celebrity vs royal caribbean cruise

Royal Caribbean vs. Celebrity Cruises: Which sister cruise line should you choose?

Royal Caribbean and Celebrity Cruises, which are sister cruise lines operated by Royal Caribbean Group, are both known for offering abundant dining options and engaging nightlife. But they have different onboard vibes and target different types of cruise travelers.

Royal Caribbean's fleet of more than two dozen ships includes some of the largest vessels at sea and features groundbreaking innovations and family-friendly attractions. Celebrity's 15 not-quite-as-large vessels are more upscale, adult-focused and design-centric.

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Which cruise line should you choose? Read on for a head-to-head comparison of Royal Caribbean and Celebrity Cruises, covering each brand's onboard experience, itineraries and passenger profile to help you decide.

Size of ships

Both Royal Caribbean and Celebrity operate multiple classes of ships, most categorized as large. The older ships in both fleets are smaller than the newest vessels but are not intimate by any means.

Royal Caribbean 's older ships carry 2,000 to 3,900 guests, and its newest more than 5,000, putting it at the forefront of the megaship trend.

Its fleet boasts five of the world's largest ships, led by Wonder of the Seas . This Oasis Class ship and its four siblings are so massive they carry up to 5,700 guests at double occupancy and are divided into themed neighborhoods to help guests find their way around.

Royal Caribbean's modern Quantum Class ships accommodate 4,180 guests and stand out due to each ship's North Star sightseeing capsule, which rises 300 feet above the sea.

Icon of the Seas, the first in an entirely new class for Royal Caribbean, will be the line's largest ship when it debuts in early 2024. It will only hold 5,600 passengers at double occupancy because the ship will feature more cabins and suites that accommodate four or more passengers than found on any other Royal Caribbean ship.

Related: The 6 classes of Royal Caribbean cruise ships, explained

Celebrity Cruises ' newest and largest ships are its 3,260-guest Edge series: Celebrity Edge , Celebrity Apex and Celebrity Beyond , with Celebrity Ascent launching in December. Its five Solstice Class ships each carry around 2,800 passengers, and its four Millennium Class vessels accommodate around 2,200 a piece.

Celebrity also offers expedition-style cruising on three 16- to 100-passenger ships in the Galapagos Islands (but we won't address them in this article).

Both cruise lines offer all the amenities of a floating resort at sea: pools, spas, bars and multiple dining venues. In terms of sheer wow factor, though, Royal Caribbean's activity-packed Icon Class, Oasis Class and Quantum Class ships are hard to beat, especially for family cruising.

On the other hand, Celebrity's vessels are spacious and designed to dazzle with contemporary decor and premium amenities.

On both lines, the smallest, oldest ships can have a different vibe from the newest, largest vessels, so keep that in mind as you're researching trips.

Related: The 4 types of Celebrity Cruises ships, explained

Who is on board?

With Royal Caribbean, a better question might be, "Who isn't on board?" As a mainstream cruise line, it appeals to a wide range of passengers, mostly Americans (at least on North American itineraries) and many of them families.

It's also popular with friends celebrating birthdays or bachelor/bachelorette getaways and couples of all ages seeking a lively shipboard ambience at an affordable price. That said, Royal Suite Class passengers definitely have money, so there's a more upscale demographic, often multigenerational.

Passengers also differ by itinerary, with three- to five-night Bahamas and seven-night Caribbean sailings attracting families and groups of friends. The line's eight- to 12-night Mediterranean itineraries draw more couples and retirees and fewer families, as well as more Europeans. (About half of passengers on Royal Caribbean's European itineraries are Europeans and travelers from outside the United States.) Alaska sailings lure multigenerational families and older cruisers.

Related: The ultimate guide to Royal Caribbean cruise ships and itineraries

Celebrity's ships attract a narrower, more upscale demographic, mostly Gen Xers in their 40s and 50s and retirement-age baby boomers, with some childless millennials, too.

There will be kids on board, but not in the numbers that Royal Caribbean attracts. As a premium cruise brand, Celebrity typically has higher fares, especially on its Edge-series ships, but sailings are not as expensive as on luxury cruise ships.

Related: The ultimate guide to Celebrity Cruises ships and itineraries

Cabins and suites

Royal Caribbean offers a dizzying array of cabin and suite options, especially on its newest and largest ships. Celebrity features fewer overall cabin categories but offers non-suite rooms with extra perks.

Both cruise lines offer a variety of cabin styles and price points. You'll find windowless inside cabins , ocean-view rooms with picture windows or portholes, accommodations with private balconies and a range of suites. There are also connecting rooms for families and groups, as well as accessible cabins for passengers using wheelchairs or other assistive devices.

It's not surprising that Royal Caribbean's large Icon Class, Oasis Class and Quantum Class ships feature the most accommodation types within the fleet — up to three dozen cabin and suite categories designed for both families and couples with a wide range of budgets.

On the affordable end, some of the windowless inside cabins come with a "virtual balcony," a window-mimicking screen that displays real-time video of the view outside. These are available on all five Quantum Class ships, plus Wonder of the Seas, Symphony of the Seas, Harmony of the Seas, Navigator of the Seas, Explorer of the Seas and Voyager of the Seas.

Oasis Class ships also feature inside and balcony cabins that overlook the Promenade, Boardwalk and Central Park neighborhoods.

Six vessels (Brilliance of the Seas, Anthem of the Seas, Quantum of the Seas, Ovation of the Seas, Harmony of the Seas and Spectrum of the Seas) offer a limited number of studio cabins designed for solo travelers .

The cruise line's top accommodations are suites, varying in size and some with loft configurations. Its most lavish digs are the two-story Ultimate Family Suites (found on Wonder, Symphony and Spectrum of the Seas) and the three-story Ultimate Family Townhouse on Icon of the Seas. They sleep up to eight guests and boast kid-friendly amenities, including a slide, air hockey table and other games.

All suites offer exclusive amenities. However, Royal Caribbean's largest, most expensive suites come with exclusive perks, such as Royal Genie butler service and complimentary specialty dining and beverage packages.

Related: Royal Caribbean cruise ship cabin and suite guide: Everything you want to know

Celebrity's newest Edge Class ships replace the standard balcony cabin with Infinite Veranda Staterooms, in which a floor-to-ceiling window lowers halfway to create an open-air veranda within the room. This design allows for more usable space within the cabin, regardless of whether the window is open or shut.

AquaClass cabins include in-cabin wellness amenities and access to an exclusive restaurant and the spa's thermal suite (with saunas and heated loungers). Concierge Class rooms come with a dedicated concierge, a pillow menu and an exclusive welcome-aboard lunch in the dining room with complimentary wine.

Solstice Class ships offer single inside cabins, while Edge-series ships include some Infinite Veranda Staterooms designed for solo travelers.

Suite configurations and decor vary by ship class. On Edge-series ships, seven suite categories include the two-story Edge Villas and the Iconic Suite, the largest in the fleet at 1,892 square feet (plus a 689-square-foot terrace). Solstice Class ships feature six suite categories, and Millennium Class ships have five.

All suites come with dedicated attendants and a concierge, as well as included perks: a premium drink package, premium Wi-Fi, prepaid tips and an onboard credit. Celebrity's suite guests can also access exclusive amenities as part of The Retreat, including a private sun deck, lounge and restaurant.

Related: Everything you need to know about Celebrity Cruises cabins and suites

The upside: Royal Caribbean and Celebrity ships offer a dozen or more onboard dining venues, so there are culinary options to suit every palate.

The downside: Both cruise lines offer just a handful of complimentary restaurants — a buffet, banquet-style dining rooms, a poolside grill and a few casual eateries — meaning passengers must pay extra for steakhouses , Italian or French restaurants, and sushi bars.

Royal Caribbean's complimentary offerings include casual options such as the Dog House for a global hot dog menu, El Loco Fresh for burritos and quesadillas, Sorrento's Pizza for grab-and-go slices, and Park Cafe for deli-style sandwiches — although options do vary slightly by ship.

Extra-fee dining on Royal Caribbean covers most of the bases — Chops Grille and Samba Grill for steak, Izumi for sushi, Teppanyaki and Sichuan Red for Asian, Giovanni's Table and Jamie's Italian for Mediterranean classics, and Hooked Seafood for fish and shellfish.

Wonderland mixes creative flavors and unique presentations, and 150 Central Park is ideal for a special celebration; the latter two are available solely on Oasis Class and Quantum Class ships. Themed 1950s diner Johnny Rockets (on more than a dozen ships) is an affordable, kid-friendly favorite.

Related: The ultimate guide to cruise ship food and dining

Like Royal Caribbean, Celebrity offers a formal main dining room on Solstice Class and Millennium Class ships. However, on Edge-series ships, four smaller themed restaurants replace the one banquet-style dining hall.

Each features a selection of exclusive menu items — new American in Cosmopolitan, Mediterranean in Cyprus, French in Normandie and Italian in Tuscan — along with selections from the Celebrity Signature menu.

Each venue's distinctive ambience and unique menus serve a variety of tastes on a complimentary basis — but solely for dinner. In addition, guests who book suites in The Retreat can dine at Luminae, while those in AquaClass have access to health-focused Blu, free of charge.

Additional fleetwide complimentary dining includes the buffet-style Oceanview Cafe; the Mast Grill, a casual poolside eatery serving burgers and wraps; and Spa Cafe, offering healthier, lighter options for breakfast and lunch.

Celebrity's extra-fee dining also varies by ship class. On Edge-series ships, guests can enjoy Fine Cut Steakhouse for prime cuts and seafood, Eden Restaurant for modern global cuisine, Le Grand Bistro for classic French, Rooftop Garden Grill for backyard favorites, Raw on 5 for sushi and Japanese specialties, and Magic Carpet for small bites and cocktails.

Celebrity's most elevated dining experience is Le Voyage by Daniel Boulud, the acclaimed French chef's first restaurant at sea, available aboard Celebrity Beyond and Ascent.

Celebrity's Solstice Class and Millennium Class ships feature Tuscan Grille for steak and Italian specialties, Le Petit Chef for classic French with enchanting tabletop entertainment and Sushi on Five for Japanese. The line's Solstice Class ships have an additional restaurant, Murano, for elevated French tasting menus.

Two Celebrity ships, Reflection and Silhouette, also offer two alfresco eateries: Lawn Club Grill and The Porch Seafood Restaurant.

Related: Dining mistakes you must fix on your next cruise

If you're looking for culinary variety without paying extra, Royal Caribbean's multiple complimentary casual dining venues, namely on its newest and biggest ships, give it an edge for families.

Celebrity's Edge Class ships' quartet of complimentary restaurants offers a nightly change of scenery and menus, ideal for couples and groups of adult friends.

If you don't mind paying extra for a few dinners, Celebrity's roster of specialty restaurants is also a notch above Royal Caribbean's in terms of quality and ambience.

Onboard attractions

Royal Caribbean's focus on adrenaline-rush activities makes it the clear choice for family fun, while Celebrity's chicer vibe is a draw for couples seeking to relax.

Royal Caribbean is a leader in offering amusement park-style attractions such as waterslides, zip lines, surfing and sky-diving simulators, and escape rooms. Celebrity doesn't go there at all. Rather, its onboard attractions are designed for grown-ups, with pools, hot tubs and stylish top-deck relaxation areas, such as The Lawn Club on Solstice Class ships and The Rooftop Garden on Edge-series ships.

All Royal Caribbean ships feature rock climbing walls, outdoor movie screens and arcades. All but Radiance Class and Vision Class ships have FlowRider surf simulators, and all but Radiance Class, Vision Class and Quantum Class ships have minigolf courses.

Royal Caribbean's Icon Class, Oasis Class and Quantum Class ships feature the most thrills in the fleet — perhaps even at sea. Oasis Class vessels are known for their collection of waterslides and the Ultimate Abyss dry slide that drops riders 10 decks through a spiral tube pulsing with light. These ships also have an ice skating rink, zip line, escape room, pop-up laser tag and a carousel.

When Icon of the Seas debuts, it will have the largest water park at sea, with six slides and a thrilling ropes course along the side of the ship.

Related: The best cruise ship waterslides and watery fun zones

Royal Caribbean's Quantum Class ships don't feature waterslides but are distinguished by their North Star sightseeing capsule, which lifts guests high above the ship for 360-degree views. Other thrills include RipCord by iFly (a sky-diving simulator) and the multipurpose indoor SeaPlex offering bumper cars, basketball and Xbox gaming consoles.

Freedom Class and Voyager Class ships offer some thrill activities, but not as many as the newer ships. These can include various waterslides, laser tag and escape rooms, so check each ship's offerings. Older and smaller Radiance Class and Vision Class ships feature pools but no waterslides or other kid-friendly attractions.

What Celebrity's ships lack in thrills, they make up for with eye-catching contemporary design and cool places to hang out. Solstice Class ships feature a half-acre Lawn Club with real grass; it's the setting for jazz concerts and outdoor games. Edge-series vessels have a Rooftop Garden with live plants, modern sculptures, cozy seating nooks and a grill restaurant. Cabana-lined pool decks feature elevated hot tubs shaped like martini glasses.

Both Royal Caribbean and Celebrity feature adults-only, glass-enclosed Solarium pools. They also offer relaxing spas with salons, thermal suites and fitness centers for all your self-care and wellness needs.

Related: The wildest attractions you'll find on a cruise ship

Kids activities

Both Royal Caribbean and Celebrity welcome families and have complimentary kids clubs, but only Royal Caribbean has the onboard attractions and thrills that appeal to active younger children and teens.

Royal Caribbean's Adventure Ocean youth program has spaces and activities (science and art projects, games and parties) designed for kids ages 3-5, 6-8 and 9-12. The program is free during the day and early evening; an hourly rate applies after 10 p.m.

The Royal Babies & Tots nursery accommodates children ages 6 to 36 months for drop-off babysitting (for an hourly fee). Teens can hang out in The Living Room, dance or chill with new friends at the Fuel teen club or try to get a high score at the arcade.

