Ship Comparison
Navigator of the Seas vs Voyager of the Seas
Navigator of the Seas is a great ship for a short, family-friendly getaway, offering a trendy experience with virtual balconies and drone light shows. However, it is not a quiet, subdued ship and lacks modern cabin features like multiple outlets and USB ports.
The verdict
Choosing between Navigator of the Seas and Voyager of the Seas ultimately comes down to the subtle nuances in their amplified offerings. Both ships, refurbished in 2019, belong to the lively Royal Caribbean fleet and are geared towards active families and social cruisers. Navigator leans slightly more into modern, high-tech thrills and a chicer pool deck experience, while Voyager maintains a classic, robust activity lineup that feels equally fresh. If your ideal cruise involves a private island stop at Perfect Day at CocoCay and a more defined 'tropical resort' ambiance, Navigator might edge out. For those seeking slightly more diverse global itineraries beyond short Caribbean hops, Voyager offers compelling options, particularly with its Alaska sailings. Both promise a vibrant, fun-filled holiday, so consider the specific activities and dining styles that resonate most with your travel companions.
Choose Navigator of the Seas if…
The Navigator of the Seas is ideally suited for families with active children and teens, as well as groups of friends who thrive in a high-energy, bustling environment. It appeals to those looking for short, action-packed getaways with a modern, trendy flair, particularly if a visit to Perfect Day at CocoCay is on their wishlist. Guests who appreciate diverse dining options and lively nightlife will find plenty to enjoy.
Best for
- Families with active kids and teens
- Short, high-energy getaways
- Social groups and nightlife enthusiasts
- Guests who enjoy thrill rides and waterparks
- Cruises featuring Perfect Day at CocoCay
Avoid if
- Seeking a quiet, subdued cruise experience
- Preferring modern cabin amenities like bedside USBs
- Wishing to avoid extra costs for many specialty dining options
- Sensitive to noise in certain cabin locations
Choose Voyager of the Seas if…
The Voyager of the Seas is a fantastic choice for multi-generational families and cruisers of all ages seeking a balanced experience of activity and relaxation. It caters to those who enjoy a vibrant, social atmosphere with a wide range of complimentary entertainment and dining, while also valuing opportunities for quieter moments. Budget-conscious travelers will appreciate its value, especially for longer itineraries.
Best for
- Multi-generational families
- Budget-conscious travelers seeking ample activities
- Cruisers who enjoy a vibrant, social atmosphere
- Guests interested in diverse itineraries, including Alaska and the South Pacific
- Those who appreciate a balance of relaxation and active fun
Avoid if
- Prioritizing cutting-edge cabin technology (limited outlets/USB)
- Seeking a thermal suite or dedicated spa whirlpools
- Preferring extremely quiet public spaces at all times
- Unwilling to pay extra for specialty dining and some fitness classes
Overall Vibe
Navigator of the Seas
The Navigator of the Seas, an Amplified Voyager-class ship, received its significant refurbishment in 2019, transforming it into a trendy, bustling vessel spread across 14 decks. It exudes a vibrant, tropical resort feel, perfect for those seeking an energetic atmosphere from the moment they step aboard. Known for its record-breaking waterslides like The Blaster aqua coaster and the lively, Caribbean-themed pool deck with The Lime and Coconut bar, this ship is designed for guests who want their holiday turned 'way, way up' with a focus on fun and excitement. It’s built for short, action-packed escapes.
Voyager of the Seas
The Voyager of the Seas, also refurbished in 2019, presents a classic yet refreshed large, family-friendly cruise experience across its 14 decks. It offers a vibrant, activity-focused atmosphere that strikes a comfortable balance between high-energy thrills and opportunities for relaxation. Guests will find a welcoming ship that encourages participation in its many offerings, from The Perfect Storm waterslides (Typhoon and Cyclone) and the FlowRider surf simulator to its ice-skating rink. Voyager provides a versatile backdrop for memorable holidays, catering to a broad spectrum of ages and preferences.
