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The new world's largest cruise ship just hit the ocean — take a closer look at the gargantuan 7,600-guest vessel ahead of its 2024 debut

• Royal Caribbean International saw its largest booking day ever after opening reservations for the Icon of the Seas.
• The new 1,198-foot-long mega-ship will be able to accommodate 7,600 guests across its 2,805 staterooms.
•  Take a look around the new ship filled with eight neighborhoods, seven pools, and a waterfall.

Royal Caribbean International has turned its upcoming cruise ship into a family-friendly vacation destination complete with a waterfall, miniature Central Park, and what it says is the largest water park on a cruise ship …

Source: Royal Caribbean International 

… bringing all the amenities of a luxury beachside resort to what will be the world's largest cruise ship.

The 20-deck Icon of the Seas cruise ship — which first began construction mid-2021 — will begin revenue sailings in January 2024.

Source: Royal Caribbean International

And in late June, the upcoming vessel completed its first sea trials in the ocean, testing the behemoth vessel and crucial equipment like the engines and the braking systems.

Source: Royal Caribbean

We're still half a year away from the new cruise ship's official debut, but anticipation is already at a record high for the company, it said.

Royal Caribbean saw its largest booking day in the company's history when reservations opened for the Icon of the Seas on Tuesday, the company announced on October 27.

And months later, Michael Bayley, the cruise line's CEO, crowned the ship as "the best-selling product in the history of our business" in a call with investors.

Source: Insider

Selling out a cruise ship of the size isn't a small feat.

At 1,198 feet long, the upcoming cruise ship's size will be slightly larger than Royal Caribbean's Wonder of the Seas, which previously held the title of the world's largest cruise ship.

However, the two ships share a handful of similarities, including the concept of "neighborhoods."

There are eight neighborhoods scattered throughout the Icon of the Seas, five of which are new to the brand.

If you're looking for a boardwalk-like neighborhood, head to the colorful Surfside for food, a carousel, the arcade, and the teen's club.

It's also where children can play at the miniature water park while their parents swim at the adults-only pool.

This is just one of seven pools across the cruise ship. More on those in a bit.

If you're looking for more of a thrill, head to the aptly named Thrill Island neighborhood.

It's where you'll find Icon of the Seas' water park, peculiarly named "Category 6," complete with six water slides …

… including the tallest water slide and three firsts on a cruise ship: the first family raft, mat racing, and "open freefall" water slides.

If your appetite for exhilarating activities isn't satisfied yet, there's also the Crown's Edge, a rope and obstacle course that could leave its participants suspended 154 feet above the ocean.

But if you’d rather stay closer to the cruise ship’s water, spend the afternoon on the surf simulator instead.

Tired of exhilarating activities? Check out the inverse neighborhood: Chill Island.

Here, there are no water slides or extreme sports.

Instead, there's a swim-up bar, an adults only area, and several pools ...

... including the largest pool at sea, according to the cruise line.

Or go to the Icon of the Sea's beach club in the Hideaway neighborhood …

... where there's yet another pool — this one's an infinity pool — and several levels of terraces, jacuzzis, and outdoor lounges.

For many cruise fans, part of the fun of going on a cruise ship is seeing the nighttime entertainment.

But instead of the typical musical or song-and-dance performance …

… the Icon of the Seas' onboard entertainment in the AquaDome neighborhood's AquaTheater will include a water show with divers and dancers.

Besides the theater, the AquaDome is also home to the ship's waterfall and some restaurants, lounges, and bars (not shown below).

If you're familiar with Royal Caribbean's Wonder of the Seas, you'll already recognize the remaining three neighborhoods.

The Royal Promenade is still home to lounges, food and beverage concepts, and the ice skating show ...

… while the cruise ship's nod to New York City, the Central Park neighborhood, has additional food and entertainment concepts.

If you're staying in a suite you'll get access to the more exclusive four-deck Suite neighborhood, which is decked out with a two-floor restaurant and more outdoor lounges.

There are over 40 restaurants, bars, and nightlife venues aboard the Icon of the Seas, ensuring every passenger has a packed day from morning into late at night.

With this many venues, there's a chance you won't eat a repeat meal.

To fill all of these food, beverage, and entertainment concepts, the mega cruise ship will accommodate up to 7,600 guests across its 2,805 staterooms ...

... which doesn't include the rooms for the additional 2,350 crew members.

There are 28 stateroom categories including some that'll be just as grand as the rest of the ship.

The Ultimate Family Townhouse is like a small family retreat inside of a three-level stateroom complete with a slide, movie room, and terrace with a hot tub …

… while the Family Infinity Balcony and Surfise Family Suite has a section just for children.

But no matter where you stay, the Icon of the Seas will have enough family-friendly activities to keep any passenger entertained for its week-long itinerary.

Seven days at sea may seem long, but at least you'll have a floating city to explore at your leisure.

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Main Theatre - Up to 1,394 Seats

Studio B - Stadium Seating - Up to 875 Seats

Sea Plex - Multi-purpose event space

Music Hall - 350 Seats

Boardwalk - Up to 600 Reception

Aqua Theater

Central Park - Up to 300 Reception

Solarium Bar - Deck 16 - Up to 650 Reception

Solarium - Deck 15 - Up to 850 Reception - Available on Oasis Class Ships

Solarium Pool Deck - Up to 850 Reception

Pool Deck - Up to 1,200 Reception

Conference Center - Theater Style - Up to 400 Seats

Conference Room - Classroom Style

Conference Room - Boardroom Style

Boleros - Up to 90 Reception

Dazzles - 220 Reception

Jazz on 4 - 100 Reception

Nightclub - Up to 250 Reception

On Air Club -100 Seats

Secondary Lounge - Up to 380 Reception

Viking Crown Lounge - Up to 120 Reception

Royal Promenade - Available for Full Ship Charters Only

Centrum Hall - Available for Full Ship Charters Only

Dining Venue Gallery

Main Dining Room

American Icon

Windjammer Café

Solarium Bistro - Breakfast and Lunch

Solarium Bistro - Dinner

Coastal Kitchen

Café Promenade

Vitality Café

Kung-Fu Panda Noodle Shop

150 Central Park

Chef's Table

Chops Grille

Giovanni's Table

Jamie's Italian

Samba Grill

Johnny Rockets

Michael's Genuine Pub

La Patisserie

Accommodations Gallery

Royal Loft Suite

Sky Loft Suite

Crown Loft Suite

Owner's Loft Suite

Aquatheater Suite

Royal Suite

Owner's Suite

Grand Suite

Grand Suite Bathroom

Junior Suite

Family Junior Suite

Ocean View Balcony

Boardwalk Balcony

Boardwalk View

Central Park Balcony

Central Park View

Promenade View

Ocean View Stateroom

Interior Stateroom

Entertainment Gallery

Aqua Theatre Show

Aqua Theatre - Dive Show

Aqua Theatre Water Spectacular

Studio B Ice Show

Broadway - We Will Rock You

Broadway - Mamma Mia

Broadway - Saturday Night Fever

Broadway - Cats

Casino Royale

Champagne Bar

English Pub

Royal Esplanade

Royal Promenade

Onboard Gallery

Rock Climbing & Basketball Court

Flow Rider - Surf Simulator

iFly - Sky Diving Simulator

H20 Zone - Family Water Park

Seaplex - Bumper Cars

Boardwalk - Hand Carved Carousel

Sports Court

Fitness Center

Fitness Center - Spinning Class

Main Pool Deck

Solarium - Adult Pool

Spa - Relaxation Room

Thermal Suite

Vitality Spa

Royal Esplanade - Shops and Boutiques

Royal Promenade - Shops and Boutiques

Vintages Wine Tasting

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Royal Caribbean cruise ships from newest to oldest — a complete list

What's the newest Royal Caribbean cruise ship? It might seem like a strange question to ask, but it's something that matters if you're in the market for a Royal Caribbean cruise.

The newest Royal Caribbean ship is typically also the Royal Caribbean ship with the most bells and whistles and the most up-to-date cabins, restaurants, bars and attractions. It's what you want if you want the latest and greatest in a vessel for your Royal Caribbean cruise vacation.