Related: Best cruise lines for families

Celebrity's Camp at Sea kids program also caters to children in three age groups (3-5, 6-9 and 10-12). Programming focuses on recreation, hobbies and learning-based activities in arts and science. Its Teen Club keeps 13- to 17-year-olds entertained with sports competitions, silent discos and video game parties.

Royal Caribbean is the hands-down winner here, a cruise line designed with family fun in mind. Some older teens might enjoy a transition from Royal Caribbean to Celebrity. However, families with active tweens and younger kids seeking onboard thrills are better off with Royal Caribbean.

Entertainment

Royal Caribbean pulls out all the stops in terms of entertainment, so if lively, in-your-face nightlife is key to your vacation bliss, opt for one of its newer, larger ships.

Celebrity's entertainment lineup pushes boundaries in more unexpected ways but mainly on its newer Edge Class ships; its Solstice Class and Millennium Class ships offer more traditional entertainment.

Both cruise lines feature inviting bars and lounges. Celebrity's nightlife scene is decidedly more upscale and chic, while Royal Caribbean's is livelier and more casual.

Love a Broadway show? Royal Caribbean stages versions of award-winning musicals such as "Grease," "Cats," "Hairspray" and "Mamma Mia!" on select ships, as well as original productions on all vessels. The line's biggest and newest ships also offer dazzling ice skating shows, daring high-dive AquaTheater performances and/or fantastic high-tech multimedia dance shows.

The two dozen bars and lounges on Royal Caribbean's ships range from the panoramic Viking Crown Lounge to the gimmicky Bionic Bar featuring robot bartenders. A sports bar (Playmakers Bar & Arcade), piano bar (Schooner Bar) and Latin-style lounge (Boleros) are other popular options.

Related: Cruise ship drink packages: A line-by-line guide

Passengers can also sing karaoke, watch a poolside movie under the stars and hit the dance floor to the tunes of a live band or DJ. The bigger the ship, the greater the entertainment options.

Celebrity's entertainment philosophy overall is more traditional, with nightlife centered around drinking, hanging out in lounges and enjoying original shows in the ship's theater. Bars and lounges also feature live music, and there's a silent disco party at least once per cruise.

If you're looking for something a little different, the Edge-series ships offer creative and interactive performances in Eden and The Club, a multipurpose space featuring DJs and themed late-night performances.

All Celebrity ships are known for the Martini Bar, where flamboyant bartenders create a spectacle with shaker tosses and colorful cocktail towers, and the Sunset Bar, located aft and offering terrific sailaway views. Only Celebrity Beyond and Ascent feature a chicly reimagined, two-level Sunset Bar by designer Nate Berkus. Craft Social is the place to grab a craft beer and bar bites, while World Class Bar is the go-to for curated cocktails.

Both cruise lines' ships feature large casinos and offer participatory game shows ("Love & Marriage" and "Battle of the Sexes" on Royal Caribbean and "Deal or No Deal" on Celebrity).

Itineraries

Royal Caribbean's ships cruise to more than 300 destinations worldwide, but the heart of its business is the Caribbean and the Bahamas .

Most of its vessels spend the months from November to March in the islands, sailing three- to 12-night cruises from ports in Florida and Galveston, Texas. However, you can find several ships cruising the Caribbean year-round. Many itineraries call on Royal Caribbean's activity-packed private Bahamian island, Perfect Day at CocoCay .

Seasonal itineraries in Europe, including the Mediterranean , Greek islands and the British Isles, are also popular, as are cruises to Alaska . Royal Caribbean also offers sailings to Bermuda, Hawaii, Canada and New England, Mexico, Latin America, Australia, New Zealand, Asia, the Panama Canal and the South Pacific. Transatlantic and transpacific cruises are available seasonally as well.

Celebrity ships call on more than 300 global cruise ports. Most ships spend November to March cruising the Caribbean from Fort Lauderdale and Miami on four- to 11-night sailings and April to October in Europe on 6- to 14-night itineraries in the Mediterranean, Greek islands, Adriatic, British Isles, Iceland and Northern Europe.

Seasonal cruises are also available to Alaska, Hawaii, Mexico, Bermuda, New England and Canada, South America, Australia, New Zealand, the South Pacific, South America and Asia. Celebrity also offers itineraries to Antarctica (scenic cruising only) from Buenos Aires.

Both cruise lines offer many global options, but neither has itineraries longer than 18 nights. For a summer cruise in the Caribbean, Royal Caribbean has far more options, while Celebrity is the better choice for a summer sailing in Europe. Either line is a good choice for Alaska in summer or the Caribbean in winter, depending on whether you're traveling as a couple or a family and the ship class you book.

Bottom line

Royal Caribbean is the obvious choice if you crave a lively and stimulating cruise experience with 24/7 entertainment and activities that wow both adults and kids. It's also generally the more affordable option.

Celebrity is the cruise line for you if you want a more upscale large-ship experience with a grown-up vibe (but still suitable for kids and teens). What Celebrity's ships lack in adrenaline-rush thrills, they make up in terrific dining and drinking venues.

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12 Big Differences Between Celebrity Cruises and Royal Caribbean

What’s the difference between sailing a cruise on Royal Caribbean and a trip on Celebrity? To be sure, any cruise you take will have plenty of similarities, but despite being owned by the same company (Royal Caribbean Group), there is plenty that’s different between these two cruise lines.

That means just because you’re a fan of one line doesn’t automatically mean you’ll be a fan of the other although there are certainly plenty of people that enjoy the two. And if you’ve never sailed Royal Caribbean or Celebrity, you might be wondering which to sail for your cruise.

Having sailed both, we can share details of ways the two lines are clearly not the same so you can decide which line might be best for you.

Celebrity Caters to More Affluent Adults

If you’ve sailed Royal Caribbean, then you know that it caters to everyone. There is a large family focus, but you’ll find something to enjoy whether you are 8 years old or 88 years old. Celebrity is a bit different in that everything from the ship’s décor, to food, to things to do, to itineraries all cater to a higher-end adult passenger.

That’s not to say that kids or families aren’t welcomed. Far from it. There are dedicated kids areas on both lines. But whereas Royal Caribbean has lots of kid-friendly things to do, eat, and see, Celebrity focuses more on adults. This means more stylish decor, no wild waterslides onboard, and food options that tend to be more adventurous.

If you think of Royal Caribbean as a great place to take a family vacation, then you can think of Celebrity as a great way to celebrate a honeymoon or anniversary.

Royal Caribbean Has Larger Ships

When it comes to the largest cruise ships on the planet, there’s Royal Caribbean and then everyone else. Its newest ship — Icon of the Seas — comes in a 250,000+ gross tons and has the ability to carry 7,600 passengers at full capacity. And even beyond that, the fleet in general is large with the six largest cruise ships on the planet all belonging to Royal Caribbean.

That’s great for those that want a lot to do on a cruise ship as more size means more can be packed on. But if you’re not a fan of the biggest ships, Celebrity’s are considerably smaller.

Its largest ships (Beyond and Ascent) come in at “just” 141,000 gross tons and carry about 3,500 passengers. And some of the cruise line’s special expedition ships carry as few as 16 passengers at double occupancy.

Royal Caribbean Sails From More Departure Ports in North America

If you live in the United States and want “easy to sail,” then one big difference is that there are a lot more options with Royal Caribbean.

Both lines sail from a number of departure ports in North America, but Royal Caribbean offers more options including Baltimore, New Orleans, and Galveston. This puts a ship within driving distance for tens of millions more people. As well, Celebrity seems to have fewer year-round options and a smaller number of ships sailing from each port.

To be sure if you’re sailing from ports in Florida, you’ll have a number of options on either line. But overall, you’ll find more choices with Royal Caribbean across the continent.

Drink Prices Are More Expensive on Celebrity

Let’s be clear that any cruise is going to carry hefty price tags on alcohol. It’s not unusual to spend hundreds of dollars on drink packages or buying beverages ala carte during the course of your cruise.

But we’ve noticed that drinks are significantly more expensive when sailing Celebrity. In general, you’ll find menu prices of around $14 per cocktail, plus an additional 18% gratuity charge. On Celebrity, the menu prices vary a bit more, but tend to hover around $17-$20 per cocktail and then there is a 20% gratuity on top of that. In other words, you could be paying up to $24 for a fancy cocktail.

Celebrity Offers “All Included”

Are you someone that doesn’t like to be nickeled and dimed? If so, then Celebrity offers the “All Included” deal that may be to your liking. Royal Caribbean doesn’t have the same package.

With All Included, a basic drink package and basic wi-fi are included in your fare (gratuities used to also be included before it was recently taken out) at a price that’s less than what you’d pay for them individually. So you pay a little extra but save money overall and also have drinks and wi-fi included on your cruise.

You don’t have to purchase the offer if you don’t want to. On Royal Caribbean, however, it’s not a choice (at least for now).

Celebrity Offers More Space

We have not sailed every ship on Celebrity or Royal Caribbean. We have sailed on the Edge-series ships from Celebrity (names like Edge, Apex, Beyond, and Ascent) and several different classes across Royal Caribbean. We can say there is a noticeable difference in the design on the ship that lends itself to more space.

The Edge-series ships are smartly built with spaces around the ship designed to be open and airy. It results in less of a cramped feel while sailing. And it’s not just our imagination.

Cruzely uses a measure called the “space ratio” that takes the gross tonnage of a ship and divides it by passengers at double occupancy. Essentially, it measures the size of the ship per passenger.

Overall, many Royal Caribbean ship score well, hovering around a ratio of 40. Celebrity, however, is even better with many ships in the 42-44 range for the ratio, indicating more space per person.

Royal Caribbean Offers More Short Cruise Options

Over the past decade or two, short cruises (those five nights or fewer) have surged in popularity. Not only are they generally less expensive, but fewer days means less time off work and away from home. There’s little surprise that the chance to get away for a few days without the time commitment or cost of a 7-day trip has proven popular.

If you’re a cruiser that likes these short trips, then you should know that Royal Caribbean offers many more options. A search of the schedule for Celebrity shows 44 different itineraries between 2-5 nights, with most of those routes having only a handful of dates.

Royal Caribbean offers 127 different short itineraries, with some of those sailing dozens of times over the course of the year.

Celebrity Is More Upscale Throughout

We mentioned that Celebrity is more focused on affluent adults. It’s important to emphasize that part of that is being in general a more upscale experience. Ships — especially the newer Edge-series — are essentially pieces of art. We like to think of it as if you took a traditional cruise spa and used that as inspiration for the entire ship. Colors are calm and inviting, there’s lots of space, and it simply feels high end.

As well, the onboard experience will be more upscale. Think calming days by the pool instead of “hairiest chest” contests. That’s not to say it’s uptight and stuffy — you’ll still enjoy yourself. But if you’re the type that likes to wear shorts and flip-flops into the dining room instead of tucking in your shirt, it may not be a fit.

One thing that also adds to the atmosphere is lots of artwork and sculptures throughout. From the pool to the stairwells to the restaurants, nice pieces add a touch of class to everything.

Royal Caribbean Has CocoCay

We include mention of CocoCay as it’s a big draw for many Royal Caribbean cruises, but it’s also a difference that’s soon to go away .

If you aren’t familiar with CocoCay, it’s Royal Caribbean’s private destination in The Bahamas. The spot is considered the ultimate in private islands. It features a full waterpark , lots of beach space, a massive pool, an exclusive beach club and an adults-only section. Literally millions of passengers sail here each year and seemingly every cruise from Florida pays a visit.

Celebrity, however, hasn’t had access to its sister-line’s island. That is until now. Celebrity will begin to include CocoCay stops on some itineraries.

Celebrity Offers “Infinite Verandahs”

It’s not on every ship, but newer Celebrity vessels like Ascent and Edge have a little tweak to the traditional balcony cabins. On the cruise line they are called “infinite verandahs.”

Normally a balcony cabin has the room, and then a door that leads to an outside balcony. These infinite balconies instead have a window for the entire outside wall. When you want some fresh air, hit a button and the top half of the window slides down, turning essentially the entire cabin into the balcony. There is still a “balcony” section that you can close off with folding doors if you want to sit outside without disturbing the rest of the room.

Royal Caribbean’s new Icon class ships are incorporating this design feature, but it’s not on the rest of the fleet.

Royal Caribbean Offers More Options for Kids

We think it’s important to emphasize that Royal Caribbean specifically has a lot more for kids. Yes, kids are welcomed on Celebrity and there is a kids area as mentioned earlier. Children definitely won’t have a bad time.

But compared to Royal Caribbean — which we consider to be among the most kid-friendly lines — the difference is night and day.

Pool decks on Royal Caribbean offer waterslides, climbing walls, and the Flowrider wave simulator. There’s the arcade, some ships offer entertainment like escape rooms, and dry slides. Even others offer bumper cars and ice skating.

Celebrity Offers Small-Ship Trips to the Galapagos

Both cruise lines can take you places around the world, including Royal Caribbean’s epic 274-night “Ultimate World Cruise.” But when it comes to more exotic locations, we have to give the nod to Celebrity.

In particular, the cruise line offers three ships — Xpedition, Xploration, and Flora — that provide cruises to the Galapagos. These three vessels are unique not just in that they offer cruises to one of the most remote parts of the planet, but they are also small. The largest of the three — Celebrity Flora — has an occupancy of just 100 passengers.

That definitely sets it apart from Royal Caribbean.

Which Cruise Line Is Better, Royal Caribbean or Celebrity?

So which should you sail? And which cruise line is better between Royal Caribbean and Celebrity?

That comes down to a matter of personal preference. The good news is that both cruise lines do a great job of delivering a memorable vacation. But they do seem to deliver the most for certain groups.

If you’re a family sailing with children, the Royal Caribbean is the obvious choice . The cruise line caters to everyone, but has a much larger focus on things to do onboard compared to not just Celebrity but nearly any cruise line. That’s not to say Mom and Dad won’t have fun, but the kids should have a markedly more exciting cruise.

