Enchantment of the Seas vs Explorer of the Seas

Which ship is larger - Enchantment of the Seas or Explorer of the Seas?

Explorer of the Seas dwarfs Enchantment of the Seas in almost every measurement. The Explorer weighs in at 137,308 gross tons compared to Enchantment's 90,090 tons - that's about 66% larger. Explorer stretches 1,020 feet long and 157 feet wide, roughly the length of three football fields placed end to end.

The size difference becomes really apparent when you're walking around these ships. Explorer feels like a floating city with its 15 decks, while Enchantment maintains a more intimate cruise ship vibe despite being a stretched Vision-class vessel.

How do passenger capacities compare between these Royal Caribbean ships?

Explorer of the Seas carries significantly more people - 3,286 passengers at double occupancy versus Enchantment's 2,143. That's about 1,100 more guests on Explorer. However, here's where it gets interesting: despite carrying more passengers, Explorer actually offers more space per person thanks to its much larger size.

The crew situation reflects this too. Explorer requires 1,185 crew members to keep everything running smoothly, which helps maintain good service levels even with the higher passenger count.

What's the age and renovation history of each ship?

Both ships have some years under their hulls, but they've been kept fresh through renovations. Explorer of the Seas launched in 2000, making it about three years newer than Enchantment, which set sail in 1997.

Here's where things get exciting for Explorer fans: the ship received Royal Caribbean's massive "Amplification" makeover in 2023. This wasn't just a touch-up - they added completely new restaurants, upgraded entertainment venues, and modernized tons of features. Enchantment got its own renovation in 2021, but it was more focused on refreshing existing spaces rather than adding major new attractions.

What does "Amplified" actually mean?

When Royal Caribbean amplifies a ship, they basically gut significant portions and rebuild them with current-generation features. Think of it as getting a brand new phone versus just updating your old one's software.

Which ship offers better dining and entertainment options?

Explorer of the Seas takes the crown here, especially after its 2023 amplification. The ship now boasts an impressive array of dining venues, from specialty restaurants to casual grab-and-go spots. The entertainment options span everything from Broadway-style shows to unique Voyager-class features that Enchantment simply can't match due to its smaller size.

Enchantment holds its own with solid dining options and entertainment, but it can't compete with the sheer variety that Explorer's larger size and recent upgrades allow. However, some cruisers actually prefer Enchantment's more focused selection - sometimes having fewer choices makes decision-making easier.

What about the pool and outdoor areas?

This is where Enchantment of the Seas shines brightest. Despite being the smaller ship, Enchantment's pool deck feels more spread out and relaxed. The ship features a large shaded pool bar and an ocean-facing Oasis Bar that creates a genuinely serene atmosphere.

Explorer's pool areas are larger overall, but they can feel busier due to the higher passenger count. If you're someone who values a peaceful poolside experience where you can actually find a chair and enjoy some quiet time, Enchantment might surprise you.

How do the costs compare?

Enchantment of the Seas typically comes with friendlier price tags. Older ships generally cost less to sail on, and Enchantment's smaller size and fewer premium amenities translate to lower cruise fares. This makes it particularly attractive for families watching their budget or first-time cruisers who want to test the waters without breaking the bank.

Explorer's recent amplification and larger size usually mean higher prices, but you're getting more space, newer features, and additional amenities for that extra cost.

Which ship class advantages should you consider?

Explorer belongs to Royal Caribbean's Voyager class, which pioneered many features that became cruise industry standards. These ships were designed around the concept of having so much to do that you'd never be bored. The Voyager class introduced the famous Royal Promenade - an indoor street with shops, cafes, and entertainment.

Enchantment represents the Vision class (stretched version), which focused more on elegant cruising with emphasis on ocean views and relaxation. The Vision class ships feel more like traditional cruise ships, which some passengers absolutely love.

What's the crowd and atmosphere like on each ship?

Explorer of the Seas attracts passengers who want an active, amenity-rich cruise experience. You'll find families with kids taking advantage of all the activities, couples exploring different restaurants, and groups enjoying the various entertainment options. The atmosphere stays energetic throughout the day.

Enchantment draws cruisers seeking a more traditional, relaxed cruise experience. The smaller passenger count and layout create a more intimate feeling where you might actually recognize faces by the end of your cruise. It's perfect for passengers who prefer conversation over crowds.

Which ship should you choose?

Your choice really depends on what kind of cruise experience makes you happiest. Pick Explorer of the Seas if you want cutting-edge amenities, tons of dining variety, and don't mind sharing the experience with more fellow passengers. The recent amplification makes it feel almost like a new ship.

Choose Enchantment of the Seas if you value a more peaceful cruise environment, prefer easier navigation around the ship, and want to stretch your cruise budget further. The relaxed pool deck alone makes it worth considering for sun-seekers who want to actually enjoy their outdoor time.

Both ships deliver that signature Royal Caribbean experience - they just do it at different scales and price points.