of the Seas just because it's one of the oldest ships in the Royal Caribbean fleet. It still has lots to offer adults looking for a fun getaway, especially to Europe, where you can book back-to-back port-intensive cruises for a customized vacation.

Rhapsody of the Seas offers some unique sailings, including a two-night sailing from Israel that can be tacked onto longer Mediterranean sailings, such as five-night Greek Isles cruises. For an even longer sailing, consider the 14-night transatlantic cruise, which stops in Alicante, Spain, the Canary Islands and the Bahamas.

Related: Best Mediterranean cruises for every type of traveler

The ship is also one of Royal Caribbean's smallest, carrying 1,998 passengers at double occupancy (compared to 5,734 on Wonder of the Seas ). Yet it's got much to offer adults looking to relax after a long day of sightseeing. Book a relaxing treatment, such as a couples massage or solo facial, in the serene oasis of the Vitality Spa. Or take a dip in the Solarium, the adults-only retreat with loungers, pools and panoramic ocean views.

In the evening, watch the sunset at the ship's signature Viking Crown Lounge, where floor-to-ceiling windows surround clusters of cozy lounge chairs just beckoning adults to linger over their favorite drink and enjoy the view. After dark, the lounge becomes a dance club with a DJ.

Grownups can also enjoy evening dance parties and movies under the stars on the pool deck as the ship sails to its next port of call. Chops Grille, the onboard steakhouse, provides an intimate setting for a romantic dinner for two.

Anthem of the Seas

Adults looking for unique onboard activities, mixed with a manageable size and more grownup vibe, will enjoy the 4,180-passenger Anthem of the Seas.

On board, the North Star, a pod-like viewing deck unique to this class of ships, suspends travelers 300 feet above the ocean for incredible views. We recommend taking the ride on a port day to get a birds-eye view of the shore and city skylines. For a different kind of thrill, try the RipCord by iFLY skydiving simulator, which gives you the sensation of free falling.

Of course, no cruise is complete without dinner and a show. One of the more unique things about Anthem of the Seas is its four smaller main dining rooms rather than one enormous main restaurant. Of the four venues, The Grande is the most elegant and tends to draw in more adults. After dinner, head to the theater to see "We Will Rock You," a musical tribute to Queen that originated in London's West End. Anthem is the only Royal Caribbean ship to offer this production.

Related: The craziest attractions you'll find on a cruise ship

The ship also caters to adults with the time and desire for longer vacations, with seven- to 14-night summer cruises to the Norwegian fjords, Canary Islands and the Mediterranean. If you want to stay stateside, there are seven and eight-night sailings that go from Cape Liberty to Royal Caribbean's private island, Perfect Day at CocoCay . You can find a more grownup vibe at the Chill Island beach or the swim-up bar in the Oasis Lagoon pool. The line has hinted that an adults-only beach is coming soon.

Quantum of the Seas

The longer the cruise, the fewer the kids. So, for a very adult Royal Caribbean cruise, choose the 4,180-passenger Quantum of the Seas for its longer sailings to Hawaii , the South Pacific or Australia. You'll visit some of the most beautiful islands in the world and find far fewer kids on board due to the duration and school-year timing of the itineraries.

For an adult-focused cruise to Alaska , try Quantum's weeklong voyages to the Last Frontier from May through September. The ship sails to such exciting ports of call as Skagway, Sitka and Ketchikan and offers scenic cruising through the Endicott Arm and by Dawes Glacier.

You'll find plenty of kids on board during Alaska sailings. However, adults rarely have to go far to find a place without kids. (Plus, the ship's excellent kids club keeps many young cruisers entertained and out of sight.)

Adults can seek out age-appropriate fun at the onboard escape room, watch an outdoor movie under the stars or embrace their inner child by shooting hoops or driving bumper cars at the SeaPlex. By day, enjoy a drink or snack and take in the 270-degree views in the Two70 lounge. Return at night when the space transforms into an immersive theater using high-tech elements to put on musical performances.

If you're looking for great views from the pool or hot tub, head to the indoor, adults-only Solarium, where you never have to worry about the cold Alaska weather or the hot Hawaiian sun making you uncomfortable. The forward-facing venue offers unobstructed views from the plentiful lounge chairs around the windows.

Related: 35 Royal Caribbean cruise tips and tricks that will make your voyage better

Quantum of the Seas, like sister ship Anthem, has a multitude of dining venues that serve great dishes around the ship. A meal at Wonderland is worth the additional cost because it's as much a feast for the eyes as it is for the taste buds. The molecular gastronomy menu features delightful bites of pork belly, tuna sashimi and buffalo chicken presented in a playful way that guests might not expect (and most kids may not appreciate).

Mariner of the Seas

The 3,114-passenger Mariner of the Seas is an ideal ship for multigenerational cruises, with plenty of activities to please everyone from young adults to grandparents.

Older adults play cards or read in the serene library and card room or enjoy the ocean views from the Solarium. Young adults can pack their day with high-energy activities, such as laser tag, ice skating and boogie boarding on the FlowRider surf simulator.