Right now, the newest Royal Caribbean cruise ship is Icon of the Seas , which is just debuting in January . It's the first of a new class of vessels for the line.

For more cruise guides, news and tips, sign up for TPG's cruise newsletter .

Other relatively new Royal Caribbean ships include Wonder of the Seas, Odyssey of the Seas, Spectrum of the Seas and Symphony of the Seas. All began sailing in the last six years.

In all, Royal Caribbean operates 27 cruise vessels. On average, the line comes out without about one new ship a year, and it typically keeps vessels in its fleet for around 20 to 30 years before retiring them from the fleet. The oldest Royal Caribbean ship, Grandeur of the Seas, is 27 years old.

In general, Royal Caribbean's newest ships are far bigger and much more amenity-packed than its older ships. If you crave a lot of activities in a Royal Caribbean cruise vacation, you'll want to stick to vessels built in the last 15 or so years.

Related: The 6 types of Royal Caribbean ships, explained

Royal Caribbean's oldest cruise ships — those built in the 1990s and early 2000s — in many cases are half to a third the size of the line's newest vessels and have far fewer venues on board. Still, even these smaller ships offer a lot of attractions as compared to many vessels at competing lines.

Royal Caribbean is known for bustling, activity-packed ships across its fleet.

Here, every Royal Caribbean ship currently in operation is ranked from newest to oldest:

1. Icon of the Seas (2024)

Icon of the Seas is the belle of the ball at Royal Caribbean — the line's newest and most state-of-the-art ship. It's also the biggest ship in the Royal Caribbean fleet and, indeed, the biggest ship ever built by any line.

Icon of the Seas is the first of a new class of vessels at Royal Caribbean called the Icon Class that will be rolling out over the next few years . Royal Caribbean has initially ordered three of the vessels but could add more ships to the series down the road.

Maiden voyage: 2024 Size: 250,800 gross tons Passenger capacity : 5,610

2. Wonder of the Seas (2022)

Maiden voyage: 2022 Size: 235,600 gross tons Passenger capacity : 5,734

Wonder of the Seas was the world's biggest cruise ship until the arrival of Icon of the Seas, and it remains one of the biggest ships ever built by any line.

Wonder of the Seas is the fifth vessel in Royal Caribbean's much-ballyhooed Oasis Class series of vessels — the world's largest ships from the time they began debuting in 2009 until the arrival of Icon of the Seas early this year.

3. Odyssey of the Seas (2022)

Maiden voyage : 2022 Size: 167,704 gross tons Passenger capacity: 4,284

Odyssey of the Seas is the newest of Royal Caribbean's five Quantum Class ships. The five-ship series debuted in 2014 with the unveiling of Quantum of the Seas and is the newest class of ship in the Royal Caribbean fleet (until the arrival of the Icon Class of ships in January).

4. Spectrum of the Seas (2019)

Maiden voyage: 2019 Size: 169,379 gross tons Passenger capacity: 4,246

Spectrum of the Seas is the fourth vessel in Royal Caribbean's Quantum Class series and has traditionally sailed in Asia, often on cruises aimed at the Asian market.

Like all Quantum Class ships, Spectrum of the Seas features an iFly skydiving simulator, a SeaPlex entertainment complex with bumper cars and other amusements and an unusual attraction called North Star that takes passengers into the air in a suspended pod.

5. Symphony of the Seas (2018)

Maiden voyage: 2018 Size: 228,081 gross tons Passenger capacity: 5,518

Symphony of the Seas is the world's third largest cruise ship, just a tad smaller than its newer sister Wonder of the Seas and the recently unveiled Icon of the Seas. Like Wonder of the Seas, it's part of the groundbreaking Oasis Class of ships that began debuting in 2009 (it's the fourth in the series).

Like all Oasis Class ships, Symphony of the Seas is broken up into multiple neighborhoods for cruising fun, including a Central Park neighborhood full of eateries, bars and shops that runs down the middle of the ship and is open to the sky.

6. Harmony of the Seas (2016)

Maiden voyage: 2016 Size: 226,963 gross tons Passenger capacity: 5,479

Unveiled in 2016, Harmony of the Seas was the third vessel in Royal Caribbean's Oasis Class series and the biggest ship in the world at the time of its debut (it's since been eclipsed by its slightly bigger sisters Symphony of the Seas and Wonder of the Seas as well as the new Icon of the Seas).

The ship was the first in the Oasis Class to have a sprawling water park area known as Perfect Storm and the 10-story-high dry slide attraction Ultimate Abyss.

7. Ovation of the Seas (2016)

Maiden voyage: 2016 Size: 168,666 gross tons Passenger capacity: 4,180

Ovation of the Seas is the third vessel in Royal Caribbean's Quantum Class of ships. In recent years, it has mostly sailed in Australia and Alaska.

Like its Quantum Class sisters, Ovation of the Seas is filled with amusements such as an iFly skydiving simulator, a SeaPlex entertainment complex with bumper cars and a North Star ride that takes passengers into the air in a suspended pod.

8. Anthem of the Seas (2015)

Maiden voyage: 2015 Size: 168,666 gross tons Passenger capacity: 4,180

Anthem of the Seas is one of Royal Caribbean's five Quantum Class vessels (it was the second ship in the series). It currently splits its time between New York City (where it spends the winter, sailing to New England, the Bahamas and the Caribbean) and Southampton, England. It sails voyages out of the latter home port during the summers.

For the winter of 2024-2025, Anthem of the Seas is scheduled to move to Singapore for Asia sailings.

9. Quantum of the Seas (2014)

Maiden voyage: 2014 Size: 168,666 gross tons Passenger capacity: 4,180

Quantum of the Seas was the original Quantum Class vessel for Royal Caribbean, and it thus kicked off a new era for the line.

The 4,180-passenger ship notably was the first in the world with a Bionic Bar — a bar with a robot making drinks (a concept since rolled out to several other Royal Caribbean ships). It was also the first cruise ship with an iFly skydiving simulator, a SeaPlex entertainment complex with bumper cars and a North Star ride that takes passengers into the air in a suspended pod.

10. Allure of the Seas (2010)

Maiden voyage: 2010 Size: 225,282 gross tons Passenger capacity: 5,484

When Allure of the Seas debuted in 2010, it was the biggest ship in the world (by a hair) and is still one of the world's five biggest cruise vessels.

Allure of the Seas was the second ship in Royal Caribbean's Oasis Class series, and only the three newer vessels in the series are bigger than it.

Like all Oasis Class ships, Allure of the Seas features multiple neighborhoods, including the Coney Island-inspired Boardwalk with an AquaTheater for acrobatic and high diving shows, a carousel, an arcade, restaurants and sweet shops, and two rock-climbing walls looming above.

11. Oasis of the Seas (2009)

Maiden voyage: 2009 Size: 226,838 gross tons Passenger capacity: 5,602

Oasis of the Seas was the cruise ship that changed the cruise world; a vessel so much bigger and with so many more attractions and venues when it debuted in 2009 that nobody who loved megaships wanted to be on any other vessel.

At the time of its debut, it was a stunning 40% bigger than any other cruise vessel on the planet.

Fourteen years after its debut, Oasis of the Seas remains one of the biggest ships on the planet, being just a tad smaller than its four Oasis Class sisters that have debuted in the years since it arrived. It's also eclipsed in size by the just unveiled Icon of the Seas.

12. Independence of the Seas (2008)

Maiden voyage: 2008 Size: 154,407 gross tons Passenger capacity: 3,634

Independence of the Seas is the newest of three ships in Royal Caribbean's Freedom Class series.

Like other Freedom Class vessels, it's notably smaller than Royal Caribbean's giant Oasis Class ships, but it still is big enough to offer a lot when it comes to deck-top attractions, eateries, lounges and bars. The back of its top deck features a FlowRider surfing pool, a water park area with swirling waterslides and a rock-climbing wall.

13. Liberty of the Seas (2007)

Maiden voyage: 2007 Size: 154,407 gross tons Passenger capacity: 3,798

Liberty of the Seas is the second of three ships in Royal Caribbean's Freedom Class series.

Like its newer sister Independence of the Seas, it's smaller than Royal Caribbean's giant Oasis Class ships but still is big enough to pack in a lot of options for cruisers. You'll find many deck-top attractions, eateries, lounges and bars across this vessel.

