Royal Caribbean Ships by Size: Complete Ranking from Largest to Smallest

In this guide, we rank every Royal Caribbean ships by size, from largest to smallest by gross tonnage—a true measure of space and onboard potential—giving you a clear view of what awaits, whether you seek thrill, tranquility, or something perfectly in between.

Key Takeaways

• Royal Caribbean operates one of the most diverse fleets at sea, ranging from groundbreaking megaships to elegantly scaled vessels ideal for quieter escapes.
• Icon of the Seas currently holds the title of the largest cruise ship in the world, with over 248,000 gross tons and an array of record-setting amenities.
• Gross tonnage (GT) measures a ship’s internal volume, giving a more accurate sense of its scale and capacity than length alone.
• Oasis and Quantum Class ships dominate the upper ranks, offering expansive entertainment, dining, and recreation options across multiple themed “neighborhoods.”
• Smaller ships in the Vision and Radiance Classes offer a more intimate experience, with easier navigation, fewer crowds, and a closer connection to the sea.

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1. Icon of the Seas

Gross Tonnage: ~248,663 GT

Class: Icon Class

Year Launched: 2024

Topping the list of Royal Caribbean ships by size, Icon of the Seas is currently the largest cruise ship in the world. As the first in the new Icon Class, it accommodates over 7,600 guests at full capacity and introduces a layout organized into seven themed neighborhoods.

Features include a record-setting onboard waterpark, multiple pools with ocean views, expanded suite offerings, and new family-focused areas. The ship also incorporates updated sustainability features and design improvements aimed at enhancing space and flow across its 20 decks.

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2. Star of the Seas

Gross Tonnage: ~248,663 GT

Class: Icon Class

Entered Service: August 2025

Star of the Seas is the second ship in Royal Caribbean’s Icon Class and matches Icon of the Seas in gross tonnage, making both vessels the largest cruise ships in the fleet. It was delivered by the Meyer Turku shipyard in Finland and entered service in August 2025, sailing from Port Canaveral.

The ship features the same multi-neighborhood layout as its predecessor, with expansive deck areas, upgraded suite accommodations, and open-air spaces designed to enhance passenger flow. LNG-powered and built with efficiency in mind, Star of the Seas continues the line’s shift toward next-generation cruise experiences.

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3. Utopia of the Seas

Gross Tonnage: 236,473 GT

Class: Oasis Class

Entered Service: 2024

Utopia of the Seas is the sixth vessel in the Oasis Class and the first of its kind to be powered by liquefied natural gas (LNG). Although slightly smaller than the Icon Class ships, it remains one of the largest cruise ships in the world by gross tonnage.

Designed for short Caribbean getaways, the ship focuses on high-energy experiences with a redesigned pool deck, vibrant nightlife venues, and multiple water attractions, including the Ultimate Abyss slide. With a capacity of over 5,700 guests, it delivers the scale and variety the Oasis Class is known for, optimized for shorter, more action-packed itineraries.

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4. Wonder of the Seas

Gross Tonnage: 235,600 GT

Class: Oasis Class

Entered Service: 2022

Wonder of the Seas ranks among the largest Royal Caribbean ships by size, following only the Icon and Utopia Class vessels. As the fifth ship in the Oasis Class, it introduced several updates to the class design, including an exclusive suites-only neighborhood and expanded public areas.

With a capacity of over 5,700 guests, the ship offers a wide mix of amenities, from signature entertainment venues like the AquaTheater to open-air promenades and lush landscaped spaces. It reflects the continued evolution of large-scale ship design within the fleet.

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5. Symphony of the Seas

Gross Tonnage: 228,081 GT

Class: Oasis Class

Entered Service: 2018

Symphony of the Seas is the fourth ship in the Oasis Class and was the largest cruise ship in the world at the time of her launch in 2018. Designed for high-capacity Caribbean sailings, she accommodates over 5,500 passengers and features a broad range of attractions, dining options, and entertainment venues.

The ship includes multiple neighborhoods, such as the Boardwalk and Central Park, and offers activities like laser tag, an escape room, and a pair of FlowRider surf simulators. It remains one of the most feature-rich vessels in the fleet.

