As a cruise enthusiast, I have always been fascinated by the different cruise ships and the experiences they offer. One of the most popular cruise lines is Royal Caribbean, which has a fleet of over 20 ships. With so many options to choose from, it can be challenging to decide which ship to book for your next vacation.
That’s why I decided to research and rank the Royal Caribbean ships from best to worst based on customer reviews. According to my findings, the top 5 Royal Caribbean ships are Wonder of the Seas, Odyssey of the Seas, Symphony of the Seas, Allure of the Seas, and Oasis of the Seas. These ships offer a wide range of amenities, entertainment options, and dining experiences that cater to different interests and preferences.
Whether you’re a first-time cruiser or a seasoned traveler, choosing the right ship can make or break your vacation. In this article, I will provide an overview of the top 5 Royal Caribbean ships and what makes them stand out. I will also highlight some of the worst-rated ships and what customers had to say about their experiences. So, if you’re planning a Royal Caribbean cruise, read on to find out which ship is the best fit for you.
Top 3 Best Royal Caribbean Ships
1. Symphony of the Seas
As I researched the best Royal Caribbean ships, Symphony of the Seas consistently topped the charts. This ship is the largest in the fleet and has something for everyone. From the Ultimate Abyss, a 10-story slide, to the Central Park neighborhood with over 20,000 plants, this ship is sure to impress.
The dining options on Symphony of the Seas are also top-notch. With 20 different dining venues, including Jamie’s Italian by Jamie Oliver and Wonderland, a whimsical dining experience, there is something for every palate. And for those looking for some entertainment, the ship features Broadway-style shows, ice-skating shows, and a casino.
2. Harmony of the Seas
Harmony of the Seas is another top-rated ship in the Royal Caribbean fleet. This ship is also one of the largest in the world and offers plenty of activities for all ages. The ship features a 10-story slide, a zip line, and a surf simulator, just to name a few.
The dining options on Harmony of the Seas are also impressive. From sushi at Izumi to the classic steakhouse experience at Chops Grille, there is something for everyone. And for those looking for some relaxation, the ship features a full-service spa and a solarium for adults only.
3. Allure of the Seas
Allure of the Seas is another fan-favorite Royal Caribbean ship. This ship is known for its seven distinct neighborhoods, each with its own unique vibe. From the Boardwalk with its carousel and hot dog stand to the Royal Promenade with its shops and cafes, there is always something to explore.
For dining, Allure of the Seas offers a wide range of options, including the popular Giovanni’s Table and the upscale 150 Central Park. And for entertainment, the ship features Broadway-style shows, a comedy club, and a casino.
Mid-Range Royal Caribbean Ships
4. Oasis of the Seas
Oasis of the Seas is one of the largest ships in the Royal Caribbean fleet. It has a capacity of 6,780 passengers and features seven distinct neighborhoods. The ship has a variety of dining options, including a steakhouse and a sushi restaurant. There are also several bars and lounges, as well as a casino and a theater. The ship has a number of activities for families, including a zip line, rock climbing wall, and mini-golf course.
5. Freedom of the Seas
Freedom of the Seas is a mid-sized ship that can accommodate up to 4,515 passengers. The ship has a variety of dining options, including a steakhouse and a Johnny Rockets restaurant. There are also several bars and lounges, as well as a casino and a theater. The ship has a number of activities for families, including a water park, a mini-golf course, and an ice skating rink.
6. Liberty of the Seas
Liberty of the Seas is another mid-sized ship that can accommodate up to 4,960 passengers. The ship has a variety of dining options, including a steakhouse and a Mexican restaurant. There are also several bars and lounges, as well as a casino and a theater. The ship has a number of activities for families, including a water park, a mini-golf course, and an ice skating rink.
Overall, these mid-range Royal Caribbean ships offer a good balance of amenities and affordability. They are ideal for families and couples who want to enjoy a fun and relaxing vacation without breaking the bank.
The Bottom 3 Royal Caribbean Ships
7. Majesty of the Seas
I have to say that Majesty of the Seas is not my favorite ship by any means. It’s an older ship, and it definitely shows its age. The cabins are small and cramped, and the decor is outdated. The ship also lacks some of the amenities that you’ll find on newer Royal Caribbean ships, like a water park and a FlowRider.
That being said, if you’re looking for a budget-friendly option for a short cruise, Majesty of the Seas might be worth considering. It offers some great itineraries, and the prices are usually quite reasonable.
8. Empress of the Seas
Empress of the Seas is another older ship that has been refurbished, but it’s still not my top choice. The ship is small, and it can feel crowded, especially on days at sea. The cabins are also quite small, and the decor is a bit outdated.
One thing that Empress of the Seas has going for it is its itineraries. It offers some unique options, like cruises to Cuba, which can be hard to find on other cruise lines. However, if you’re looking for a more modern ship with more amenities, you might want to look elsewhere.
9. Grandeur of the Seas
Grandeur of the Seas is another older ship that has been refurbished, but it still falls short compared to some of the newer Royal Caribbean ships. The cabins are small and outdated, and the ship lacks some of the newer amenities, like a water park and a FlowRider.
That being said, Grandeur of the Seas does offer some great itineraries, especially if you’re looking for a cruise to the Caribbean. And if you’re looking for a more budget-friendly option, the prices on Grandeur of the Seas are usually quite reasonable.
Conclusion
After researching and analyzing customer reviews, it’s clear that Royal Caribbean has a fleet of impressive ships that offer a variety of amenities and activities for all types of travelers. Whether you’re looking for a budget-friendly option or a luxurious experience, there’s a ship for you.
While some ships may have lower average scores, it’s important to note that even the “worst” ship still received a rating of 3.3 out of 5, which is still a decent score. It’s also important to keep in mind that everyone’s preferences and expectations are different, so what one person may consider the best ship may not be the same for someone else.
Based on the research, it’s clear that the top-rated ships are the Odyssey of the Seas, Symphony of the Seas, Allure of the Seas, Harmony of the Seas, and Oasis of the Seas. These ships offer a wide range of activities, dining options, and entertainment, making them a great choice for families, couples, and solo travelers alike.
Overall, Royal Caribbean offers a fantastic cruising experience with their innovative ships and top-notch service. With so many options to choose from, it’s easy to find a ship that fits your budget and preferences. I highly recommend checking out their fleet and booking your next adventure at sea!