Royal Caribbean
Royal Caribbean Overview
Tracked Ships
With Active Deals
Active Deals
Current Offers
Avg Deals/Ship
Per Vessel
Royal Caribbean Ships
Star of the Seas
Utopia of the Seas
Icon of the Seas
Wonder of the Seas
Odyssey of the Seas
Symphony of the Seas
Ovation of the Seas
Independence of the Seas
Liberty of the Seas
Legend of the Seas
Spectrum of the Seas
Harmony of the Seas
Anthem of the Seas
Quantum of the Seas
Allure of the Seas
Oasis of the Seas
Freedom of the Seas
Jewel of the Seas
Mariner of the Seas
Brilliance of the Seas
Navigator of the Seas
Adventure of the Seas
Radiance of the Seas
Explorer of the Seas
Voyager of the Seas
Royal Caribbean Ship Class Chart
Understanding the differences between Royal Caribbean ship classes helps you choose the perfect vessel for your cruise vacation. Compare all seven ship classes by size, amenities, pricing, and best uses.
| Ship Class | Ships | Year Built | Tonnage | Capacity | Best For | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Icon Class | 2024-2026 | 250,800 GT | 5,610-7,600 | Families, cutting-edge features | $$$$$ | |
| Oasis Class | 2009-2021 | 225,282- 236,857 GT | 5,400-6,988 | Families, variety seekers | $$$$ | |
| Quantum Ultra | 2019-2021 | 167,704- 169,379 GT | 4,200-5,622 | Tech enthusiasts, adventure | $$$$ | |
| Quantum Class | 2014-2016 | 167,800 GT | 4,180-4,905 | Active travelers, innovation | $$$ | |
| Freedom Class | 2006-2008 | 154,407 GT | 3,634 | Value seekers, traditional | $$ | |
| Radiance Class |
| 2001-2004 | 90,090 GT | 2,501 | Destination-focused, intimate | $$ |
| Vision Class |
| 1996-1998 | 78,491- 82,910 GT | 1,804-2,435 | Budget travelers, classic | $ |
Understanding Royal Caribbean Ship Classes
What Makes Each Ship Class Different?
Royal Caribbean's seven ship classes range from intimate 2,000-passenger vessels to mega-ships carrying 7,600+ guests. Icon class ships represent the newest innovations with Category 6 waterparks and eco-friendly LNG propulsion. Oasis class ships feature unique neighborhoods including Central Park with real trees and a Boardwalk with a carousel.
Quantum class ships showcase North Star observation capsules and iFLY skydiving simulators, while Freedom, Radiance, and Vision classes provide traditional cruising experiences at lower price points with classic amenities like FlowRider surf simulators and ice skating rinks.
Ship Class Pricing Explained
Royal Caribbean ship pricing varies significantly by class. Icon class ships command premium rates for newest features like the suspended infinity pool and multi-level waterpark. Oasis and Quantum classes balance modern amenities with value, offering mid-range pricing on popular Caribbean and Alaska itineraries.
Freedom and Radiance classes offer excellent value with mid-range pricing. Vision class ships provide budget-friendly access to Royal Caribbean experiences, often costing 40-50% less than newer mega-ships on similar Caribbean routes from Florida ports.
Which Ship Class Should You Choose?
Choose Icon or Oasis class for families wanting maximum activities and newest innovations like Thrill Island waterpark and AquaDome entertainment venue. These mega-ships offer the most dining options, entertainment, and onboard neighborhoods.
Select Quantum class for unique attractions like the North Star observation capsule, Two70 entertainment venue, and destination-focused itineraries to Alaska, Asia, or Australia. These ships balance innovation with a more manageable size.
Consider Freedom class for value-conscious families seeking classic Royal Caribbean features like rock climbing, mini-golf, and main dining room elegance. Choose Radiance class for intimate, elegant cruising to exotic destinations with plenty of glass and ocean views. Book Vision class for budget Caribbean getaways and short 3-5 night cruises from East Coast ports.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the largest Royal Caribbean ship class?
Icon class ships are Royal Caribbean's largest, measuring 250,800 gross tons and carrying up to 7,600 passengers. Icon of the Seas and Star of the Seas are identical sister ships sharing the same dimensions, length, and number of decks. Both feature 7 neighborhoods and the largest waterpark at sea.
Which Royal Caribbean ship class offers the best value?
Freedom class ships offer the best balance of amenities and pricing, featuring FlowRider surf simulators, ice skating rinks, and rock climbing at 40-50% less than Icon class ships on similar itineraries. Vision class provides the most budget-friendly options for short Caribbean cruises.
What's the difference between Quantum and Quantum Ultra class?
Quantum Ultra ships (Odyssey and Spectrum) are newer versions with enhanced dining venues, updated entertainment spaces, and refined designs based on feedback from original Quantum class vessels. Both feature North Star observation capsules, iFLY skydiving, and SeaPlex activity spaces.
Are older Royal Caribbean ship classes worth booking?
Yes. Freedom, Radiance, and Vision class ships provide excellent Royal Caribbean experiences at significantly lower prices. Many cruisers prefer smaller ships for intimate atmospheres, easier navigation, and less crowded venues, especially on destination-focused itineraries.