14. Freedom of the Seas (2006)

Maiden voyage: 2006 Size: 156,271 gross tons Passenger capacity: 3,926

Freedom of the Seas was another groundbreaking ship for Royal Caribbean, the first in a three-ship series (the Freedom Class) that were the biggest ships in the world when they debuted.

While no longer in the Top 25 list of biggest ships (so many bigger ships have since debuted), Freedom of the Seas still offers a lot of onboard fun. It was, notably, the first Royal Caribbean ship to feature a FlowRider surfing simulator on its top decks — now a signature attraction for the line. It also boasts multiple pool areas, a water park, a miniature golf course and a rock climbing wall.

15. Jewel of the Seas (2004)

Maiden voyage: 2004 Size: 90,090 gross tons Passenger capacity: 2,191

Jewel of the Seas is the newest of Royal Caribbean's four Radiance Class vessels, a series of ships that is significantly smaller than the line's newer Oasis Class and Quantum Class ships.

Indeed, at 90,090 tons, Radiance of the Seas and its three sisters are less than half the size of the massive Oasis Class ships.

Still, Radiance of the Seas has more than a half-dozen places to eat, including the main restaurant, casual buffet, steakhouse, Italian restaurant and Asian venue.

You'll also find three pools, whirlpools, a rock climbing wall, a miniature golf course, a sports court and an adults-only solarium. Inside, a theater, spa, casino and multiple bars and lounges keep passengers entertained.

16. Mariner of the Seas (2003)

Maiden voyage: 2003 Size: 139,863 gross tons Passenger capacity: 4,000

Mariner of the Seas is the newest ship in Royal Caribbean's five-vessel Voyager Class series, which began debuting in 1999.

At the time of their debuts, the Voyager Class ships were the biggest cruise ships in the world (as is often the case with the new series of Royal Caribbean ships). But today, they are essentially midsize in the pantheon of Royal Caribbean vessels.

Still, Mariner of the Seas and its four Voyager Class sisters have many of Royal Caribbean's signature attractions, including rock climbing walls and ice skating rinks. In fact, the ships were the first at Royal Caribbean to have those attractions.

Voyager Class ships were also the first to feature a Royal Promenade with bars, cafes and shops in their interior. Each also has several specialty restaurants in addition to the main dining room and casual buffet; specialty restaurants include a version of Royal Caribbean's signature Chops Grille steakhouse and an Italian restaurant.

17. Serenade of the Seas (2003)

Maiden voyage: 2003 Size: 90,090 gross tons Passenger capacity: 2,143

Serenade was the third ship to debut in Royal Caribbean's Radiance Class series, which rolled out in quick succession in the early 2000s.

Like other Radiance Class ships, it is significantly smaller than the line's newer Oasis Class and Quantum Class ships but still has a lot to offer, including more than a half-dozen places to eat, three pools, whirlpools, a rock climbing wall, a miniature golf course, a sports court and an adults-only solarium.

Like Jewel of the Seas, its interior venues include a theater, spa, casino and multiple bars and lounges.

18. Navigator of the Seas (2002)

Maiden voyage: 2002 Size: 139,999 gross tons Passenger capacity: 3,388

Unveiled in 2002, Adventure of the Seas is the second newest vessel in Royal Caribbean's five-vessel Voyager Class series.

Like other Voyager Class ships, it is significantly smaller than Royal Caribbean's newer vessels but still offers many of the line's signature attractions, including a rock climbing wall, ice skating rink, and a Royal Promenade with bars, cafes and shops.

19. Brilliance of the Seas (2002)

Maiden voyage: 2002 Size: 90,090 gross tons Passenger capacity: 2,142

Coming out just a year earlier than Serenade of the Seas, Brilliance of the Seas is an almost identical vessel.

Like Serenade of the Seas, it's a Radiance Class ship, and that means it's significantly smaller than the line's newer Oasis Class and Quantum Class ships. However, it is still loaded with venues, including more than a half-dozen places to eat, three pools, whirlpools, a rock climbing wall, a miniature golf course, a sports court and an adults-only solarium.

Like its Radiance Class sisters, its interior venues include a theater, spa, casino and multiple bars and lounges.

20. Adventure of the Seas (2001)

Maiden voyage: 2001 Size: 137,276 gross tons Passenger capacity: 3,114

Adventure of the Seas is the third newest vessel in Royal Caribbean's five-vessel Voyager Class series.

21. Radiance of the Seas (2001)

Maiden voyage: 2001 Size: 90,090 gross tons Passenger capacity: 2,143

Radiance of the Seas was the prototype vessel for Royal Caribbean's Radiance Class series, which debuted between 2001 and 2004.

Like the other ships in the series, it's significantly smaller than the line's newer Oasis Class and Quantum Class ships. However, it still is loaded with venues, including more than a half-dozen places to eat, three pools, whirlpools, a rock climbing wall, a miniature golf course, a sports court and an adults-only solarium.

In addition, its interior venues include a theater, spa, casino and multiple bars and lounges.

22. Explorer of the Seas (2000)

Maiden voyage: 2000 Size: 137,308 gross tons Passenger capacity: 3,286

Unveiled in 2000, Explorer of the Seas was the second vessel in Royal Caribbean's five-vessel Voyager Class series.

Like the other four vessels in the series, it has many of Royal Caribbean's signature attractions despite being smaller than the Royal Caribbean ships that have debuted over the past 15 years. These include a rock climbing wall and ice skating rink as well as a Royal Promenade with bars, cafes and shops.

Explorer of the Seas also has several specialty restaurants in addition to the main dining room and casual buffet; specialty restaurants include a version of Royal Caribbean's signature Chops Grille steakhouse and an Italian restaurant.

23. Voyager of the Seas (1999)

Maiden voyage: 1999 Size: 137,276 gross tons Passenger capacity: 3,602

Voyager of the Seas was the original Voyager Class ship, and at the time of its debut, it was the biggest cruise ship in the world.

Twenty-four years later, it isn't even one of the 50 biggest cruise ships in the world, the result of years of growth in the cruise industry that has seen far bigger vessels.

Still, Voyager of the Seas has many of Royal Caribbean's signature attractions, including a rock climbing wall and ice skating rink (two concepts it debuted). It was also the first Royal Caribbean ship with an interior Royal Promenade with bars, cafes and shops.

24. Vision of the Seas (1998)

Maiden voyage: 1998 Size: 78,340 gross tons Passenger capacity : 2,050 passengers

Vision of the Seas is the newest of Royal Caribbean's Vision Class ships, which are the smallest ships in the Royal Caribbean fleet. Unlike most Royal Caribbean ships, they offer fewer onboard attractions and amenities than is typical for the line's vessels.

In general, Vision of the Seas and its three older Vision Class sisters appeal to cruisers looking for a more intimate experience on a cruise ship and cruisers who care more about the destinations they visit than the onboard attractions.

25. Enchantment of the Seas (1997)

Maiden voyage: 1997 Size: 82,910 gross tons Passenger capacity: 2,252

Enchantment of the Seas is the third of four Vision Class vessels that began joining the Royal Caribbean fleet in 1996.

Like its sister ships, it's less than half the size of Royal Caribbean's newest, biggest ships and has far fewer onboard attractions and amenities.

Like Vision of the Seas, Enchantment of the Seas appeals to cruisers looking for a more intimate experience on a cruise ship.

26. Rhapsody of the Seas (1997)

Maiden voyage : 1997 Size: 78,419 gross tons Passenger capacity: 1,998

Rhapsody of the Seas was the second vessel in Royal Caribbean's Vision Class of ships, which are the smallest ships in the Royal Caribbean fleet.

Like its sisters in the Vision Class, it offers fewer onboard attractions and amenities than are typical for the line's vessels.

27. Grandeur of the Seas (1996)

Maiden voyage: 1996 Size: 73,817 gross tons Passenger capacity: 1,992

Grandeur of the Seas was the original Vision Class vessel in the Royal Caribbean fleet, and it's the smallest of the series, too. In fact, it's the smallest ship in the entire Royal Caribbean fleet.

