Royal Caribbean International is a better choice for families and those seeking a wide range of destinations and onboard activities. Virgin Voyages is better suited for adults looking for a more inclusive, modern cruise experience with a focus on sustainability.
| Attribute | Royal Caribbean International | Virgin Voyages |
|---|---|---|
| Price Range (Base Fare) | Prices vary depending on the ship, itinerary, and time of booking. | Starts around $169 per night. A 4-night Key West and Bahamas sailing in an interior cabin was priced at $1734 for two cruisers. Base fare includes gratuities and basic internet. |
| Cabin Options | Offers a variety of cabin options including Interior, Balcony, and Suites. The Icon Class ships have more cabins designed for families. | Insider (Inside cabins without a window), Sea View (Oceanview cabins with a porthole), Sea Terrace (Balcony cabins with a signature red hammock), RockStar Quarters (Suites), Mega RockStar Quarters (Suites). |
| Ship Size and Passenger Capacity | Royal Caribbean operates a large fleet with varying ship sizes. Icon of the Seas can carry up to 7,600 passengers. The smallest ships can carry around 2,000 passengers. | Approximately 2,700-2,860 passengers. Around 1,150 crew members. |
| Itinerary Variety | Offers cruises to numerous destinations, including the Caribbean, Bahamas, Alaska, Europe, and Asia. | Destinations include the Caribbean, Europe, and the Mediterranean. Scarlet Lady mainly sails 4-to-5 night cruises in the Caribbean. |
| Onboard Activities and Entertainment | Includes Broadway-style shows, live music, casinos, pools, water slides, surf simulators (FlowRider), rock climbing, ice skating, and more. | Shows, parties, and music. Show-stopping entertainment includes Duel Reality, Around the World with The Diva, Another Rose (dinner and a show for $50), and Persephone. Themed parties like the Sail Away Party, PJ Party, and We Fancy Party. The Manor nightclub. Karaoke, fitness classes, poolside games, live music, shopping, spa treatments, and gambling events in the casino. |
| Dining Options and Cuisine Variety | Offers a wide array of dining options, from casual to formal, with diverse cuisines. They can accommodate dietary needs such as food allergies, gluten-free, Kosher, low-fat, and low-sodium. | Over 20 eateries onboard, with no buffets or set dining times. Cuisine options range from Mexican to Italian, Korean, and more. Vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options in every restaurant. Razzle Dazzle restaurant features a vibrant, plant-based menu alongside traditional fare. |
| Family-Friendliness | Known for being family-friendly with kids' clubs (Adventure Ocean) for various age groups, activities, and dedicated menus. | Adults-only cruise line (18+). |
| Adult-Oriented Amenities | Adult-only Solarium with pools and lounges, spas (Vitality Spa), bars, and nightclubs. | Redemption Spa with saunas and cold plunge pools, The Manor nightclub, Casino, The Beach Club at Bimini (exclusive destination). |
| Inclusivity | Gratuities are automatically added to beverage packages and other purchases. Beverage packages are available to purchase. | Gratuities are included in the base fare. Essential drinks like water, soda, and drip coffee are included. |
| Technology and Connectivity | Wi-Fi is available for purchase. App features are also available. | Cabins have smart TVs, USB charging ports, and customizable lighting. Basic Wi-Fi is included. |
| Sustainability Initiatives | Royal Caribbean is committed to reducing its environmental footprint through various initiatives, such as waste management, energy efficiency, and sustainable sourcing. | Committed to achieving Net Zero Carbon emissions by 2050. Banned single-use plastics. Uses energy-efficient technology, such as Climeon, to reduce fuel consumption. Food is made to order to reduce waste. Water conservation and waste management programs. |
| Loyalty Program Benefits | The Crown & Anchor Society rewards repeat cruisers with benefits such as priority check-in, discounts, complimentary drinks, and access to exclusive areas. | The Virgin Voyages Sailing Club has three tiers: Sailing Club, Blue Extras, and Deep Blue Extras. Blue Extras includes a complimentary specialty coffee per day, access to an exclusive cocktail event, one free bag of laundry, and a dedicated Sailor Services support line. Deep Blue Extras adds a second free specialty coffee, priority boarding, two pressed items and one specialty cleaned item of clothing (in addition to the free bag of laundry), and unlimited premium Wi-Fi. |