Enchantment of the Seas vs Jewel of the Seas

Which ship is newer and bigger - Enchantment of the Seas or Jewel of the Seas?

Jewel of the Seas takes the crown here, being both newer and larger than Enchantment of the Seas. Jewel launched in 2004, making it seven years younger than Enchantment, which first set sail in 1997. The age difference shows in subtle ways throughout both ships.

Size-wise, Jewel measures 90,090 gross tons compared to Enchantment's 82,910 tons - roughly 9% larger. What's interesting is that despite being bigger, Jewel actually carries fewer passengers at double occupancy: 2,191 versus Enchantment's 2,252. This translates to more breathing room on Jewel, with a space ratio of 41 tons per passenger compared to Enchantment's 37.

Both ships stretch similar lengths (Jewel at 962 feet, Enchantment at 989 feet) and share identical crew sizes of 852, giving them the same passenger-to-crew ratio of 2.6. However, Jewel's extra deck - 12 versus Enchantment's 11 - helps distribute passengers more comfortably.

What's the atmosphere like on each ship?

The two ships offer distinctly different vibes, almost like choosing between a cozy neighborhood restaurant and a bustling downtown eatery.

Enchantment of the Seas embraces what many call "old-school cruising." You won't find flashy water slides or ice skating rinks here. Instead, it focuses on that classic cruise ship atmosphere where conversation flows easily and relaxation takes center stage. The smaller size creates an intimate setting where you might actually recognize fellow passengers by the end of your cruise.

Jewel of the Seas brings more contemporary energy to the table. Being part of Royal Caribbean's Radiance class, it offers vibrant entertainment including Broadway-style shows, diverse dining scenes, and modern amenities. The ship feels more cosmopolitan, with specialty restaurants scattered throughout and activities that cater to various interests.

Think of Enchantment as your comfortable favorite sweater - familiar, reliable, and perfectly suited for unwinding. Jewel, meanwhile, is more like that new restaurant everyone's talking about - exciting, full of options, and designed to impress.

How do the dining options compare between the ships?

Both ships serve up quality food, but they approach dining quite differently.

Enchantment of the Seas keeps things focused and straightforward. With fewer competing specialty restaurants, the main dining venues often receive more attention and resources. Many passengers praise the food quality here, noting that the kitchen isn't stretched thin trying to manage numerous specialty concepts. The dining rooms tend to have a more community feel, where repeat cruisers often request the same waitstaff.

Jewel of the Seas spreads its culinary wings wider with specialty restaurants like Chops Grille steakhouse and Izumi Sushi. The Italian and Japanese options add international flair that Enchantment simply doesn't match. However, this variety sometimes comes at the cost of the main dining room experience, as resources get divided across multiple venues.

If you're someone who prefers sticking to the main dining room and enjoys building relationships with your server, Enchantment might feel more welcoming. But if you love exploring different cuisines and don't mind paying extra for specialty dining, Jewel offers more adventurous options.

What activities and amenities does each ship offer?

Enchantment of the Seas takes a "less is more" approach to activities. You'll find three pools - two outdoor and one indoor Solarium - plus six whirlpools total. The pool deck feels spacious and rarely overcrowded, making it easy to find a good spot for sunbathing or socializing. Entertainment leans toward classic cruise activities: live music, dance classes, and traditional shows.

Jewel of the Seas packs in more diverse activities. The rock climbing wall gives adventure seekers something to tackle, while the adults-only Solarium provides a refined escape. Entertainment steps up with full-scale musical productions that rival what you'd see on land. The ship also features more varied deck activities and organized games.

Pool and Deck Space

This is where the size difference really matters. Enchantment's pool areas feel more generous relative to passenger count. You're more likely to snag that perfect deck chair without much competition. The atmosphere stays relaxed, with plenty of room to spread out.

Jewel's pools serve their purpose but can feel tighter when the ship fills up. The trade-off comes in having more entertainment options nearby and better integration with bars and casual dining spots.

Which ship offers better value for families versus couples?

For couples, especially those seeking a romantic, low-key getaway, Enchantment of the Seas often wins hearts. The intimate size makes it easier to find quiet corners, and the laid-back atmosphere encourages connection. Couples who've cruised before often appreciate returning to this simpler style of cruising.

For families, particularly those with teens or young adults, Jewel of the Seas provides more entertainment variety. The rock climbing wall, diverse dining, and Broadway-style shows give everyone something to enjoy. However, neither ship ranks as Royal Caribbean's most family-friendly option - ships like Explorer of the Seas offer more kid-focused amenities.

For first-time cruisers, Jewel might feel more impressive with its modern amenities and diverse options. Enchantment appeals more to those who already know they prefer a quieter cruise experience or want to focus on destinations rather than onboard activities.

How do the cabins and accommodations compare?

Both ships offer similar cabin categories, but Jewel's newer construction shows in subtle ways. The decor feels more contemporary, and the bathrooms often feature slightly updated fixtures. However, don't expect dramatic differences - both ships maintain Royal Caribbean's standard cabin layouts and amenities.

Balcony cabins on both ships provide similar experiences, though Jewel's extra deck means potentially better views depending on your cabin location. Interior cabins follow nearly identical layouts, with Jewel perhaps feeling slightly fresher due to more recent renovations.

The real difference comes in how the ships feel when you're moving around. Jewel's additional deck spreads passenger flow better, while Enchantment's more compact design means shorter walks but potentially more crowded corridors during peak times.

Which ship should you choose?

Your choice really depends on what kind of cruise experience speaks to you.

Choose Enchantment of the Seas if you:

• Prefer intimate, laid-back atmospheres
• Want to focus on relaxation and socializing
• Enjoy classic cruise experiences without bells and whistles
• Like having more space around pools and deck areas
• Appreciate consistent, quality dining without too many choices

Choose Jewel of the Seas if you:

• Want more dining variety and specialty restaurants
• Enjoy Broadway-style entertainment and modern amenities
• Prefer newer ships with contemporary design
• Like having more activity options available
• Want slightly more space in your overall ship experience

Both ships maintain excellent safety records and service standards typical of Royal Caribbean. Neither disappoints, but they cater to different cruise personalities. Enchantment brings you back to cruising's roots, while Jewel showcases the evolution toward more diverse, entertainment-focused experiences.