Royal Caribbean Cruise Ships From Newest To Oldest — A Complete List

Step aboard a Royal Caribbean ship and you enter a world where city-sized innovation meets oceanic wonder. From lush gardens and soaring zip lines to robotic bartenders and Broadway-caliber theaters, these vessels are floating resorts designed to dazzle. It’s not just a cruise. It’s an immersive experience that redefines luxury and adventure at sea.

With nearly 30 ships in its fleet, Royal Caribbean offers something for every traveler. The newest ships deliver state-of-the-art thrills and modern design, while the older classics offer intimacy, charm, and access to destinations the mega-ships cannot reach. This guide ranks them from newest to oldest, helping you choose the perfect ship for your next unforgettable voyage.

Star of the Seas (2025)

The future has arrived with the debut of Star of the Seas, the second Icon Class vessel and arguably the most luxurious Royal Caribbean ship to date. Set to launch in the summer of 2025, this ship boasts more than 248,000 gross tons of innovation and excitement. Guests will discover seven distinct pools, including an expansive swim-up bar, six record-breaking waterslides, and the first-ever food hall in the Royal Caribbean fleet. Select staterooms come with private plunge pools and multi-level sun decks, offering an exclusive retreat in the clouds.

Evenings on Star of the Seas are just as compelling, with Broadway-style shows, ice skating performances, and a panoramic aerial adventure course under the stars. For those who want the pinnacle of entertainment and luxury at sea, this is the ship to beat.

Utopia of the Seas (2024)

Utopia of the Seas is not just another Oasis Class ship; it is a bold move in cruise strategy. Instead of seven-night voyages, this 236,473-gross ton ship has been deployed on shorter cruises from Florida to the Bahamas. Royal Caribbean is clearly targeting first-time cruisers, introducing them to the thrill of mega-ship vacations without requiring a full week of commitment.

With 13 bars and lounges, a Central Park bursting with lush greenery, and a multitude of entertainment venues, Utopia delivers the grandeur of a week-long cruise in just a few days. Her 18 decks are a playground of zip lines, specialty restaurants, spas, and sun-drenched serenity.

Icon of the Seas (2024)

Icon of the Seas is not only the largest ship in Royal Caribbean’s fleet but also the largest cruise ship ever built. This 248,663-gross ton marvel is the first in the Icon Class, offering a new blueprint for family cruising. With capacity for 5,610 passengers at double occupancy, the ship is a floating resort city.

One of its most talked-about features is Surfside, an entire neighborhood dedicated to families with young children. Other standout attractions include destination-themed elevators, an AquaTheater, and the most diverse collection of bars and dining venues on any ship at sea. Icon of the Seas is a multi-generational cruise dream come true.

Wonder of the Seas (2022)

Before the Icon Class, Wonder of the Seas held the title of the largest cruise ship in the world. This Oasis Class ship debuted in 2022 and redefined scale and splendor on the seas. At 235,600 gross tons, Wonder offers an impressive array of attractions from a Central Park with real trees to an entire Boardwalk amusement area with games and shows.

It features multiple pools, waterslides, and over 20 dining venues. Entertainment options include everything from Broadway productions to aqua shows. This is a ship built for endless exploration and indulgence.

Odyssey of the Seas (2021)

Odyssey of the Seas is the fifth and newest of the Quantum Class ships, known for their futuristic features and high-tech entertainment. With 167,704 gross tons of cutting-edge design, Odyssey caters to a more modern traveler.

One of its major highlights is the SeaPlex, a multi-purpose sports and entertainment complex where guests can enjoy bumper cars, basketball, and trapeze classes. The ship’s North Star ride lifts passengers high above the sea in a glass observation capsule. Add in virtual balcony staterooms and immersive entertainment venues, and Odyssey delivers a cruise experience that feels a bit like tomorrow.

Spectrum of the Seas (2019)

Tailored for the Asian market, Spectrum of the Seas is a unique entry in the Quantum Ultra Class. This 169,379-gross ton ship combines luxury and innovation with regional flair. It features an exclusive Suite Enclave, a Sky Pad virtual reality trampoline, and the North Star observation capsule.

Guests are treated to a culinary adventure that ranges from Asian delicacies to international favorites, and entertainment includes technologically advanced shows with holograms, digital effects, and immersive experiences.

