Ship Comparison
Symphony of the Seas vs Adventure of the Seas
For an expansive, cutting-edge family adventure, Symphony of the Seas delivers unparalleled thrills; for a beloved, refreshed classic with a vibrant social scene, Adventure of the Seas offers a compelling choice.
The verdict
Choosing between Symphony of the Seas and Adventure of the Seas really comes down to the scale of your ideal vacation. Symphony, a truly modern marvel launched in 2018, is a bustling floating city designed to impress with its sheer volume of innovative activities and diverse neighborhoods. It's the pick for those who want the newest, biggest, and most feature-rich experience, particularly families seeking constant engagement. Adventure of the Seas, a seasoned Voyager-class vessel launched in 2001 and refreshed in 2018, offers a more intimate yet still incredibly active and social environment. While it may not have all the latest 'firsts,' its well-loved attractions and vibrant atmosphere make it a strong contender for groups and families who appreciate a slightly less overwhelming, but equally fun, cruise.
Choose Symphony of the Seas if…
Travelers who thrive on boundless energy, cutting-edge attractions, and a resort-at-sea experience designed for multi-generational family fun and non-stop activity.
Best for
- Families seeking the newest and largest ship experience
- Thrill-seekers and adventure enthusiasts
- Guests who enjoy Broadway-style shows and innovative entertainment
- Cruisers who appreciate diverse dining options, including specialty venues
Avoid if
- You prefer a smaller, more intimate cruise experience
- You dislike large crowds and bustling environments
- You are on a strict budget for dining and activities, as many unique offerings incur extra costs
- You prioritize quiet relaxation over constant activity
Choose Adventure of the Seas if…
Guests who appreciate a lively, well-established ship with a strong sense of community, offering a balanced mix of thrills and classic cruise charm, ideal for families and social groups.
Best for
- Families and multi-generational groups looking for a balanced, active vacation
- Social travelers who enjoy lively public spaces and diverse bars
- Guests who appreciate a refreshed, classic cruise experience
- Those seeking a variety of Caribbean itineraries, including Perfect Day at CocoCay
Avoid if
- You desire the absolute newest ships and latest innovations
- You prioritize extensive luxury suite perks and exclusive areas
- You prefer a very quiet, subdued onboard atmosphere
- You are sensitive to potential noise from the Royal Promenade in certain cabin categories
Overall Vibe
Symphony of the Seas
Symphony of the Seas, launched in 2018, embodies the pinnacle of Royal Caribbean's Oasis-class design, presenting itself as a truly contemporary mega-ship. Weighing in as one of the world's largest, this vessel spans 15 decks and is a vibrant, self-contained destination. Its atmosphere is one of continuous discovery, from tranquil garden spaces to high-energy activity zones. The ship feels inherently modern, designed to offer a 'perception remixing, memory maxing mic drop' experience, appealing to those who seek a dynamic and feature-rich vacation where innovation is around every corner, offering something new each day.
Adventure of the Seas
Adventure of the Seas, a proud Voyager-class vessel, entered service in 2001 and received a refreshing refurbishment in 2018, keeping its spirit bright and its offerings current. Across its 14 decks, it delivers a robust and classic cruise experience, balancing lively activities with comfortable common areas. The ship has a reputation for being 'packed with ways to play on short getaways,' and its atmosphere is bustling and fun-filled, yet with a more traditional Royal Caribbean charm. It's a ship that has perfected its offerings over time, providing a reliable and engaging environment for guests.
Atmosphere & Crowd
Symphony of the Seas
With a passenger capacity of 5,518 and a crew of 2,200, Symphony of the Seas maintains a bustling, high-energy atmosphere that is distinctly family-focused. The sheer size of the ship means guests can always find a lively spot or a quieter retreat, though popular areas will naturally be vibrant. The expansive deck spaces and distinct neighborhoods, like Central Park and the Boardwalk, help distribute the crowd, making it feel less overwhelming than its capacity might suggest. It’s a dynamic environment where families and groups are constantly engaged, fostering a lively community feel.
Adventure of the Seas
Adventure of the Seas welcomes up to 3,807 passengers with a dedicated crew of 1,185, creating a bustling and fun-filled atmosphere that caters well to families and groups. Despite its lively nature, the ship feels more manageable than its larger counterparts, offering a comfortable flow throughout its 14 decks. The passenger-to-crew ratio provides for attentive service, contributing to a welcoming environment. It’s a ship where guests tend to be quite social, enjoying the shared experiences of its many activities and themed areas, fostering a friendly and engaging onboard community.
Dining
Symphony of the Seas
Symphony of the Seas offers an extensive culinary journey, with a diverse array of complimentary options such as the multi-level Main Dining Room, the global buffet of Windjammer Café, and casual favorites like El Loco Fresh® for Mexican fare, Café Promenade for quick bites, and the Boardwalk Dog House. For those seeking specialty experiences, there's Chops Grille℠ for steaks, Jamie's Italian for Tuscan-inspired dishes, Izumi for sushi, Hooked Seafood℠, and the imaginative Wonderland. Suite guests also enjoy exclusive access to Coastal Kitchen, providing a more personalized dining experience.
Adventure of the Seas
Adventure of the Seas presents a solid lineup of dining options, blending complimentary classics with appealing specialty restaurants. Guests can enjoy the traditional Main Dining Room and the expansive Windjammer Cafe buffet, both offering a variety of international flavors. For casual bites, Cafe Promenade is a reliable 24-hour spot. The ship's specialty venues, available for an additional charge, include the popular Chops Grille℠ for prime steaks, Izumi for Japanese delights, and Giovanni's Table for family-style Italian. For an elevated experience, Chef's Table offers an intimate, prix-fixe gourmet dinner with wine pairings.