On the other hand, if you’re celebrating a honeymoon, anniversary, or you are simply the sort of passenger who enjoys a more luxurious experience (e.g. you prefer the spa over the waterslide), then we think Celebrity is a great option .

More on Celebrity and Royal Caribbean:

• Celebrity Ascent First Look: Review, Tour, & Should You Sail?
• Complete Guide to Sailing Royal Caribbean (What It’s Like)

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Royal Caribbean vs Celebrity Cruises

Monday, March 25th

2024 Cruise Line Reviews

• Royal Caribbean
• Best for guests of all ages
• 27 ships in the fleet
• Some of the largest ships in the cruise industry: from 2,400 to 6,000+ passengers
• Exciting onboard activities can include rock climbing, ice skating, escape rooms, FlowRider and waterslides, and much more
• 300+ ports of call
• Two private islands: CocoCay (Bahamas) and Perfect Day (Labadee, Haiti)
• Great last-minute cruise deals
• Excellent safety record

Royal Caribbean International is a cruise line headquartered in Miami, Florida, operating a fleet of 27 ships that sail to destinations worldwide, including the Caribbean, Europe, Asia, Australia, and Alaska. The company offers innovative onboard experiences, such as Broadway-style shows, the Bionic Bar, and Virtual Balcony cabins, as well as a wide range of activities like ice skating and rock climbing while at sea. Royal Caribbean is suitable for guests of all ages and is well known for having some of the largest ships in the cruise industry, 300+ ports of call, and two private islands: CocoCay and Perfect Day. The company is also known for great last-minute cruise deals and having an excellent safety record. We recommend Royal Caribbean as one of the first places to search for your next cruise.

• Celebrity Cruises
• Best all-around cruise line: widest variety of destinations, ship sizes, and adventure levels
• 13 ships in the main fleet + 3 smaller ships that visit the Galapagos Islands
• Suitable for guests of all ages
• Choose between Cruise-Only and All-Inclusive fares
• Excellent track record for safety
• Winner of multiple awards

Celebrity Cruises offers a variety of cruise experiences for all ages and to various destinations, with a fleet of over a dozen ships ranging in size from 16 to 3,260 passengers. Celebrity's dining options are renowned for their quality and variety, and the company offers both Cruise-Only and All-Inclusive fares. The cruise line has a strong commitment to safety and has never experienced a major incident, earning recognition as the Best Premium Cruise Line by Travel Weekly's Readers' Choice Awards for 14 consecutive years. Celebrity is an excellent choice for guests of all ages and interests.

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• Disney Cruise Line

• Virgin Voyages

• Viking Cruises

• Regent Seven Seas

• Norwegian Cruise Line

• Princess Cruises

• Holland America

• MSC Cruises

• Carnival Cruises

The 15 Best Cruise Lines

Which cruise line is the best.

Cruising is a popular way of traveling for many people, offering a unique experience that combines the convenience of a floating hotel with the excitement of visiting multiple destinations in one trip. In an average year, over fifteen million people say "all aboard" and set sail on an amazing vacation.

There are many different cruise lines to choose from, and each one offers a different type of experience. Some are geared towards families, while others are more focused on luxury or adventure. What would you like to see and do while you're onboard? Is a casino a must-have or a rather-avoid? Would a Broadway-caliber show tip the scales for you? Do you need a wide range of activities to keep the kiddos happy while the adults live it up or relax? The onboard activities and amenities can really make or break your vacation, so be sure you know what you're getting.

Cruise Line FAQ

Which cruise line is the best, what is included in the cost of a cruise, what is the minimum age to cruise, what are the dining options on a cruise ship, are cruise ships crowded, do i have to dress up, are activities included at destination ports, can i bring my own alcohol onboard.

Continued from above...

Another factor that can influence which cruise line you choose is the itinerary. Cruise ships travel all over the world, but some cruise lines may not have destinations available where you're hoping to go. You should also consider the size of the ship: larger ships offer more amenities, but smaller ships can access ports that bigger ships can't.

Speaking of amenities, make sure you understand what you'll get as part of your fare and which extras will come with an additional cost. For example, most cruises offer drink packages for alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages, but a few have drink stations where you can get complimentary lemonade, coffee and tea. Other amenities that might be important to you are Wi-Fi, spa services, babysitting, fitness classes, and upgraded dining experiences. You can usually get a decent discount if you sign up for an amenities package before you sail, so keep an eye out for promotions in the months leading up to your sailing.

When you take a cruise, it's almost always expected that you'll tip the crew members who have attended to your needs while onboard: your cabin steward ( who probably leaves your towels folded into fun shapes every night ), your servers at your nightly meals, and the head waiter. Cruise lines have a recommended gratuity to cover all three of those staff members, usually $15-$20 per traveler, per day; the total gratuity amount may be charged automatically to your account, or you may be given envelopes to make cash payments.

While it usually isn't mandatory to pay those gratuities - you can ask to have them removed if they're applied automatically, especially if you've received poor service - it's typically considered in poor taste not to tip at the suggested levels (because crew members' salaries, much like servers at your local restaurant, are based on the expectation of tips paid by guests). And, if you receive service that goes above and beyond, adding to the recommended gratuity is always appreciated. Be aware that tips for bartenders, poolside servers, and professional services provided in the spa or elsewhere are not included in the daily suggested gratuity and may be charged automatically at the time of service.

Now that you have a good overview of the cruising experience, which cruise line should you choose? Beyond the points we already covered, here are a few additional criteria that might make it easier to pick:

• Embarkation port. You could get a great deal on a cruise, but what will it cost you to get to the port? That could involve airfare, an overnight stay or two in a nearby hotel (so that you're less likely to be affected by travel delays), and transportation from the airport or hotel to the port. This is especially true if you're taking a cruise that departs from an international destination.
• Perks for repeat cruisers. Like frequent flyer programs on airlines, most cruise lines offer benefits the more you sail. If you find yourself absolutely loving cruise vacations, it can be advantageous to put all of your eggs in one basket, so to speak. Rewards programs can include casino benefits, complimentary meals at the upgraded dining experiences, exclusive sail-away parties with free cocktails and tchotchkes, early-access booking on future cruises, and much more.
• Reputation. It's a really smart idea to see what other travelers have said about their overall experience with a cruise line before booking your trip. The ads on TV may make that private island look amazing, but someone who's been there might point out that you'll pay extra to get on that waterslide. Or, previous cruisers could tell you that despite having several formal nights on the schedule, a particular cruise line has no problem with people showing up to dinner in flip-flops and swimsuit coverups. Find out if the cruise line you're considering lines up in reality with what they advertise.

Here at Top Consumer Reviews, cruising is one of our favorite ways to travel and experience new things. And with so many different cruise lines to choose from, it can be overwhelming to know where to start. But, don't worry: take a look at our in-depth analysis of today's most popular options, find the one that's the best match for your vacation ideas and your travel party, and book that trip you've been dreaming of. Bon voyage!

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Royal Caribbean vs. Celebrity: Which Cruise Line Is Best for You?

By: Author Dan Bagby

Posted on Published: February 26, 2023

Royal Caribbean and Celebrity are two of the most popular cruise lines on the market. Both offer wonderful ships and itineraries for cruise honeymoons and vacations of all sorts. Although both lines are owned by the same company, there are differences. Is Celebrity or Royal Caribbean best for you? In short: it totally depends!

In this article, we will share the similarities and key differences between Celebrity vs. Royal Caribbean cruises to help you decide which one is the perfect choice for you. We will also answer questions like, is Royal Caribbean as good as Celebrity and is the food better on Celebrity than Royal Caribbean?

Royal Caribbean Overview

Royal Caribbean takes a fun approach to cruising, making it a great choice for those looking for a wide variety of exciting activities.

If you want to just sit back and relax onboard Royal Caribbean cruise ships, you certainly can. But if you enjoy thrilling amenities like zip lining, rock climbing walls, huge waterslides, and surf pools, you will find them here, as well as plenty of nightlife.

There is also high-end enjoyment to be had on a Royal Caribbean cruise. From spa treatments to fine dining, Royal Caribbean has something for everyone.

Celebrity Cruises Overview

Celebrity is one of the best cruise lines for people looking for a luxury trip. With ships that feature state-of-the-art interior design and luxe furnishings, Celebrity does exactly what it says in the name: it makes you feel like a true celebrity.

Every ship has a variety of onboard amenities and entertainment, including amazing shows and live music, casinos, and shopping. And if you’d rather lay back and relax, you can enjoy a spa treatment, a day by one of the pools, fine dining, and plenty of lounges and bars.

Celebrity cruise ships differ in size, and each brings its own unique charm to the fleet. The largest Celebrity ship is the Celebrity Beyond, holding up to 3260 passengers. Celebrity is also home to the smallest cruise ship in the world, the Celebrity Xploration, which holds only 16 passengers!

Royal Caribbean vs. Celebrity Cost

Cost can be a huge factor when deciding which cruise line is best for you. In general, Royal Caribbean tends to be less expensive than Celebrity Cruises, but they’re typically more family-friendly and less about living the life of luxury. With Celebrity, you get the celebrity lifestyle at a celebrity price–though they often have discounts available.

Royal Caribbean may be the best choice for you if you are looking for a budget-friendly option. That’s not to say you can’t find good deals with Celebrity, but you’ll likely get a lot more for your money on Royal Caribbean.

Royal Caribbean vs. Celebrity Ships

When it comes to their fleet, Celebrity and Royal Caribbean are quite different.

One difference between the two is the size of their fleet. Celebrity Cruise Line has a fleet size of 16 cruise ships, whereas Royal Caribbean boasts a fleet size of 24. 

Celebrity ships are varied in size and each gives a different experience, while sticking to the luxury feel. In general, Celebrity ships carry fewer passengers than Royal Caribbean, which leads to a more intimate atmosphere and more personal service. As mentioned before, the smallest Celebrity ship holds just 16 passengers.

Royal Caribbean ships, on the other hand, all feature the brand’s fun-loving vibe and mix of exciting activities. The largest Royal Caribbean ships are some of the biggest cruise ships in the world, with the largest holding 5700 people. (These ships have also been some of the most award-winning.) The smallest Royal Caribbean ship carries nearly 2000 people.

Celebrity vs. Royal Caribbean Food and Drink

Both Royal Caribbean and Celebrity cruise ships are comparable in the food on offer. They offer a range of restaurants, from complimentary dining for everyone on board to fine-dining options if you’re looking for something special.

Royal Caribbean offers a 3-restaurant dining package as well as an unlimited dining package , so you can visit different restaurants on board as much as you desire. They have quite a varied selection of eateries to choose from. As they cater to families, they have a balance of upscale restaurants and more family-friendly options with great choices on the kids’ menus.

Celebrity on the other hand is more tailored towards luxury, which carries over into their dining experiences too. With a larger selection of high-end restaurants on board, they typically cater better to groups of friends, couples, and honeymooners. Celebrity restaurant cuisine is overseen by a Michelin-starred chef.

Of course, Celebrity also has a range of complimentary dining options. Tip: these restaurants are all quite upscale too, so be sure to read their fleet-wide dining room dress codes before you pack!

Is the food better on Celebrity than Royal Caribbean? Both cruise lines offer food choices for convenient meals and luxury dining alike. But if you’re  looking for a meal that will put the cherry on top of your vacation (no pun intended!), Blu, a restaurant onboard many Celebrity cruise liners, is one of the best options out there. 

Both Royal Caribbean and Celebrity offer a variety of bars.

Royal Caribbean vs. Celebrity Cabins

Royal Caribbean and Celebrity both offer a variety of cabin types. These are very different between the two companies, however, as they’re geared toward their typical clientele.

Celebrity cabins all boast an air of luxury within them. With gorgeous ocean-view rooms with large windows, private balconies, world-class amenities, and beautiful furnishings, they’re sure to make your vacation picture-perfect.

Choose from a variety of staterooms and suites catering to couples, solo travelers, and families or groups, each delivering the upscale experience Celebrity promises.

While Royal Caribbean doesn’t offer as sophisticated an atmosphere as Celebrity in its cabins, it still features plenty of comfort and luxury. Staterooms are designed with couples in mind. Bright and beautiful, they’re a great space to relax and unwind at the end of the day. They also have large rooms for group trips, with up to four bedrooms.

And as a more family-friendly cruise line, Royal Caribbean knows how the little ones like to live. Their family rooms are like no other. Colorful, comfortable, and full of fun, you’ll find giant games of Connect four, Lego walls, and even in-room slides to keep the kids entertained.

Royal Caribbean vs. Celebrity Itineraries

You won’t have a problem finding a fabulous itinerary on either cruise line. Both Royal Caribbean and Celebrity offer cruises to plenty of top destinations such as the Caribbean , the Mediterranean , Europe , Alaska , South America, and more.

They also each have a wide variety of itineraries to choose from. Whether it’s a three-night jaunt in The Bahamas on either cruise line, a 12-night trip around Argentina and Patagonia with Celebrity, or a 245-night life-changing round-the-world cruise with Royal Caribbean, there truly is something for everyone!

Royal Caribbean vs. Celebrity Activities

The activities onboard Celebrity and Royal Caribbean can vary depending on the ship and its itinerary. 

Celebrity Cruise Line offers a more upscale, relaxed atmosphere geared towards those that enjoy a little sophistication. People travel with Celebrity to, well, feel like a celebrity! Because of this, most people like to enjoy a wellness visit to the spa, try their luck at the casino, visit an art gallery, check out wine tastings, or learn a new skill or hobby.

Royal Caribbean, on the other hand, is geared more toward those who like to live life in the fast lane. Royal Caribbean offers a variety of extreme sports and exciting activities, including the Flowrider surf simulators, rock climbing walls, zip lining, ice skating, bumper cars, the tallest waterslide at sea, sky diving simulators, nightclubs, and more. They also offer more activities for kids and teens, so it’s a great choice to keep the kids occupied.

Both cruise lines offer entertainment options like Broadway-style shows, music, dance lessons, bingo and other games, trivia competitions, etc.

