Royal Caribbean International, a pioneering force in the cruise industry, has long stood as an emblem of innovation and excellence on the high seas. Since its inception in 1968, the company has grown exponentially, evolving from a modest cruise line with a single ship to a global brand boasting the largest cruise ships in the world. This fleet report presents an extensive overview of the Royal Caribbean fleet as of January 2024, detailing the most current and comprehensive information on the ships that continue to sail under its banner, as well as those that have been retired from service.
The Royal Caribbean fleet is renowned for pushing the boundaries of architectural design and onboard experiences. The company made waves in 1988 with the introduction of the Sovereign-class, which included the Sovereign of the Seas, the largest cruise ship in the world at the time of her debut and the very first cruise ship I ever sailed on. Each subsequent class of ships has not only increased in size but has also introduced groundbreaking amenities and entertainment options that have revolutionized the cruising experience.
The fleet’s remarkable range of onboard activities includes rock climbing walls, ice-skating rinks, and the FlowRider surf simulators, which made their debut on the Freedom-class ships. Royal Caribbean’s commitment to innovation was further demonstrated with the introduction of the Oasis-class ships, which featured seven distinct “neighborhoods,” including an open-air Central Park and a Boardwalk, complete with a carousel and aqua theater. Each ship class is thoughtfully designed to enhance the guest experience, from the intimate and panoramic Radiance class to the technologically advanced Quantum class, which introduced features like the North Star observation pod and robotic bartenders.
Here is the current Royal Caribbean Fleet as of January 2024:
ICON CLASS
The newest class promising innovative attractions like the Absolute Zero Ice Arena, Aquadome, Category 6 Waterpark, and the Crown’s Edge obstacle course. Enjoy the Dueling SplashDuck or relax at the Empire Runners Bar. Leisurely options include Lemon In The Park and seven swimming pools, alongside the Spudfish Kanookie Store and the Splish-Splash Seabreak, ending the day at the Swim & Tonic Swim-Up Bar.
- Icon of the Seas
- Guest Capacity: 5,614
- Maiden Voyage: January 2024
QUANTUM ULTRA CLASS
This subclass brings enhanced Quantum-class experiences with Broadway-style shows, a vibrant Casino Royale, and the action-packed SeaPlex®. Guests can ride the waves on the FlowRider® Surf Simulator, soar in the iFly® skydiving simulator, or scale new heights on the Rock Climbing Wall. Additional features include the North Star® observation capsule, Playmakers℠ Sports Bar & Arcade, the engaging Two70° entertainment venue, and Virtual Adventure Zone.
- Spectrum of the Seas
- Guest Capacity: 5,622
- Maiden Voyage: April 2019
- Odyssey of the Seas
- Guest Capacity: 5,498
- Maiden Voyage: July 2021
QUANTUM CLASS
Offers a blend of technology and entertainment with features like the Bionic Bar, where robots mix cocktails, and the North Star®, an observation capsule offering 360° views. Entertainment options include Broadway Musicals, the Music Hall, and SeaPlex®. Guests can also enjoy the outdoor movie screen, the RipCord® by iFly skydiving simulator, and the Two70° lounge with its transformative multimedia presentations.
- Quantum of the Seas
- Guest Capacity: 4,905
- Maiden Voyage: November 2014
- Revitalized: 2021
- Anthem of the Seas
- Guest Capacity: 4,905
- Maiden Voyage: April 2015
- Revitalized: 2020
- Ovation of the Seas
- Guest Capacity: 4,905
- Maiden Voyage: April 2016
- Revitalized: 2021
OASIS CLASS
Known for its seven distinct neighborhoods like Central Park® and the Boardwalk®, the Oasis class is a marvel of maritime engineering. Attractions include the AquaTheater, the Perfect Storm trio of waterslides, the Ultimate Abyss, the tallest slide at sea, and the FlowRider® surf simulators. The ships also offer a zip line, ice-skating rink, and carousel, promising something for everyone.
- Oasis of the Seas
- Guest Capacity: 6,780
- Maiden Voyage: December 2009
- Allure of the Seas
- Guest Capacity: 6,780
- Maiden Voyage: December 2010
- Harmony of the Seas
- Guest Capacity: 6,687
- Maiden Voyage: May 2016
- Symphony of the Seas
- Guest Capacity: 6,680
- Maiden Voyage: April 2018
- Wonder of the Seas
- Guest Capacity: 6,988
- Maiden Voyage: March 2022
- Utopia of the Seas
- Guest Capacity: 5,668
- Maiden Voyage: July 2024 (Coming Soon)
FREEDOM CLASS
The Freedom class offers an impressive combination of dining, entertainment, and activity options. Highlights include the FlowRider® surf simulators, the Royal Promenade for shopping and parades, the H2O Zone water park, a boxing ring, and Studio B’s ice-skating rink. After the revitalization, they boast modernized features like the Perfect Storm waterslides, and updated staterooms with fresh decor and technology.
