Royal Caribbean Ship Classes: Your Guide to All Classes & Ships

Royal Caribbean cruise ship classes provide travelers with a varied range of alternatives, each offering a distinct cruising experience suited to specific preferences and interests. The fleet consists of ships of several classes, including Icon, Quantum, Oasis, Freedom, Voyager, Radiance, and Vision, each with its unique capacity and amenities for meetings and incentives. The Oasis Class, which can accommodate over 6,600 passengers, is the largest in the fleet and features an extravagant range of specialty restaurants, unique activities, and Broadway performances, guaranteeing that passengers have an amazing and lifetime experience. The Vision Class, on the other hand, is ideal for destination-intensive cruises, offering a more intimate and relaxing setting for visitors looking for a chilling sailing experience.

Royal Caribbean cruise ship classes are designed to accommodate a diverse range of preferences and interests, ensuring that there is something for everyone. The diversity of activities and attractions accessible across the ship classes demonstrates the cruise line's dedication to offering an inclusive and enjoyable cruising experience for all customers. Whether tourists want high-energy entertainment on a large-scale vessel or a more relaxed vacation on a smaller ship, Royal Caribbean's numerous ship classes ensure that they may discover the ideal cruising experience tailored to their preferences.

About Royal Caribbean Cruises

Royal Caribbean International (RCI), formerly known as the Royal Caribbean Cruise Line (RCCL), is a cruise line formed in 1968 in Norway. Since 1997, it has been a completely owned subsidiary of Royal Caribbean Group. Based in Miami, Florida, it is the largest cruise line by revenue and one of the largest by passenger count. With itineraries to 240 destinations in 61 countries on six continents, the cruise line is continuing to transform vacations. One of the popular destinations, Perfect Day at CocoCay and Labadee are two private destinations exclusively for Royal Caribbean cruise guests, located in the Bahamas and Caribbean respectively.

Royal Caribbean has developed its reputation by continually improving clients' entire experiences. Escape rooms, FlowRider® surf simulator, ziplines, rock climbing, RipCord® by iFly®, ice skating, bumper cars, trapeze school, merry-go-rounds, and other activities are available on various ships. Bionic bars and those that move passengers between floors, the North Star® - a cruise ship's highest viewing deck, transformational venues, and other engaging attractions and locations. Royal Caribbean received several awards at the 2024 Travel Weekly Readers' Choice Awards, including Best New Cruise Ship and Best Cruise Line Overall. As of 2025, the line operates 29 ships, including the upcoming Star of the Seas, which will launch in August 2025.

Royal Caribbean Cruise Ship Classes

If you would like to cruise with Royal Caribbean but aren't sure which of its 29 ocean-going ships to pick from, here's a quick overview. Royal Caribbean ship classes are divided into 6 different classes, each built around the same time and with the same basic design. Most have comparable amenities with somewhat varying appearances, but understanding the classes will help you choose the best ship for your next holiday.

Icon Class

Royal Caribbean’s Icon Class includes the world’s largest cruise ships, designed for innovation and sustainability. The first ship, Icon of the Seas (2024), has a tonnage of 250,800 GT and a 7,600-passenger capacity, with the upcoming sister ship Star of the Seas (2025) matching these specs. These vessels feature family-friendly zones, such as the Category 6 waterpark, and eco-friendly LNG-powered engines. Themed neighborhoods, like the tropical “Surfside” for families, and amenities like the AquaDome entertainment venue make them ideal for multi-generational travel. Icon Class combines modern technology with adventure, offering the largest waterpark at sea and diverse dining options.

Icon Class Ships:

• Icon of the Seas (2024)
• Star of the Seas (2025)

Oasis Class

Oasis Class ships are some of the largest in the world, offering unmatched entertainment and amenities. The class includes Oasis of the Seas (2009), Allure of the Seas (2010), Harmony of the Seas (2016), Symphony of the Seas (2018), Wonder of the Seas (2022), and Utopia of the Seas (2024). These ships accommodate between 6,680 and 6,988 passengers, with a gross tonnage ranging from 225,282 to 236,857. They are known for distinct neighborhoods, such as Central Park and the Boardwalk, plus the AquaTheater and Ultimate Abyss slide. Oasis Class ships redefine large-scale cruising with endless dining, shopping, and entertainment options.

