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Cruise Facts(2024) Royal Caribbean Ships by Age: Newest to Oldest (Complete List)

(2024) Royal Caribbean Ships by Age: Newest to Oldest (Complete List)

Royal Caribbean cruise ships docked at CocoCay

Looking for a list of Royal Caribbean ships from newest to oldest?  We’ve got you covered.  This ships-by-age list will stay updated as more ships are built.

*This article has been updated to reflect the latest cruise ships from Royal Caribbean.

Royal Caribbean International currently has 26 cruise ships in the fleet, more than any other cruise line in the world (currently beating Carnival by one).  With the largest cruise ships in the world (Oasis-class) and some of the most technologically advanced cruise ships on the water, the cruise line is growing quickly.

Below we will look at every single ship in the Royal Caribbean fleet.

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What is the newest Royal Caribbean ship?  Wonder of the Seas, an Oasis-class ship launched in 2022, is the latest ship to be built and added to service with the cruise line.

The oldest Royal Caribbean ship is Grandeur of the Seas which was built in 1996.

We also sorted every cruise ship by size if you’d like to see which ships are the largest in the fleet.

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This list of Royal Caribbean ships will start with the newer ships and end with the oldest Royal Caribbean ship.  The cruise line has ships that can vary from 73,000 gross tons (Vision Class), to the Oasis class that are 225,000+ gross tons.

RCCL’s new ships coming soon:

  • Icon of the Seas – January 2024.  This is the first Icon-class cruise ship and will be the largest cruise ship in the world at over 250,000 gross tons.
  • Utopia of the Seas – Spring 2024.  Utopia will be the last of the Oasis-class ships with Royal Caribbean.
  • Star of the Seas – Summer 2025.  The second Icon-class ship, Royal Caribbean just released the name of this future ship.
  • Unnamed Icon-class ship – 2026

The cruise ships listed below are the vessels currently sailing within Royal Caribbean’s fleet.

Royal Caribbean cruise ships newest to oldest (updated):

Wonder of the Seas (2022)

Wonder of the Seas is the fifth Oasis class ship from Royal Caribbean and is currently the newest ship in the fleet, having been launched in 2022. Just like her sister ships, she debuted as the world’s largest cruise ship at more than 236,000 gross tons and carries just under 7,000 passengers at maximum capacity and 5,734 at double capacity.

  • 5,734 double capacity
  • 1,188 feet long
  • 236,857 gross tons
  • 18 decks
  • Oasis-class

Odyssey of the Seas (2021)

Odyssey of the seas new ship

The 2nd Quantum Ultra-class cruise ship from Royal Caribbean, Odyssey of the Seas had its inaugural sailing in June of 2021.   The ship measures 1,138 feet long and has a gross tonnage of 167,704.   The 16-deck ship can carry 4,198 passengers at double occupancy.

  • 4,198 double capacity
  • 1,138 feet long
  • 167,704 gross tons
  • 16 decks
  • Quantum-class

Spectrum of the Seas (2019)

A Quantum Ultra class ship, Spectrum of the Seas was specifically designed for cruise guests in China and now enjoys sailings all around the world.   At 169,000 in gross tonnage it has a guest capacity of over 4,000.  The ship was delivered in April of 2019.

  • 4,246 double capacity
  • 1,139 feet long
  • 169,379 gross tons
  • 16 decks
  • Quantum-class

Symphony of the Seas (2018)

symphony of the seas

At 228,000+ in gross tonnage, Royal Caribbean International’s Symphony of the Seas became the largest cruise ship in the world at the time.   This Oasis-class ship was built in 2018 and has a double capacity of 5,518.   The length of this ship is 1,184 feet with a max beam of 215 feet.  The ship holds 2,200 crew members onboard.

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  • 5,518 double capacity
  • 1,184 feet long
  • 228,081 gross tons
  • 18 decks
  • Oasis-class

Ovation of the Seas (2016)

ovation of the seas

Built in 2016, Ovation of the Seas is a Royal Caribbean Quantum-class ship.   Ovation comes in at 168,000+ gross tons and has a double capacity of 4,180.  The length of this ship is 1,141 feet with a max beam of 160 feet.

  • 4,180 double capacity
  • 1,141 feet long
  • 168,666 gross tons
  • 16 decks
  • Quantum-class

Harmony of the Seas (2016)

harmony of the seas

Harmony of the Seas is an Oasis class ship built in 2016.    Maximum capacity is 6,687 on this 226,963 gross ton ship.   The length of Harmony is 1,188 feet with a max beam of 217 feet.