Atmosphere & Crowd
Navigator of the Seas
With a capacity for 3,990 passengers and a crew of 1,200, Navigator of the Seas maintains a high-energy, bustling atmosphere that is anything but quiet or subdued. Expect a lively crowd, especially around the Amplified Pool Deck and the Royal Promenade, where activities and entertainment often draw large numbers. While it's undeniably family-friendly, children are present throughout many public areas, including some bars and lounges. This ship is particularly suited for social explorers and thrill-seeking families who thrive on constant activity and a vibrant, communal holiday experience.
Voyager of the Seas
Voyager of the Seas, carrying 3,258 passengers and 1,176 crew, offers a vibrant and family-friendly atmosphere that successfully blends activity with opportunities for relaxation. While it's a social ship, it manages to cater to a diverse crowd across all age groups, from toddlers enjoying the Royal Babies and Tots Nursery to adults unwinding in the Solarium. The ship encourages interaction and participation in its many offerings, creating a cheerful and engaging environment without feeling overwhelmingly crowded in all areas, providing a well-rounded experience for multi-generational groups.
Dining
Navigator of the Seas
Navigator of the Seas boasts a diverse culinary landscape, with ample complimentary options like the multi-level Main Dining Room, the 24-hour Cafe Promenade for quick bites and coffee, the international buffet at Windjammer, and the casual Mexican fare at El Loco Fresh on the pool deck. For those seeking specialty experiences, additional costs apply for New England-style seafood at Hooked Seafood, classic American steakhouse fare at Chops Grille, and Jamie's Italian. Izumi offers Japanese fusion, while Playmakers Sports Bar & Arcade serves comfort foods, and The Bamboo Room provides tropical small plates.
Voyager of the Seas
Dining on Voyager of the Seas features the elegant, three-deck Main Dining Room and the expansive Windjammer Marketplace buffet, both complimentary and offering a wide array of international dishes. The 24-hour Cafe Promenade is also included for coffee and snacks. For those looking to indulge further, specialty restaurants like Chops Grille provide a classic steakhouse experience, while Izumi offers Japanese fusion. Giovanni's Table serves family-style Italian cuisine, and the Chef’s Table provides an exclusive gourmet experience, all available for an additional charge. Johnny Rockets offers a paid classic American diner experience.
Entertainment & Nightlife
Navigator of the Seas
Entertainment on Navigator of the Seas is designed for high-octane fun, featuring The Perfect Storm waterslides (The Blaster aqua coaster and Riptide mat racer), the FlowRider surf simulator, and the rock-climbing wall. Indoor thrills include glow-in-the-dark laser tag in Battle for Planet Z and the Royal Escape Room. The nightlife is equally dynamic, centered around the Amplified Pool Deck with The Lime and Coconut bar, evolving into a lively open-air lounge with DJs. Guests can also enjoy themed bars like The Bamboo Room, Playmakers Sports Bar & Arcade, and performances in the Metropolis Theatre, along with silent parties and casino action.
Voyager of the Seas
Voyager of the Seas offers a robust lineup of entertainment and nightlife. Active guests will enjoy the FlowRider surf simulator, The Perfect Storm waterslides (Typhoon and Cyclone), and the rock-climbing wall. The Studio B ice rink hosts dazzling ice-skating shows and transforms into a glow-in-the-dark arena for Battle for Planet Z laser tag. Nightlife options include live music at the nautical-themed Schooner Bar, the British-inspired English Pub, and the stylish R Bar. The grand La Scala Theatre presents Broadway-style productions, while the Casino Royale provides gaming excitement, ensuring lively evenings for all.
Cabins & Suites
Navigator of the Seas
Navigator of the Seas offers 1,694 cabins, from efficient interior rooms (160 sq ft) with virtual balconies to opulent Royal Suites (1,066 sq ft with a 211 sq ft balcony and whirlpool). While standard cabins are noted for their comfort, ample storage, and premium mattresses, they do show some signs of age with limited 120V and 230V outlets and a lack of USB ports. Suite guests enjoy enhanced perks like Concierge Services and luxury bathrobes. Guests should be aware that cabins on decks 2, 3, and 10 might experience noise, and some aft balconies on Deck 7 may have obstructed views.