Like its sisters in the Vision Class, Grandeur of the Seas offers relatively few onboard attractions and amenities — at least compared to newer Royal Caribbean ships.

What is the newest Royal Caribbean ship?

The newest Royal Caribbean cruise ship is Icon of the Seas. As noted above, it is just debuting in January, with its first sailing with paying passengers scheduled for Jan. 27.

Measuring 250,800 gross tons, Icon of the Seas is the biggest cruise ship ever built. It's also loaded with more restaurants, bars, showrooms and deck-top attractions than you'll find on any other ship at sea.

TPG got a sneak peek at Icon of the Seas in early January in advance of its first sailing with paying passengers. Don't miss our first stories live from the ship:

• Icon of the Seas preview: Photos of Royal Caribbean's newest ship
• Why the world's largest cruise ship won't be as crowded as you fear

What is the oldest Royal Caribbean ship?

The oldest Royal Caribbean cruise ship is Grandeur of the Seas. Unveiled way back in 1996, it's not just the oldest Royal Caribbean ship but the smallest Royal Caribbean ship — far smaller than the newest Royal Caribbean vessels. Measuring just 73,817 gross tons, it's just a third the size of Wonder of the Seas and has far fewer venues.

Except for a rock climbing wall, Grandeur of the Seas has none of the gee-whiz deck-top attractions found on bigger Royal Caribbean vessels, such as skydiving simulators and giant water parks. For the most part, its top deck is lined with pools, whirlpools and sunning areas, as is typical for ships built in the 1990s.

That said, Grandeur of the Seas has a loyal following among Royal Caribbean fans who prefer smaller and more intimate ships.

What new Royal Caribbean ships are coming?

Royal Caribbean currently has three new cruise ships on order, all of which will be among its biggest cruise ships ever — if not its biggest.

The first to arrive, in July, will be Utopia of the Seas , the sixth and final vessel in the line's iconic Oasis Class series. Launched in 2009 with the debut of Oasis of the Seas, the Oasis-class ships have dominated the world of mega-size cruise ships since that year. At the time the class began rolling out, the vessels were around 40% bigger than the next-biggest cruise ships, and they have continued to be the biggest and most amenity-laden ships in the world ever since.

Utopia of the Seas is expected to be roughly the same size as Wonder of the Seas, Royal Caribbean's second-biggest cruise ship. But it'll be smaller than the line's biggest ship, Icon of the Seas. It's currently under construction at the Chantiers de l'Atlantique shipyard in St. Nazaire, France.

Royal Caribbean also has two more vessels similar to Icon of the Seas on order from shipyards for delivery in 2025 and 2026. The first of the vessels will be called Star of the Seas. The second of the vessels has not yet been named.

Known as the Icon Class, these ships are being built at the giant Meyer Turku shipyard in Turku, Finland.

What is the newest Royal Caribbean ship available for booking?

Star of the Seas is the newest Royal Caribbean ship that you can book right now. While the ship isn't yet sailing, its initial sailings scheduled for August 2025 are already on sale, as are future sailings through April 2026.

Also not yet sailing but available to book is Utopia of the Seas, the new Oasis Class vessel that will debut in July. Utopia of the Seas sailings through April 2025 are now open for bookings.

The third Royal Caribbean ship on order has yet to open for bookings.

What is the newest class of Royal Caribbean ships?

The Icon Class is the newest class of Royal Caribbean ships. It'll be made up of at least three vessels, the first of which (Icon of the Seas) is debuting this month.

At 250,800 tons, Icon of the Seas is more than 6% bigger than the biggest Royal Caribbean ships that came before it. It can hold up to 7,600 passengers — a new record for a passenger ship. That's about 7% higher than the maximum capacity of Wonder of the Seas, the line's next oldest vessel, which can hold up to 7,084 passengers.

The bigger passenger capacity of Icon of the Seas is in part due to the ship's greater focus on family travelers. Icon of the Seas is being built with more cabins that have plenty of extra bunks to accommodate families with children. It'll also have more amenities geared to families, including a new-for-the-line outdoor "neighborhood" called Surfside dedicated to families with young children.

What's the difference between newer and older Royal Caribbean ships?

Newer Royal Caribbean ships generally are bigger than older Royal Caribbean ships — sometimes much bigger. As a result, they have room for many more onboard venues and attractions than the line's older vessels.

On Royal Caribbean's newest and biggest Oasis Class vessels, for instance, you'll find three separate main pool areas, a kiddie splash zone, surfing simulators, a miniature golf course, a basketball court and even a zip line. And that's just on their top decks.

Inside the vessels, you'll find more lounges, bars, restaurants and shops than you can imagine — plus huge casinos, spas and showrooms with Broadway-style shows. They even have indoor ice skating rinks.

In short, they're like giant floating versions of the megaresorts you find in the Orlando area or Las Vegas, and they appeal to people who like a megaresort experience.

Royal Caribbean's new Icon of the Seas has a similar array of venues.

Related: The ultimate guide to Royal Caribbean

Royal Caribbean's older ships are a half to a third smaller and lack many of the above features. They have a much more intimate feel, at least in the pantheon of relatively big, mass-market ships, and they hold far fewer people. While Icon Class and Oasis Class ships can hold more than 6,600 passengers with every berth full, the line's four oldest vessels (known as the Vision Class) are only designed to carry about 2,000 passengers at double occupancy.

That makes them a good choice for someone who wants to try Royal Caribbean but isn't eager to travel with huge crowds. The oldest ships in the Royal Caribbean fleet thus appeal to a subset of Royal Caribbean fans who prefer more intimacy in a cruise vessel and don't mind giving up some onboard amenities to get it. They are also often less expensive to sail on, on a per-day basis.

Related: Don't miss out on these Royal Caribbean loyalty perks

In addition, because of their size, the oldest ships at Royal Caribbean are able to operate itineraries to places that aren't as easy for big ships to visit. Not all ports in the world can handle a ship the size of Wonder of the Seas.

Note that all Royal Caribbean ships are renovated and upgraded on a regular schedule every few years, so even the oldest Royal Caribbean cruise vessels have newer carpeting, updated furniture, modern decor in cabins and other updates. In many cases, they also have had entire eateries and bars renovated over the years with concepts that first debuted on newer vessels.

Planning a cruise? Start with these stories:

• The 5 most desirable cabin locations on any cruise ship
• 8 cabin locations on cruise ships you should definitely avoid
• Which cruise brand is best for you? A guide to the most popular lines
• 21 tips and tricks that will make your first cruise go smoothly
• 15 ways that cruising newbies waste money on their first cruise
• The 15 best cruise ships for people who never want to grow up
• Cruise packing list: The ultimate guide to what to pack for a cruise

Protect Your Trip »

Icon of the seas: the best dining, amenities and more on royal caribbean's new ship.

This family-friendly megaship features plenty of activities, entertainment and restaurants.

Icon of the Seas

Courtesy of Royal Caribbean International

Key Takeaways

• Icon of the Seas is the largest cruise ship in the world, with 18 passenger-accessible decks, eight different neighborhoods and 2,805 staterooms.
• Think of Icon of the Seas as an all-in-one adventure vacation contained on a ship. Young families and energetic travelers will enjoy it most.
• Itineraries originate from Miami , sail to destinations around the Caribbean and include a stop at Royal Caribbean's private island , Perfect Day at CocoCay.

If you have any degree of interest in traveling or cruising, chances are you've heard the buzz around Icon of the Seas. Another record-breaking ship by Royal Caribbean International , Icon of the Seas debuted on Jan. 27, 2024, as the largest cruise ship in the world. It is epic in every sense, featuring 18 cruiser-accessible decks and stretching 1,196 feet from bow to stern.

With greatest-of-all-time soccer player Lionel Messi as the ship's godfather, the Icon of the Seas is truly iconic. Messi brought the entire Inter Miami team along for the opening ceremony and the big reveal of the team's new Royal Caribbean-sponsored jerseys. I was fortunate enough to attend this star-studded ceremony as part of the press preview sailing in the days leading up to the ship's grand debut to the public. It was everything I thought it would be and more, and nobody could have been more appropriate than Messi to send this ship on her maiden voyage.

