Hey there, fellow cruisers! As someone who loves the freedom of the open sea, I am always on the lookout for the newest and biggest ships to set sail. That’s why I’m excited to dive into the battle of the giants and compare the Wonder of the Seas and Symphony of the Seas, two of the largest and most impressive cruise ships in the world.
In this article, we’ll take an in-depth look at these two ships, exploring their similarities and differences in terms of size, accommodation options, dining venues, entertainment features, and itinerary options. We’ll also provide tips on how to get the best price when booking a Royal Caribbean cruise.
So, whether you’re a seasoned cruiser looking for your next adventure or a newbie trying to decide which ship to choose, this article is for you.
Let’s set sail and compare Wonder and Symphony of the Seas!
- Wonder of the Seas and Symphony of the Seas are the two biggest and newest Oasis-class ships for Royal Caribbean with similar itineraries.
- Wonder of the Seas is larger in gross tonnage and maximum passenger capacity, while Symphony of the Seas has more suite accommodation options.
- Both ships have identical complimentary dining venues, an equal number of specialty dining restaurants, and a similar number of bars or lounges.
- Wonder of the Seas has additional entertainment features, including Music Hall and Wonder Playscape, while Symphony of the Seas has a live orchestra in the main theatre for every show.
Size and Capacity
I’m impressed by the sheer size and capacity of both Wonder of the Seas and Symphony of the Seas. Wonder of the Seas currently holds the title for the largest ship by gross tonnage and maximum passenger capacity, carrying almost 10,000 people. Symphony of the Seas, on the other hand, is slightly smaller, carrying around 6,680 passengers. However, both ships have a vast array of onboard activities to keep everyone entertained throughout their cruise.
While Wonder of the Seas may have a larger passenger capacity, Symphony of the Seas still offers a plethora of activities and amenities. Both ships have multiple pools, hot tubs, and water slides, as well as sports facilities like basketball and mini-golf. Additionally, both ships have Broadway-style shows, ice-skating rinks, and virtual reality experiences.
The main difference in onboard activities between the two ships is that Wonder of the Seas has additional features like the Music Hall and Wonder Playscape. However, both ships offer plenty of entertainment options for all passengers.
Accommodation Options
With a variety of accommodation options available on both ships, travelers can choose from a range of room categories and suite options to fit their budget and preferences.
Symphony of the Seas offers a total of 2,759 staterooms, including interior, ocean view, balcony, and suites. The Ultimate Family Suite is a popular choice, featuring a slide, movie theater-style TV, and a second bedroom with bunk beds and a gaming console. For a luxurious experience, guests can opt for one of 188 suites, ranging from Junior Suites to the Royal Suite Class, which includes features like a private balcony, whirlpool tub, and access to the Suite Lounge and Coastal Kitchen.
Wonder of the Seas has a slightly smaller capacity but still offers plenty of accommodation options, with a total of 2,867 staterooms, including interior, ocean view, balcony, and suites. The Royal Loft Suite is a standout option, offering a two-level contemporary design with a private balcony and whirlpool tub. Guests can choose from 174 suites across eight different categories, including the Royal Suite Class, which offers similar perks to Symphony of the Seas, such as access to the Suite Lounge and Coastal Kitchen.
Overall, both ships offer a range of accommodation options to suit every traveler’s needs and budget.
Dining Venues
Let’s take a closer look at the dining venues available on these two impressive cruise ships. Both Wonder of the Seas and Symphony of the Seas offer a range of specialty restaurants and complimentary dining options. Each ship has an equal number of complimentary dining venues, which means that guests can choose from a variety of options without having to pay extra. Some of the most popular complimentary dining options on both ships include the main dining room, the Windjammer buffet, and the Park Cafe.
However, when it comes to specialty restaurants, there are some differences between the two ships. Both ships have a range of specialty restaurants that offer a variety of cuisines, including Italian, Japanese, and steakhouse options. Symphony of the Seas has a total of seven specialty restaurants, while Wonder of the Seas has six. Some of the standout specialty restaurants on Symphony of the Seas include 150 Central Park, which offers contemporary American cuisine, and Izumi Hibachi & Sushi, which serves up Japanese-inspired dishes. Wonder of the Seas also has some exciting specialty restaurants, including Hooked Seafood, which serves up fresh seafood dishes, and Chops Grille, which offers classic steakhouse fare. Overall, both ships offer a great dining experience, with plenty of options to suit all tastes and budgets.
| Dining Venues | Symphony of the Seas | Wonder of the Seas |
|---|---|---|
| Main Dining Room | 3 | 3 |
| Windjammer Buffet | 1 | 1 |
| Park Cafe | 1 | 1 |
| Solarium Bistro | 1 | 1 |
| Cafe Promenade | 1 | 1 |
| Specialty Restaurants | 7 | 6 |
Entertainment Features
Exploring the entertainment features on these two mega cruise ships reveals a plethora of options for guests to enjoy.