Voyager of the Seas
Voyager of the Seas features 1,800 cabins, providing a comfortable stay for a range of budgets. Options span from interior staterooms (160 sq ft), some with virtual balconies, to expansive Royal Suites (1,260 sq ft with a 196 sq ft balcony, baby grand piano, and dining table). While cabins are regularly maintained, they, like Navigator, lack modern conveniences such as multiple power points and USB charging ports, primarily offering US and European sockets. Suite guests, particularly those in Grand Suites and above, benefit from exclusive access to the Suite Lounge and additional personalized services.
Service & Onboard Style
Navigator of the Seas
The service on Navigator of the Seas aligns with Royal Caribbean's reputation for an energetic, welcoming approach, with a crew of 1,200 dedicated to ensuring a lively holiday. While all guests receive attentive service, those in Grand Suite-level accommodations and higher enjoy distinct advantages. This includes access to Concierge Services, priority check-in and departure, and luxury spa bathrobes. The overall onboard style is modern and bustling, designed to foster a fun, active, and social environment, though this means a quieter, more subdued experience is generally not the focus.
Voyager of the Seas
Voyager of the Seas, supported by a crew of 1,176, delivers Royal Caribbean's characteristic friendly and efficient service, contributing to its vibrant, activity-focused atmosphere. Suite guests benefit from a range of exclusive perks, including access to the Suite Lounge for complimentary breakfast and evening drinks, VIP seating at the pool and theatre, priority tender tickets, and even complimentary ironing on formal nights. The onboard style is geared towards engaging all passengers with diverse activities and social opportunities, ensuring that service is always at hand to enhance a fun and interactive cruise holiday.
Best Itineraries
Navigator of the Seas
Navigator of the Seas is a fantastic choice for shorter, action-packed voyages, frequently sailing to the Mexican Riviera with itineraries like 3-Night Ensenada and 7-Night Ensenada, Cabo & Mazatlan cruises. It also offers enticing Asian routes such as 4-Night Penang & Phuket and 5-Night Penang, Phuket & Langkawi cruises. A significant draw is its access to Royal Caribbean’s private destination, Perfect Day at CocoCay, known for its thrilling waterpark and chill beaches. Additionally, the ship undertakes longer Transpacific journeys connecting Los Angeles, Tokyo, and Singapore, providing diverse options for explorers.
Voyager of the Seas
Voyager of the Seas offers a broad spectrum of itineraries, making it a versatile choice for different types of adventurers. It is particularly well-known for its Alaska cruises, with 7-Night Alaska Adventure and Experience sailings that promise breathtaking scenery. Beyond Alaska, Voyager explores the South Pacific and Queensland with 7-Night and 8-Night cruises, as well as shorter 3-Night Brisbane Getaways. It also sails the Mexican Riviera with 7-Night Ensenada, Cabo & Mazatlan options and undertakes extensive 25-Night Transpacific crossings, appealing to guests looking for varied and immersive regional experiences.
What reviewers say
Navigator of the Seas
4.5/5Navigator of the Seas is a great ship for a short, family-friendly getaway, offering a trendy experience with virtual balconies and drone light shows. However, it is not a quiet, subdued ship and lacks modern cabin features like multiple outlets and USB ports.
Voyager of the Seas
4.5/5The Voyager of the Seas is a versatile, activity-minded ship, ideally suited for families and cruisers of all ages. Its 2019 refurbishment introduced modern, family-friendly amenities, ensuring a fun and social experience for budget-conscious travelers.
Itineraries to compare
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Navigator of the Seas
Voyager of the Seas
Read our guides
In-depth guides on the ships and cruise lines in this comparison.

Ship Guide
Navigator of the Seas: Family Fun & Adventure Aboard
Discover a ship packed with thrilling waterslides, innovative entertainment, and spaces for every family member to enjoy.

Ship Guide
Voyager of the Seas: An Activity-Packed Family Cruise
Experience a versatile Royal Caribbean adventure, ideal for families seeking fun activities and diverse entertainment.
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