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6. Harmony of the Seas

Gross Tonnage: 226,963 GT

Class: Oasis Class

Entered Service: 2016

Harmony of the Seas is the third ship in the Oasis Class and was the first to introduce several new features to the class, including a redesigned pool deck, the Ultimate Abyss dry slide, and an enhanced water slide trio known as The Perfect Storm. Accommodating over 5,400 guests, the ship is structured around the Oasis Class's neighborhood concept, with spaces like the Boardwalk, Central Park, and Royal Promenade offering varied atmospheres.

Dining options range from casual venues to specialty restaurants, and entertainment includes ice skating, high-diving shows, and Broadway-style productions. The ship also features the Bionic Bar, where robotic bartenders serve cocktails, and a zip line that spans the Boardwalk nine decks below.

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7. Oasis of the Seas

Gross Tonnage: 226,838 GT

Class: Oasis Class

Entered Service: 2009

Oasis of the Seas was the first ship in the Oasis Class and marked a significant leap in cruise ship design with the introduction of open-air neighborhoods, split-deck architecture, and large-scale entertainment spaces. At launch, it was the largest cruise ship ever built, setting new standards in capacity and onboard variety.

Following a major amplification in 2019, the ship now includes updated dining venues, a revamped pool area, waterslides, and new attractions like the Ultimate Abyss and Splashaway Bay. Its layout continues to feature the signature Central Park and Boardwalk neighborhoods, along with a full-sized carousel, AquaTheater, and Rising Tide Bar.

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8. Allure of the Seas

Gross Tonnage: 225,282 GT

Class: Oasis Class

Entered Service: 2010

Allure of the Seas is the second ship in the Oasis Class and closely follows the layout and concept of Oasis of the Seas. It includes seven distinct neighborhoods, expansive open-air promenades, and entertainment venues such as the AquaTheater and Studio B ice rink.

The ship accommodates over 5,400 guests and offers a variety of dining experiences, from global buffets to fine dining at Giovanni’s Table. Although slightly smaller in gross tonnage than her sister ships, Allure delivers a nearly identical onboard experience, featuring amenities such as the zip line, FlowRider surf simulators, and a wide selection of bars, lounges, and family-friendly areas.

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9. Spectrum of the Seas

Gross Tonnage: 169,379 GT

Class: Quantum Ultra Class

Entered Service: 2019

Spectrum of the Seas is the lead ship of the Quantum Ultra Class and was built for sailings in the Asia-Pacific region. It includes exclusive spaces like the Suite Club, with private dining and lounges, and innovative attractions such as the North Star observation capsule, RipCord by iFLY skydiving simulator, and the Sky Pad bungee trampoline.

The ship carries over 4,200 guests and offers a tailored experience for regional preferences, with a mix of Eastern and Western dining options and multilingual service offerings. A combination of advanced technology and curated spaces makes Spectrum one of the most distinctive vessels in Royal Caribbean’s fleet.

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10. Ovation of the Seas

Gross Tonnage: 168,666 GT

Class: Quantum Class

Entered Service: 2016

Positioned among the mid-range Royal Caribbean ships by size, Ovation of the Seas is part of the Quantum Class and was designed with scenic cruising in mind. It has served regions including Alaska, Australia, and Asia, with features that highlight the views as much as the onboard experience.

The ship includes high-tech attractions like the North Star glass observation capsule, which rises above the top deck for panoramic sea views, and Two70, a multi-use lounge that transforms into a digital theater. With capacity for over 4,100 guests, Ovation balances entertainment, dining, and immersive design within a more compact layout compared to the fleet’s largest vessels.

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11. Anthem of the Seas

Gross Tonnage: 168,666 GT

Class: Quantum Class

Entered Service: 2015

Anthem of the Seas is the second ship in the Quantum Class and was built to offer a versatile cruising experience with an emphasis on innovation and technology. It features the North Star observation capsule, RipCord by iFLY skydiving simulator, and the SeaPlex indoor activity space with bumper cars, roller skating, and more.

The ship accommodates over 4,100 passengers and is known for its modern decor, digital check-in systems, and flexible dining options. Entertainment includes large-scale theatrical productions, live music venues, and interactive experiences that appeal to a wide range of travelers.

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12. Quantum of the Seas

Gross Tonnage: 168,666 GT

Class: Quantum Class

Entered Service: 2014As the namesake of the Quantum Class, Quantum of the Seas introduced several firsts to the Royal Caribbean fleet, including the North Star, Bionic Bar with robotic bartenders, and Two70—a venue combining panoramic views with high-tech performances.