  • 5,497 double capacity
  • 1,188 feet long
  • 226,963 gross tons
  • 18 decks
  • Oasis-class

Anthem of the Seas (2015)

anthem of the seas

Built in 2015, Anthem of the Seas was the second Quantum class ship from Royal Caribbean.  The 168,666 gross ton ship has a maximum capacity of 4,905.  The length of this vessel is 1,139 feet with a max beam of 162 feet.

  • 4,180 double capacity
  • 1,139 feet long
  • 168,666 gross tons
  • 16 decks
  • Quantum-class

Quantum of the Seas (2014)

quantum of the seas

The first Quantum class ship ever built made huge waves when it was first revealed to the world.  Quantum of the seas was built in 2014 and featured the first ever North Star, a ride that elevates cruisers over 300 feet above the sea for 360-degree views.   This vessel is a 168,666 gross ton ship with a maximum capacity of 4,905.  The length of this ship is 1,141 feet with a max beam of 162 feet.

  • 4,180 double capacity
  • 1,141 feet long
  • 168,666 gross tons
  • 16 decks
  • Quantum-class

Allure of the Seas (2010)

oasis of the seas

This ship was the largest in the world for a time when it was built in 2010.  The second Oasis class ship, Allure of the Seas is 225,282 gross tons with a maximum capacity of 6,780.  The length of this ship is 1,187 feet with a max beam of 198 feet.

  • 5,492 double capacity
  • 1,187 feet long
  • 225,282 gross tons
  • 18 decks
  • Oasis-class

Oasis of the Seas (2009)

oasis of the seas

The mega ship that started it all, Oasis of the Seas was built in 2009. At 226,838 tons, Oasis has a max capacity of 6,699.  The length of this ship is 1,181 feet with a max beam of 198 feet. The pool deck offers 3 separate pools and plenty of space on the sun deck. The top deck reaches 18 decks high on this massive vessel.

  • 5,606 double capacity
  • 1,181 feet long
  • 226,838 gross tons
  • 18 decks
  • Oasis-class

Independence of the Seas (2008)

independence of the seas

Independence of the Seas was built in 2008 and was the last of the Freedom class ships.  At 155,889 gross tons this ship has a maximum capacity of 4,375.   The length of this ship is 1,112 feet with a max beam of 184 feet.

  • 3,634 double capacity
  • 1,112 feet long
  • 155,889 gross tons
  • 15 decks
  • Freedom-class

Liberty of the Seas (2007)

Built in 2007, Liberty of the Seas is a Freedom-class Royal Caribbean ship.   At 155,889 tons this ship has a max capacity of 4,960.  The length of this ship is 1,112 feet with a max beam of 128 feet.

  • 3,798 double capacity
  • 1,112 feet long
  • 155,889 gross tons
  • 15 decks
  • Freedom-class

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Freedom of the Seas (2006)

freedom of the seas

The first Freedom class ship, Freedom of the Seas was built in 2006.   When this ship was first built it was the largest cruise ship in the world.  At 156,271 gross tons, this ship has a max capacity of 4,515.  The length of this ship is 1,111 with a max beam of 128 feet.

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  • 3,782 double capacity
  • 1,111 feet long
  • 156,271 gross tons
  • 15 decks
  • Freedom-class

Jewel of the Seas (2004)

Jewel of the Seas was the last Radiance class ship built by Royal Caribbean International.  It was built in 2004 with a gross tonnage of 90,090 and a max capacity of 2,466.    The length of this ship is 961 feet with a max beam of 131 feet.  Jewel of the Seas is currently sailing out of San Juan, Puerto Rico.

  • 2,143 double capacity
  • 961 feet long
  • 90,090 gross tons
  • 13 decks
  • Radiance-class

Serenade of the Seas (2003)

serenade of the seas

Built in 2003, Serenade of the Seas comes in at 90,090 gross tons with a max capacity of 2,476 cruise passengers.  The length of this ship is 961 feet with a max beam of 131 feet. 

  • 2,146 double capacity
  • 961 feet long
  • 90,090 gross tons
  • 13 decks
  • Radiance-class

Mariner of the Seas (2003)

mariner of the seas

Mariner of the Seas was the last of the Voyager class ships and is a second generation Voyager class vessel.  Built in 2003, Mariner has a max capacity of 3,807 while coming in at 139,863 in gross tonnage.  This ship has a length of 1,020 with a max beam of 157 feet.

