If you’re thinking of booking a cruise with Royal Caribbean, you probably want to know which Royal Caribbean ship is the best.
However, the answer to that is pretty subjective.
Royal Caribbean is one of the most popular and highly-rated commercial cruise lines.
All of the ships in their fleets offer excellent amenities—even the older models!
So the “best Royal Caribbean ship” really depends on what you’re looking for in a cruise.
Some Royal Caribbean ships are packed with interactive attractions and high-energy, adrenaline-pumping activities.
Others are smaller and offer an intimate, more laid-back experience.
Some are great for families, some are great for solo travelers, and others focus on luxury.
Here’s how a quick guide on how to pick the best Royal Caribbean ship for your trip.
Best Overall: Icon of the Seas
Royal Caribbean’s Icon of the Seasis the newest and largest ship in their current fleet.
It has eight unique neighborhoods, and each one offers different activities.
Families love Surfside; a stay-all-day neighborhood built specifically for families to enjoy.
It has the Splashaway Bay aquapark, the Water’s Edge pool, a climbable Playscape for younger passengers, and an arcade for the kids and teens.
Thrill-seekers (traveling alone or in a group) can head toCategory 6, the biggest water park at sea.
For passengers looking to relax, head on over to the Hideaway Pool; a large public swimming area with incredible ocean views.
For foodies, dining on the Icon of the Seas is fun, fresh, and never dull.
Passengers can pick from over 40 restaurants and bars.
From casual snacks to fine dining, there’s something for everyone.
So if you want nonstop entertainment and the best amenities, Icon of the Seasis the top choice.
Best for Families: Wonder of the Seas
Which Royal Caribbean ship is the best pick for families?
Many long-time cruisers agree that it’s Wonder of the Seas.
This ship has water slides, adventure zones, and tons of both casual and high-end dining options.
It also has the Ultimate Family Suite—a luxurious, family-friendly accommodation available on select ships.
Its spacious layout, in-suite slide, private game room, LEGO wall, and separate media room make it perfect for large families with kids.
It also has a private balcony, jacuzzi, and unlimited beverages for the adults to enjoy.
Notable neighborhoods include The Boardwalkarea; a lively community area with a classic carousel, arcade, and casual dining.
For kids with a little extra energy, parents can enroll them in The Adventure Ocean—an all-kids club perfect for keeping young passengers entertained.
Teens are not to be ignored, either!
Royal Caribbean’s Wonder of the Seas has a private lounge with games, music, and movies just for teens!
These age-group options give parents the space they need to relax and enjoy the cruise without worrying about their kids.
Best for Relaxation: Brilliance of the Seas
Which Royal Caribbean ship is the best for casual travelers, looking to kick back and relax in style?
That would be the Brilliance of the Seas; the best ship for a peaceful, relaxing cruise.
This ship is part of the Radiance Class ships; models that are known for their big windows and calming ocean views.
It doesn’t have waterslides, zip lines, arcades, or high-energy attractions.
What it has instead are spas, solariums, infinity pools, and quiet lounges.
If you’re after a quiet, relaxing ocean getaway, this ship is perfect.
Best for Luxury: Wonder of the Seas
For a high-end cruise experience, Royal Caribbean’s Wonder of the Seasis also the best choice.
Since it’s one of the cruise line’s larger ships, there’s plenty of space for luxury amenities.
For instance, there’s an exclusive suite area with a private sun deck and round-the-clock concierge service.
Guests in Star Class suites get priority boarding, special dining access, and personal Royal Genie service.
For dining, upscale options like 150 Central Parkand Chops Grille offer gourmet meals.
If you want VIP treatment, the Wonder of the Seas delivers.
Best for Adventure: Odyssey of the Seas
Which Royal Caribbean ship is the best for thrillseekers?
That would be Odyssey of the Seas.
It has all the attractions an adrenaline-junkie will love; a skydiving simulator, bumper cars, a virtual reality arcade, and more.
You can try the FlowRider surf simulator that allows guests to ride simulated waves.
The RipCord by iFLY, a skydiving simulator, is a weightless experience that can’t be missed.
Lastly, the SeaPlex – officially dubbed the largest indoor activity space at sea – includes bumper cars and laser tag for high-energy group activities.
Passengers can also ride The North Starobservation capsule to witness breathtaking 360-degree views from 300 feet above sea level.
Dining options include teppanyaki, an Italian trattoria, and an American steakhouse.
With its mix of adventure and excitement, this ship is a top choice for active cruisers.
Best for Budget Travelers: Mariner of the Seas
If you want a fun cruise at a lower price, Royal Caribbean’sMariner of the Seasis a great option.
It has plenty of amenities that match those of bigger ships i.e., pools, waterslides, surf simulators—it even has a rock climbing wall!
This ship also sails shorter cruises, making it great for weekend getaways and budget itineraries.
So if you want the full cruise experience without breaking the bank, the Mariner of the Seasis a solid choice.
Which Royal Caribbean Ship Is the Best for You?
Ultimately, the best Royal Caribbean ship for you depends on your travel style.
Here’s a quick recap:
- For families → Icon of the Seas or Wonder of the Seas
- For luxury → Wonder of the Seas
- For adventure → Odyssey of the Seas
- For budget travelers → Mariner of the Seas
- For relaxation → Brilliance of the Seas
Each ship offers a different experience, so we recommend picking the one that most fits your needs.
Find the Best Royal Caribbean Ship For You with RSC Vacations
So, which Royal Caribbean ship is the best for you?
We can help you find out!
At RSC Vacations, we can help you choose the perfect cruise to fulfill your dream vacation.
We match your budget, interests, and travel style to the right ship.
Let us handle the details; all you need to do is focus on enjoying your trip.
Contact RSC Vacations today to start planning!