Originally launched for the U.S. market and later repositioned to Asia, the ship blends innovation with global appeal. With a guest capacity of over 4,100, it offers a slightly more contained layout than the Oasis Class while still delivering a full range of entertainment, dining, and recreation options.

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13. Odyssey of the Seas

Gross Tonnage: 167,704 GT

Class: Quantum Ultra Class

Entered Service: 2021

Odyssey of the Seas is the second ship in the Quantum Ultra Class and features updated design elements and new attractions compared to earlier Quantum vessels. It includes the SeaPlex activity complex, North Star, FlowRider, and a redesigned pool deck with a resort-like atmosphere.

The ship carries around 4,200 guests and offers a mix of family-friendly spaces and adult-oriented venues. Dining options include signature favorites like Giovanni’s Italian Kitchen, Teppanyaki, and Playmakers Sports Bar. Odyssey primarily serves the Caribbean and Mediterranean markets.

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14. Freedom of the Seas

Gross Tonnage: 156,271 GT

Class: Freedom Class

Entered Service: 2006

Freedom of the Seas was the first in its class and held the title of the world’s largest cruise ship at the time of its launch. Now positioned among the mid-to-large Royal Caribbean ships by size, it has since been upgraded with many of the line’s newer features.

After a significant refurbishment, the ship now includes The Perfect Storm waterslides, an updated pool deck, new dining venues like El Loco Fresh and Playmakers Sports Bar, and enhanced technology across the ship. It accommodates nearly 4,000 guests and is designed for both short and week-long Caribbean itineraries.

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15. Independence of the Seas

Gross Tonnage: 154,407 GT

Class: Freedom Class

Entered Service: 2008

Part of the Freedom Class, Independence of the Seas ranks just below Freedom of the Seas on the list of Royal Caribbean ships by size. Following its 2018 modernization, the ship now features attractions such as the Sky Pad bungee trampoline, laser tag, and waterslides, along with refreshed public areas and cabins.

With space for over 3,600 passengers, it offers a well-rounded experience that includes family-friendly features, casual dining options, and lively nightlife. It has sailed a variety of routes over the years, including the Caribbean and Europe.

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16. Liberty of the Seas

Gross Tonnage: 154,407 GT

Class: Freedom Class

Entered Service: 2007

Liberty of the Seas is the second ship in the Freedom Class and offers many of the same features as her sister vessels, including FlowRider surf simulators, an ice skating rink, and a wide variety of dining venues. The ship accommodates nearly 3,800 passengers and provides a balance of active amenities and relaxing spaces.

Over the years, Liberty has received several updates to keep pace with newer ships, including the addition of waterslides, expanded dining options, and refreshed public areas. It remains a reliable choice for Caribbean and short-haul itineraries.

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17. Mariner of the Seas

Gross Tonnage: 139,863 GT

Class: Voyager Class

Entered Service: 2003

Mariner of the Seas is part of the Voyager Class and underwent a significant refurbishment in 2018 as part of Royal Caribbean’s “Amplified” program. The ship features attractions like Sky Pad, The Perfect Storm waterslides, and a vibrant sports deck, offering plenty of activity for short getaways.

With a guest capacity of around 4,000, the ship also includes dining staples such as Izumi, Jamie’s Italian, and Chops Grille. Mariner typically sails 3- to 5-night Caribbean itineraries, making it a popular choice for quick vacations with big-ship features.

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18. Navigator of the Seas

Gross Tonnage: 139,000 GT

Class: Voyager Class

Entered Service: 2002

Navigator of the Seas was among the first Royal Caribbean ships to undergo the line’s modernization initiative, bringing a suite of new attractions to this Voyager Class vessel. These include The Blaster, the longest aqua coaster at sea, and Riptide, a headfirst mat racer waterslide.

The ship also features enhanced dining venues, such as Hooked Seafood and Playmakers Sports Bar, and refreshed cabins throughout. With space for over 3,300 passengers, Navigator is well suited for short, activity-packed cruises from Southern California.