Entertainment & Nightlife
Symphony of the Seas
Symphony of the Seas is a hub of thrills and spectacle. Adrenaline seekers can plunge down the 10-story Ultimate Abyss℠, brave The Perfect Storm℠ waterslides (Typhoon℠, Cyclone, and Supercell℠), or test their balance on the FlowRider® surf simulators and Rock Climbing Wall. The ship boasts Broadway-caliber shows like 'Hairspray' and original productions like 'Flight: Dare to Dream' in the Royal Theater, alongside dazzling AquaTheater shows ('HiRo', 'Aqua Nation') and the '1977' ice show. Nightlife options are diverse, from the robotic bartenders at Bionic Bar® to the lively Playmakers℠ Sports Bar & Arcade and the unique SHUSH! Silent Party.
Adventure of the Seas
Adventure of the Seas delivers a lively entertainment program designed to keep all ages engaged. Guests can enjoy physical challenges like the FlowRider® surf simulator, the Rock Climbing Wall, and the thrilling Typhoon℠ and Cyclone℠ waterslides. The Lyric Theatre hosts traditional production shows, while Studio B features spectacular Ice-Skating Shows. For nightlife, the Royal Promenade comes alive with parades and performances. Guests can also find live music in venues like Boleros and Schooner Bar, enjoy a pint at the English Pub, or test their luck at Casino Royale℠, ensuring varied evenings filled with activity.
Cabins & Suites
Symphony of the Seas
Symphony of the Seas offers 2,759 cabins, ranging from comfortable interiors to expansive suites, many in soothing contemporary tones. Standard options include Interior, Oceanview, and Balcony staterooms, with unique Central Park and Boardwalk view balconies, and innovative Interior cabins with Virtual Balconies. The suite selection is extensive, from Junior Suites to the opulent Royal Loft Suite and the one-of-a-kind Ultimate Family Suite, designed with an in-suite slide and air hockey. Suite guests benefit from tiered perks, including access to Coastal Kitchen and, for Star Class, a dedicated Royal Genie. Guests booking balconies should note potential privacy considerations for neighborhood views.
Adventure of the Seas
Adventure of the Seas features 1,557 cabins, decorated in a pleasant Caribbean-esque style. Standard staterooms include Interior, Ocean View (some with panoramic windows), and Balcony options. Unique to this ship are the Promenade View Interior cabins, offering views of the Royal Promenade, though privacy can be limited. The suite categories range from Junior Suites to Grand Suites (available in one or two bedrooms), Owner's Suites, and the luxurious Royal Suite. While less extensive than larger ships, the suites offer comfortable spaces and perks like priority services. Guests should be aware that some cabins on lower decks might experience noise from public areas.
Service & Onboard Style
Symphony of the Seas
On Symphony of the Seas, the onboard style is one of modern elegance mixed with playful innovation. The crew of 2,200 works diligently to manage the needs of a large ship, ensuring a smooth experience across its many venues. While the ship's size means a more independent guest experience in general, those in higher-tier suites benefit from highly personalized service, including a dedicated Royal Genie for Star Class guests. The overall atmosphere is polished and efficient, geared towards facilitating a seamless and engaging vacation for its many diverse passengers, with a strong emphasis on guest satisfaction.
Adventure of the Seas
Adventure of the Seas provides a warm and attentive service experience, with a crew of 1,185 catering to its guests. The ship's Voyager-class design fosters a friendly and welcoming atmosphere, where staff are generally accessible and responsive. While not as overtly luxurious as some newer ships, the onboard style is comfortable and well-maintained, thanks to its 2018 refurbishment. Guests in suites receive concierge services, adding a layer of personalized care. The ship prides itself on its reliable and friendly service, ensuring that guests feel well-looked after throughout their journey, from dining to daily activities.
Best Itineraries
Symphony of the Seas
Symphony of the Seas primarily sails the vibrant waters of the Western and Eastern Caribbean. Many of its itineraries feature calls at Perfect Day at CocoCay®, Royal Caribbean's private island, which offers a range of exclusive thrills and relaxation options. These sailings are perfect for guests looking for sun-drenched adventures combined with the excitement of a personalized island experience, providing a balanced mix of sea days packed with onboard activities and invigorating port visits in popular Caribbean destinations.
Adventure of the Seas
Adventure of the Seas is a fantastic choice for exploring a broader range of Caribbean destinations, including the Eastern, Western, and Southern Caribbean. Its itineraries frequently include visits to Perfect Day at CocoCay® and the Bahamas, offering guests a mix of private island relaxation and vibrant port explorations. The ship's voyages are well-suited for those who enjoy varied shore excursions and discovering different cultures and landscapes across the Caribbean, providing a comprehensive and engaging exploration of the region.
What reviewers say
Symphony of the Seas
4.5/5Royal Caribbean has taken the best features of its most popular ship class and improved upon them. The ship successfully hits the mark in every category, offering a winning combination of variety and quality for families.
Adventure of the Seas
4/5Adventure of the Seas offers a vibrant, family-friendly cruise experience with a wide array of activities and diverse dining options. Despite its age, a 2018 refurbishment keeps it sparkling, making it an excellent choice for multi-generational groups seeking an active vacation.
Itineraries to compare
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Symphony of the Seas
Adventure of the Seas
Read our guides
In-depth guides on the ships and cruise lines in this comparison.

Ship Guide
Symphony of the Seas: An Oasis Class Family Adventure
Discover Royal Caribbean's award-winning ship, offering unmatched variety and quality for every family member.
Ship Guide
Adventure of the Seas: A Vibrant Family Cruise
Discover an active vacation with diverse dining and entertainment, perfect for multi-generational groups.
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