Royal Caribbean vs. Celebrity for Kids

Keeping the kids entertained is something you need to consider when deciding which cruise line is best for your family vacation. In general, Royal Caribbean tends to be a bit more family-friendly than Celebrity Cruise Line, with more fast-paced activities onboard geared towards the little ones, and family rooms designed with them in mind. 

While Celebrity welcomes children, Royal Caribbean may be the best choice for you if you’re traveling with family. That’s not to say you can’t have a great family vacation with Celebrity, but the kids might not get as much out of the trip as you do.

Royal Caribbean vs. Celebrity Entertainment

When it comes to entertainment, Celebrity and Royal Caribbean offer a lot of similar options, with on-board shows, clubs, bars, casinos and so much more, you’re guaranteed to be spoiled for choice no matter which you choose.

One difference, though, is the entertainment geared toward children and teens. As we have just discussed, Royal Caribbean is more family-friendly in many aspects, and this extends to the range of entertainment onboard.

Royal Caribbean vs. Celebrity Typical Passengers

Both Royal Caribbean and Celebrity welcome a variety of people on board. However, there are some distinct differences between the two based on pricing, onboard activities, and general vibe.

Royal Caribbean tends to host families and those looking for adventure, while Celebrity usually welcomes more couples and adults who are looking for a relaxing and luxurious escape.

The usual passenger age on Celebrity cruises ranges from mid-30s to 70s, while Royal Caribbean passengers are generally younger (20s to 60s, with many more families with children).

Celebrity vs. Royal Caribbean Conclusion

Is Royal Caribbean as good as Celebrity? That depends on what type of cruise you’re looking for. In general, while Royal Caribbean offers a fun and enjoyable cruising experience–especially for families and active travelers–Celebrity offers more of a luxury cruise atmosphere.

After reading this article, what do you think? Is Celebrity better than Royal Caribbean, or is Royal Caribbean better than Celebrity for your cruise vacation? If you’re still undecided, check out our articles on Royal Caribbean vs. Norwegian and 10 Best Honeymoon Cruises & Cruise Lines for more information!

He is an expert travel advisor and enthusiast. He has traveled extensively in the USA, Central America, South America, and Europe. He has visited every Sandals Resort and is one of a select few Diamond Elite members of the Sandals Chairman’s Royal Club. Dan graduated from Johnson & Wales University with an associate degree in Culinary Arts. Later he graduated from the University of Utah with a bachelor’s degree in International Studies with a focus on people and culture.

Celebrity vs Royal Caribbean Cruises

• Post published: October 3, 2021
• Post category: Cruise Tips / Travel Blog
• Reading time: 8 mins read

Celebrity Cruises and Royal Caribbean Cruise Line may be part of the same family, but there are major differences between the two cruise lines.  Read on for some similarities and differences to help you pick which is right for you!  

Atmosphere 

Neither Celebrity or Royal Caribbean have a party atmosphere (if you’re looking for a party try Carnival), but Celebrity feels like a much older and calmer clientele.  Royal Caribbean includes a lot of families, especially if you are on a mega ship with lots of kid-friendly activities.  Celebrity does not have the activities that cater towards children like slides or climbing walls so there are simply less children on board.  

Buffet Food 

The buffet of Celebrity and Royal feels almost the same.  The appearance of the Oceanview Café on Celebrity and the Windjammer on Royal Caribbean is incredibly similar – both are made up of various stations that you walk around to gather your food from the servers.  The quality of food onboard Celebrity is up a notch though.  One sea day we found filet mignon so tender you could cut it with a butter knife on Celebrity’s lunch buffet.  It wasn’t advertised.  It wasn’t anything special.  It was just there.  We’ve not seen that yet on Royal.  The food in the Windjammer is plentiful. (I’m not saying it is bad.  It’s just nothing to write home about.)  

Main Dining Room Food 

The food in the main dining rooms is very similar.  Celebrity’s may be a slight step up but they literally include some of the same foods.  Escargot is our favorite appetizer on both Celebrity and Royal Caribbean and it is the exact same dish.  

Staterooms 

The cabins on Celebrity and Royal Caribbean are very similar.  They are set up in similar ways.  Both could use more hooks.  But Celebrity includes a few touches that most of the Royal Caribbean ships do not.  There was a motion-sensor night light in the bathroom so you didn’t have to turn on a light in the middle of the night.  There was a dispenser of good-quality lotion in the bathroom.  Despite their similarities, Celebrity wins this round with just those little extra touches that you don’t really think about but are really handy.  

Solarium 

Both Celebrity and Royal Caribbean have an indoor, enclosed pool that is 18+.  This space is very nice if you are trying to get away from the sun or trying to get away from children.  On Royal, this is a space where all the adults hang out.  On Celebrity, it’s got more of a spa atmosphere because there are very few children in the main pool.  I would give the point to Royal Caribbean on this one because it’s solarium is a fun place to hang, while on Celebrity it’s a little sleepy.  

Entertainment 

Generally a tie.  They have very similar evening performances with singers and dancers performing to a decade or genre of music. 

Both lines also have day-time entertainment from trivia, to poolside games to dancing.  But Celebrity does have its guest lecturers that provide some context on the ports of call.  This is a nice touch regardless of if you are in Alaska, the Mediterranean or the Caribbean.  Sometimes it is fun to learn a little about the history and geography of a place to give you a better appreciation!  

Kid-friendly activities 

Royal Caribbean definitely wins this category.  Royal ships come outfitted with slides and climbing walls at minimum, but many also have more interesting activities at sea from wave riders to ice skating to ziplines depending on the ship.  

The Towel Situation 

This feels a little petty to include, but I think it shows a difference between the two cruise lines.  On Celebrity, the crew places beach towels on the deck chairs every morning.  When you have used a towel, you place it in the bin.  If there is an empty chair with no towel, you get a clean towel from the towel holder.  On Royal Caribbean, you go to the towel hut when you get up on deck and give them your card and you rent a towel.  Royal places a charge on your card until you return the towel.  Once you return the towel, the charge is removed from your card.  Apparently Royal is concerned its guests are stealing the beach towels while Celebrity is not worried about it.  

Price 

Celebrity is more expensive.  But is it worth the extra cost?  That is up to you to decide!  

Looking for more information about Celebrity? Check out these posts:

What’s Included on a Celebrity Cruise

Top 8 Places to Take Photos on the Celebrity Edge

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Celebrity vs. Royal Caribbean: Which is Right for You?

Posted on Published: 11/21/2023

When researching cruise lines for your next family cruise, you are likely to encounter both Celebrity Cruises and Royal Caribbean Cruise Line in your research. Not only are among the most popular cruise lines in the United States, they are actually owned by the same parent company. So, if you are trying to decide between Celebrity vs Royal Caribbean cruises, you’ll want to know how they compare.

We’ve sailed on both Celebrity and Royal Caribbean cruise ships and have enjoyed both brands of cruise ships. But, there are minor and major differences that you’ll need to understand.

Disclosure: We’ve sailed at no cost on Royal Caribbean but have also paid our own on both Royal Caribbean and Celebrity Cruise Lines. All opinions are my own. This post contains affiliate links and a click-through/purchase may result in a commission paid to us at no additional cost to you.

Check Prices on both Celebrity ships and Royal Caribbean cruises at this link .

Celebrity Cruise Line and Royal Caribbean International are wholly owned subsidiaries of the Royal Caribbean Group. This company also owns the Silversea cruise line and has a stake in two additional cruise lines. While you will see some similarities in the companies, especially related to their websites and apps, the ships are quite different.

Royal Caribbean International offers more cruise ships than Celebrity, and also larger ships. The Royal Caribbean Oasis Class ships (including the Allure of the Seas and the Wonder of the Seas) are the largest in the world. While Celebrity does have large cruise ships, none of them are near this size.

Overview of Celebrity Cruise Line

It’s important to note that Celebrity Cruise Line is not an adult-only cruise line. Kids are allowed on the ships, and they do offer a number of activities specific to children – including kids’ clubs.

However, Celebrity does have more of an “adult” feel. The ships feel very sophisticated and modern. The prices are reasonable, but there are also lots of upgrades that you can purchase. These include Celebrity concierge level, AquaClass, and the Retreat.

Of these, the Retreat is the most exclusive. As a Retreat guest, you have access to separate restaurants, as well as exclusive sundecks and other areas of the ship. These are higher priced rooms but do come with lots of benefits.

During our recent Celebrity Cruise Line sailing, we saw mostly couples and groups of friends celebrating specific events. While there were children on board, there weren’t as many of them.

Like Royal Caribbean, Celebrity has been steadily introducing new ships, as well as refurbishments. New ships include some innovative features, like the Magic Carpet moveable deck. Celebrity Edge, Celebrity Apex, and Celebrity Beyond are among the new Celebrity cruise ships.

Celebrity offers a main dining room for guests, as well as a buffet that is included in the standard cruise fare. In addition, guests can choose to purchase specialty dining upgrades, for restaurants including Qsine (Le Petit Chef and the Tuscan Grille). Food is a little more adult-focused, although there are things like burgers and pizza that will appeal to kids.

During your evenings and days at sea (as well as port days, if you decide to stay on the ship), there are plenty of things to do. Activities like salsa dance classes and wine tastings are offered. There are also other activities, including game shows and trivia.

In the evenings as you walk through the ship, you’ll find various entertainment and live music throughout the lounges and bars. The ships also offer entertainment in the main theater, including large-scale shows, comedians, and musicians.

Amenities on the ship include the pool deck, hot tubs, an adult-only area, a spa (with a full collection of spa treatments) a fitness center, a casino, and a coffee shop. There are also kids’ clubs, separated by age.

Shops on Celebrity are upscale, focused primarily on luxury goods. You’ll find duty-free items, perfume, jewelry, handbags, and watches.

Celebrity Cruise Line offers itineraries to many destinations, including the Caribbean, Alaska, Europe (and the Mediterranean), Australia and the South Pacific, the Galapagos, Asia, and Mexico. While Celebrity does not have their own Bahamian private island destination, select ships do go to Perfect Day at Coco Cay , Royal Caribbean’s private destination.

Overview of Royal Caribbean International

Royal Caribbean International is known for its large, thrilling ships, packed with family-friendly fun. These ships are bright and bold, but still offer fantastic service with lots of activities that appeal to adults as well as kids.

While there are separate adult-only areas, much of the ship is very family-friendly with so much fun packed into each deck. It’s nearly impossible to be bored on a Royal Caribbean ship.

Royal Caribbean offers the largest cruise ships at sea, with a new one, the Icon of the Seas, coming soon. The Icon of the Seas will be the largest cruise ship in the world, replacing the Wonder of the Seas. These ships keep outdoing themselves with more and more activities and awe-inspiring amenities.

Activities onboard Royal Caribbean do vary by ship. Some of these activities include pools, water slides, dry slides, bumper cars, zip lines, FlowRider surf simulators, ice skating rinks, the North Star observation pod, arcades, and carousels. These are the types of activities that are extremely popular with tweens and teens. When we sailed on Royal Caribbean with my teens, they loved all of the exciting activities.

Activities on Royal Caribbean are also offered and vary by sailing. These include trivia, game shows, karaoke, and live music. Whether you are an adult traveling without kids or a family on vacation, there are plenty of things in the schedule that will appeal to you.

Royal Caribbean is known for its world-class entertainment. In addition to large Broadway-style productions, many of the ships also have smaller shows, as well as ice shows and aqua shows. There’s always something exciting going on during your Royal Caribbean sailing.

Dining on Royal Caribbean is similar to Celebrity, in that you will be assigned a time (or can do My Time dining) for the main dining room each evening. At that time, you’ll have the same serving team and the same table.

Specialty dining is also offered on Royal Caribbean. Restaurants vary by ship, but may include Playmakers Pub, Johnny Rockets, 150 Central Park, Giovannis, Chops Grille, Izumi, Wonderland, and Hooked Seafood. There are also plenty of included dining options , like El Loco Fresh, Windjammer Buffet, Dog House, Sorrento’s Pizza, and Promenade Cafe. An exclusive restaurant, Coastal Kitchen, is offered to concierge guests.

Like Celebrity, Royal Caribbean offers upscale shops. However, in addition, there are usually some kid-focused stores, including candy and toy stores.

With more ships, Royal Caribbean offers many different itineraries. Options include the Bahamas, the Caribbean, Alaska, Mexico, Dubai, Europe, Latin America, Australia, and Asia. Many of the Bahamian and Caribbean cruises stop at their private destinations of Perfect Day at CocoCay and Labadee, Haiti .

Differences between Royal Caribbean and Celebrity Cruise Line

The differences between the ships are apparent as soon as you board. While Royal Caribbean has a bright, exciting atmosphere, Celebrity tends to be more muted and sophisticated. That style carries over to the public areas of the ship as well as the ship’s staterooms.

Activity Differences

Both cruise brands offer many things to do throughout the days and evenings. While Royal Caribbean’s activities tend to have a very broad appeal, the activities on Celebrity may be a little more focused on teens and adults.

The activity amenities, however, are where Royal Caribbean and Celebrity differ. While Celebrity offers standard cruise ship amenities like pools and hot tubs, Royal Caribbean has some additional exciting and thrilling amenities like zip lines and surf simulators. These types of onboard activities are truly what differentiates Royal Caribbean from other cruise lines when it comes to family fun.

Entertainment Differences

You’ll find lots of entertainment options on both Celebrity and Royal Caribbean. Both have entertainment that kids can enjoy, and both have performances that are more adult-focused. However, the entertainment on Royal Caribbean has a more universal appeal for younger kids through adults.

Food Differences

Celebrity does have plenty of kid-friendly food options, including burgers and steak. However, the specialty restaurants on Royal Caribbean do have a little more family appeal. With options like Playmakers Pub and Johnny Rockets, families will find more options for picky eaters.

I also found the Celebrity’s buffet had a few more international options for food, including Indian food. Overall, however, I really enjoy the food on both cruise lines.