- Freedom of the Seas
- Guest Capacity: 4,515
- Maiden Voyage: May 2006
- Revitalized: 2020
- Liberty of the Seas
- Guest Capacity: 4,960
- Maiden Voyage: May 2007
- Revitalized: 2023
- Independence of the Seas
- Guest Capacity: 4,560
- Maiden Voyage: April 2008
- Revitalized: 2023
VOYAGER CLASS
Voyager class ships are renowned for their signature Royal Promenade, a bustling main street with pubs and shops, along with a variety of dining and entertainment options. They feature ice-skating rinks, rock-climbing walls, and mini-golf courses. These ships also have been enhanced with new attractions like the Perfect Storm waterslides, laser tag, and the Sky Pad®, a virtual reality bungee trampoline experience.
- Voyager of the Seas
- Guest Capacity: 4,269
- Maiden Voyage: November 1999
- Revitalized: 2022
- Explorer of the Seas
- Guest Capacity: 4,290
- Maiden Voyage: October 2000
- Revitalized: 2022
- Adventure of the Seas
- Guest Capacity: 3,807
- Maiden Voyage: November 2001
- Revitalized: 2021
- Navigator of the Seas
- Guest Capacity: 4,000
- Maiden Voyage: December 2002
- Revitalized: 2021
- Mariner of the Seas
- Guest Capacity: 4,000
- Maiden Voyage: November 2003
- Revitalized: 2021
RADIANCE CLASS
Radiance class ships are celebrated for their vast expanses of glass, providing panoramic views of the ocean and destinations. They feature a nine-story central atrium, glass elevators facing the sea, and the highest percentage of balcony staterooms. Unique amenities include the self-leveling pool tables, the African-themed Solarium, and the outdoor movie screen. Guests can enjoy specialty dining options, a rock-climbing wall, and the Colony Club, a British colonial-style lounge.
- Radiance of the Seas
- Guest Capacity: 2,466
- Maiden Voyage: April 2001
- Revitalized: 2021
- Brilliance of the Seas
- Guest Capacity: 2,543
- Maiden Voyage: July 2002
- Revitalized: 2021
- Serenade of the Seas
- Guest Capacity: 2,476
- Maiden Voyage: August 2003
- Jewel of the Seas
- Guest Capacity: 2,702
- Maiden Voyage: May 2004
- Revitalized: 2021
VISION CLASS
Vision class ships offer an intimate cruising experience with a focus on panoramic views and an elegant atmosphere. They feature a Solarium with a retractable roof, allowing for swimming in any weather, and a variety of dining experiences from casual to fine dining. The ships also offer Broadway-style shows, a rock-climbing wall, and a variety of bars and lounges to suit any mood.
- Grandeur of the Seas
- Guest Capacity: 2,440
- Maiden Voyage: December 1996
- Revitalized: 2021
- Rhapsody of the Seas
- Guest Capacity: 2,416
- Maiden Voyage: May 1997
- Revitalized: 2021
- Enchantment of the Seas
- Guest Capacity: 2,730
- Maiden Voyage: July 1997
- Revitalized: 2021
- Vision of the Seas
- Guest Capacity: 2,514
- Maiden Voyage: May 1998
- Revitalized: 2021
Former Royal Caribbean Cruise Ships
As we navigate through the current fleet in this report, we pay homage to the legendary vessels that paved the way for today’s giants. These retired ships, some sold to other cruise lines and others meeting their final fate at the shipbreakers, have left indelible marks in the company’s storied history. They served as the stepping stones for the fleet’s evolution, from the Song of Norway, the line’s first ship, to the Empress of the Seas, which offered the first cruises to Cuba after a decades-long hiatus.
Song of Norway
- Sold in 1997
- Scrapped in 2013
Nordic Prince
- Sold in 1995
- Scrapped in 2015
Sun Viking
- Sold in 1998
- Last known as “Oriental Dragon” as of 2023
Song of America
- Sold in 1999
- Operating as “Celestyal Olympia” for Celestyal Cruises as of 2023
Viking Serenade
- Sold in 2002
- Scrapped in 2018
Sovereign of the Seas
- Transferred in 2008
- Scrapped in 2020
Monarch of the Seas
- Transferred in 2013
- Scrapped in 2020
Majesty of the Seas
- Sold in 2021
- Operating for an undisclosed buyer as of 2023
Legend of the Seas
- Sold in 2017
- Operating as “Marella Discovery 2” for Marella Cruises as of 2023
Splendour of the Seas
- Sold in 2016
- Operating as “Marella Discovery” for Marella Cruises as of 2023
Grandeur of the Seas
- Sold in 2021
- Operating for Cordelia Cruises as of 2023
Empress of the Seas
- Sold in 2020
- Operating for Cordelia Cruises as of 2023
In crafting this 2024 fleet report, effort has been made to provide accurate and detailed information, capturing the essence of each class and the individuality of each vessel. From the thrill of adventure on the high seas to the solace of serene ocean views, the Royal Caribbean fleet offers a diverse array of voyages tailored to the desires of every traveler. Whether you’re seeking an adrenaline rush or a peaceful retreat, an exploration of ancient cultures or an adventure in uncharted territories, Royal Caribbean’s fleet is equipped to deliver experiences that transcend the conventional boundaries of travel.