Boarding a ship of this size can seem overwhelming, but not when you understand the layout. Icon of the Seas is broken up into eight distinct neighborhoods: AquaDome, Central Park, Thrill Island, Chill Island, Royal Promenade, The Hideaway, Suite Neighborhood and Surfside, a neighborhood built for young families looking for nonstop fun and kid-approved eats and treats.

In addition to these public areas, there are 2,805 staterooms spread across 12 decks. Icon of the Seas' capacity maxes out at 7,600 passengers and 2,350 crew members, but with the plethora of public spaces and variety of things to do and see, you can choose your own adventure without encountering more crowds than you want to.

Find your perfect cruise

Skye Sherman

Icon of the Seas itinerary

During its inaugural 2024-2025 cruising season, Icon of the Seas offers seven-night eastern or western Caribbean adventures from Miami, stopping at a variety of tropical destinations. All sailings include a stop at Royal Caribbean's award-winning private island, Perfect Day at CocoCay, in the Bahamas . Other destinations include Basseterre, St. Kitts & Nevis ; Roatan, Honduras; and Cozumel, Mexico .

During the 2025-2026 cruising season, new destinations will include Puerto Plata, Dominican Republic ; San Juan, Puerto Rico ; Labadee, Haiti; Costa Maya, Mexico; and Charlotte Amalie, St. Thomas (part of the U.S. Virgin Islands ). All sailings will originate from Miami.

No matter your Icon of the Seas itinerary, you'll visit beautiful places – but you can expect to feel torn about spending any time off the ship, because it's just that jampacked with things to do.

Who should sail on Icon of the Seas?

Icon of the Seas appeals not so much to a demographic as to a psychographic; you're going to need to be someone who likes to live life in all caps. Royal Caribbean set out to create "the world's best vacation" contained on a ship, so Icon of the Seas is for anyone who would enjoy the combination of a beach trip, a resort stay, a water park adventure and island-hopping.

Fun-loving travelers and families with kids of varying ages will do best on this ship; it feels a little bit like Disney World with over-the-top everything and a truly massive sprawl. Older travelers who prefer a more quiet, refined experience may want to opt for a less kid-friendly ship. Still, even couples without children will find plenty of fun adult-friendly things to do and romantic places to tuck in.

The Royal Promenade can be quite loud and buzzy, but simply relocating to another onboard neighborhood can completely shift the vibe. Also, keep in mind that the ship really is huge, and walking from end to end can be a hike, so those with limited mobility or endurance might want to look into a smaller ship.

Icon of the Seas prices are high in its opening season, but cruisers with big dreams and small budgets can expect rates to drop by the time the next ship in the series debuts.

The stateroom

With a ship this overstimulating, it's imperative that your stateroom is a haven. Luckily, Icon of the Seas offers peaceful rooms, many of which feature ocean or Central Park neighborhood views. Cruise ship accommodations are stereotypically compact – even cramped – but the floor-to-ceiling panoramic windows in Icon of the Seas' cabins (with the exception of the windowless interior rooms) lend an airy, open feel. The cabin layouts are also optimized to provide the maximum amount of storage, floor space and comfort.

Stateroom decor is mildly nautical- and tropical-themed, with calming hues that mimic the scenery outside your window (think blues, beiges and whites). High-tech elements include smart TVs, LED mirrors and the ability to control many aspects of your room from an app.

My husband and I stayed in an Ocean View Large Balcony Stateroom, a 204-square-foot refuge from the hustle and bustle of the ship (the balcony adds another 65 to 70 square feet). This room type can sleep up to four people with a sofa bed for one or two; the room also features twin beds that convert to a king bed for couples.

My husband is 6 feet, 3 inches tall, and we were comfortable in our room, even though our quarters included a large bed, a bathroom, a sofa and a desk. We loved sitting on our private balcony and watching the deep blues of the Atlantic Ocean flow by.

If money is no object, the Ultimate Family Townhouse – an over-the-top eight-guest, three-story pad with a private whirlpool on the balcony, three bathrooms, a slide that connects the second and main levels, an in-suite cinema, a dining room and a kitchenette – looks epic. But keep in mind, it costs nearly $100,000 for the week.

The Sunset Corner Suites (about one-fifth of the cost of the Ultimate Family Townhouse, but still expensive) are also pretty sweet, with a wraparound balcony and a bed facing the sea.

Luckily, not all rooms break the bank; with four main stateroom categories (suite, balcony, ocean view and inside) and 28 subcategories, there's something for everyone.

Best amenities on Icon of the Seas

It's almost impossible to run out of things to do aboard Icon of the Seas.

For thrill-seekers, the largest water park at sea – Category 6 – features the Frightening Bolt (the tallest waterslide on a ship) and the Pressure Drop (the first open freefall waterslide on a cruise vessel).

If you've tired of the seven swimming pools, six waterslides, laser tag, mini-golf, rock climbing wall, escape room, sports courts, outdoor decks, theater, spa and all-day programming, simply take a stroll down the Royal Promenade for Las Vegas -style people-watching. The Royal Promenade has 15 restaurants, bars and lounges, as well as a Starbucks that seems to have a line no matter what time you go. The neighborhood feels a bit like a shopping mall … if a shopping mall had floor-to-ceiling ocean views made possible by the world's largest kinetic art sculpture.

The Pearl, a feat of engineering, is one of the most unique aspects of the ship's design. This art piece is actually a load-bearing structure supporting three decks, but it looks and feels like an interactive art experience designed solely for the enjoyment of guests. The multisensory immersive structure has 3,000 kinetic panels and moody ever-changing lighting. It is one of the first things guests will see when they walk on board, as it stretches from the Royal Promenade up to Central Park.

My husband and I spent most of our time at the FlowRider surf simulator – his favorite amenity – but we made sure to leave time for Taylor Swift trivia at Spotlight Karaoke and the superhuman stunts of the Aqua Theater show, a must on any Icon of the Seas voyage. The ship even has a massive ice arena called Absolute Zero for ice skating (the 20-minute sessions are complimentary) and impressive shows.

We also loved lounging in The Overlook Bar & Pods, an area at the very front of the ship (behind the AquaDome) that features two levels of floor-to-ceiling wraparound windows. It felt airy and open, which can't be said about many cruise ship interiors.

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Best dining venues on Icon of the Seas

There are more dining options aboard Icon of the Seas than you can fit in on a seven-night cruise – but you can give it the old college try. Thirteen of the dining venues are complimentary, while 14 are specialty restaurants (which cost extra; fees vary). There are also 18 bars and lounges.

The best meal we experienced on the ship was at the Chops Grille specialty eatery. When we spotted Royal Caribbean CEO Jason Liberty and a group of bigwigs at a table next to us, we knew we were in the right place. We loved sitting outside and enjoying the breezes of Central Park while we chowed down, but you can eat indoors for an elegant steakhouse experience and a view of the open kitchen and butcher's display, which shows off specialty cuts like high-grade wagyu and bone-in tomahawks.

While I'd never turn down a swanky steak dinner, grabbing quick poolside bites at El Loco Fresh and indulging in some food hall-style grazing at AquaDome Market were equally enjoyable. We also had no complaints eating several meals at Windjammer, the classic complimentary cruise ship buffet.

Even though we don't have children, we stopped into Surfside Bites for a very kid-friendly meal, complete with soft serve ice cream cones from Sprinkles (because no cruise is complete without soft serve). We didn't try anything from the open-air, lemonade stand-inspired Lemon Post bar, but its menu of cocktails and mocktails looked delicious.

And since you're on vacation, be sure to check out the milkshake bar Desserted, where the sugary creations are as photo-worthy as they are decadent. They're worth the upcharge.

Best excursions on Icon of the Seas

Depending on what's on your Icon of the Seas itinerary, you may be able to book activities like snorkeling, scuba diving, tropical jungle adventures, visits to Mayan ruins, volcano hikes, rainforest zip lining, relaxing beach days or cultural immersion tours.

Note that Royal Caribbean features the same options on many of its other Caribbean cruises; none of the excursions on offer are exclusive to Icon of the Seas.

Because our press preview sailing only visited Perfect Day at CocoCay, we did not experience any of the shore excursions. Royal Caribbean's private island in the Bahamas was plenty of fun, even though we didn't plan anything in advance.

