Royal Caribbean Ships Newest To Oldest: A Complete Guide

Since its debut in 1969, Royal Caribbean has been offering innovative sea journeys. The fleet is packed with state-of-the-art facilities and includes some of the world’s largest vessels. The stunning architectural marvel has revolutionized the industry.

With thrilling onboard activities and exceptional dining options, this cruise line provides a truly unforgettable experience. But the fun part is that Royal Caribbean launches new ships equipped with better features.

This cruise line operates 28 ships and is planning a new addition in the summer of 2025. In this blog, discover Royal Caribbean ships Newest To Oldest evolution. Dive into the upscale features and onboard entertainment of every vessel.

30-Second Summary

Are you planning your next voyage with Royal Caribbean and want to know which one suits you best? Learn about Royal Caribbean ships newest to oldest, in this guide.

We will discuss onboard amenities and the itinerary suitability of different vessels for various types of travelers. Whether you want to go on a family vacation or experience on-ship adventures, this blog will help you create a perfect travel experience.

Newest and Most Innovative Vessels

Roughly, this cruise line launches one ship every year. Each new vessel is equipped with innovative amenities. Wondering what the features of the newest Royal Caribbean ship are?

Newest and Most Innovative Vessels

Let’s have a look.

Utopia of the Seas (2024): Oasis Class

Royal Caribbean latest ship, Utopia of the Seas, started its maiden voyage in 2024. The size of this vessel is 236,473 gross tons, and it accommodates 5,668 passengers. This ship is the sixth in the Oasis class. This ship was deployed for shorter voyages to the Bahamas.

Being the second largest ship in the world, the short-cruise itinerary attracts more first-time cruisers who want to enjoy a luxurious journey.

Icon of the Seas (2024): Icon Class

Icon of the Seas was launched in early 2024. Weighing upto 248,663 gross tons with a passenger capacity of 5,610, this vessel is the world’s largest. It stands out from the Royal Caribbean fleet because of its fantastic features.

This ship has expansive water slides, destination-themed elevators, and AquaTheater shows. From specialty restaurants to casual cafes, this ship is designed to provide adventure and relaxation.

Royal Caribbean Cruise Classes

Royal Caribbean is operating seven classes of cruises. Each class has its distinguished features that make it a favorite of every passenger. This cruise line keeps a vessel for 20 to 30 years before retiring. The oldest ship is 28 years old.

Royal Caribbean Cruise Classes

If you are wondering about the classes of this cruise line, this section has the answer.

Oasis Class

Oasis Class is appreciated by all Royal Caribbean passengers due to its large fleet. There is no shortage of things to do on board. There are a total of six vessels in this class.

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

These cruise ships can carry as many as 6,988 passengers and 2,200 crew members. On these vessels, you do not need to worry about crowds. The design of these ships is based on neighborhoods that divide passengers into seven or eight areas.

The newest ships, Utopia of the Seas and Wonder of the Seas, are 4% bigger than the next ship that will operate in 2028. The dedicated suite area, private lounge, deck, and restaurant cover the extra space.

Icon Class

The Icon class has only one ship that has made its maiden voyage: Icon of the Seas. This is the largest ship in Royal Caribbean’s fleet and in the world as well. Some other ships are ready to be launched in the coming years.

  • An unnamed vessel (coming in 2027)
  • Legend of the Seas (coming in 2026)
  • Star of the Seas (coming in August)
  • Icon of the Seas (2024)

The Icon of the Seas boasts a massive number of restaurants, onboard activities, and other features that make it perfect for an immersive vacation. The top decks include seven pools, a zipline, a basketball court, a mini-golf, a kiddie splash zone, and surfing simulators.

Inside, you can enjoy a large variety of casinos, spas, lounges, bars, and Broadway-style shows. This vessel carries 7,600 travelers with 2,300 crew members.

Quantum Class

The Quantum Class was launched in 2014 and is the most innovative class of the Royal Caribbean. There are a total of 5 ships in the Quantum Class.

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

Apart from the vast range of bars and restaurants, you can enjoy bumper car pavilions and skydiving simulators. The multilevel entertainment spaces have floor-to-ceiling glass walls called Two70. These spaces boast innovative shows, including aerial performances.

The Quantum Class is not as big as the Icon and Oasis Classes. However, they are still some of the largest ships at sea with a multitude of venues.