Price Differences

Both Royal Caribbean and Celebrity Cruise Line have a variety of different add-ons and service options that can change the price. In general, Celebrity Cruise Line’s prices tend to be a little higher. But the prices differences really aren’t enough that they would change your mind one way or another about which cruise line to book.

Staff Differences

We have had excellent service on both cruise lines, with standout crew members on each. You really can’t go wrong when it comes to the crew on both Royal Caribbean and Celebrity Cruise Lines.

The Bottom Line

Celebrity and Royal Caribbean are both excellent cruise lines with delicious food, great crew members, and fun activities. You’ll have a great time on either cruise line. If you are looking for a sophisticated cruise experience, Celebrity is probably the best option, while Royal Caribbean is best for thrills and excitement and for a family travel.

Have you sailed on either Celebrity Cruise Line or Royal Caribbean International? Which will you sail on for your next cruise vacation?

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Celebrity vs. Royal Caribbean: How do they compare?

Celebrity Cruises and Royal Caribbean International share a parent company, but that’s all they have in common. The Celebrity ships are some of the most beautiful at sea, with modern designs and impressive contemporary art collections. True, these ships' best models date back to 2008, but they still feel well-thought-out and sophisticated — and the line continues to excel at an elegant take on big ship cruising for the 40 and older demographic, most of whom travel in pairs. Royal Caribbean, on the other hand, serves families and multigenerational groups, among others, with a focus on sporty and adrenaline-pumping activities such as skydiving and surfing simulators, as well as amusement park-style entertainment and cutting-edge technology. (No other line has internet access that is as fast and as reasonably priced, for example.) Royal Caribbean's big, loud, activity-filled ships include the largest vessels in the industry, carrying more than 6,000 passengers. How do the two lines stack up against each other? Here's our take. Pricing Generally speaking, Celebrity tends to be more expensive than Royal Caribbean. Similar to Royal Caribbean, the lowest rates on Celebrity are typically found on the older ships, especially Celebrity Summit. But, even with Celebrity Summit, it's rare for the line to drop prices for seven-night sailings to less than $500 per person.

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Celebrity Edge vs Royal Caribbean Quantum of the Seas

The Celebrity Edge was built in 2019. The Celebrity Edge is the first ship to feature the "Magic Carpet," a moving platform that makes using water tenders a breeze while in port, or adds outdoor dining space while at sea. This Edge-class of ship is known to feel quite different than the rest of the Celebrity fleet as it's less geared towards traditional cruise passengers. It's 5 years newer than the Quantum of the Seas , which was built in 2014.

Comparison Overview

Number of passengers, food and restaurants.

• Bars and Drinks

Pools and Hot Tubs

Ship features and activities, cruise costs, onboard costs.

The Edge is considered a medium size ship. Coming in at 1,004 feet long and 128 feet wide, it's roughly the length of 2.8 football fields, as wide as 2.4 tractor-trailers and the same height as a 16-story building. Compared to the Royal Caribbean Quantum of the Seas, the Edge is 23% smaller in terms of overall tons.

Celebrity Edge holds 30% fewer passengers than the Quantum of the Seas based on double occupancy (two people per room). When you compare the total tonnage of the ship to the number of passengers, or what we call the "Space Ratio," the Edge has more space per person compared to the Quantum of the Seas. This means that you might have a bit more space to yourself on the ship, although there still could be some crowded areas like buffets, pools, etc.

Food is a big part of any cruise, and the ship you choose can make a huge difference in your food experience.

The Edge has 18 different dining options like Tuscan Restaurant , Magic Carpet , and Le Grand Bistro . Of those options, 8 are complementary, or included with your cruise fare. The other 10 options have an additional fee.

The Quantum of the Seas has 3 more dining venues. Some of its popular venues are Izumi , Dog House , and Cafe Promenade . 13 of these restaurants are complementary and the other 8 have an additional fee.

If you like having a variety of places to eat, the Quantum of the Seas might be a better choice. It has 17% more dining options than the Edge.

If you're looking to avoid extra money while on board, the Quantum of the Seas might be a better choice then the Edge. More of the dining options are included in the base cruise fare, potentially saving you money.

In terms of drinks and cocktails, you have a variety of choices. Both ships serve the Coca-cola family of products. That means Coke, Diet Coke, Sprite and Barqs Root Beer, although the selection can vary by ship. Most Royal Caribbean ships also have Coke Freestyle machines where you can make 100 different flavor combinations.

There are also plenty of bars available on these ships. You can check out recent the bar menus for the Quantum of the Seas below.

Nothing beats relaxing by a pool with a nice drink in hand as you feel the fresh sea breeze pass by you. The problem is that with thousands of people on a ship, there's not always room. If you want to spend all day for 7 days in a pool, a cruise isn't for you. You would have a much better bet choosing a resort with a huge pool complex. That being said, a quick dip in the pool can be nice on a hot day.

The Celebrity Edge has a total of 3 pools and 4 hot tubs. Tired of loud kids and splashing? 1 of the pools and 1 of the hot tubs are adults only. 1 of the pools and 1 of the hot tubs are exclusive access, which means there's either an extra charge to access them or you need to book a certain class of cabin to have access to them.

Royal Caribbean Quantum of the Seas has more pools than the Edge and more hot tubs. There are fewer exclusive pools and hot tubs on the Quantum of the Seas. If you like ships without extra charges or exclusive areas, this might be a better choice since everyone will have access to these areas.

Both ships have lots of activities to keep you busy throughout your cruise. Below you'll see a list of some of the major features on these ships. You might up paying more while on board the Edge. Only 67% of the activities below are included in your cruise fare. On the Quantum of the Seas, 71% of the activities are included at no additional cost.

Celebrity is a premium cruise line. Premium cruise lines typically offer upscale food, accommodations, and service. These typically cost about $150 - $400 per person per day.

Royal Caribbean, on the other hand, is considered a mainstream cruise line. Mainstream cruise lines cater to a variety of guests, hoping to provide something for everyone. These typically cost about $100 - $350 per person per day.

Cruise pricing is dynamic and varies for each specific sailing based on factors such as departure point, ports of call, and time of year. To get a good idea of how the pricing compares, visit the cruise line's website to price out the separate cruises or consult a travel professional.

Another way to gauge the cost of a cruise is to consider how much you'll spend on board. Even though a lot is included in the base cruise fare, you may still spend money on things like spa treatments, specialty dining, drinks, and excursions. In addition, guests can also have to pay for things like gratuities and tips.

Typically guests can expect to spend about 25 - 40% of the cost of the cruise on onboard expenses. In other words, if the cruise fare is $1,000 per person, you might spend between $250 and $400 on extra expenses.

The table below will help you compare onboard prices to see if you might spend more on a specific ship.

Celebrity Cruise Lines offers an "All Included" program. Guests who book a cruise using this promotion will have gratuities, wifi, and alcohol included. Some sailings are available without this program so pay attention when booking. Typically prices are lower if they don't include "Always Included." The wifi and alcohol package are the base levels and can be upgraded for an additional cost.

Royal Caribbean uses dynamic pricing, which means the pricing for many things will vary per sailing. The daily gratuities and tip are consistent across the fleet, but the pricing for the drink package, internet, and excursions will change. The only way to know your price is to consult the Royal Caribbean cruise planner once you're booked.

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Disappointing photos show what it's actually like to go on a cruise

• I took a seven-day voyage on one of the largest cruise ships in the world , my first cruise ever. 
• I found the reality of cruising didn't match my expectations from social media and promotional ads.
• I spent much of my time battling crowds, waiting in lines, and sitting on hot tour buses.

I booked my first-ever cruise aboard Royal Caribbean's Wonder of the Seas in April 2022. The seven-day Caribbean voyage on a mega-ship took me round-trip from Fort Lauderdale, Florida, to port stops in Honduras, Mexico, and the Bahamas. I expected breathtaking views of the world between relaxing swimming and sunbathing sessions.

But my experience didn't quite meet my expectations.

Instead, I sunbathed in a loud, crowded pool area when I was lucky enough to find a chair. I spent more time waiting in lines than I had anticipated, and I saw much of the world from behind other people's heads.

Here's an overview of the most disappointing aspects of my cruise, from getting to the port to sailing across the region

The disappointment started before I was even on the cruise.

Since I don't live near my cruise's departure city, my trip began with a flight and a budget hotel room near my departure port in Fort Lauderdale, Florida.

When I arrived at my port city's airport, I waited 45 minutes for a hotel shuttle to pick me up.

This was the first of many crowded bus rides during my trip. Looking back, I wish I had called a cab — especially since the next morning, I piled into a hot bus with several other cruise guests as I headed to the port.

There was a long line to get inside the cruise terminal, and I should have known by this point that I'd stand in many more lines during my cruise.

Inside the cruise terminal , there was another long line to get through security. While I waited, I chuckled to myself as I read signs that said, "Adventure begins here."

Once aboard the ship, I was excited to view the ocean as we sailed away, but I was blocked by tall, thick glass and couldn't find a place to stand.

My obstructed view of the ship leaving Fort Lauderdale made me feel as frustrated as standing behind tall patrons at a concert. 

The ship was so large that I got lost several times during my stay.

But I found the maps on each floor to be helpful.

As I explored the ship, I was surprised that even a mega-ship could feel overcrowded.

While people seemed to enjoy themselves, many communal decks looked and felt like crowded malls.

The outdoor decks had 19 pools, plunge pools, and whirlpools accessible to guests. These spaces were crowded throughout the day. And even though there were rules against saving chairs with towels, I saw plenty of people doing it, so finding a spot to relax was stressful.

A Royal Caribbean representative told Business Insider crew members might remove items from lounge chairs after 30 minutes. Still, they must also consider families and groups who may be in the pool or going to the restroom when enforcing rules like these and must use their best judgment.

There were crowds and lines virtually everywhere I went.

From the buffet to activities like water slides and mini-golf, I felt like I spent more time waiting in line than enjoying the ship. For example, I waited in line for three hours to play a round of laser tag that was less than 20 minutes long. 

At port stops, I waited in lines to go through security every time I left and returned to the ship. I found this less annoying than the other wait times since it made me feel safer.

The lines continued at each port, crowded with others excited to begin their tours.

I often had to battle through crowds just to find signs for my excursions.

It was exciting to explore new places at each stop, though some of this exploration was from the window of another hot bus.

A Royal Caribbean representative told BI the cruise line worked with local tour operators for its excursions, so air conditioning standards varied.

And when I was finally doing the cool thing I booked, like walking across a suspension bridge amid the treetops, my view was sometimes blocked once more by everyone else who booked the tour, too.

I hoped to capture an empty image of this majestic jungle bridge, but it wasn't possible without losing my tour crew. 

According to a crew member I overheard, roughly 5,000 other people were aboard the ship, so I understand why the cruise felt so crowded.

I think that if I were to book a less crowded cruise next time, I might enjoy it more.

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Why Royal Caribbean isn't going all in on massive cruise ships despite the wild success of its new Icon of the Seas

Royal Caribbean International has unveiled a swath of giant cruise ships over the past few years.

Its CEO said its new world's largest ship, the  Icon of the Seas,  is its "best-selling product" ever.

But the cruise line doesn't plan on going all in on megaships forever.

Earlier this year, guests at Royal Caribbean's Perfect Day at CocoCay private island were the first to revel at the historic sight of the world's largest cruise ships, Icon of the Seas and Wonder of the Seas, docked side-by-side.

The vessels towered over their communal dock like skyscrapers, casting a dark shadow over their relatively tiny shared pier.

Together, they can accommodate about 19,250 people.

At 1,196 feet long and weighing 248,663 gross tons, the Icon of the Seas is a sight to behold. When it launched in late January, the giant vessel upstaged its eight-foot shorter predecessor, the Wonder of the Seas , as the world's biggest.

At the time, it was no surprise: Every new Royal Caribbean ship seemed to dethrone another Royal Caribbean ship for this title.

But not for long.

The company's smaller ships, important for diverse trips, are aging.

The company is synonymous with its mega vessels. And they've been mega-hits: Michael Bayley, the president and CEO of Royal Caribbean International, has repeatedly called the Icon of the Seas the "best-selling product" in the company's history.

Royal Caribbean is set to launch four more megaships by 2028 — representing about a third of its total fleet. So far, most of the megaships' scheduled sailings are in the Caribbean.

The other 21 smaller vessels tend to have more specialized itineraries, Patrick Scholes, the managing director of lodging and leisure-equity research at Truist Securities, told Business Insider.

Given their trimmer sizes, these vessels can operate more sailings outside the Caribbean , which often reel in high fares and customer satisfaction for the company, Jay Schneider, the chief product-innovation officer at Royal Caribbean Group, told reporters in January. Think of the Mediterranean, Alaska, and South Pacific itineraries — the latter are especially important as the cruise line continues to ramp up business in Asia.

But these destination-flexible cruise liners are aging as Royal Caribbean continues to unveil their giant counterparts. The company launched its four oldest Vision-class ships, with a maximum 2,730-guest capacity, between 1996 and 1998.

They're tiny and old compared to the 2-month-old, 7,600-guest Icon of the Seas .

Looking ahead, Royal Caribbean plans to return to the basics: smaller cruise ships.

Despite the cruise line's success with mega-vessels, Schneider said Royal Caribbean is now considering a new class of ships that would start "smaller" — noting that he was "careful to say small, but less-than-large."

"The reality is, families want to go on vacations not just in the Western and Eastern Caribbean where a ship like Icon can get into," Schneider said. "They want to stay with our brand and journey to different destinations that require more versatility in ship size."

Desirable destinations such as French Polynesia and Venice, Italy, have limited visiting cruises , including size restrictions, to curb pollution and overcrowding. But, as Schneider said, small-vessel-enabled specialized itineraries are also important to travelers.

Giant mass-market floating resorts also often attract first-time cruisers, enamored by their family-friendly water parks and Broadway-style shows. But after a few good vacations at sea, these no-longer-new-to-cruising guests might start craving quieter ships or more bespoke itineraries.