If we had made plans, we would have liked to check out the Up, Up and Away tethered hot air balloon, which wasn't running that day, and the overwater cabanas at Coco Beach Club, which were all booked. Thrill Waterpark (which features the tallest waterslide in North America), Oasis Lagoon (the largest freshwater pool in the Caribbean) and the adults-only Hideaway Beach are other highlights of Perfect Day at CocoCay.

Overall impressions of Icon of the Seas

Royal Caribbean seems to be focused on superlatives. It has the biggest, best, tallest, largest and most of everything – especially when it comes to Icon of the Seas. If you like jampacked, adventurous vacations that squeeze a lot of adventure and relaxation into one memorable week, Icon of the Seas is probably for you.

While I love seeing Royal Caribbean push the limits of what cruises can be, the ship may almost be too big for some. It's an all-out Vegas-esque vessel that feels more like a floating city; you will probably forget (more than once) that you're not on dry land.

That's not necessarily a bad thing – if Icon of the Seas looks fun to you, it probably will be – but my husband and I tend to gravitate more toward authentic, immersive, on-the-ground cultural experiences when we travel. While Icon of the Seas is a lot of things, it's not that. We had a fantastic time and have already started planning a future Royal Caribbean cruise with a group of friends and family, but we also sympathize with the anticruisers of the world. Vacationing does not a traveler make.

Still, the shows are entertaining, the service is attentive, the music is jamming, and the architecture and design are incredibly impressive. I have no real complaints and suspect that most cruisers will have the time of their lives on Icon of the Seas – exactly as the minds at Royal Caribbean envisioned when they dreamed up this iconic ship.

Why Trust U.S. News Travel

Skye Sherman has been cruising since childhood, when her parents took her on her first cruise through the Caribbean. She has sailed various ocean cruise lines, gone off the grid for a six-day riverboat expedition deep into the Amazon River and even planned a European river cruise with 48 of her closest family and friends. She's a fourth-generation Floridian and hopes to visit every country in the world during her lifetime. She covers travel and lifestyle topics for major publications including U.S. News & World Report.

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First Photos as Royal Caribbean’s Utopia Departs for Sea Trials

• May 7, 2024

Royal Caribbean International’s Utopia of the Seas is almost ready for its debut as the ship departed today from Chantiers for five days of sea trials.

The new ship is set to debut in Port Canaveral, Florida, in July 2024.

More than 900 experts, specialists across areas like naval architecture, engineering, navigation and design, are on Utopia to push the ship to its limits and make sure it’s ready for smooth sailing, the company said.

The teams are carrying out hundreds of tests and inspections, from how the ship moves through the open water and the operation of its navigation systems to engine performance, back-of-house technical checks and more. The trial period will cover more than 1,000 miles during the five-day trial.

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Do these 3 things before your Royal Caribbean cruise

While you can just book your cruise and then show up on embarkation day, that's probably not the best decision you can make. 

Cruises generally require planning — more than most traditional vacations — because ships have limited resources.

Exactly which decisions need to be made before you sail vary by ship, even within the same cruise line. On Royal Caribbean's Oasis-Class ships, for example, you need to make theater, comedy and Aquatheater reservations before you sail or risk not getting to see those shows.

Related: Royal Caribbean solves a problem for its biggest cruise ships

On smaller ships in Royal Caribbean's fleet, that isn't necessary. Most preboarding choices can be made in the cruise line's Cruise Planner, essentially a section of its website. Check-in should be done via the Royal Caribbean app (although technically it can be done from a computer).

Unless you do precruise planning, the first day of your cruise will be less fun as you spend time waiting in line. You want to maximize your time having fun, and putting in a little advance work makes that happen and gives you a better chance of getting everything you want out of your cruise vacation.

1. Download the app and check in

While some seasoned cruisers like to put their phone away in their cabin's safe once they board the ship, it's a lot easier before your sailing if you download the Royal Caribbean app. The single most important thing you can do before your cruise is to check in through the app as soon as you can.

Once you log into the app, from the home screen you should click on the person icon toward the upper right corner of the screen. Once you do that, the app will show you your sailing, unless you have multiple cruises booked, and then you will have the option of clicking into each sailing.

When you arrive at the page for your sailing, scroll down, and you will see either the option to check in or the date check-in opens. Put that date into your calendar, as you want to check in as soon as possible.

On that day you will have to enter your passport info (or scan it), take a picture of yourself, and pick a boarding time. Early boarding times tend to fill up fast, but if you check in on the first day that you can, you will have your pick. That can be the difference between an 11 a.m. boarding and a 2:30 p.m. boarding time.  

2. Book dining, drink, internet and excursions

Royal Caribbean has some fairly confusing policies when it comes to what you can book before your cruise. If you buy an Unlimited Dining Package, for example, you cannot book your meals before you board. If, however, you buy individual meals at specific restaurants, those can be booked before your sailing.

Internet and beverage packages almost always cost less if you book them before your cruise. You don't need to book either one, but if you want to stay connected, or have drinks beyond the very basic included beverages, it's best to book those in advance.

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When you buy internet, it's generally cheaper to buy a multidevice plan that can be shared if you need multiple connections. Let's say one couple is in a cabin while their adult children are in another: A two or three-device plan can be bought and shared. That's not breaking rules as each connection paid for can be moved between devices. 

When it comes to alcoholic-drink packages, however, every adult over 21 sailing in the same cabin must buy the Deluxe Beverage Package if one person buys it. Usually, if you have a nondrinker in the room, Royal Caribbean will allow you to purchase a Refreshment package, but sharing of the Deluxe Beverage Package is strictly prohibited. 

When it comes to excursions, prices may be lower when you book before your cruise, but that's not the only reason to do it. Some popular activities and trips do sell out, so waiting until you are on board could be disappointing.

3. Study the ship and plan must-sees

When people visit Disney World or a city they've never been to, they'll often buy a guidebook or study up on their destination. That makes sense because they're there for a limited time and they want to make the most of it.

Think of a cruise ship as a theme park or a strange city. You would be amazed at how many people get on a larger ship and learn about a favorite activity only late in their cruise. Royal Caribbean's Odyssey of the Seas, for example, has a sports bar overlooking a sports court that offers everything from basketball to bumper cars, but it's not in a location you're likely to walk by.

Cruise ships have a lot of hidden areas you may not know about. You can find out a lot simply by reading about your ship on Royal Caribbean's website.

Sign up for the Come Cruise With Me newsletter to save money on your next cruise.

And just like at Disney World, it makes sense to identify things you really want to do so you can prioritize them. 

It's also a good idea, especially if you are traveling with children, to set a meeting point in case you get separated as communication on a cruise ship can be challenging. 

A cruise to nowhere: Royal Caribbean sailing canceled after guests boarded

A Royal Caribbean International Alaska voyage became a cruise to nowhere over the weekend, with the line canceling the sailing after guests had already boarded.

The cruise line’s Radiance of the Seas ship experienced propulsion issues, forcing it to shorten and eventually scrap the weeklong itinerary, according to notices shared with guests. The sailing was originally set to depart from Vancouver on Friday.

Charlene Chong, who was on board with her husband, their 3-year and 11-month-old children, and her parents, said passengers were notified Saturday afternoon that the cruise was canceled. The 34-year-old teacher and her husband previously took a cruise for their honeymoon, but this marked their first trip with Royal Caribbean.

“My parents had wanted to go to Alaska for a really long time,” said Chong, who lives in Vancouver.

The cruise line warned guests several days before boarding that the ship had a “technical issue with its propulsion system,” according to an email sent to passengers that Chong shared with USA TODAY. The line later pushed the departure back by two days to allow more time for repairs.

Royal Caribbean said boarding would proceed as planned but that the terminal would close Friday evening due to U.S. Customs and Border Protection rules. Passengers would not be able to leave until the ship arrived at Icy Strait Point.

“We were going stir crazy a little bit,” said Chong.

Royal Caribbean gave guests onboard credit worth two days of their fare, a future cruise credit of the same amount, complimentary drinks and other compensation, another email said.