  • 3,114 double capacity
  • 1,020 feet long
  • 139,863 gross tons
  • 15 decks
  • Voyager-class

Brilliance of the Seas (2002)

brilliance of the seas

This is another Radiance class vessel.  Brilliance of the Seas was built in 2002 and comes in at the same 90,090 tons as the other ships in its class.  With a max capacity of 2,543 passengers this ship has a length of 958 feet with a max beam of 130 feet.

  • 2,140 double capacity
  • 958 feet long
  • 90,090 gross tons
  • 13 decks
  • Radiance-class

Navigator of the Seas (2002)

navigator of the seas

Built during the same year as Brilliance of the Seas in 2002, Navigator of the Seas has a gross tonnage of 139,999 with a max capacity of 3,990.   This Voyager-class vessel has a length of 1,020 feet and a max beam of 157 feet.

  • 3,386 double capacity
  • 1,020 feet long
  • 139,999 gross tons
  • 15 decks
  • Voyager-class

Radiance of the Seas (2001)

radiance of the seas

The first Radiance class ship was built in 2001.  This ship has a gross tonnage of 90,090 and a max capacity of 2501 cruise guests.   Radiance has a length of 961 feet and a max beam of 131 feet. 

  • 2,143 double capacity
  • 961 feet long
  • 90,090 gross tons
  • 13 decks
  • Radiance-class

Adventure of the Seas (2001)

adventure of the seas

Adventure of the Seas is a Voyager class ship built in 2001.  It has a gross tonnage of 137,276 and has a maximum capacity of 3,807 passengers.  The length of this ship is 1,020 with a max beam of 161 feet. 

  • 3,114 double capacity
  • 1,020 feet long
  • 138,193 gross tons
  • 14 decks
  • Voyager-class

Explorer of the Seas (2000)

explorer of the seas

Built in 2000, Explorer of the Seas is a Voyager-class ship with a gross tonnage of 137,308 and a max capacity of 3,807.  This ship has a length of 1,020 feet and a max beam of 161 feet. 

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  • 3,114 double capacity
  • 1,020 feet long
  • 138,194 gross tons
  • 14 decks
  • Voyager-class

Voyager of the Seas (1999)

voyager of seas royal caribbean

The first of the Voyager-class ships was built in 1999.  Voyager of the Seas has a gross tonnage of 137,276 with a max capacity of 3,840.  The length of this ship is 1,021 with a max beam of 156 feet.

  • 3,114 double capacity
  • 1,020 feet long
  • 137,276 gross tons
  • 14 decks
  • Voyager-class

Vision of the Seas (1998)

This is a Vision-class ship, although the ships in this class are more varied than in other classes from Royal Caribbean.  Vision of the Seas was built in 1998 and is 78,717 in gross tonnage with a max capacity of 2,514 passengers.  This ship is 915 feet in length with a max beam of 117 feet. 

  • 2,050 double capacity
  • 915 feet long
  • 78,717 gross tons
  • 12 decks
  • Vision-class

Enchantment of the Seas (1997)

enchantment of seas royal caribbean

Another Vision class ship, Enchantment of the Seas was built in 1997 and has a gross tonnage of 82,910 with a max capacity of 2,730.   Enchantment mainly operates in the Bahamas.  This ship has a length of 916 feet with a beam of 106 feet.

  • 2,252 double capacity
  • 916 feet long
  • 82,910 gross tons
  • 12 decks
  • Vision-class

Rhapsody of the Seas (1997)

rhapsody of the seas rennovation

Rhapsody of the Seas was built in 1997 and is one of the older ships in the Royal Caribbean fleet.  This ship has a gross tonnage of 78,878 with a max capacity of 2,416.   The ship’s length is 915 feet with a max beam of 116 feet.

  • 1,998 double capacity
  • 915 feet long
  • 78,878 gross tons
  • 12 decks
  • Vision-class

Grandeur of the Seas (1996)

grandeur of the seas

This was the first of the Vision-class ships, built in 1996 and is now the oldest ship with Royal Caribbean.  With a gross tonnage of 73,817 and a max capacity of 2,440,  The length of this Royal Caribbean cruise ship is 915 feet with a max beam of 118 feet.