Radiance Class

The vessels of the Radiance Class are half the size of ships included in the Icon and Oasis Classes. With four ships that weigh around 90,090 tons, it is ideal for passengers seeking mid-sized vessels.

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

Radiance Class ships have a lot of upscale features. With half a dozen places to eat onboard, you can enjoy your favorite cuisine. Each vessel has three pools, a rock climbing wall, a miniature golf course, a theater, a spa, a casino, and multiple bars and lounges.

The passenger capacity is 2,100. It is ideal for passengers who do not want to be in crowds of megaships but want to experience high-quality onboard services.

Freedom Class

In 2009, Freedom Class ships were the biggest sailing on the sea. However, they are replaced by the Icon, Quantum, and Oasis Classes of Royal Caribbean. This class has three vessels.

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

This class offers the classic big-ship voyage with multiple lounges, bars, and other onboard attractions. The Freedom Class ships were the first to feature the FlowRider simulator, which is a notable attraction on every Royal Caribbean vessel.

These ships weigh about 156,000 tons. Comparing them with other Royal Caribbean ships by size, these are 38% smaller than Icon ships and 31% smaller than Oasis vessels. It can carry up to 3,900 passengers.

Voyager Class

The Voyager Class is similar but shorter than the Freedom Class ships. This class has five vessels that weigh from 137,276 to 139,999 tons.

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

The ships in the Voyager Class were the first in the Royal Caribbean fleet to have rock climbing walls and ice skating rinks. These were also the first to feature a Royal Promenade, which includes bars, cafes, and shops.

The cabins are few and can accommodate around 3,100 passengers. An attraction that you will not find on any other ship is The Blaster. It is the largest waterslide at sea on the Navigator of the Seas.

Vision Class

The Vision Class ships started sailing in the 1990s. They are the smallest out of all Royal Caribbean ships. With fewer onboard attractions, this class has four vessels.

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

These ships are ideal for passengers who are interested in destinations rather than onboard amenities. The smaller size allows around 2,440 to 2,514 guests. You can enjoy an intimate experience on Vision Class’s ships.

These ships operate port-intensive itineraries and visit less-traveled places. Almost all ships have two pools and six whirlpools. The top deck attractions include sunning areas as well. Apart from buffets and main restaurants, each vessel has at least one specialty dining place.

Maintenance and Modernization

Royal Caribbean prioritizes maintenance and modernization of its fleet to ensure a safe and efficient journey. All Royal Caribbean ships, from newest to oldest, are maintained through various efforts.

Maintenance and Modernization

Maintenance

Dry Docking: RCL ships undergo dry docking every few years. It is necessary for repairs, maintenance, and upgrades.

Regular Checks: The ships also have a regular check schedule. The engine, safety equipment, navigation systems, and other components are inspected to ensure they function correctly.

Modernization

Royal Amplified Program: This multi-billion-dollar program was started in 2018. It upgraded 10 ships from the Oasis, Voyager, and Freedom Classes. It took the travel experience up a notch by introducing new pools, enhanced nightlife, and other onboard attractions.

Technology: Royal Caribbean is also investing in technology integration and digital transformation. The systems include introducing a mobile app, contactless boarding, and smart stateroom controls.

Itinerary Fit by Ship Class

Each ship class of Royal Caribbean has distinct features. Some offer an intimate travel experience, while others have more onboard entertainment. So, which fits your itinerary the best? Let’s find out.

Itinerary Fit by Ship Class

Intimate Ships

For an intimate voyage, Vision and Radiance Class ships are excellent. These RCCL ships by size are smaller and can access narrow waterways and smaller ports. The expansive glass windows allow you to glimpse the stunning beauty of Alaska’s glaciers and Norway’s fjords.

These classes are perfect for passengers who want to explore nature and enjoy a personal ship experience.

Popular itineraries that these ships cover are:

  • Alaska Inside Passage
  • Mediterranean Destinations
  • Panama Canal
  • Baltic and Northern Europe

Mid-Size Classes

The ship types classified in this category are the Voyager and Freedom Classes. Passengers who want to explore different ports and enjoy the signature onboard activities of Royal Caribbean.

These ships are large enough to cover onboard thrills, such as FlowRider, ice skating, and the Royal Promenade. And they are small enough to take you to ports in the Caribbean and America. Overall, these classes have the perfect balance of exploration and entertainment.