Symphony of the Seas (2018)

Symphony of the Seas is another Oasis Class standout, weighing in at 228,081 gross tons. This ship elevates the multi-neighborhood concept, offering spaces like the leafy Central Park and the bustling Boardwalk. Symphony brings high-octane thrills like the Ultimate Abyss slide, FlowRider surf simulators, and a zip line that soars over the ship.

Dining is a focal point, with over 20 restaurants ranging from fine dining to street-style eats. With 5,518 passengers and a vibrant schedule of shows and music, Symphony is for cruisers who never want a dull moment.

Harmony of the Seas (2016)

Harmony was a game changer when it arrived in 2016. It was the first Oasis Class ship to include the Perfect Storm trio of waterslides and the Ultimate Abyss dry slide. Spanning 226,963 gross tons, Harmony is a giant in every sense.

Its seven neighborhoods include the tranquil Central Park, the thrill-packed Sports Zone, and the dazzling Entertainment Place. Onboard activities range from zip lining to ice skating, and the ship’s theater productions are Broadway-caliber.

Quantum Class Vessels (2014-2016)

These three Quantum Class ships—Quantum of the Seas (2014), Anthem of the Seas (2015), and Ovation of the Seas (2016)—ushered in a new era of high-tech cruising. They introduced robot bartenders at the Bionic Bar, skydiving simulations, and multi-purpose entertainment spaces.

All share similar dimensions and amenities, including the North Star, RipCord by iFly, and a more contemporary design ethos. They represent a shift toward interactive, gadget-filled cruises that appeal to younger audiences and tech-savvy travelers.

Oasis and Allure of the Seas (2009, 2010)

Oasis of the Seas, the original Oasis Class ship, debuted in 2009 and changed cruising forever. She was 40 percent larger than any other cruise ship at the time. Allure of the Seas followed in 2010 with nearly identical specs.

These ships pioneered the concept of neighborhoods, with features like an open-air Central Park and the AquaTheater. Even today, they remain among the most popular ships in the fleet, and Allure is currently undergoing a $95 million renovation to bring even more excitement on board.

Freedom Class Ships (2006-2008)

Freedom of the Seas, Liberty of the Seas, and Independence of the Seas were once the largest cruise ships in the world. These ships introduced features that became Royal Caribbean signatures, like the FlowRider surf simulator and the Royal Promenade.

While no longer the newest, they have all been refurbished with modern décor, new attractions, and refreshed dining venues. These ships are excellent choices for travelers seeking a balance of energy and intimacy.

Radiance Class Ships (2001-2004)

Jewel, Brilliance, Radiance, and Serenade of the Seas are the gems of the Radiance Class. With extensive glasswork, panoramic elevators, and ocean-facing lounges, these ships bring the sea closer to you.

They are smaller, around 90,000 gross tons, and accommodate just over 2,000 guests, creating a more serene and scenic experience. These ships are favorites for Alaska and Panama Canal itineraries where the views are everything.

Voyager Class Ships (1999-2003)

Voyager, Explorer, Navigator, Adventure, and Mariner of the Seas were revolutionary in their time. They were the first to feature an ice skating rink, the Royal Promenade, and a full-blown mall at sea.

Though mid-sized by today’s standards, they are still packed with entertainment and activity. These ships are excellent for families and couples who want big-ship fun without the mega-ship crowds.

Vision Class Ships (1996-1998)

Rounding out the fleet are the Vision Class ships: Grandeur, Rhapsody, Enchantment, and Vision of the Seas. These are the smallest Royal Caribbean ships, ranging from 73,000 to 83,000 gross tons and holding about 2,000 passengers.

While they do not offer waterslides or robotic bartenders, they make up for it with classic charm, beautiful lounges, relaxed atmospheres, and access to ports the larger ships cannot reach. For travelers who prioritize destinations over dazzle, the Vision Class offers an elegant throwback to traditional cruising.

Final Thoughts

Royal Caribbean has spent decades perfecting the art of ocean travel. From the groundbreaking size and innovation of the Icon and Oasis Classes to the cozy elegance of the Vision Class, each ship in the fleet offers a distinct experience. Whether you are chasing thrills on a megaship or savoring quiet sunsets from a lounge chair, there is a Royal Caribbean ship that fits your travel style.

Now is the time to decide: will you surf the waves on a FlowRider, enjoy an aerial view from a glass capsule, or sip cocktails beneath palm trees in a floating Central Park? The ships are ready. The ocean is waiting. Let your next adventure begin.