  • 1,992 double capacity
  • 915 feet long
  • 78,817 gross tons
  • 12 decks
  • Vision-class

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Here are all the current Royal Caribbean ships by age from newest to oldest:

  • Wonder of the Seas, 2022
  • Odyssey of the Seas, 2021
  • Spectrum of the Seas, 2019
  • Symphony of the Seas, 2018
  • Ovation of the Seas, 2016
  • Harmony of the Seas, 2016
  • Anthem of the Seas, 2015
  • Quantum of the Seas, 2014
  • Allure of the Seas, 2010
  • Oasis of the Seas, 2009
  • Independence of the Seas, 2008
  • Liberty of the Seas, 2007
  • Freedom of the Seas, 2006
  • Jewel of the Seas, 2004
  • Serenade of the Seas, 2003
  • Mariner of the Seas, 2003
  • Brilliance of the Seas, 2002
  • Navigator of the Seas, 2002
  • Radiance of the Seas, 2001
  • Adventure of the Seas, 2001
  • Explorer of the Seas, 2000
  • Voyager of the Seas, 1999
  • Vision of the Seas, 1998
  • Enchantment of the Seas, 1997
  • Rhapsody of the Seas, 1997
  • Grandeur of the Seas, 1996

List of Royal Caribbean Cruise Ships by Size

The table below lists every Royal Caribbean ship currently in service in order from largest to smallest. This measurement is by GT or Gross Tonnage which measures overall space and not weight.

Cruise Ship Gross Tonnage Double Capacity Year in Service
Wonder of the Seas 236,857 5,734 2022
Symphony of the Seas 228,081 5,518 2018
Harmony of the Seas 226,963 5,497 2016
Oasis of the Seas 226,838 5,400 2009
Allure of the Seas 225,282 5,492 2010
Spectrum of the Seas 169,379 4,246 2019
Anthem of the Seas 168,666 4,180 2015
Ovation of the Seas 168,666 4,180 2016
Quantum of the Seas 168,666 4,180 2014
Odyssey of the Seas 167,704 4,200 2021
Freedom of the Seas 156,271 3,782 2006
Liberty of the Seas 155,889 3,798 2007
Independence of the Seas 155,889 3,634 2008
Navigator of the Seas 139,999 3,376 2002
Mariner of the Seas 139,863 3,114 2003
Explorer of the Seas 138,194 3,114 2000
Voyager of the Seas 138,194 3,114 1999
Adventure of the Seas 138,193 3,114 2001
Serenade of the Seas 90,090 2,146 2003
Radiance of the Seas 90,090 2,143 2001
Brilliance of the Seas 90,090 2,142 2002
Jewel of the Seas 90,090 2,112 2004
Enchantment of the Seas 82,910 2,252 1997
Rhapsody of the Seas 78,878 1,998 1997
Vision of the Seas 78,717 2,050 1998
Grandeur of the Seas 73,817 1,992 1996

For those cruise history buffs out there, you should know that the name of RCCL’s first ship was Song of Norway which debuted in 1970.

Royal Caribbean Cruise Ship Classes

 

Oasis Class

The Oasis class is Royal Caribbean’s largest and most innovative class of cruise ships. These ships are known for their massive size, cutting-edge amenities, and thrilling attractions. Some of the signature features of the Oasis class include the Central Park neighborhood, a lush open-air space with over 12,000 tropical plants and trees; the Ultimate Abyss, the tallest slide at sea; and the Boardwalk, a lively entertainment district with shops and restaurants.

Quantum Class

The Quantum class is another of Royal Caribbean’s most popular ship classes. These ships are known for their sleek design, innovative features, and dynamic entertainment options. Some of the signature features of the Quantum class include the North Star observation capsule, which offers 360-degree views of the ship and surrounding seas; the RipCord by iFLY skydiving simulator; and the Two70 virtual reality entertainment space.

Freedom Class

The Freedom class is a popular choice for families and couples alike. These ships offer a wide range of amenities and activities for all ages, including thrilling water slides, rock climbing walls, ice skating rinks, and Broadway-style shows. Some of the signature features of the Freedom class include the FlowRider surf simulator, the Perfect Storm water park, and the DreamWorks Experience, which brings popular characters from DreamWorks films to life.

Voyager Class

The Voyager class is a classic Royal Caribbean ship class that offers a wide range of amenities and activities for all ages. These ships are known for their family-friendly atmosphere, affordable rates, and diverse itineraries. Some of the signature features of the Voyager class include the Royal Promenade, an indoor shopping and entertainment district; the Voyager Theater, which hosts Broadway-style shows; and the Vitality at Sea Spa and Fitness Center.