"Alaska cruises tend not to be the first-time cruiser," Scholes told BI. "I don't really see Icon of the Seas doing a Norwegian Fjord or Alaska trip."

Plus, "there's probably only so much demand for these giant ships," Scholes said.

Royal Caribbean has already succeeded in the first part: bringing in a swath of new cruisers with its megaships. Now, it has to retain them.

Read the original article on Business Insider

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Home » Cruise » Icon of the Seas vs. Carnival Jubilee – Which One Is Right For Your Next Cruise?

Icon of the Seas vs. Carnival Jubilee – Which One Is Right For Your Next Cruise?

Find out which ship is right for your next family vacation as we compare the two newest mega ships, Icon of the Seas vs. Carnival Jubilee!

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The two newest mega-ships designed explicitly for families have just set sail. In December 2023, Carnival Cruise Line launched Carnival Jubilee . This Excel-Class ship features amenities, dining venues, and entertainment for cruisers of all ages. Not to be outdone, Royal Caribbean’s Icon of the Seas set sail in January 2024. The world’s largest cruise ship includes several amenities for travelers of all ages as well. Heidi and I recently cruised on both ships and have received many questions about how they compare. So, we put together this cruise ship showdown, Icon of the Seas vs. Carnival Jubilee.

For this cruise ship comparison, we sailed on Icon of the Seas and Carnival Jubilee within a few weeks of each other. On both cruises, we sailed a seven-night Caribbean itinerary, stayed in a similar category stateroom, and tested out all of the onboard features.

Further, each ship was sailing at a similar capacity of around 5600 passengers. So, we could see how the different public spaces functioned with roughly the same number of cruisers onboard.

We organized this showdown around categories that are important to families when comparing cruise ships and deciding on vacations. Of course, feel free to skip around to the different categories based on your family’s travel preferences.

EXCLUSIVE SAVINGS: Get The Lowest Fares on Your Next Cruise When You Book Today !

Icon of the Seas vs. Carnival Jubilee: Pool Deck

Winner – icon of the seas.

Icon of the Seas and Carnival Jubilee offer several pool areas to disperse crowds. Carnival Jubilee has 5 separate pools scattered throughout several decks. Icon of the Seas has 7 pools.  

Though, when it comes to theming and vibe, Icon of the Seas wins by miles . Each pool on Icon of the Seas offers a unique experience, with four of the main pools located on Decks 15-17.

The Cloud 17 pool is on Deck 17 and offers a more relaxed setting for all cruisers, with plenty of padded loungers and a small infinity pool. The Deck 16 Swim and Tonic is another popular spot, as it’s Royal Caribbean’s first swim-up bar at sea. On Deck 15, the record-breaking Royal Bay Pool is on the starboard side. Given its large footprint, two whirlpools, several in-pool chairs, and various other lounge options, this popular pool never felt overwhelmed by cruisers.  

There’s also the secluded Cove Pool on Deck 15 for those seeking some shade. Once again, this infinity pool is surrounded by numerous loungers. Finally, families with little kids can access the Surfside neighborhood’s Water’s Edge pool on Deck 7, along with a separate splash pad and even a water feature for babies adjacent to this pool.

Meanwhile, the main pool on Carnival Jubilee is the Beach Pool, located on Deck 16 midship. The aft Tides Pool is on the same deck, and the Patio Pool is aft on Deck 8. These pools were never overly crowded, and cruisers could usually find a lounge chair near the main pool, which offers three decks of lounge space. Yet, these pool spaces lacked the theming and unique flair of those on Icon of the Seas.

Both Icon of the Seas and Carnival Jubilee also have pool deck areas that are exclusive to suite guests. Further, guests staying in Havana staterooms can access a private sundeck with a pool and whirlpool.

Not to mention, both ships offer adults-only spaces as well, but we rate those down below.

Icon of the Seas vs. Carnival Jubilee: Casual Dining

Winner – carnival jubilee.

It is true that Royal Caribbean vastly improved its casual dining options on Icon of the Seas . However, the casual dining on Carnival’s new ship still reigns supreme.

Guy’s Burger Joint on Deck 17 still serves up one of the best burgers at sea. Shaq’s Big Chicken cooks up irresistible sandwiches, chicken tenders, and fries most of the day, which is another big hit. Street Eats offers food cart-style snacks during the day near the Beach Pool on the Lido deck, and custom burritos, tacos, and bowls at BlueIguana Cantina are available for breakfast and lunch.

Inside, Coastal Slice serves five freshly prepared personal pizzas and is open from 9 AM to 4 AM. Despite what Heidi says, this pizza is much better than Sorrento’s on Icon of the Seas.

Next to Coastal Slice is Beach Buns, which features an expanded selection of hot dogs and fresh sandwiches. This venue is open until 10 PM most nights. Then, there is Guy’s Pig and Anchor Smokehouse | Brewhouse, where cruisers can get some barbecue from a buffet on the waterfront during sea days or enjoy table service in the evenings with similar specialties at no additional cost.

Additionally, both cruise ships boast buffets, which we would say are comparable. On both ships, we never needed to eat in the buffet with so many other options, but Icon of the Seas’ buffet is larger than that on Jubilee.

Both ships offer coffee shops with enhanced breakfast, lunch, and dinner food selections. While Java Blue on Carnival Jubilee had more selections, we did prefer the food at Pearl Café on Icon of the Seas.

In comparison, Icon of the Seas has several staple venues that cruisers who sail with the brand will know. There is the Tex-Mex El Loco Fresh and the Park Café sandwich shop. This venue also offers a new tapas menu in the evening at no additional cost. New spots include quick-service burgers and fries at Surfside Bites and Basecamp with free options like pretzel bites and tater tots.

But for cruisers who want to spend most of the week in shorts and a T-shirt, Carnival Jubilee offers a greater variety of flavorful dining options day and night.

Icon of the Seas vs. Carnival Jubilee: Sports Deck

Both Icon of the Seas and Carnival Jubilee have a dedicated sports deck.

The Ultimate Playground on Carnival Jubilee includes a small waterpark, a mini golf course, a sports court, and a ropes course. These amenities are fun for all family members but don’t really live up to all the attractions in Icon of the Seas’ Thrill Island. 

The Thrill Island neighborhood on Icon of the Seas includes several attractions and amenities you will not find on any other cruise ship. The signature attraction is the Category 6 Waterpark. As the name implies, this attraction includes 6 waterslides.

Among the thrilling attractions are the first duo mat racing slides at sea, two family raft slides, and two body slides. There is the Pressure Drop, which is the first open freefall slide at sea. The 108-foot-long slide plummets cruisers down a near-vertical slide with a 66-degree incline. The other body slide is the Frightening Bolt. At 46 feet tall, it is the tallest drop slide at sea with gravity-swirling cruisers through a 360-degree loop.

Floating above Deck 16 on Icon of the Seas is a sports court. This full sports court is large enough to offer free-play activities, pickleball competitions, and other challenges. Additionally, Thrill Island is home to the Lost Dunes mini-golf course, which provides more challenges and intricate theming than the similar course on Carnival Jubilee.

Thrill Island is also home to a rock-climbing wall and Royal Caribbean’s signature surf simulator, the FlowRider. You won’t find either of these attractions on Carnival Jubilee’s sports deck.

However, the SkyCourse on Carnival Jubilee does offer a complimentary experience that is more thrilling and exciting than the upcharge Crown’s Edge found on Icon of the Seas. Still, when comparing all the included attractions, Icon of the Seas offers families more “wows” than Carnival Jubilee.

Icon of the Seas vs. Carnival Jubilee: Signature Attraction

Even though the Icon of the Seas sports deck was our overall winner that wasn’t the case for all the attractions.

On Icon of the Seas, guests can pay around $39 to $49 per person to experience the Crown’s Edge. This mini ropes course includes a short zip line that glides over the ship’s side. The 90-second experience is fun but does not match the innovative BOLT rollercoaster found on Carnival Jubilee.

The Bolt rollercoaster only costs $15 per person and lasts about 45 seconds. In our opinion, this all-electric thrill ride at sea is more exciting and a better value than Crown’s Edge.

Another reason we picked BOLT over the Crown’s Edge is because of the complimentary ropes course on Carnival Jubilee. The SkyCourse on this ship includes 20 stations that offer cruisers various challenges. Along with a zip line and a plank, there’s a new challenge that hangs cruisers off the ship’s side.

So, while BOLT is better than the Crown’s Edge, we would also rate the SkyCourse as more exhilarating than its competitor. So, it is a win-win for Carnival Jubilee in this category. 

Icon of the Seas vs. Carnival Jubilee: Entertainment

Heidi and I consider ourselves traditional cruisers, which means that our typical cruise night involves dinner and a show.

So, we checked out the signature entertainment across all of the venues in our cruise showdown of Icon of the Seas vs. Carnival Jubilee.

When it comes to signature entertainment, Icon of the Seas shines with several signature shows in multiple venues. While Carnival Jubilee has exclusive Playlist Productions in the Theater and Center Stage, comparing those entertainment offerings to the Icon of the Seas’ Broadway shows and exclusive productions in the AquaTheater and Absolute Zero is tough.

In the main theater, Icon of the Seas showcases the Broadway adaptation of The Wizard of Oz. The state-of-the-art theater brings all aspects of the original film to life, from a tornado whipping through the theater to flying monkeys and strolls down the yellow brick road. This is one of the best full-scale productions at sea.

On Deck 16 in the AquaTheater, guests are amazed by AquaAction. This intense diving and aqua show attempts to replicate an action movie utilizing state-of-the-art pools, lifts, and robots. With a fantastic soundtrack and thrilling choreography, it was one of the most exhilarating shows at sea.  

Additionally, Absolute Zero is now the largest ice rink at sea and features a new circular design with better sight lines. This venue is home to two signature shows. Starburst: Elemental Beauty brings the basic elements of the universe to life through an intricate mix of ice dancing, skating, and special effects. There is also the family-friendly Once Upon a Time: The King’s Royal Ball.

In contrast, Carnival Jubilee features the line’s exclusive Family Feud game show in the main theater, which is a hit. This show is fun for cruisers of all ages. There are also Playlist Productions, like Dear Future Husband, Soulbound, and Celestial Strings. Center Stage showcases the new Rio Celebration. This show has elaborate costumes and Latin hits to replicate the energy and festival feeling of Carnival in South America.

However, these productions are more simplistic than Royal Caribbean’s signature shows and more resemble what most people think of cruise ship entertainment.

Icon of the Seas vs. Carnival Jubilee: Daytime Activities

Both Icon of the Seas and Carnival Jubilee offer a variety of daily activities. During the day, both ships feature trivia, game shows, dance classes, cruiser competitions, and cruise director staff-led events.

However, when comparing the number of activities offered to the size of the ships, Carnival Jubilee offers more activities per cruiser than Icon of the Seas.  

During the day, Carnival Jubilee features several trivia sessions with themes like geography, sports, Harry Potter, and Friends. There are also several daytime games for those looking to compete for a prized plastic medallion.

In the theater, the What’s Age Got to Do With It was a fun spin on a couples match game. For music enthusiasts, there were several sessions of games like Name that Tune or the Lyrical Challenge and karaoke sessions. New to Carnival Jubilee is also the Lonestar Tailgate which is essentially just organized sessions of poolside games.

As a family-focused cruise line, many onboard activities are open to cruisers of all ages, like PG-rated comedy or even a magic show on busy sea days. There are also Dr. Seuss-themed events, including parades and story time hosted by the cruise director.

While Icon of the Seas offers similar daytime activities, Carnival Jubilee beats the competition regarding engaging and energetic daytime activities and events, and they were always well-attended too.

Icon of the Seas vs. Carnival Jubilee: Nightlife

Winner – tie between icon of the seas and carnival jubilee.

When it comes to nightlife, both ships offer a variety of nighttime activities outside of the signature entertainment. We made the rounds on each ship to check out all the nighttime activities, and each ship shines for different reasons. Hence, we give the ships a tie in this category.

Both ships feature acoustic guitarists. We preferred the Point and Feather pub guitarist Kevin Philip on Icon of the Seas over Owen Stephen who often played in Dr. Inks on Carnival Jubilee. But the drinks at Dr. Inks were far better than those at the Pub.

Piano Bar 88 on Carnival Jubilee was busy every night with Ben belting out popular tunes. Likewise, the Dueling Pianos bar, featuring Tim and Sarah, was equally busy on Icon of the Seas. In fact, this was the most happening nighttime spot on the ship. Yet again, we preferred the vibe of Dueling Pianos over Piano Bar 88.

However, Carnival Jubilee shines when it comes to comedy. Carnival Jubilee featured five different comedians throughout our cruise. Each comedian had several sets, including both adults-only comedy and PG-rated comedy.

While Icon of the Seas offers comedy shows in the Attic as well, the three comedians performed the same sets all week.

Additionally, both ships feature Latin music and dancing. Icon of the Seas has Boleros with a signature menu and two Latin acts. Carnival Jubilee’s Havana Bar offers a similar style of entertainment and signature cocktail menu.

At Royal Caribbean’s Music Hall, we rocked out to the tribute band Phoenix. Their sets featured classic rock songs from the ’60s, ’70s, and ’80s. On Carnival Jubilee, we sang along with the Backyard Band, which played rock, country, and even some pop songs.

Not to mention, both ships feature a variety of game shows and other nighttime events. Icon of the Seas’ signature Crazy Quest has adults searching for random items. While on Carnival Jubilee, there’s Deal or No Deal and other game shows in Center Stage. Both ships also offer classics like the Love and Marriage game show in the theater.

Both cruise ships also have parties. Royal Caribbean has its Midnight Balloon drop on the first night of the cruise. The Royal Promenade also comes alive for the One Hit Wonders party.

While similar, the deck parties on Carnival Jubilee were certainly more lively. The 80s Rock and Glow Party and the White Hot Night party were packed with cruisers dancing along with cruise director Kyndall out on the pool deck.

Overall, both ships offer diverse nighttime activities outside of the theater productions. Depending on your cruising style, there’s plenty to keep you occupied each night of your cruise on board either vessel.