Wonder of the Seas boasts additional entertainment features that Symphony of the Seas doesn’t have, including Music Hall and Wonder Playscape. The Music Hall is a venue where guests can enjoy live music performances, while the Wonder Playscape is an interactive area that offers a range of activities for kids and adults alike.
On the other hand, Symphony of the Seas has a live orchestra in the main theatre for every show, providing an immersive experience for guests. Both ships have 14 bars or lounges in total, with slight differences in their locations and themes.
When it comes to accommodation choices and entertainment options, Symphony of the Seas has a slight advantage over Wonder of the Seas. Symphony of the Seas has 188 suites with 11 different categories, while Wonder of the Seas only has 174 suites with 8 categories. This gives guests more options to choose from when it comes to suite accommodation.
However, Wonder of the Seas has more to offer in terms of additional entertainment features, which may be more appealing to guests who are looking for a wider variety of activities to enjoy while on board.
Itinerary Options
I’m now going to talk about the itinerary options available on these two Oasis-class ships.
Both Wonder of the Seas and Symphony of the Seas offer exciting cruise destinations with a range of excursion options. Symphony of the Seas is ideal for exploring the Caribbean, with itineraries that include stops in Mexico and Honduras. Wonder of the Seas, on the other hand, is perfect for those who want to explore Basseterre or Nassau.
Both ships also offer itineraries that call at the private resorts owned by Royal Caribbean, at Labadee and CocoCay.
When it comes to Mediterranean sailings, Wonder of the Seas is based out of Civitavecchia while Symphony of the Seas sails from Barcelona. The itineraries for both ships are similar, with Mediterranean stops including destinations such as Marseille, Naples, and Palma de Mallorca.
Whether you want to explore the Caribbean or the Mediterranean, both ships offer a range of itinerary options to suit your preferences.
Pricing and Booking tips
Now that we’ve explored the itinerary options for both Wonder of the Seas and Symphony of the Seas, let’s talk about pricing and booking tips. As with any vacation, finding the best deals can take a bit of research. Here are some tips to help you get the most bang for your buck when booking your Royal Caribbean cruise:
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Compare prices from multiple travel agents: Don’t settle for the first price you see. Take the time to shop around and compare prices from different travel agents. This will give you a better idea of what’s available and can help you find the best deal.
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Look for travel agents with a best price guarantee: Some travel agents offer a best price guarantee, which means they’ll match or beat any lower price you find elsewhere. This can be a great way to save money and ensure you’re getting the best deal possible.
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Book early: The earlier you book, the more likely you are to get a good deal. Royal Caribbean often offers early bird discounts for those who book several months in advance.
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Be flexible with your travel dates: If you’re able to travel during off-peak times, you may be able to find better deals. Consider traveling during the shoulder season or on less popular itineraries to save money.
By following these tips, you can find the best deals and save money when booking your Royal Caribbean cruise on either Wonder of the Seas or Symphony of the Seas.
Related Posts and Feedback
Looking for more information on Royal Caribbean cruises? Check out our related posts on suite guides and Titanic comparisons.
These posts provide valuable insights into the amenities and features of Royal Caribbean ships, as well as helpful tips for planning your next cruise vacation. Whether you’re looking for advice on booking a suite or comparing the size and scale of the Titanic to modern cruise ships, our posts offer a wealth of information and inspiration.
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How does the cost of a cruise on Wonder of the Seas compare to Symphony of the Seas?
I recently compared the cruise packages for Wonder of the Seas and Symphony of the Seas. The price difference between the two ships is minimal, but it’s worth noting that Wonder has slightly more entertainment options. Overall, both offer great value for money.
Are there any notable differences in the onboard activities offered on each ship?
Wonder of the Seas and Symphony of the Seas provide a similar range of dining options. However, Wonder of the Seas boasts additional entertainment features, such as Music Hall and Wonder Playscape, that Symphony of the Seas lacks.
What is the process for booking a cruise on either ship?
Booking a cruise on either ship involves selecting an itinerary, cabin category, and preferred sailing date. Payment options may include a deposit at the time of booking and final payment due closer to the sail date. Contacting a travel agent with a best-price guarantee can help secure the lowest price.
How do the private resorts owned by Royal Caribbean, Labadee and CocoCay, compare to each other?
Labadee vs Cococay: Which is Better? When comparing beach activities on Royal Caribbean’s private resorts, Labadee offers more adrenaline-fueled experiences such as ziplining and jet skiing, while Cococay has a larger water park and more relaxing options like hammocks and cabanas.
Are there any restrictions or recommendations for passengers traveling with young children on either ship?
Traveling with young children on both ships is encouraged, with dedicated kids’ facilities and services. However, there are some restrictions on certain activities, such as the zip line and rock climbing wall. Recommendations include bringing a stroller and sunscreen.