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19. Explorer of the Seas

Gross Tonnage: 137,308 GT

Class: Voyager Class

Entered Service: 2000

Explorer of the Seas offers a classic Voyager Class layout with updated features that cater to families and active travelers. It includes amenities like an ice skating rink, rock-climbing wall, FlowRider surf simulator, and mini-golf course. The ship carries over 3,200 passengers and balances traditional design with modern touches.

Dining and entertainment options have been refreshed over the years, and while it lacks some of the latest features found on newer ships, Explorer continues to deliver a full cruise experience on Caribbean and seasonal itineraries.

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20. Voyager of the Seas

Gross Tonnage: 137,276 GT

Class: Voyager Class

Entered Service: 1999

Voyager of the Seas launched a new era in cruise ship design as the first vessel in the Voyager Class. Now among the mid-sized Royal Caribbean ships by size, it introduced key features such as the Royal Promenade, an indoor boulevard lined with shops and dining venues, which remains a staple of many larger ships today.

The ship carries just over 3,600 guests and includes a rock-climbing wall, ice skating rink, and FlowRider surf simulator. Refurbishments have added updated dining options and enhanced public areas, maintaining its appeal for family-friendly cruises and shorter regional itineraries.

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21. Adventure of the Seas

Gross Tonnage: 137,276 GT

Class: Voyager Class

Entered Service: 2001

Sharing the same dimensions as its sister ship Voyager of the Seas, Adventure of the Seas also ranks in the mid-tier of Royal Caribbean ships by size. It features a classic Voyager Class layout, including the Royal Promenade and a range of recreational offerings such as mini-golf, sports courts, and water slides.

The ship carries around 3,100 passengers and includes both casual and specialty dining options, like Chops Grille and Johnny Rockets. Regular upgrades have kept the ship current, making it a reliable option for Caribbean sailings and other warm-weather routes.

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22. Jewel of the Seas

Gross Tonnage: 90,090 GT

Class: Radiance Class

Entered Service: 2004

Jewel of the Seas is part of the Radiance Class, a series of ships designed with an emphasis on outward-facing spaces and natural light. With large glass expanses throughout, the ship offers excellent views and a more intimate atmosphere than larger vessels in the fleet.

Carrying just over 2,100 guests, it includes a range of dining options, a rock-climbing wall, mini-golf, and a Solarium for adults. The ship often sails scenic routes, including the Mediterranean and Northern Europe, making use of its smaller size to access ports that larger ships cannot reach.

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23. Serenade of the Seas

Gross Tonnage: 90,090 GT

Class: Radiance Class

Entered Service: 2003

Serenade of the Seas features the same layout and tonnage as Jewel of the Seas, offering a similar mid-size cruise experience. It is well-suited to itineraries focused on scenery, such as Alaska and Canada/New England, with floor-to-ceiling windows and plenty of open deck space.

The ship includes specialty restaurants like Chops Grille and Giovanni’s Table, a rock-climbing wall, and a theater hosting live performances. It accommodates just over 2,100 guests and delivers a more relaxed onboard environment compared to larger ships in the fleet.

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24. Brilliance of the Seas

Gross Tonnage: 90,090 GT

Class: Radiance Class

Entered Service: 2002

Brilliance of the Seas offers the same core design as its Radiance Class sisters, prioritizing ocean views and open-air spaces. It carries approximately 2,100 passengers and includes a variety of dining venues, a Vitality Spa, and active amenities such as a climbing wall and sports court.

The ship is a popular choice for cruisers seeking quieter voyages with access to ports in the Mediterranean, Caribbean, and Panama Canal. Frequent refurbishments have helped maintain a fresh onboard atmosphere while retaining the class’s signature style.

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25. Radiance of the Seas

Gross Tonnage: 90,090 GT

Class: Radiance Class

Entered Service: 2001

Radiance of the Seas is the lead ship in its class and set the tone for a fleet of mid-sized vessels focused on ocean-facing design. Known for its glass elevators with sea views and broad deck space, the ship carries just over 2,100 guests and includes a Solarium, a rock-climbing wall, and a range of dining and entertainment options.

Its size makes it suitable for more scenic or specialty itineraries, and the onboard layout supports a relaxed, more personal cruise experience.

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26. Enchantment of the Seas

Gross Tonnage: 82,910 GT

Class: Vision Class

Entered Service: 1997

Enchantment of the Seas ranks among the smaller Royal Caribbean ships by size, offering a more intimate cruising experience compared to the line’s newer mega-ships. Despite its compact footprint, the ship includes a surprising variety of amenities, including a rock-climbing wall, splash deck, and several pools and whirlpools.