According to Chong, the ship sailed toward a nearby cargo port, but the captain announced Saturday afternoon that the sailing could not proceed and that guests would need to disembark by Sunday at 4 p.m. Chong said she and her family were “lucky” they were local, but she saw other guests scrambling to change their flights and find accommodations.

Your cruise was canceled: Now what?

“We understand the disappointment due to this unfortunate turn of events,” the cruise line said in a letter shared with guests. “We truly extend our sincerest apologies for the continued unforeseen disruptions to your vacation.”

Royal Caribbean gave them their money back as onboard credit with any remaining amount refunded, increased their future cruise credit to 100% of their fare and kept its open-bar policy for the remaining time on board. The line also offered to reimburse trip change fees up to $250 for guests traveling domestically and $400 for international travel and additional reimbursements for hotel and transportation costs, among other compensation.

“Due to a technical issue, we have made the difficult decision to cancel the April 26 sailing," a Royal Caribbean spokesperson said in an emailed statement. "Guests will receive a full refund and 100% future cruise credit, and have been notified directly.” The spokesperson did not comment on the specifics of Chong's experience.

The ship will resume service for its May 3 sailing.

After they got home, Chong and her family booked a trip to Mexico instead – though her parents decided not to join as they were “a bit exhausted by the whole ordeal.” For now, she’s not inclined to use the future cruise credit. “I would like to go to Alaska,” she said. “I'm not sure if I want to go with them.”

Nathan Diller is a consumer travel reporter for USA TODAY based in Nashville, Tennessee. You can reach him at [email protected].

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STATEROOMS & SUITES

All for one and room for all, top-notch amenities spacious accommodations.

Our staterooms are designed with every type of guest in mind. Whether you’re sailing with your significant other, your family, a group of friends, or traveling solo — we’ve got the perfect room to accommodate your party and budget. Take your pick from Interior or Ocean View rooms, Balcony staterooms, or spacious Suites. You can even connect rooms allowing you to stay together with extended family or friends. The options are endless, and the comfort is always guaranteed.

Interior Staterooms

Our interior staterooms include a wide array of amenities for your whole family to enjoy..

Ocean View Staterooms

Savor the seaside and snapshots of landscapes from shore to shore..

Balcony Staterooms

Claim your slice of paradise with balcony views just outside your door. .

Suite Staterooms

Enjoy expansive accommodations that take luxury to the next level. .

Dedicated stateroom attendant

Daily cleaning service

Exclusive bedding collection

Stateroom climate control

Ample closet and storage

In-room HD-TV

In-room safe for valuables

Deluxe toiletries: shampoo, conditioner & body wash

AND MUCH MORE…

Enhanced room service

Voom High-Speed Wifi

Laundry & dry-cleaning

Movies on-demand

YOUR PLACE, YOUR SPACE

You’ll never find a shortage of unbelievable room options. From romantic couples staterooms to spacious family suites, you’ll find just what you’re looking for to complement the adventure of a lifetime. Take a virtual tour to get a better look at our stateroom collection call dibs on your just-right space.

Accessible Interior

Promenade view interior, central park view interior, spacious ocean view, spacious ocean view balcony*, royal suite, grand suite, owner's suite, aquatheater suite.

ROOM TO UNWIND

There’s so much to do each day and night. But somewhere in between it all, you’ll want to relax, unwind, and enjoy some “me time.” When choosing your ideal cruise ship stateroom, first consider how much space you need, and which amenities are most important to you. We’ve broken it down to help you decide which stateroom fits your vacation needs.

FAMILY STATEROOMS

When traveling with your family, space is always on your mind. A cozy Interior Room is our most budget-friendly option, and we offer Spacious Interiors, along with connecting rooms to accommodate larger families. The range of ultra-spacious cruise rooms across categories spans all the way up to our new Ultimate Family Townhouse — three stories that elevate the way you stay and play.

STATEROOM FOR COUPLES

If you’re planning a getaway for you and a special someone, we’ve got a range of cruise suites to serve as a romantic backdrop. A private balcony, luxurious bedding and in-suite dining are just a few of the upgraded amenities you’ll enjoy. And if it’s extra pampering you seek, be sure to save time for a relaxing service at  Vitality Spa℠ .

SPACIOUS ROOMS FOR GROUPS

Looking for the perfect stateroom for you and your crew? When traveling with a group of friends, there are many options to choose from. Each category has options that offer maximum space to spread out. From Spacious Interior rooms to Ultra Spacious Ocean View rooms, to our top of the line Villa Suite with four bedrooms.

AWE INSPIRING ACCOMMODATIONS ELEVATE YOUR SUITE STAY

Customized adventures, exclusive access and inclusive amenities. Luxury cruise suite accommodations on Royal Caribbean elevate every aspect of your adventure. From full-size tubs in Junior suites to 24-hour room service in Owner Suites and dedicated check-in for Royal Suite class, it’s little details you’d expect — plus elevated experiences you may have never imagined.

THE SUITE LIFE  

Level up your vacation with a spacious suite. Choose between an intimate Junior Suite with great views, or a Grand Suite featuring a bedroom, living area and private balcony. And if you’re looking for the ultimate suite to complement an unforgettable adventure, opt for the Owners Suite loaded with extra added perks.  

ROYAL SUITE CLASS

In Royal Suite Class — available on Oasis Class and select Quantum Class ships —every detail is thought of, so you won’t have to lift a finger. Sea, Sky and Star tiers include perks that range from exclusive spaces and venues to a Royal Genie or Concierge who will craft VIP experiences just for you — and more.

THE ULTIMATE FAMILY SUITES

In the Ultimate Family Suite , you don’t even have to leave your stateroom to enjoy the thrills. Kids have their own in-suite slides and private game room. Plus there’s plenty of perks for parents too, like a private balcony jacuzzi. And our biggest suite ever, the Ultimate Family Townhouse on Icon of the Seas℠  maxes memories across three levels.

Accessible staterooms OUR GUESTS ARE ALWAYS OUR PRIORITY

All our ships have staterooms designed to accommodate guests with mobility disabilities and other disabilities that require the features of an accessible stateroom. Accessible staterooms range from 159 square feet to 298 square feet, and offer a five-foot turning radius in sleeping areas, plus bathrooms and sitting areas for easy maneuverability.

EXPLORE ACCESSIBLE OPTIONS

Royal Up BID YOUR WAY TO A CRUISE UPGRADE

Scoring a fantastic upgrade is easy! Simply browse through stateroom options and select the amount you’re willing to pay the upgrade. Then, you’ll be notified via email if your bid was accepted. From Ocean View and Balcony staterooms to the most expansive suites at sea, the possibilities are endless.

EXPLORE ROYAL UP

WHAT TO KNOW BEFORE YOU GO Wondering if you should pick a stateroom that’s forward or aft? We’ve got you covered.

Planning to spend your sea days by the pool? Or maybe you’re most excited about a particular specialty restaurant. Depending on where you plan to spend most of your time, you may have a preference of which venue or part of the ship you prefer to call home. Deck plans vary by ship and can be a helpful tool for picking your stateroom.

If you’re motion sensitive, you’ll want to choose a stateroom that’s lower to the water line and closer to the center of the ship. Layout and location varies by ship, so be sure to check your specific sailing and itinerary.

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Brilliance of the Seas makes it impossible to feel bored during a vacation! These top things to do onboard this beloved cruise ship make it a fan favorite for many.

Fun European Vacations for Adventures | Royal Caribbean Cruises

Are you looking for your next adventure? This thrill-seekers guide will show you where to get the ultimate adrenaline fix on European vacations.

Berlin for Oktoberfest: What To Know Before You Go | Royal Caribbean Cruises

Berlin for Oktoberfest is one of the world's best parties. Here's everything you need to know before you go on your cruise to Berlin.

Plan Your Best Spa Getaways | Royal Caribbean Cruises

Plan the best spa getaway possible with experiences being tailored to suit your vacation needs. Rest and rejuvenate in exotic destinations around the world.

Ultimate World Cruise: An Epic Journey Around the World | Royal Caribbean Cruises

Tick countless items off your bucket list in an epic journey around the world when you book the Ultimate World Cruise — Hurry, it will soon set sail!

Top Secret Vacation Spots in Europe | Royal Caribbean Cruises

Take your best European vacation with access to the top secret vacation spots to visit when traveling in Europe. Pick and save your favorite.