Oasis Class Ships:

• Oasis of the Seas (2009)
• Allure of the Seas (2010)
• Harmony of the Seas (2016)
• Symphony of the Seas (2018)
• Wonder of the Seas (2022)
• Utopia of the Seas (2024)

Quantum Class

Quantum Class ships bring advanced technology and thrilling experiences. The class includes Quantum of the Seas (2014), Anthem of the Seas (2015), Ovation of the Seas (2016), Spectrum of the Seas (2019), and Odyssey of the Seas (2020). These vessels hold approximately 4,905 passengers with a gross tonnage of 168,666. Features include the North Star observation capsule, RipCord by iFLY skydiving simulator, and the multifunctional SeaPlex. Their innovative design incorporates robotic bartenders, virtual balconies in interior staterooms, and dynamic dining options. Quantum Class ships sail in regions like Alaska, Asia, and the Caribbean, attracting adventure-seeking travelers.

Quantum Class Ships:

• Quantum of the Seas (2014)
• Anthem of the Seas (2015)
• Ovation of the Seas (2016)
• Spectrum of the Seas (2019)
• Odyssey of the Seas (2021)

Radiance Class

Radiance Class ships focus on beautiful ocean views and an elegant design. This class consists of Radiance of the Seas (2001), Brilliance of the Seas (2002), Serenade of the Seas (2003), and Jewel of the Seas (2004). With a passenger capacity between 2,466 and 2,702 and a gross tonnage of around 90,090, these ships are known for their expansive glass walls and floor-to-ceiling windows. They offer specialty dining, spa facilities, and outdoor movie screens. Their smaller size allows access to more intimate ports, making them a popular choice for Alaska and Mediterranean itineraries. Guests can enjoy a mix of adventure and relaxation with a modern cruise experience.

Radiance Class Ships:

• Radiance of the Seas (2001)
• Brilliance of the Seas (2002)
• Serenade of the Seas (2003)
• Jewel of the Seas (2004)

Freedom Class

Freedom Class ships expanded on the innovations of the Voyager Class. This class includes Freedom of the Seas (2006), Liberty of the Seas (2007), and Independence of the Seas (2008). These ships carry between 4,515 and 4,960 passengers and have a gross tonnage of 154,407 to 156,271. They feature FlowRider surf simulators, water parks, ice-skating rinks, and specialty restaurants. With large solariums, Broadway-style shows, and designer shopping, these ships cater to families, couples, and solo travelers alike. Their itineraries include the Caribbean, Mediterranean, and Transatlantic voyages, making them a versatile option for cruise lovers seeking both relaxation and excitement.

Freedom Class Ships:

• Freedom of the Seas (2006)
• Liberty of the Seas (2007)
• Independence of the Seas (2008)

Voyager Class

Voyager Class ships revolutionized cruising with their innovative features. This class includes Voyager of the Seas (1999), Explorer of the Seas (2000), Adventure of the Seas (2001), Navigator of the Seas (2002), and Mariner of the Seas (2003). These ships accommodate between 3,807 and 4,290 passengers and have a gross tonnage ranging from 137,276 to 139,999. They were the first to introduce the Royal Promenade, an indoor street with shops and cafes, as well as an ice-skating rink. They also feature climbing walls, mini-golf, and FlowRider surf simulators. Voyager Class ships provide action-packed experiences while still offering relaxation with spas and poolside lounging.

Voyager Class Ships:

• Voyager of the Seas (1999)
• Explorer of the Seas (2000)
• Adventure of the Seas (2001)
• Navigator of the Seas (2002)
• Mariner of the Seas (2003)

Vision Class

Royal Caribbean's Vision Class ships are smaller but offer classic cruising experiences. This class includes Grandeur of the Seas (1996), Rhapsody of the Seas (1997), Enchantment of the Seas (1997), and Vision of the Seas (1998). They carry between 2,440 and 2,730 passengers with a gross tonnage ranging from 73,817 to 82,910. Despite their size, they provide pools, solariums, rock climbing walls, Broadway-style entertainment, and specialty dining. These ships are ideal for exploring unique ports that larger vessels cannot reach, offering itineraries across the Caribbean, Europe, and beyond. Vision Class is perfect for travelers who prefer a more traditional cruise atmosphere with modern amenities and a relaxed onboard experience.

Vision Class Ships:

• Grandeur of the Seas (1996)
• Rhapsody of the Seas (1997)
• Enchantment of the Seas (1997)
• Vision of the Seas (1998)

Royal Caribbean has a ship for every kind of traveler, from those who love non-stop action to those who want a slower pace. The biggest ships, like those in the Icon and Oasis Class, bring waterparks, Broadway-style shows, and endless things to do. Smaller ships, like those in the Vision Class, offer a more peaceful way to see amazing places. No matter which ships you choose, you’ll find great food, entertainment, and exciting destinations. It’s all about picking the right ship for the way you like to travel.