Ship Comparison
Oasis of the Seas vs Allure of the Seas
For an expansive, activity-rich cruise, both Oasis of the Seas and Allure of the Seas deliver distinct, memorable experiences tailored to vibrant, family-oriented holidays.
The verdict
Both Oasis of the Seas and Allure of the Seas, as pioneering Oasis-class vessels from Royal Caribbean, offer an incredible array of activities and dining options designed to keep every guest engaged. Oasis, with its 2019 refurbishment, feels a touch more modern and its 'Amplified' features, like the Portside BBQ, add fresh appeal. Allure, while refurbished earlier in 2015, maintains its reputation as a highly awarded ship with a slightly higher crew-to-guest ratio, contributing to its consistently praised service. Choosing between them often comes down to the specific entertainment and dining nuances that resonate most with your cruising style, as both promise a bustling, fun-filled journey.
Choose Oasis of the Seas if…
The Thrill-Seeking Family and Entertainment Enthusiast who values a wide range of high-octane activities and Broadway-caliber shows, coupled with diverse dining, will find Oasis of the Seas an ideal match.
Best for
- Families with active children and teens
- Thrill-seekers looking for water slides and unique attractions
- Guests who enjoy Broadway-style shows
Avoid if
- Seeking a quiet, intimate cruise experience
- Preferring consistently high-quality complimentary dining
- Disliking large crowds and bustling environments
Choose Allure of the Seas if…
Families and Active Thrill-Seekers who appreciate a fun-filled, vibrant atmosphere and a wealth of physical activities, alongside exceptional service and diverse dining, will thrive on Allure of the Seas.
Best for
- Families seeking a wide range of activities and youth programs
- Guests who appreciate attentive service and a vibrant social scene
- Cruisers looking for diverse dining, including specialty options
Avoid if
- Strictly adhering to a budget for dining, due to specialty restaurant costs
- Preferring a quiet and serene ship environment at all times
- Disliking crowds, especially in popular public areas
Overall Vibe
Oasis of the Seas
Oasis of the Seas, launched in 2009 and last refurbished in 2019, truly lives up to its name as a groundbreaking mega-ship. Spanning 15 decks, its sheer scale and the thoughtful 'neighborhood' concept create a lively, bustling atmosphere without feeling overwhelming. The recent refurbishment introduced new thrills and updated spaces, solidifying its reputation as a beloved vessel offering a dizzying array of activities for all ages. It embodies an energetic, innovative spirit, often described as a floating resort designed for non-stop engagement.
Allure of the Seas
Allure of the Seas, also launched in 2009 and refurbished in 2015, presents a vibrant and fun-filled ambiance that caters to a diverse crowd. This Oasis-class favorite is renowned for its innovative neighborhood concept, dividing the vastness of its 15 decks into distinct zones, making the ship feel more intimate. It’s consistently praised for its diverse range of activities and world-class entertainment, creating a dynamic environment that, despite hosting 5,492 passengers, manages to feel accessible and engaging for first-time cruisers and seasoned travelers alike.
Atmosphere & Crowd
Oasis of the Seas
Onboard Oasis of the Seas, you'll encounter a bustling and energetic atmosphere, particularly around the pools and main attractions. With a passenger capacity of 5,606 and a dedicated crew of 2,181, the ship maintains a lively hum. It draws an active crowd, from families with children and teens eager for adventure to couples seeking vibrant nightlife. While popular areas can get quite busy, especially on sea days, the ship's thoughtful layout with distinct 'neighborhoods' helps to distribute guests, allowing for both high-energy fun and quieter moments when sought.
Allure of the Seas
Allure of the Seas buzzes with a vibrant, family-friendly energy, welcoming a passenger capacity of 5,492 supported by a crew of 2,384. This slightly higher crew ratio often translates to a perceptible attentiveness. While the ship is undeniably lively, particularly in the Royal Promenade and on the pool deck during peak times, it's designed to absorb crowds gracefully. The atmosphere is generally fun-loving and social, appealing to diverse groups, from active couples in their 30s to 50s to multi-generational families, all enjoying the wide array of activities without feeling overwhelmingly crowded.
Dining
Oasis of the Seas
Oasis of the Seas offers an extensive culinary journey. Complimentary options include the expansive Main Dining Room across three decks, the global flavors of Windjammer Café, and quick bites at Park Café and El Loco Fresh. For those seeking specialty experiences, there's the authentic barbecue at Portside BBQ℠, Japanese delights at Izumi Hibachi & Sushi, upscale American fare at 150 Central Park, and the classic Chops Grille℠. Suite guests also enjoy exclusive access to Coastal Kitchen. While the Main Dining Room can be noisy, the eleven specialty venues provide a significant upgrade in quality and atmosphere, highly recommended for culinary adventurers.
Allure of the Seas
Dining on Allure of the Seas provides a diverse palette, with complimentary options like the multi-level Main Dining Room (American Icon, Silk, The Grande), the bustling Windjammer Marketplace, and casual spots like Park Café and the Boardwalk Dog House. Specialty dining shines with Izumi Hibachi & Sushi, the upscale 150 Central Park, Chops Grille℠ for steak lovers, and the Brazilian churrascaria Samba Grill. The brand-new Mason Jar℠ offers real Southern eats. While complimentary choices are varied, many specialty venues, totaling ten options, often incur additional fees. Coastal Kitchen remains an exclusive perk for suite guests, providing a serene dining experience.