Icon of the Seas vs. Carnival Jubilee: Main Dining Room

Winner – tie between carnival jubilee and icon of the seas .

On Icon of the Seas, we had My Time Dining. Pre-cruise, we booked several dining times around 6:30 PM. The three times we dined in the main dining room, we had the same waitstaff and sat in the same section.

Overall, the food quality met our expectations for a mega-ship main dining room. My NY strip was cooked medium rare and well-seasoned. It was one of the best steaks in any main dining room. Likewise, I enjoyed the braised lamb on the final night. Further, you can’t go wrong with lobster tails, and Heidi always enjoys the turkey dinner.

The food was always delivered well-plated and at the appropriate temperatures. The service was on point as well. We were in and out of dinner in about 75 minutes each evening.

Our server and assistant server were also friendly and talkative. In fact, Lyna remembered our drink preferences after one visit. She also made sure to time everything just right, so the pacing of our dinners was superb.

On Carnival Jubilee, we had that cruise line’s version of flexible dining, Your Time Dining. Unlike Royal Caribbean, we were not able to pre-make reservations. Instead, each night, we had to enter a virtual queue through the Carnival HUB app when we wanted to dine at a complimentary restaurant. Unfortunately, the estimated wait times in the app were not very accurate, and several times, we waited close to an hour before being called for our table.

On the flipside, while Royal Caribbean has made some cutbacks to its MDR menus, Carnival just rolled out new main dining room menus with some enhancements. These include new dishes and specialties from Chief Culinary Officer Emeril Lagasse.

During our three visits to the main dining room, some of the standout dishes were the Girod Street salad, spaghetti carbonara, jambalaya, prime rib, banana cream pie, and the melting chocolate cake.

The main dining food quality on Carnival Jubilee was on par with Icon of the Seas. However, the service in the Pacific Restaurant was not as attentive. There were often long delays between ordering and receiving our courses, and the waitstaff seemed overwhelmed.

Although, one benefit of Your Time Dining on Carnival Jubilee is access to additional sit-down restaurants for dinner at no additional charge. Along with the main dining room, Your Time Dining cruisers can dine at Chibang and Cucina del Capitano.

Chibang is a mix of Asian and Mexican cuisine. It features items like spring rolls and sweet and sour shrimp, as well as margaritas, tacos, and bowls. Cucina del Capitano serves up Italian-American cuisine. Can’t-miss dishes here include fried calamari, chicken parmesan, and tiramisu.

So, Royal Caribbean offered a more standard main dining room experience with excellent service during our cruise. While Carnival Cruise Line offered more options and flexibility.

Icon of the Seas vs. Carnival Jubilee: Specialty Dining

There are several similar specialty restaurants on these two mega-ships. While we did dine at different specialty restaurants on each ship, Icon of the Seas offers better variety and food quality in our opinion.

On each ship, we dined at the signature steakhouse. Chops Grill on Icon of the Seas was my favorite when compared to Fahrenheit 555. This signature steakhouse located in Central Park did not disappoint. My crab cake had a crispy crust with a moist stuffing filled with crab meat. For an entree, I opted for one of the new iconic cuts. The wagyu filet was tender and cooked to the ideal medium rare temperature.

Carnival Jubilee’s Fahrenheit 555 did sear up a flavorful Surf and Turf. But, the starters and side dishes did not match those found at the other steakhouse.

Both vessels offer sushi and teppanyaki at dedicated restaurants. Icon of the Seas has Izumi Sushi and Hibachi. We are fans of this Asian cuisine, and the mix of fried rice, dumplings, udon noodles, and spicy crispy tuna rolls were excellent.

Carnival Jubilee has Bonsai Sushi and Bonsai Teppanyaki, which are similar but has fewer hibachi tables.

When it comes to seafood, Carnival Jubilee boasts Rudi’s Seagrill. This seafood-centric venue delivers fresh options with Chef Rudi’s unique flair and plate presentations.

Starters like calamari and seafood bisque, along with entrees including surf and turf and the signature crab-stuffed lobster tail, will satisfy any palette. This restaurant is much better than Hooked Seafood on Icon of the Seas.

Another favorite of ours on Royal Caribbean ships is Giovanni’s Italian Kitchen. The pizza here is always a safe bet, with a thin handcrafted crust and just the right combination of toppings. The stromboli and the meatball were also favorites at our table.

For entrees, Heidi went with the chicken parmesan, and I did the osso buco, which were much better than similar options at Cucina del Capitano on Carnival Jubilee.

Icon of the Seas offers other upscale options, including the $200-a-person Empire Supper Club, which boasts an 8-course menu with cocktail pairings. While different, Carnival Jubilee also hosts a unique experience, Carnival Kitchen. The classes are led by a chef who provides step-by-step directions for guests to prepare the dishes at their own cooking stations. And then, you get to enjoy the finished product afterwards.

Icon of the Seas vs. Carnival Jubilee: Bars and Lounge

Royal Caribbean has elevated its beverage program with close to 20 bars on Icon of the Seas , 10 of which are brand new to the fleet. Still, Carnival Jubilee has nearly 15 bars and lounges on a ship that’s close to 30% smaller.

Overall though, in this showdown of Icon of the Seas vs. Carnival Jubilee, we give the best bars category to Icon of the Seas for elevated decor and quality of beverages.

The 1400 Lobby Bar is the new hip watering hole on the Royal Promenade. This trendy and modern space serves signature cocktails themed after the different Royal Caribbean ships, with the Fourteen Hundred in honor of the Icon Class.

Further, the new AquaDome neighborhood is home to a few bars, too. These include the Overlook Bar, which serves the signature Overlook Spritz. The new Rye and Bean coffee bar serves espresso-infused cocktails and other coffee drinks. The espresso martinis here are a must, especially as a pre-show drink.

Signature drinks were available at several other bars too, including new selections at the Schooner Bar and Boleros, along with musically-inspired cocktails, like the Purple Rain, in several of the music venues.

On both ships, there is a well-themed pool bar. These include several Lime and Coconut bars on Icon of the Seas and new favorites like the Lemon Post. Likewise, there is the RedFrog Tiki Bar near the Beach Pool, the Watering Hole Bar near the Patio Pool, and the Tides Bar near the Tides Pool on Carnival Jubilee.

Not to mention, the adults-only Hideaway Bar on Icon of the Seas shakes up new signature cocktails. We preferred this bar’s drink menu, trendy layout, and vibe more than the Serenity Bar on Carnival Jubilee.

On Carnival Jubilee, we did like the drinks at the new Dr. Inks in the Current Zones. This Disney-like bar includes some digital elements and signature cocktails like the Seahorse Glide and the Crimson Catch.

The Golden Mermaid was also another one of our favorites on Carnival Jubilee. Light piano music accompanies signature cocktails like the Radiant Rose and the Atlantis Potion. While not new, we did like the concoctions at the Alchemy Bar as well.

Icon of the Seas vs. Carnival Jubilee: Fun Factor

Carnival Cruise Line refers to its fleet as FUN Ships. Undoubtedly, the Fun Squad team and cruise director Kyndall on Carnival Jubilee are out to ensure everyone has the best vacation ever.

Kyndall is high-energy and can be found throughout the ship. She hosts many of the events and leans right into the role of cruise director. This Texas native is the ideal choice for a ship sailing from Galveston . She is personable, took time to talk to cruisers, and was always ready to take a selfie.

Unlike some cruiser directors who seemingly just go through the motions, Kyndall is always on. From the trivia hosts to the comedy hosts to the bingo hosts, this team is certainly more fun than their counterparts on Icon of the Seas.

This is not to say that the cruise director Mike and his staff on Icon of the Seas are bad, they just aren’t as high energy or as visible around the ship. Similarly, the Icon of the Seas’ parties were tame in comparison to those on Carnival Jubilee.

If you are looking for high energy and fun from morning till night, Carnival Jubilee delivers.

Icon of the Seas vs. Carnival Jubilee: Adults Only Areas

Winner – tie between icon of the seas and carnival jubilee.

Both mega-ships boast adult-only areas, and each space has unique attributes that won us over. So, we couldn’t pick one ship that was a clear winner for adult-only spaces.

Carnival Jubilee’s adults-only area is the larger of the two spaces. The Serenity Retreat forward on Deck 18 encompasses one-third of this outdoor deck.

The Serenity Retreat includes loungers, daybeds, and oversized sofas positioned in both the sun and shade. This area is also home to two whirlpools and a centralized pool, next to a sunken couch, daybeds, and additional tables and chairs in the shade.

On sea days, the Serenity Retreat showcases the Serenity Bar and Fresh Creations salad bar. Along with poolside classics, the bar menu features exclusive sangrias and wine-infused cocktails. Fresh Creations offers a self-service salad bar. Like many other venues on the ship though, there was often a line for this complimentary venue.

In contrast, the ideally located Hideway on Icon of the Seas is the perfect spot for an adults-only area on a mega-ship. Overlooking the wake, this venue features the first suspended infinity pool at sea.

The Hideaway also offers day beds and sun loungers on the terraced sundeck, overlooking the ship’s wake; though, the daybeds do come at a fee. The Hideaway Bar offers a signature cocktail menu that complements the beach club vibes of this aft pool deck. This lively, upbeat, adults-only area is far better than any solarium you might find on another Royal Caribbean cruise ship.

However, compared to Carnival Jubilee’s Serenity, the Hideaway on Icon of the Seas is too small and has no shaded areas. While we do prefer the location and trendy decor of the adults-only space on Icon of the Seas, Carnival Jubilee boasts a larger and more relaxed space with the Serenity Retreat.

Icon of the Seas vs. Carnival Jubilee: Staterooms

Winner – tie between carnival jubilee and icon of the seas.

For both cruises, we stayed in standard balcony staterooms.

On our Carnival Jubilee cruise, we stayed in cabin 12235, a balcony cabin located on the starboard side of the ship, forward of the forward bank of elevators.

This category 8D balcony cabin offered plenty of storage for our clothes and gear. Compared to similar mega-ships, this stateroom boasted the most closet space by far. It also had several power outlets, including 4 USB-A outlets near the desk. Cruisers could charge devices with a USB-A outlet on each side of the bed as well.

While the cabin was functional, we think the staterooms on Carnival cruise ships are rather plain. Still, it was a comfortable setup for our week-long Caribbean sailing.

We stayed in a traditional balcony cabin, cabin 14258, during our Icon of the Seas cruise. This midship stateroom was closer to the aft elevator bank on the ship’s portside. Given the enhancements and trendy design of the public venues, we were surprised that the Icon of the Seas cabins were rather basic as well.

For the most part, the cabin’s layout and function were identical to that of other vessels in the Royal Caribbean fleet .

Our stateroom on Icon of the Seas did include even more power outlets than our accommodations on Carnival Jubilee, along with both USB-A and USB-C outlets. The balcony on Icon of the Seas was slightly larger too, with chairs, a table, and small ottomans to help you relax while at sea.

The bathrooms in each stateroom were similar. They offered equally-sized shower stalls with glass doors utilizing a multifaceted hinge.

While each stateroom had its unique benefits, overall, there wasn’t much difference in features and comfort between the two cabins.

Icon of the Seas vs. Carnival Jubilee: Crowd Control

As we mentioned earlier, both ships had a similar capacity of around 5600 passengers. With both ships having the same number of cruisers, we can confidently say that Icon of the Seas handled the crowds much better than Carnival Jubilee.

Icon of the Seas better dispersed crowds and maintained a more efficient flow of passengers.

Perhaps what surprised us most about Carnival Jubilee was the sheer number of lines we encountered during the trip. Complimentary restaurants, entertainment venues, or other activities usually had lines irrespective of the time of day. This is in contrast to Royal Caribbean’s Icon of the Seas, where we rarely encountered lines.

We never waited for dinner, and we could find seats at all entertainment spaces with the exception of Dueling Pianos. It is true that Royal Caribbean’s Icon of the Seas requires reservations for many shows. It also offers cruisers the ability to reserve dining times in advance. So, part of the issue could be the difference in onboard systems.

Finding a lounger on the Icon of the Seas pool decks was never an issue. And the walkways were wide open allowing passengers to transit from one end of the ship to the other with ease. All the venues and public spaces felt more open on Icon of the Seas than Carnival Jubilee too.

Further, the elevators were another instance where Icon of the Seas far surpassed Carnival Jubilee. The intelligent elevators on this mega-ship were easy to use, and we had no issues getting a lift at any time of the day. This is compared with the small and often cramped elevators on Carnival Jubilee. Getting an elevator was often difficult, with Heidi and I often waiting for several different elevators to pass before we could hop on.

Final Verdict on Carnival Jubilee vs. Icon of the Seas

Carnival Jubilee is an excellent value for families looking for a relaxing, fun-filled, casual cruise. With multiple complimentary dining options, a jam-packed list of activities, and family-focused entertainment, kids of all ages will enjoy this fun ship. With a Dr. Seuss partnership, this cruise ship is an excellent option for those with younger kids too.

On the other hand, Icon of the Seas certainly has some of the biggest wows at sea. The Category 6 waterpark rivals those on land. The ship also has terrific entertainment, with multiple unique venues boasting innovative shows. Plus, it offers more upscale eateries than its competitor. However, this larger-than-life ship comes with a hefty price tag.

When comparing cruises six months out, we find that an Icon of the Seas cruise for a family of four has a fare of around $9,800. When planning a year out, in the summer of 2025, the same 7-night Western Caribbean itinerary was selling for about $1K less.

Comparing to Carnival Jubilee, an oceanview balcony cabin for a family of 4 on a similar itinerary in August 2024 is going for around $3,300. For a booking in August 2025, cruisers can lock in the same cabin type for a tad more, around $3,450.

While prices do fluctuate, it is safe to say that an oceanview balcony stateroom on Icon of the Seas would easily cost double that on Carnival Jubilee. So, it is really up to the discerning traveler to determine if the costs are worth it for a Western Caribbean cruise.  