Radiance Class

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The Radiance class is a smaller and more intimate class of Royal Caribbean ships. These ships are known for their elegant design, spacious accommodations, and focus on adult travelers. Some of the signature features of the Radiance class include the Centrum atrium, a soaring space with panoramic ocean views; the Canyon Ranch SpaClub, a world-class spa and fitness center; and the Crown Grill, a fine dining restaurant with stunning views.

Vision Class

The Vision class is Royal Caribbean’s oldest class of ships, but they have been recently refurbished and offer a good value for cruisers on a budget. These ships are known for their intimate atmosphere, personalized service, and diverse itineraries. Some of the signature features of the Vision class include the Viking Crown Lounge, a panoramic lounge with stunning views; the Centrum atrium, a soaring space with a variety of dining and entertainment options; and the Windjammer Cafe, a casual buffet restaurant with a wide variety of international cuisine.

Icon Class

The Icon class is Royal Caribbean’s newest class of cruise ships, and they are set to debut in 2024. These ships are designed to be the most sustainable and innovative cruise ships ever built. Some of the signature features of the Icon class include a three-level entertainment complex called the Sphere, a cantilevered pool bar called the Vue, and a neighborhood called Ultimate Yard, which will feature a variety of outdoor activities and attractions.

What to Expect on Royal Caribbean International Cruise Ships

Don’t let the name fool you. This cruise line doesn’t just sail to destinations and ports in the Caribbean. The word “international” is in the official name for a reason, and you can sail just about anywhere in the world on a Royal Caribbean ship. Sure, destinations in the Caribbean are one of the main draws for a cruise, but guests can choose sailings to the Mediterranean, Europe, Australia, Alaska, Norway, Central America and many other places around the world.

The Royal Promenade on each ship is the heart and soul of each vessel. It is the main thoroughfare in the middle of the ship that always has something going on no matter what time of day it is. It’s one of my favorite places to grab a cup of coffee and check out what activity and entertainment is being offered on any given evening.   With multiple bars and lounges the Royal Promenade is unique on each ship.

Specialty Restaurants

The main dining room offers some fantastic menu choices, but sometimes you just want something a bit more, and no I’m not talking about the buffet. Royal Caribbean has a plentiful menu of specialty dining options to consider. Here they are listed below:

  • Chops Grill – Royal Caribbean’s signature steakhouse
  • Giovanni’s Table – Traditional Italian dining
  • Giovanni’s Italian Kitchen – Pizza and pasta along with dishes like chicken parmigiana
  • Jamie’s Italian – Modern Italian food
  • Wonderland – An Alice and Wonderland themed restaurant with creative dishes
  • 150 Central Park – A restaurant focusing on locally sourced ingredients
  • Samba Grill – All-you-can-eat-meat Brazilian dining experience
  • Izumi Hibachi & Sushi – a Japanese restaurant with traditional teppanyaki and sushi
  • Sabor – Mexican restaurant with tacos and quesadillas, and tapas
  • Playmakers Sports Bar & Arcade – Nachos, sliders, chicken tenders, and french fries
  • Johnny Rockets – Classic American diner with a 1950’s vibe
  • Hooked Seafood – Northeast seafood restaurant with clam chowder and oysters
  • The Mason Jar – Southern soul food with fried chicken, lobster and crawfish gumbo
  • Portside BBQ – Barbecue restaurant with tons of barbecued meats and comfort food side dishes
  • Chef’s Table – Six course meal where each course paired with a different type of wine

Royal Caribbean offers a wide variety array of amenities for a wide range of cruise passengers. So, usually there is something for everyone on board. Children will love the kid-friendly attractions and adults can find plenty of thrills with larger water slides like the twisting Perfect Storm.

Their ships visit ports in Europe, Asia, Australia, Alaska, and of course the Caribbean. When it comes to picking a cruise line for your first sailing, it’s an excellent choice.

The above cruise ships are owned by Royal Caribbean International and fall under the umbrella of parent company Royal Caribbean Group which also owns Celebrity Cruises.

Note: This article was updated in October of 2023.

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J. Souza
J. Souza
Jon is the co-founder of Cruise Fever and has been on dozens of cruises since his first in 2009. As an editor and avid cruise enthusiast he has sailed with at least 9 cruise lines and is always looking for a great cruise deal. Jon lives in North Carolina and can be reached at [email protected].
Cruise Facts(2024) Royal Caribbean Ships by Age: Newest to Oldest (Complete List)
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