Allure of the Seas vs Wonder of the Seas

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

The most striking difference is their age. Wonder of the Seas launched in 2022, making it the newest member of Royal Caribbean's Oasis class, while Allure of the Seas has been sailing since 2010. This 12-year gap shows in nearly every aspect of the ship experience.

Wonder of the Seas comes packed with modern innovations that weren't available when Allure was built. You'll find a sophisticated suite neighborhood with exclusive amenities, multiple specialized pool areas designed for different age groups, and three impressive waterslides including the Ultimate Abyss – a 10-deck dry slide that's become a signature attraction.

Allure of the Seas, however, offers something Wonder doesn't: more breathing room. With similar passenger capacities but a design that provides higher space ratios, Allure tends to feel less crowded in certain areas. This advantage might disappear after Allure's massive $100 million Amplification renovation planned for early 2025.

Pool and Water Features

Wonder clearly wins the pool battle. The ship features multiple pools strategically placed throughout different areas, plus dedicated splash zones tailored to specific age groups. Parents particularly appreciate how the ship separates activities for infants, kids, and teens.

Allure's pool situation is more limited, though this will change dramatically with the upcoming renovation. The Amplification project promises to add new water slides and completely reimagine the pool experience to match what Wonder already offers.

Entertainment Options

Both ships excel at entertainment, but they take different approaches. Wonder boasts three distinct theaters: the AquaTheater for water shows, a traditional stage theater, and an ice skating rink theater. This variety means you can catch high-quality performances throughout your cruise.

Allure has built its reputation on Broadway-style productions and diverse family entertainment. While it may have fewer theater venues than Wonder, the quality remains exceptional. The upcoming renovation will likely expand these options further.

Which ship is better for families with children?

Wonder of the Seas edges ahead for families, particularly those with young children. The ship's design philosophy clearly prioritized family needs from the ground up.

The kids' facilities are outstanding – separate clubs for infants, children, and teens, plus outdoor play areas that didn't exist on earlier Oasis-class ships. The age-appropriate splash areas mean toddlers aren't competing with teenagers for pool space, and parents can actually relax knowing their kids are entertained in age-suitable environments.

Wonder's suite neighborhood also appeals to families who want premium accommodations. The exclusive outdoor bar "The Vue" gives parents a sophisticated retreat while remaining close to family-friendly activities.

Allure certainly isn't lacking in family amenities – it's won awards for its family-friendly approach. However, the 2010-era design shows its age when compared to Wonder's thoughtful layout and modern kid-focused spaces.

Teen and Tween Appeal

Teenagers might find Wonder more exciting due to the Ultimate Abyss waterslide and newer recreational facilities. The sports deck activities and modern teen club areas feel fresh and current rather than dated.

Allure's teen spaces, while functional, reflect older design trends. The renovation should address this gap significantly.

How do the dining options compare?

Wonder of the Seas offers several unique dining venues you won't find on Allure, including specialty restaurants featuring Southern cuisine and other innovative concepts developed specifically for newer ships. The dining variety reflects current food trends and guest preferences.

Allure's restaurant selection remains solid but shows its age. The good news? The Amplification renovation promises to add new dining venues and update existing ones, potentially bringing the food experience on par with Wonder.

Both ships maintain the high standards Royal Caribbean is known for, but Wonder's newer restaurants feel more contemporary and exciting. If you're a foodie who gets excited about trying new cuisines, Wonder currently has the advantage.

Which ship feels less crowded?

This is where Allure surprisingly takes the lead. Despite similar passenger capacities, Allure offers better space ratios per passenger. You'll likely notice this difference in common areas, dining venues, and around pools during peak times.

Wonder's designers worked hard to distribute crowds effectively despite the ship's high capacity, but physics is physics – the newer ship simply has less space per person. The multiple pool areas help spread people out, but popular attractions still see significant crowds.

If you prefer a slightly more relaxed atmosphere with fewer people competing for the same spaces, Allure might be your better choice. However, this advantage may diminish after the renovation adds new attractions without expanding the ship's overall size.

What about the upcoming Allure renovation?

The $100 million Amplification project starting in February 2025 will dramatically transform Allure of the Seas. Royal Caribbean plans to add new waterslides, restaurants, bars, and completely renovated spaces that should bring Allure much closer to Wonder's feature set.

This renovation represents a massive investment in keeping Allure competitive with newer ships. If you're planning a cruise after mid-2025, the gap between these ships will likely narrow considerably.

However, renovations can't change the fundamental space constraints. Even after Amplification, Wonder will likely maintain advantages in overall layout and design philosophy that prioritizes modern cruising preferences.

Which ship should you choose?

Wonder of the Seas is the clear winner for most cruisers, especially families and those who want the newest features and innovations. The modern amenities, superior pool facilities, and contemporary design make it feel like a next-generation cruise experience.

Choose Wonder if you want:

• The latest waterslides and attractions
• Multiple pool areas designed for different ages
• Modern suite accommodations with exclusive perks
• Contemporary dining venues with innovative cuisines
• State-of-the-art entertainment facilities

Allure of the Seas remains an excellent choice if you prefer more space per passenger and don't mind slightly older facilities. The upcoming renovation will make this decision much more difficult.

Choose Allure if you want:

• More personal space and less crowded common areas
• Proven entertainment with Broadway-quality shows
• The opportunity to experience the ship after its major renovation
• Potentially better value for similar Oasis-class amenities

Both ships deliver the spectacular experience Royal Caribbean's Oasis class is famous for. Your choice really comes down to whether you prioritize the newest innovations or prefer more space and breathing room during your cruise.