Oh, the struggles of choosing between two magnificent cruise ships! It’s like choosing between chocolate cake and ice cream – both are delicious, but which one satisfies your cravings better?
Well, when it comes to Royal Caribbean’s Oasis-class ships, the Allure and Oasis of the Seas, the decision can be even more difficult. As an avid traveler and cruise enthusiast, I have had the pleasure of experiencing both of these floating marvels, and let me tell you, it’s a tough call to make.
In this article, I will dive into the similarities, differences, and unique features of each ship to help you determine which one reigns supreme. First, let’s start with a little background information.
The Allure and Oasis of the Seas are two of the most popular ships in Royal Caribbean’s fleet, and for a good reason. They are both massive, with a capacity of over 5,000 passengers each and an impressive array of onboard facilities and amenities. But while they share many similarities, there are also key differences to consider when choosing between the two.
From ship facilities and activities to food and drink options and accommodation, I will compare and contrast the Allure and Oasis of the Seas, giving you an objective and knowledgeable overview to help you make an informed decision. So, let’s begin the journey to find the ultimate oasis-class ship!
- Oasis of the Seas has more facilities and activities than Allure of the Seas, including water slides, the Ultimate Abyss dry slide, and the Splashaway Bay water park
- Oasis of the Seas has undergone a recent refurbishment as part of the Royal Amplified program, while Allure of the Seas received only technical repairs
- Oasis of the Seas has more dining and drinking options, including El Loco Fresh and the Bionic Bar with robot bartenders
- Allure of the Seas offers various suite accommodations and still has plenty of activities to enjoy, even without the refurbishment
Ship Comparison
I can vividly imagine the excitement of comparing the Oasis-class ships, Allure and Oasis of the Seas, as I read through their impressive list of facilities, activities, food and drink options, and accommodations.
One key difference between the two ships is their size – Allure of the Seas is 2 inches longer than Oasis of the Seas.
However, Oasis of the Seas has undergone a $165 million refurbishment as part of the Royal Amplified program, which aimed to refurbish ten of Royal Caribbean’s cruise ships over a four-year period. The refurbishment added new features, such as pool areas with day beds, hammocks, and cabanas, as well as an escape room game called Mission Control: Apollo 18.
It’s worth noting that Allure of the Seas was set to be amplified in March 2020, but the refurbishment was postponed due to the pandemic. Instead, Allure of the Seas received only technical repairs to the propulsion system in May 2020.
It’s not known whether Allure of the Seas will eventually be amplified or not. Thus, while Oasis of the Seas currently has more facilities, it’s possible that Allure of the Seas may catch up in the future.
Facilities and Features
The facilities and features on both Allure and Oasis of the Seas are impressive and cater to a wide range of interests. While Oasis of the Seas has undergone a recent $165 million refurbishment, it has more facilities, including the Ultimate Abyss dry slide, Splashaway Bay water park, and three waterslides known as The Perfect Storm.
It also has a bigger and better kids club called Adventure Ocean, new pool areas with day beds, hammocks, and cabanas, and an escape room game called Mission Control: Apollo 18. The ship also has the tallest slide at sea, The Ultimate Abyss, and a new Lime & Coconut bar for poolside drinks.
On the other hand, Allure of the Seas has not undergone a major refurbishment recently, but it still has plenty of activities to enjoy, even without the refurbishment. The ship has zip lines, rock climbing walls, arcades, mini golf, ice skating, Flow Rider surf simulators, merry-go-rounds, pools and whirlpools, sports courts, and table tennis.
It also has various suites to choose from, including the Royal Suite Class, which offers a range of exclusive amenities and benefits. Both ships have a range of bars and lounges, but Oasis of the Seas has more options, including the new Lime & Coconut bar and the Bionic Bar with robot bartenders.
Activities and Entertainment
Looking at the activities and entertainment options available, it’s clear that both Allure and Oasis of the Seas offer a wide range of fun and exciting things to do for guests of all ages. Both ships have zip lines, rock climbing walls, arcades, mini golf, ice skating, Flow Rider surf simulators, merry-go-rounds, pools and whirlpools, sports courts, and table tennis.