No matter which ship you choose, you can certainly have a great vacation. Both offer plenty of family-focused fun.

Do you agree with our look at Icon of the Seas vs. Carnival Jubilee? Have you sailed on either ship? Drop us an anchor below with your latest cruise reviews.

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DB & The Princess

Welcome Aboard! We are Don and Heidi, the husband and wife travel team behind EatSleepCruise.com. We took our first cruise vacation together 13 years ago and have been hooked ever since. Follow along as we share our travel tips, cruise reviews, information on ports of call, and the latest cruise news to help you plan the ultimate cruise vacation. Are you ready to embark on your journey to “sea the world, one port at a time”?

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Royal Caribbean vs Carnival Cruise-Which Is Better?

R oyal Caribbean vs Carnival Cruise-which cruise line is better? Carnival Cruise Line and Royal Caribbean International are two of the most popular cruise lines in the world. They offer a wide range of amenities and activities for families to enjoy during their vacation. Deciding between the two can be challenging, but it ultimately depends on your preferences and budget. In this comparison, we will take an in-depth look at Royal Caribbean vs Carnival cruise lines and compare them based on various criteria.

Ship Size and Amenities

Royal Caribbean is known for having the largest and most modern ships in the industry. The Symphony of the Seas is the largest cruise ship in the world, with a capacity of over 6,800 passengers. It features an impressive water park, 20 restaurants, a zip line, and a full-sized basketball court, among other amenities. On the other hand, Carnival has smaller and more budget-friendly ships. Their newest ships, the Mardi Gras and the Celebration can accommodate up to 5,282 passengers and features a roller coaster , water park, and a variety of dining options. 

Cabin Choices

Both Royal Caribbean and Carnival offer an impressive range of cabins to choose from, catering to every budget and preference. Carnival’s standard cabins are cozy and comfortable, but the line is known for offering smaller balconies. Carnival also offers several different categories of cabins, including interior, ocean view, balcony, and suite cabins. The interior cabins are perfect for those looking for an affordable option while still enjoying the amenities offered on the ship. The ocean-view cabins offer a picturesque view of the ocean and are perfect for those who love to watch the waves. Balcony cabins are the most popular option and allow you to have your own private outdoor space to relax and enjoy the ocean breeze. Suite cabins provide an extra level of luxury and come with a range of exclusive amenities, such as concierge service, priority check-in, and access to private lounges and dining areas. 

On the other hand, Royal Caribbean offers an even wider range of cabin types, including interior, ocean view, balcony, suite, and even virtual balcony cabins. Their interior cabins are cozy and comfortable, with a range of amenities to make your stay as comfortable as possible. Ocean-view cabins offer a stunning view of the ocean, while balcony cabins provide a private outdoor space to relax and enjoy the views. Suite cabins are available in several different categories, including Junior Suite, Grand Suite, and Royal Suite. These offer more space, extra amenities, and exclusive access to areas like the Suite Lounge and Coastal Kitchen restaurant. The ultimate in luxury is the Royal Caribbean’s Star Class suite, which comes with its own private butler and access to the Royal Genie, who can make all your onboard wishes come true.

Royal Caribbean’s virtual balcony cabins are a unique feature that allows passengers in interior cabins to enjoy a real-time view of the ocean on an 80-inch high-definition screen that spans nearly floor-to-ceiling. This feature allows passengers to enjoy the view of the ocean without paying the premium for a balcony cabin. 

In addition to their standard cabins, Carnival offers several unique cabin categories that cater to specific types of travelers. For families looking for more space, Carnival offers Havana Family Cabins on select ships. These cabins feature a large balcony with a hammock and patio furniture, as well as access to a private Havana pool and lounge area.

For those looking for a more luxurious experience, Carnival offers Cloud 9 cabins. These cabins are located in a private spa area and include complimentary access to the ship’s thermal suite, which features heated loungers, steam rooms, and saunas. Cloud 9 cabins also include upgraded amenities such as spa bathrobes and priority spa reservations.

Royal Caribbean also offers a variety of unique cabin categories. For those seeking a more exclusive experience, Royal Caribbean offers Suite Class, which includes access to a private suite lounge, a dedicated suite concierge, and exclusive dining options.

For families or groups traveling together, Royal Caribbean offers connecting staterooms, which allow for more space and privacy while still being close to each other. They also offer virtual balconies in select interior cabins, which feature a large screen displaying live footage of the ocean outside.

Both cruise lines offer accessible cabins for passengers with disabilities or mobility issues, and both have a range of cabin categories to suit every budget and preference. Ultimately, the choice of cabin type will depend on the individual traveler’s needs and preferences.

Dining 

Onboard dining is an essential aspect of any cruise experience, and both Royal Caribbean and Carnival Cruise Line offer a range of dining options to cater to different tastes and preferences.

Carnival Cruise Line is known for its casual, laid-back dining atmosphere. The cruise line offers a range of dining venues, from buffet-style restaurants to specialty dining options, including steakhouses and seafood restaurants. One of Carnival’s unique dining options is the “Chef’s Table,” which is a multi-course dinner hosted by the ship’s executive chef. This dining experience includes a tour of the ship’s galley and a private cocktail reception with the chef.

Royal Caribbean, on the other hand, offers a more upscale dining experience. The cruise line offers a range of dining venues, including main dining rooms, buffet-style restaurants, and specialty dining options. One of the unique dining options on Royal Caribbean ships is the “Jamie’s Italian” restaurant, which was developed in partnership with celebrity chef Jamie Oliver. This restaurant offers a range of Italian-inspired dishes, including pasta, seafood, and pizza.

Royal Caribbean also offers a flexible dining option called “My Time Dining,” which allows passengers to dine at their own pace and choose their preferred dining time. This option is ideal for those who want more flexibility in their dining schedule and do not want to be tied to a fixed dining time.

Both Carnival and Royal Caribbean offer dining packages that can help passengers save money on specialty dining options. Carnival’s “Chef’s Table” and Royal Caribbean’s “Ultimate Dining Package” are examples of dining packages that provide passengers with access to specialty restaurants for a set price.

Overall, both Royal Caribbean and Carnival Cruise Line offer a range of dining options to cater to different tastes and budgets. Whether you prefer casual dining or upscale dining, there is something for everyone on these cruise lines.

Onboard Activities

Both Carnival and Royal Caribbean offer a wide variety of onboard entertainment and activities for passengers of all ages. Carnival is known for its high-energy and lively atmosphere, with a focus on fun and entertainment. On the other hand, Royal Caribbean offers a more upscale and sophisticated experience, with a range of activities and entertainment options to suit all tastes.

Carnival’s entertainment options include Broadway-style productions, comedy shows, magic shows, and live music performances. The cruise line is also known for its outdoor parties and deck events, such as pool parties and dance parties. In addition, Carnival offers a range of onboard activities such as water parks, mini golf, and sports facilities. There are also kids’ clubs and teen clubs available, providing a range of activities and games to keep younger passengers entertained.

Royal Caribbean offers a similarly impressive range of entertainment and activities. The cruise line is known for its West End-style productions, featuring world-class performers, singers, and dancers. Other entertainment options include ice skating shows, acrobatic performances, and live music performances. Royal Caribbean also offers a range of onboard activities such as rock climbing, zip-lining, and surfing simulators. Kids can enjoy the “Adventure Ocean” program, which offers a range of educational and interactive activities, as well as age-specific clubs and hangouts.

Both cruise lines also offer a range of parties and events onboard. Carnival is famous for its “Fun Ship” parties, which feature live music, dancing, and entertainment. There are also themed parties and events such as 80s and 90s parties, white parties, and Halloween parties. Royal Caribbean offers a range of parties and events as well, including themed parties, such as Caribbean-themed parties, and formal events such as Captain’s cocktail parties.

Both Carnival and Royal Caribbean offer a wide range of onboard entertainment and activities to suit all tastes and preferences. Whether you’re looking for high-energy parties and shows or more sophisticated and elegant entertainment, both cruise lines have something to offer.

Kid’s Clubs

One of the most important aspects for families when it comes to choosing a cruise line is the availability of activities for children. Both Carnival Cruise Line and Royal Caribbean Cruise Line offer a wide range of activities and clubs for kids of all ages, but they differ in their approach.

Carnival Cruise Line’s Camp Ocean is a program designed for kids aged 2-11, divided into three age groups: Penguins (ages 2-5), Stingrays (ages 6-8), and Sharks (ages 9-11). The program includes arts and crafts, games, and other fun activities, all under the supervision of experienced youth counselors. Older kids and teenagers can enjoy Circle “C” (ages 12-14) and Club O2 (ages 15-17), which offer age-appropriate activities like dance parties, video game tournaments, and sports competitions.

Royal Caribbean Cruise Line’s Adventure Ocean program offers a similar range of activities for kids, divided into Aquanauts (ages 3-5), Explorers (ages 6-8), Voyagers (ages 9-11), and Teens (ages 12-17). However, Royal Caribbean’s program includes more educational and interactive activities, such as science experiments, theater workshops, and even scavenger hunts. The cruise line also offers a Royal Babies & Tots program, which caters to children aged 6-36 months and includes interactive playgroups for parents and babies.

Both cruise lines offer babysitting services for an additional fee, so parents can enjoy some adult time during the cruise. Carnival’s Night Owls program offers babysitting services until 1 am, while Royal Caribbean’s Late Night Party Zone offers babysitting services until 2 am.

Overall, both Carnival Cruise Line and Royal Caribbean Cruise Line provide a great experience for families with children. The choice between the two will depend on the specific needs and preferences of each family, as well as the age range of their children.

Private Islands

Private islands are a highlight of any cruise vacation, and both Royal Caribbean and Carnival offer unique experiences on their respective islands.

Perfect Day at CocoCay, Royal Caribbean’s private island in the Bahamas, has been recently transformed into a massive water park that is a playground for both adults and children. This island boasts the tallest water slide in North America, Daredevil’s Peak, which stands at a staggering 135 feet tall, and the largest freshwater pool in the Caribbean. The water park is packed with exciting attractions like Splash Summit, a collection of four exhilarating slides, and the wave pool, which simulates the feeling of swimming in the ocean.

In addition to the water park, Perfect Day at CocoCay also offers a helium balloon ride that ascends 450 feet in the air, providing passengers with a breathtaking bird’s-eye view of the island. Other activities on the island include snorkeling, kayaking, and beach volleyball. For those who prefer a more laid-back experience, there are plenty of cabanas and hammocks scattered throughout the island where guests can relax in the shade and enjoy the beautiful scenery.

On the other hand, Half Moon Cay, Carnival’s private island in the Bahamas, is a serene and tranquil tropical paradise that is perfect for those who want to unwind and relax. The island has pristine white sandy beaches with crystal-clear waters that are perfect for swimming and snorkeling. Guests can also enjoy a variety of water sports such as parasailing, paddleboarding, and kayaking.

Half Moon Cay also offers a range of excursions, including horseback riding, nature walks, and stingray encounters. The island has several bars and restaurants where guests can enjoy a refreshing drink or a delicious meal. There are also plenty of beach chairs and hammocks throughout the island where guests can soak up the sun and enjoy the beautiful scenery.

While Perfect Day at CocoCay offers a thrilling and exciting experience for those who love water parks and adventure, Half Moon Cay offers a more laid-back and relaxing experience in a tranquil tropical setting. Both private islands offer unique experiences that cater to different preferences, and the choice between them ultimately depends on the individual’s taste and interests.

Affordability

Carnival tends to offer more budget-friendly cruise options, making it an excellent choice for families on a tight budget. Their cruises typically last for 3-7 nights and start at around $200 per person. Royal Caribbean, on the other hand, tends to offer longer cruises and more upscale experiences. Their cruises can last for up to 14 nights and start at around $400 per person.

Itineraries

 Both Royal Caribbean and Carnival offer a wide range of destinations to choose from, including the Caribbean, Alaska, Europe, and more. Carnival tends to focus more on shorter, more affordable cruises, while Royal Caribbean offers longer, more luxurious itineraries. Royal Caribbean also has its own private island destinations, like CocoCay in the Bahamas and Labadee in Haiti. These private islands offer exclusive experiences like zip-lining, snorkeling, and beachside cabanas.

In contrast, Carnival has partnerships with port destinations like Half Moon Cay in the Bahamas and Amber Cove in the Dominican Republic .

Solo Sailing Options

Solo travelers can enjoy cruising with both Royal Caribbean and Carnival. Royal Caribbean offers single-occupancy staterooms, which are designed In terms of dining options, both Royal Caribbean and Carnival offer a wide variety of restaurants and cafes to choose from. Carnival’s dining experience tends to be more casual and laid-back, while Royal Caribbean offers a more formal and upscale experience. Both cruise lines also offer dining packages and specialty restaurants that cater to different tastes and budgets. For example, Royal Caribbean’s main dining room offers a three-course menu with multiple options for appetizers, entrees, and desserts. Carnival offers similar dining options but also offers unique features like Guy’s Burger Joint, BlueIguana Cantina, and The Steakhouse. Both cruise lines offer a variety of dietary options like vegetarian, gluten-free, and Kosher.

When it comes to solo sailing, both Royal Caribbean and Carnival offer options for solo travelers, but Royal Caribbean has more options for solo travelers, including solo cabins on some of their ships. These cabins are smaller than traditional cabins, but they offer a more affordable option for solo travelers who want to avoid paying the single supplement fee. Carnival also offers solo traveler meetups and social activities.

Royal Caribbean vs Carnival-Which One Is The One For You?

Royal Caribbean vs Carnival -which is better? Both Royal Caribbean and Carnival are excellent choices for families looking for a fun and memorable vacation. Both cruise lines offer a wide range of amenities and activities but with different strengths and weaknesses. If you’re looking for a more luxurious and upscale experience with a wide range of onboard activities and dining options, Royal Caribbean might be the better choice. However, if you’re looking for a more laid-back and affordable cruise experience, Carnival might be the way to go. Ultimately, the best choice for your family will depend on your specific needs and preferences.

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