At night, everyone in the family can come together for a meal. Reserve a table at Jamie's Italian for a special group dinner. All of the pasta is made fresh, including the signature truffle tagliatelle, where thick noodles are tossed in truffle cream with fresh truffles and a hint of nutmeg. The fan-favorite "meat plank" is easy to share and laden with salami, prosciutto, mozzarella and focaccia.

Afterward, the group can catch the ice skating show (you're never too old to enjoy the musical numbers and colorful costumes) or musical performances in the main theater before the younger set heads to the bars and the older generation turns in for the night.

Mariner of the Seas sails from Galveston, Texas, and Port Canaveral, Florida, to destinations across the Bahamas and Caribbean. Shorter four or five-night sailings are a great way to fit in a long weekend away, especially for younger adults with less time off work. Longer eight-night sailings to the islands make for a true getaway.

Jewel of the Seas

Adults who relish scenic cruising should look no further than the 2,702-passenger Jewel of the Seas. The beautiful ship travels to a wide range of destinations, with fall foliage sailings in Canada and New England , adventurous itineraries to the Arctic Circle and northern destinations like Iceland and Greenland, and traditional cruises to the Caribbean.

The smaller ship is more desirable for adults looking to enjoy the destinations they are visiting rather than trying out the latest attractions at sea. The Viking Crown Lounge offers a quiet getaway during the day for looking out over the passing scenery and a hyped-up dance club at night. You can even get great landscape views from the glass elevators running along the sides of the ship.

No matter where you sail, Jewel of the Seas offers plenty of onboard activities suitable for adults. Take an all-access tour of the inner parts of the ship most people never see, test your luck at table games or slot machines in the casino, or dance the night away at the '70s disco party.

Foodies and wine enthusiasts may never tire of the many bars and lounges on Jewel of the Seas. Try a variety of wines, either by the glass or the bottle, at Vintages wine bar, people watch and enjoy a cocktail at the Centrum lobby bar, or grab a seat at Vortex, where the spinning bar slowly rotates everyone around the room.

When it's time to eat, head to Giovanni's Table, where Italian dishes are prepared and served like they are at your nonna's house. The kids might turn up their noses, but grownups will love the signature dishes, such as the grilled octopus appetizer and the housemade linguine with clams entree.

Related: The 5 best destinations you can visit on a Royal Caribbean ship

Harmony of the Seas

Harmony of the Seas is one of the largest cruise ships in the world, carrying 5,497 passengers at double occupancy. It's got activities for all ages and interests, with themed areas of the ships – called neighborhoods – dedicated to different pursuits, such as entertainment or swimming and sports. Adults can have thrilling experiences during the day, find their zen before heading off to dinner and enjoy entertainment late into the night, all by moving between a few decks.

Adventurous adults will love zip lining over the top of the Boardwalk or sliding down the Ultimate Abyss, a 10-story dry slide. Those looking for a more laid-back vacation can book treatment at the Vitality Spa, sample different varietals at a wine tasting or learn how to make sushi.

The ship's Central Park area is romantic and made for adults. It's a fantastic place to sit back with a cocktail and people-watch. Here, you'll find upscale shops, restaurants and bars with indoor and outdoor seating set amid a garden of real plants and trees. To spend a full evening in Central Park, start at the Trellis Bar for wine or cocktails, then head to 150 Central Park, where the menu highlights seasonal ingredients.

Those looking for a more exciting evening will want to hang around Royal Promenade, which feels more like a buzzy city street than a cruise ship deck. Here, an English pub, a bar staffed by robots and a Latin-inspired lounge all come together to make for a fun night out. For a full night of entertainment, check out a live performance of "Grease" in the ship's main theater.

Harmony of the Seas sets sail from Galveston and Miami, taking cruisers to the Caribbean on four- to eight-night sailings. The Miami sailings all stop at Perfect Day at CocoCay, St. Thomas, Puerto Rico and Honduras.

Bottom line

The best Royal Caribbean ships for adults may still have kids on board. However, they also offer something extra for grownups — whether that's a more intimate ship size, out-of-the-ordinary itineraries, incredible choice of bars and restaurants, serene hangouts or thrilling attractions for active adults.

No matter which ship you choose, cruising with Royal Caribbean offers the ability to visit some of the world's most sought-after destinations on a ship that teems with varied activities. While you won't find adults-only Royal Caribbean cruises, you can tailor your cruise experience on these six ships to focus on more grown-up pursuits.

Planning a cruise? Start with these stories:

• The 5 most desirable cabin locations on any cruise ship
• A beginners guide to picking a cruise line
• The 8 worst cabin locations on any cruise ship
• The ultimate guide to what to pack for a cruise
• A quick guide to the most popular cruise lines
• 21 tips and tricks that will make your cruise go smoothly
• 15 ways cruisers waste money
• The ultimate guide to choosing a cruise ship cabin