Allure of the Seas vs Oasis of the Seas

What are the main differences between Allure of the Seas and Oasis of the Seas?

Both ships belong to Royal Caribbean's Oasis class, so they share the same massive scale and iconic seven-neighborhood design. However, several key differences set them apart.

Size and capacity are nearly identical - Allure edges out Oasis by just 5 centimeters in length, and both accommodate up to 6,780 passengers at maximum capacity. The real distinctions lie in their amenities and recent upgrades.

Water attractions represent the biggest difference. Oasis of the Seas features the Ultimate Abyss - a 10-story dry slide that's become legendary among cruise enthusiasts. It also has the Perfect Storm waterslide trio and Splashaway Bay kids' water park. Allure historically lacked these signature water features, though its 2025 refurbishment significantly closed this gap.

Refurbishment timing plays a crucial role. Oasis received a massive $165 million amplification in 2019, transforming it with new slides, upgraded pool decks, additional bars, and enhanced dining venues. Allure's amplification was delayed by the pandemic but finally completed in March 2025, bringing it up to modern standards.

Which ship has better entertainment options?

Both ships deliver world-class entertainment, but with different flavors. Oasis of the Seas showcases "Cats" as its Broadway-style production, while Allure of the Seas features "Mamma Mia!" Both productions have passionate fan bases who swear by their favorite.

The AquaTheater shows are spectacular on both ships, featuring death-defying acrobatic performances over water. Ice skating shows, comedy clubs, and live music venues round out the entertainment on each vessel.

Oasis gained an edge after its 2019 amplification, which enhanced several entertainment venues and added new performance spaces. However, Allure's recent refurbishment aims to match or exceed these improvements, making the entertainment comparison much closer than before.

How do the dining and bar options compare?

Allure of the Seas actually boasts one of the highest numbers of bars across Royal Caribbean's entire fleet - a point of pride for guests who enjoy variety in their evening entertainment. Both ships offer extensive specialty dining options, from steakhouses to sushi bars.

The amplifications added new dining venues to both ships. Oasis gained several restaurants during its 2019 upgrade, while Allure's 2025 refurbishment brought its dining scene up to current standards.

You'll find similar main dining room experiences and buffet options on both ships, along with room service and casual grab-and-go spots throughout the day.

Which ship offers better water activities and slides?

Oasis of the Seas clearly wins this category, at least historically. The Ultimate Abyss slide has become an Instagram sensation - it's genuinely thrilling and offers incredible ocean views during the descent. The Perfect Storm waterslides provide additional excitement for families and thrill-seekers.

Both ships feature surf simulators (FlowRiders) and multiple pools, including adult-only areas. The zip line experience spans across both vessels, offering a unique perspective of the ship's neighborhoods below.

Allure's 2025 amplification addressed some of these water activity gaps, though whether it fully matches Oasis's water park appeal remains to be seen as guests experience the upgrades.

What about pricing and value differences?

Allure of the Seas often commands slightly higher prices, particularly after its recent refurbishment. Cruise lines typically charge premium rates for newly amplified ships, banking on the appeal of fresh amenities and updated spaces.

Oasis pricing has stabilized since its 2019 upgrades, though it remains popular enough to maintain strong demand pricing. Your actual costs will vary significantly based on cabin category, sailing dates, and itinerary.

Both ships offer similar value propositions - massive scale, diverse activities, and the full Oasis-class experience that Royal Caribbean has perfected over the years.

Which itineraries do these ships typically sail?

Both ships primarily operate Caribbean itineraries, though their specific routes and home ports can vary by season. Eastern Caribbean, Western Caribbean, and Southern Caribbean routes are common for both vessels.

Port selections often influence ship choice as much as onboard amenities. Some travelers pick their sailing based more on destinations like Cozumel, St. Thomas, or Perfect Day at CocoCay rather than ship-specific features.

Sailing lengths typically range from 7 to 14 nights, with both ships offering similar duration options throughout the year.

How do the cabin options compare?

Cabin categories are nearly identical between both ships, featuring everything from interior staterooms to massive suites. The signature Oasis-class cabin types appear on both vessels, including boardwalk balcony rooms that overlook the internal promenade.

Both ships offer the unique Central Park balcony cabins, which face the living garden area instead of the ocean - a surprisingly peaceful option that many guests prefer.

Suite categories range from junior suites to the impressive Royal Suite class, with similar layouts and amenities across both ships. The amplifications refreshed many cabin spaces, bringing décor and fixtures up to current standards.

Which ship should first-time Oasis-class cruisers choose?

For newcomers to the Oasis class, both ships deliver the full "floating city" experience that makes these vessels famous. The choice often comes down to timing, pricing, and specific must-have features.

If the Ultimate Abyss slide tops your priority list, Oasis remains the clear choice. The slide experience genuinely lives up to its reputation and creates lasting memories for most guests.

However, if you prefer newer amenities and don't mind paying slightly more, Allure's post-amplification offerings might appeal more. The ship feels refreshed and modern after its extensive upgrades.

Both ships can feel overwhelming initially - they're genuinely massive. Plan to spend your first day just exploring and getting oriented rather than trying to experience everything immediately.