Grandeur of the Seas (Vision Class, 1996) is smaller at 74,140 tons with a classic cruise atmosphere, featuring 13% more dining venues and traditional amenities like the 7-deck Centrum atrium. Despite being older, its 2012 renovation added modern touches like an outdoor movie theater while maintaining budget-friendly pricing. The ship carries up to 2,446 passengers with a passenger space ratio of 37 tons per guest. It appeals to cruisers seeking variety in dining options and a lively, traditional Royal Caribbean experience.
Jewel of the Seas (Radiance Class, 2004) is 22% larger at 90,090 tons, offering more space per passenger with a ratio of 41 tons per guest and an extra deck. Its recent 2021 renovation provides modern amenities including rock climbing walls, Broadway productions, and contemporary entertainment options. With capacity for 2,191 passengers at double occupancy, it delivers a less crowded environment. Choose Jewel for newer features and spacious comfort, or Grandeur for classic charm and diverse dining at a lower price point.
Specialty Dining Options
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Jewel of the Seas
Complimentary Dining Options
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Amenities
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Jewel of the Seas
Frequenty Asked Questions
Which ship is bigger: Grandeur of the Seas or Jewel of the Seas?
Jewel of the Seas takes the crown here. She's noticeably larger at 90,090 gross tons compared to Grandeur's 74,140 tons – that's about 22% more ship to explore. Jewel stretches 962 feet long while Grandeur measures 916 feet. You'll also find an extra passenger deck on Jewel (12 vs 11).
The size difference really shows in the passenger space ratio. Jewel offers 41 tons per passenger compared to Grandeur's 37 tons. Translation? You get more breathing room and less crowded feeling areas when sailing on Jewel.
What are the main differences in onboard amenities?
Entertainment and Activities
Jewel brings the modern cruise experience with a rock climbing wall, adults-only Solarium, and poolside movies under the stars. Her entertainment lineup features full Broadway musical productions that rival what you'd see on land.
Grandeur takes a more traditional approach. The stunning 7-deck high Centrum atrium creates this grand, classic cruise ship atmosphere. The Viking Crown Lounge perched high above the ship gives you those panoramic ocean views that never get old. The Palladium Theatre seats 870 guests for shows and performances.
Pools and Recreation
Both ships feature outdoor pools, but Jewel's newer design means more contemporary pool areas. Grandeur offers two outdoor pools with that classic cruise ship vibe from the late '90s (though updated during renovations).
How do the dining options compare?
Here's where things get interesting – Grandeur actually edges out Jewel with 13% more dining venues. The older ship offers impressive variety with spots like the Great Gatsby Dining Room and the reliable Windjammer Café buffet.
Jewel counters with quality over quantity. You'll find specialty restaurants like Izumi Sushi for fresh sashimi and rolls, Giovanni's Table for Italian comfort food, and Chops Grille steakhouse for premium cuts. The dining feels more upscale and contemporary.
Which ship offers better value?
Budget Considerations
Grandeur typically costs less due to her age, making her attractive for families or first-time cruisers wanting the Royal Caribbean experience without premium pricing. Built in 1996 but extensively refurbished in 2012, she still offers solid amenities at a friendlier price point.
Modern Comfort vs Classic Charm
Jewel commands higher prices but delivers newer facilities and that fresh renovation smell from her 2021 update. Everything feels more current – from cabin design to technology integration.
What about the staterooms?
Grandeur houses 997 cabins across 21 different categories. Interior and ocean view cabins run about 140-190 square feet, while balcony cabins add roughly 40 square feet of private outdoor space. The variety means good options for different budgets.
Jewel's staterooms benefit from newer construction and recent renovations. While specific sizes weren't detailed, the cabins reflect 2000s design standards with modern touches added during the 2021 refresh.
Which ship has a better crew-to-passenger ratio?
Both ships maintain identical passenger-to-crew ratios of 2.6 to 1. Grandeur carries 760 crew members for up to 2,446 passengers, while Jewel has 852 crew for around 2,191 passengers. Service levels should feel comparable between both vessels.
When were these ships last updated?
Jewel gets the edge with her 2021 renovation – everything feels current and addresses modern cruising preferences. New design elements, updated technology, and fresh amenities throughout the ship.
Grandeur's 2012 refurbishment added an outdoor movie theater, new bars, improved Wi-Fi, and various updates. While not as recent, the renovation kept her competitive and added popular features cruise guests expect.
Which ship should you choose?
Pick Jewel of the Seas if you want more space per person, cutting-edge amenities, rock climbing adventures, and that modern cruise ship experience. The higher price tag gets you newer everything and less crowded public areas.
Choose Grandeur of the Seas for classic Royal Caribbean charm, more dining variety, and better value for your cruise budget. The traditional atmosphere with the soaring Centrum and Viking Crown Lounge creates that timeless cruise ship magic many passengers love.
Both ships deliver the Royal Caribbean experience – it comes down to whether you prefer modern sophistication or classic cruise elegance with extra savings in your pocket.