The ship carries just over 2,200 passengers and serves shorter itineraries to destinations like the Bahamas and the Caribbean. Refurbishments over the years have extended its length and improved public areas, while still preserving a laid-back onboard atmosphere.

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27. Rhapsody of the Seas

Gross Tonnage: 78,419 GT

Class: Vision Class

Entered Service: 1997

Rhapsody of the Seas is one of the smallest Royal Caribbean ships by size, but it remains a favorite for cruisers looking for quieter sailings and a more classic ship layout. It carries just under 2,000 passengers and includes traditional cruise features such as the Schooner Bar, an open atrium, and a Solarium with a retractable glass roof.

While it doesn’t offer as many high-adrenaline attractions as the larger ships, Rhapsody focuses on relaxation, personalized service, and scenic itineraries—especially in the Caribbean and Mediterranean.

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28. Vision of the Seas

Gross Tonnage: 78,340 GT

Class: Vision Class

Entered Service: 1998Vision of the Seas offers a traditional cruise experience aboard one of the smaller ships in the Royal Caribbean fleet. With capacity for just over 2,000 guests, the ship emphasizes easy navigation, open views, and a more relaxed onboard pace.

Amenities include classic venues like the Viking Crown Lounge, a rock-climbing wall, pools, and a Solarium. While not as feature-rich as newer vessels, Vision of the Seas remains a popular option for guests seeking shorter itineraries, straightforward comfort, and more personalized service.

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29. Grandeur of the Seas

Gross Tonnage: 73,817 GT

Class: Vision Class

Entered Service: 1996

Grandeur of the Seas is the smallest ship currently sailing in the Royal Caribbean fleet. Its modest size allows it to access smaller ports and offer a more intimate cruise experience, with just under 2,000 passengers onboard.

Though it lacks the large-scale attractions of newer ships, Grandeur provides essential amenities such as multiple dining venues, live entertainment, and a classic cruise atmosphere. It is especially well-suited to guests who prefer a quieter, slower-paced voyage without the crowds of the larger vessels.

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Final Thoughts

Exploring Royal Caribbean ships by size offers more than a breakdown of dimensions—it provides a clearer picture of the diverse experiences available across the fleet. From the groundbreaking scale of the Icon Class to the familiar comfort of the Vision Class, each ship reflects a different approach to life at sea.

Larger vessels bring expansive amenities, entertainment, and multi-neighborhood layouts that cater to families and thrill-seekers alike. Smaller ships prioritize ease of navigation, quieter spaces, and access to unique ports—ideal for travelers seeking a more traditional cruise atmosphere.

This ranking of Royal Caribbean ships by size serves as a guide to help you choose the right fit for your travel style, whether you're looking for cutting-edge experiences or a more relaxed pace on the water.

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Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is the largest Royal Caribbean ship right now?

As of 2025, Icon of the Seas holds the title of the largest Royal Caribbean ship by size, with a gross tonnage of approximately 248,663 GT. It shares this distinction with Star of the Seas, which entered service in August 2025 with the same tonnage.

2. What does gross tonnage mean in cruise ships?

Gross tonnage (GT) is a measure of a ship’s internal volume, not its weight. It reflects the total enclosed space on board and is the standard metric used to compare Royal Caribbean ships by size. A higher gross tonnage generally indicates more room for cabins, amenities, and public spaces.

3. Are larger Royal Caribbean ships better for families?

Yes, larger ships like those in the Icon and Oasis Classes are often designed with families in mind. They offer more dining options, entertainment venues, water attractions, and family-focused staterooms. These ships also tend to sail shorter, high-energy itineraries perfect for group travel.

4. Which Royal Caribbean ships are better for a quieter experience?

Smaller ships such as Grandeur of the Seas or Serenade of the Seas offer a more relaxed and intimate cruise. With fewer passengers and a simpler layout, they’re ideal for travelers seeking a quieter onboard atmosphere and less crowded public areas.

5. Do smaller ships have fewer amenities?

While smaller ships typically offer fewer large-scale attractions, they still include essential amenities like pools, specialty restaurants, lounges, and entertainment. The experience is more low-key but still includes the core elements of a Royal Caribbean cruise.