The Best Secret Mediterranean Beaches | Royal Caribbean Cruises

From the mainstream French and Italian Rivieras to secluded idylls in the Balkans, your search for the best Mediterranean beaches ends here.

Visiting Historic Abbeys in England | Royal Caribbean Cruises

Did you know some abbeys in England are still open for visits? This guide will help you discover the most glorious and influential abbeys in England.

The Best Holiday Destinations To Visit This Season | Royal Caribbean Cruises

The best holiday destinations are those that allow you to forget your stresses back home and spend time with your closest loved ones.

The Spookiest Places in Europe for Ghost Hunters | Royal Caribbean Cruises

Seeking scary places to visit? These are some of the spookiest places in Europe, from the streets of London to the forests of Transylvania.

The Most Famous European Cathedrals | Royal Caribbean Cruises

From Notre Dame to the iconic La Sagrada Família, here are some of the most famous European cathedrals.

Pablo Picasso Facts and How He Influenced the Art World | Royal Caribbean Cruises

Headed to Europe on a cruise for art immersion? Enjoy these Pablo Picasso facts for your vacation travels and save your favorite destinations.

Big Ben Facts to Know Before Your Next Vacation | Royal Caribbean Cruises

Discover the most fun Big Ben facts, plus facts about the royal family and its connection to Elizabeth Tower and the Houses of Parliament.

Underrated European Travel Destinations | Royal Caribbean Cruises

Take your best European vacation with access to the top underrated travel destinations to visit when taking a vacation in Europe. Pick and save your favorite.

How to Get Travel Tuesday Cruise Deals | Royal Caribbean Cruises

Travel Tuesday cruise deals go live at midnight on Cyber Monday, and are designed to bring you discounts on experiences that you'll remember for a lifetime.

Best Affordable Summer Vacations for Families | Royal Caribbean Cruises

A smaller budget doesn't have to mean less fun. Families can look to budget cruises for affordable summer vacations that appeal to kids and adults alike.

How to Have an Epic Family Vacation Onboard Rhapsody of the Seas | Royal Caribbean Cruises

Planning your next epic family vacation starts today onboard Rhapsody of the Seas, a mid-sized cruise ship that is part of the Royal Caribbean Vision Class.

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Top 10 Most Beautiful Port Cities | Royal Caribbean Cruises

Cruising is a wonderful thing. It can bring you to some of the most beautiful port cities in the world.

9 Tips for Preparing Your House for an Extended Vacation | Royal Caribbean Cruises

Preparing your house for an extended vacation can seem like a huge task, but doing a few things before you go will make your trip carefree.

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Europe Vacation: Best Places to Visit

There's more to a European cruise vacation than just packing your bags! Plan the perfect trip on your travel getaway to visit the best places in Europe.

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Ancient Greek Architecture

Learn about the types of Greek architecture you can explore during your next Mediterranean vacation. When in Greece, you're sure to discover hidden gems of ancient ruins that still stand alongside modern buildings.

Best Mediterranean Cruise Destinations

Uncover 8 of the best Mediterranean cruise destinations while on your travel vacation. Adventure awaits those who seek it, enjoy a guide tailored to you.

Rock Climbing on Norway Fjords Cruise

Discover the best rock climbing locations while on your Norway fjords cruise. Adventure awaits those who seek it, enjoy the ultimate guide made for you.

Italian Architecture | Italy Tours

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The Best European Summer Vacations

Planning the best European summer vacations? We’ve curated the ultimate guide to visiting some of the most relaxing and legendary destinations to travel to in Europe.

Top 11 Must-Try Mediterranean Foods

Mediterranean food is renowned worldwide for being exceptionally healthy and balanced. Here are the top 11 must-try Mediterranean foods.

6 Popular Farm Foods from Spain

Here are six of the most popular farm foods from Spain. The headstrong Spanish farmers continue to produce some of the world's finest oranges, olives, and hams.

Wildlife You'll See on Your Norway Vacation

A Norway vacation will help you take in all the wild north has to offer. You'll be able to see an incredible range of wildlife during your stay.

10 Best Luxury And Standard Cruise Ship Accommodations

Explore the 10 best luxury and standard Royal Caribbean cruise ship accommodations from the luxurious 2-story Ultimate Family Suite with a dedicated concierge and VIP privileges to the less expensive Studio Stateroom designed for a perfect nights rest.

10 Best Places to Visit in Turkey

Cruising to Ephesus soon? Here are the 10 best places to visit in Turkey, with something for every traveler.

Italian Music Culture & its Famous Operas

Plan a trip to Italy to discover opera as the largest influence on Italian music culture. Create an unforgettable getaway vacation cruise!

Plan the Best London Day Trips Ever

Set sail on a getaway cruise vacation and discover the best things to do in London while enjoying your day trips. Experience history, Harry Potter, and more!

Plan a Greek Island Hopping Getaway

Take a moment to make the most of your Greek island hopping travels, reveal the best places to visit in Greece. Plan your unique vacation with ease.

Visit Famous Landmarks in the British Isles

Uncover the most famous landmarks while making the most of your British Isles vacation. Adventure awaits those who seek it, enjoy a tailored guide.

How to Choose the Best Olive Oil

Uncover the secrets to having the best olive oil in the world as well as the know-how on all the many types and their uses. Enjoy a guide tailored to you.

Traveling to the Crystal Caves in Spain

Visit the crystal caves in Spain as you take a travel vacation to uncover a view of the magnificent Pulpí Geode. Enjoy a tour guide tailored to you.

Visiting the Salvador Dali Museum in Spain

Explore the Salvador Dali Museum and Garden in Spain as you make the most of your cultural traveling adventures. Enjoy a guide tailored to your vacation.

Eating in Italy | Local Food Traveling

Uncover the ultimate guide to eating locally in Italy as you make the most of your vacation travels. Adventure awaits those who seek it.

Vacation with Turkish Baths & Hammam Spas

Uncover the ultimate Turkish baths & hammam spa experiences to making the most of your vacation to Turkey. Enjoy a guide tailored to your travels.

Gladiators of the Roman Colosseum

Plan a cultural vacation to Italy by setting sail for the Roman Colosseum. Enjoy a tour guide tailored to you on the history of Rome & its gladiator.

Turkish Desserts to Sweeten your Vacation

Turkish desserts are as pivotal to the experience of traveling in Turkey as a cruise through the Bosphorus Strait. Enjoy a guide tailored to your vacation.

Take a Hot Air Balloon Ride in Turkey

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The Ultimate Sparkling Wine Cheat Sheet

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Traveling with kids? Here are some fun European cities to visit on your next European cruise — plus tips to make it a memorable, stress-free experience.

Planning a Barcelona Vacation From the Sea

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Israeli Food: Top 10 Must-Trys

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Planning a Rome Vacation From the Sea and Beyond

Here are some Rome vacation must-sees and tips on how to navigate travel when arriving or departing via cruise through Civitavecchia.

Where to Find the Best Skiing in the Alps

Here's everything you need to know about skiing in the Alps, including where to stay and when to visit.

Cruise Ports Near Me: Midwest United States

As you browse cruises, the first question you ask will be "Where are cruise ports near me?" Here's how to choose a port, and what to do once you're there.

Best Things To Do in Athens, Greece, on Your Cruise Vacation

There is no shortage of things to do in Athens. The Greek capital has a history of more than 3,400 years to entertain you.

10 Facts About Turkey the Country

Planning to visit Turkey? We have the top 10 facts about Turkey the country, giving everything, you need to know to plan the best vacation trip.

Relaxing 7 Day Cruise to Europe

No matter which 7-day cruise to Europe you end up booking, here's how to plan a European vacation that's high on adventure with low added stress.

The Ultimate Guide to a Blue Lagoon Iceland Vacation

Plan the ultimate Blue Lagoon Iceland vacation. Our guide covers top attractions, insider tips, and expert recommendations. Start planning now.

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Best Scotland Castle Tours

There are over 1,500 Scotland castle tours to choose from. We've narrowed down a list of the most; historic, cultural, famous, and royal significance.

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Reporting by Doyinsola Oladipo in New York; Editing by Nick Zieminski

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