Entertainment & Nightlife
Oasis of the Seas
Entertainment on Oasis of the Seas is nothing short of spectacular, featuring a full Broadway production of 'Cats' in the Royal Theatre and breathtaking high-diving shows like 'Aqua80' in the AquaTheater. Thrill-seekers can plunge down the Ultimate Abyss℠ dry slide, brave The Perfect Storm℠ waterslides, or hang ten on the FlowRider®. Nightlife is vibrant with the unique Rising Tide Bar, the robotic Bionic Bar®, and lively Latin rhythms at Boleros. Spotlight℠ Karaoke and the Music Hall offer diverse evening fun, ensuring there's always a captivating show or a lively spot to gather.
Allure of the Seas
Allure of the Seas boasts a diverse and extensive entertainment lineup, from the Broadway hit 'Mamma Mia!' in the Amber Theater to the captivating high-diving spectacle 'OceanAria' in the AquaTheater. Guests can enjoy public ice skating sessions or watch the impressive 'Ice Games' show in Studio B. For active fun, there are FlowRider® surf simulators, rock climbing walls, and a zip line. Nightlife options are plentiful, including the multi-level Dazzles nightclub, the lively Boleros for Latin dancing, and the unique Rising Tide Bar. Karaoke at On Air Club and themed parties round out the evening offerings.
Cabins & Suites
Oasis of the Seas
Oasis of the Seas offers 2,801 cabins across its 15 decks, including 18 large suites designed for comfort and flexibility. Accommodation ranges from interior staterooms to expansive Royal Loft Suites. Notable suite options include the two-bedroom Spacious AquaTheater Suites with their large balconies, and the multi-level Crown Loft Suites. It's worth noting that while deck plans are generally well-laid out, some staterooms on Deck 3 (below the ice rink/casino), Decks 6 and 7 (near the theater), and Deck 14 (below the pool deck) may experience noise. For light sleepers, opting for cabins on decks 10, 11, or 12 is often recommended.
Allure of the Seas
Allure of the Seas features 2,859 cabins, including 711 larger accommodations, providing ample space for various group sizes. The ship offers a wide array of suites, such as the two-deck Royal Loft Suite and the spacious AquaTheater Suites with their wraparound balconies. Standard cabins are well-appointed with convertible twin beds, sitting areas, and interactive TVs. However, guests should be mindful of potential noise in interior-facing balcony cabins or those near Central Park due to the pool band. AquaTheater Suites are also exposed, with rock climbers occasionally passing by. Overall, careful selection ensures a peaceful retreat, with many family-friendly options sleeping up to six.
Service & Onboard Style
Oasis of the Seas
The onboard style of Oasis of the Seas is one of vibrant energy and diverse experiences, supported by a crew of 2,181. The service ethos is generally friendly and efficient, particularly noted in the bustling Main Dining Room where staff often engage with guests. For suite passengers, the dedicated Coastal Kitchen provides an elevated level of personalized service. While the scale of the ship means individual attention might vary in larger venues, the crew is adept at managing the high volume of guests, ensuring a seamless experience across the many activities and dining options.
Allure of the Seas
Allure of the Seas maintains a reputation for outstanding service, with a substantial crew of 2,384 dedicated to its guests. This strong crew presence contributes to a personalized and attentive experience, particularly highlighted in the Coastal Kitchen for suite guests where service is consistently praised. The onboard style is geared towards a fun-filled, engaging atmosphere, ensuring that despite the ship's size, guests feel well-cared for. From the enthusiastic entertainment staff to the diligent dining teams, the crew works cohesively to create a memorable holiday, navigating the ship's bustling environment with efficiency and warmth.
Best Itineraries
Oasis of the Seas
Oasis of the Seas primarily sails to the Bahamas and the Caribbean, offering a mix of 3, 4, and 7-night cruises. Many itineraries include stops at Royal Caribbean’s private island, Perfect Day at CocoCay®, known for its thrilling activities. Longer 6-night Western Caribbean and 7-night Eastern Caribbean cruises are also available. Additionally, the ship offers unique 9-night repositioning cruises between Cape Liberty and Fort Lauderdale, providing extended sea days and diverse port calls for those seeking a more varied journey. The upcoming Royal Beach Club℠ Paradise Island in December 2025 will add another exclusive destination option.
Allure of the Seas
Allure of the Seas focuses on a variety of Caribbean itineraries, including 6 and 7-night Western Caribbean cruises, as well as 7 and 8-night Eastern Caribbean voyages. A popular highlight is the inclusion of Perfect Day at CocoCay®, Royal Caribbean's private island, on many of its sailings, offering guests an exclusive beach experience. Shorter 3-night Bahamas & Perfect Day cruises are also available for quick getaways. For those desiring a longer adventure, 8-night Southern Caribbean cruises provide a deeper exploration of the region, ensuring diverse options for sun-soaked relaxation and adventure.
What reviewers say
Oasis of the Seas
4.5/5One of the largest ships in the world, Oasis of the Seas makes an impression even before you board; the mega-ship looms above its counterparts. It has been enthusiastically embraced as one of Royal Caribbean's most beloved vessels, offering a dizzying amount of activities across its manageable neighborhoods.
Allure of the Seas
5/5If you want a fun-filled cruise with plentiful activities, you can't beat Allure of the Seas. It truly caters to every type of cruiser, offering a diverse range of experiences.
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Oasis of the Seas
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