However, Oasis of the Seas takes the lead when it comes to activities that cater to families with children. It has a bigger and better kids club called Adventure Ocean, three waterslides known as The Perfect Storm, and the new Splashaway Bay water park. Additionally, it features an escape room game called Mission Control: Apollo 18 and the tallest slide at sea, The Ultimate Abyss.
On the other hand, Allure of the Seas still has the old H2O Zone water park, but it does have Sabor, a Mexican restaurant with an extra charge, and the Samba Grill, a Brazilian Steakhouse. There are still plenty of activities to enjoy even without the refurbishment, and the ship offers a more sophisticated atmosphere with fewer kids and more adult-oriented entertainment options.
While both ships have their own unique features, the zip line showdown and kids club comparison may be deciding factors for families looking for a cruise that caters to their children’s needs.
Food and Drink
When considering food and drink options on these ships, it’s worth noting that Royal Caribbean offers a drinks package, but it may not be worth it for everyone. It’s important to consider your individual drinking habits and preferences before purchasing a package.
On both Allure and Oasis of the Seas, there are plenty of bars and lounges to choose from, serving a variety of drinks and cocktails. However, if you’re not a big drinker, it may be more cost-effective to pay for drinks individually.
For those who enjoy Mexican cuisine, Oasis of the Seas has El Loco Fresh, a Mexican fast-food restaurant that is included in the cruise fare. It’s a great option for a quick bite to eat, with a menu featuring tacos, burritos, and quesadillas.
On Allure of the Seas, Sabor is a Mexican restaurant with an extra charge, but the food is well worth it. The menu includes dishes such as guacamole made tableside, chicken mole, and churros for dessert. Whether you’re a fan of Mexican food or not, there are plenty of dining options on both ships to satisfy every taste bud.
Accommodation Options
I’m excited to explore the various accommodation options available on these incredible cruise ships, such as the luxurious suites on Allure of the Seas that offer stunning ocean views and private balconies, perfect for a romantic getaway or a relaxing family vacation. There are different suite options to choose from, ranging from the spacious Junior Suite to the grand Royal Suite Class, which includes a personal Royal Genie to cater to your every need. The ultimate indulgence is the two-story Loft Suite, complete with a private balcony, separate living area, and a grand staircase leading up to the master bedroom.
On Oasis of the Seas, there are also various accommodation levels available, such as the Ocean View Balcony staterooms, the spacious Family Ocean View staterooms, and the luxurious suites in the Royal Suite Class. One of the benefits of staying in the Royal Suite Class is access to the exclusive Coastal Kitchen restaurant, which serves up delicious cuisine in an intimate setting. The Ultimate Panoramic Suite is a popular option, with its floor-to-ceiling windows offering breathtaking views of the ocean. No matter which accommodation level you choose, both Allure and Oasis of the Seas promise a comfortable and luxurious stay on board.
| Allure of the Seas Accommodation Options | ||
|---|---|---|
| Junior Suite | Spacious suite with private balcony and sitting area | |
| Grand Suite | Larger suite with separate living area and dining table | |
| Royal Suite Class | Ultimate luxury with exclusive access to amenities and a personal Royal Genie | |
| Loft Suite | Two-story suite with separate living area and grand staircase leading up to the master bedroom |
| Oasis of the Seas Accommodation Options | ||
|---|---|---|
| Ocean View Balcony | Stateroom with private balcony and ocean views | |
| Family Ocean View | Spacious stateroom with separate sleeping area for families | |
| Royal Suite Class | Luxurious suites with exclusive access to Coastal Kitchen and other amenities | |
| Ultimate Panoramic Suite | Floor-to-ceiling windows offering stunning panoramic views of the ocean |
Unique Features
One thing I noticed about these ships is their unique features. Both Allure and Oasis of the Seas have their own distinct designs and onboard experiences that make them stand out from one another.
For instance, Oasis of the Seas has Central Park, an outdoor space with live plants and trees that creates a relaxing atmosphere for guests. On the other hand, Allure of the Seas still has the old H2O Zone water park, which offers a fun-filled day for families and kids.