The famous ports in the itinerary include:

  • Mexican Riviera
  • Eastern and Western Caribbean
  • Bahamas and Bermuda
  • Transatlantic repositioning cruises

Mega-Sized Ships

If you are more interested in onboard entertainment than destinations, megaships are ideal for you. Royal Caribbean offers Oasis and Icon Class. The ships are the definition of “floating resorts.”

Due to their gigantic size, these ships can only dock at specially built ports, such as Perfect Day at CocoCay, Cozumel, and St. Maarten.

The vessels in these classes are home to waterparks with exciting slides, neighborhoods, Central Park, AquaTheater, and skydiving simulators.

The popular itineraries that these massive ships cover are:

  • Bahamas
  • Perfect Day at CocoCay
  • Short voyages to Labadee and Cozumel
  • Eastern and Western Caribbean

Pricing Trends

Pricing is one of the primary considerations when you are choosing a Royal Caribbean vessel. Each class has its own pricing that appeals to different types of passengers.

Budget-Friendly Options

The pricing structure on older ships is much more affordable than on newer vessels. The Voyager, Vision, and Radiance offer fares that are half to a quarter of new classes.

The suites on the older vessels do not have premium pricing. The suites on these ships have significantly lower fares than balcony cabins on new ships.

Premium Pricing

New ships, such as the Icon and Oasis Classes, have top-tier pricing, particularly during the inaugural season. The fare is 36 to 134% higher than that of the older vessels offering similar voyages.

A week-long voyage starting in October 2025 on the Grandeur of the Seas starts at $571 per person. The cheapest cabin at the Icon of the Seas starts from $1,645 per passenger.

This comparison shows that a family of four can cruise on Grandeur of the Seas (an older ship) for less fare than two passengers can travel on the Icon of the Seas (a new ship).

Choosing Royal Caribbean Ships By Age And Amenities

Having distinct features in every ship, Royal Caribbean caters to all types of travelers. You can choose the class you want to travel in based on your preferences and the vessel’s amenities.

Families and Adventure-Seekers

Megaships, such as Icon and Oasis, are perfect for families and adventure lovers. These ships feature water parks, ziplining, surfing simulators, and kid-friendly zones.

The ships are Icon of the Seas (2024), Wonder of the Seas (2022), and Symphony of the Seas (2018).

Tech and Thrill Lovers

Quantum Class is packed with thrilling and tech-savvy amenities. The cutting-edge entertainment includes a RipCord skydiving simulator, robot bartenders, Seaplex bumper cars, and Two70 lounges.

The ships you can enjoy are Odyssey of the Seas (2021), Spectrum of the Seas (2019), and Quantum of the Seas (2014).

Couples and Scenic Cruisers

Whether you want to enjoy time with your partner or want to soak in the serene atmosphere, the Vision and Radiance classes are ideal. Large windows and quiet places emphasize relaxation and scenic ports.

The ships you can choose are Radiance of the Seas (2001), Jewel of the Seas (2004), and Vision of the Seas (1998).

Budget and First-Time Travelers

Freedom and Voyager Classes are great if you want to experience signature Royal Caribbean amenities without the megaship scale. You can opt for these vessels if you want an affordable and lively experience on shorter itineraries.

The ships to sail with are Grandeur of the Seas (1996), Voyager of the Seas (1999), Freedom of the Seas (2006)

Wrapping Up

Royal Caribbean is a celebrated cruise line because of its various vessel classes. It operates the world’s largest cruises and offers an immersive experience with exciting onboard services. This blog highlighted Royal Caribbean ships newest to oldest.

It outlined different classes and which vessels operate under each of them. With the various services of this cruise line, make an informed decision about your next sea journey. Get more information about Royal Caribbean on Cruise Tidal.

FAQs

How Old is Oasis of the Seas?

Oasis of the Seas is a vessel from the Oasis Class and was built in 2009. The maiden voyage that took place on December 5, 2009, highlighted the innovative approach of Royal Caribbean.

What is the Newest Ship in the Royal Caribbean in 2025?

The newest ship is Star of the Seas, ready to be launched in the summer of 2025. This is the second ship in the Icon Class after the Icon of the Seas.

Which is the Biggest Cruise in Royal Caribbean?

The biggest cruise in Royal Caribbean is Icon of the Seas. This vessel was launched in 2024 and is considered the largest ship in the world.

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