In addition, Oasis of the Seas has an escape room game called Mission Control: Apollo 18, which takes guests on a thrilling adventure through space. Meanwhile, Allure of the Seas has Sabor, a Mexican restaurant with an extra charge, and the Samba Grill, a Brazilian Steakhouse, which offers guests a taste of international cuisine.
Both ships also have bars and lounges, but Oasis of the Seas has more, including the new Lime & Coconut bar for poolside drinks. These unique features add to the overall experience of cruising on either ship and make them both worth considering.
Itinerary and Port Accessibility
Navigating the seas is all about the destinations, and as a seasoned cruiser, I know that considering the itinerary and port accessibility is crucial when deciding between two ships. Both Allure and Oasis of the Seas have a range of itineraries to choose from, but it’s important to note that some ports may be more accessible than others. For example, Oasis of the Seas has a deeper draft than Allure of the Seas, which means it may not be able to dock at certain ports. This may limit the itinerary options for some cruisers, especially those who prefer exploring off the beaten path destinations.
To help you decide which ship is best for your needs, I’ve created a table comparing the itinerary options for both Allure and Oasis of the Seas. The table includes the destinations, the number of days in port, and any accessibility concerns. Keep in mind that this is not an exhaustive list, and it’s always best to do your own research and consult with your travel agent before making a final decision. But hopefully, this table will give you a starting point for your cruise planning adventure.
| Destination | Days in Port | Accessibility Concerns |
|---|---|---|
| Caribbean | 7 | None |
| Bahamas | 4 | None |
| Europe | 12 | Oasis has limited accessibility in some ports |
| Mediterranean | 10 | Allure has limited accessibility in some ports |
| Alaska | 7 | None |
| Transatlantic | 14 | None |
Ultimately, the best itinerary options will depend on your personal preferences and travel goals. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing beach vacation, a cultural immersion, or an adventure-packed trip, both Allure and Oasis of the Seas offer a variety of destinations and experiences to choose from. So, take some time to research your options and choose the itinerary that suits you best. The world is your oyster, and the seas are waiting for you!
Expert Recommendations
As a cruise industry expert with over 20 cruises under my belt, I highly recommend considering the unique amenities and activities offered on each ship when deciding between Allure and Oasis of the Seas. Both ships offer an array of activities, from zip lining and rock climbing to ice skating and surfing, but Oasis of the Seas has some additional features that may be worth considering.
The water slides, the Ultimate Abyss dry slide, and the Splashaway Bay water park are just a few of the attractions that make Oasis of the Seas stand out. However, Allure of the Seas still has plenty to offer, even without the refurbishment. The ship boasts a Mexican restaurant called Sabor and a Brazilian steakhouse called Samba Grill.
Additionally, Allure of the Seas has various suites to choose from, making it a great option for those looking for a more luxurious experience. When choosing between Allure and Oasis, my insider secrets to make the most of your Oasis class cruise include considering the ship’s unique amenities and itinerary, as well as taking into account your personal preferences and budget.
How do the prices of Allure of the Seas and Oasis of the Seas compare?
When comparing prices, there are budget differences between Allure of the Seas and Oasis of the Seas. However, both ships offer a range of accommodations and activities to suit different budgets.
Which ship has a better spa and fitness center?
In my experience, Oasis of the Seas has a better spa and fitness center with a wide range of yoga classes and massage options available. The facilities are top-notch and perfect for those seeking relaxation and rejuvenation during their cruise vacation.
Is there a difference in the quality of the onboard entertainment between the two ships?
Live entertainment on both ships is top-notch, but Oasis offers more diverse activities. From escape rooms to The Ultimate Abyss slide, there’s something for everyone. The variety is as refreshing as a cool ocean breeze.
Are there any exclusive areas or amenities for suite guests on either ship?
As a frequent cruiser, I can confirm that both Allure and Oasis of the Seas offer private lounges and dining options for suite guests. Benefits of booking a suite on each ship include exclusive access to amenities and personalized service.
Can you bring your own alcohol on board either ship?
Yes, Royal Caribbean allows passengers to bring their own alcohol on board both Allure and Oasis of the Seas. However, a BYOB policy and corkage fees apply. Check the cruise line’s website for specific details and restrictions.