Symphony of the Seas
Class: Oasis Class | Tonnage: 228,081 GT | Capacity: 5,518 | Launched: 2018
Quick Take
The pinnacle of Oasis Class. World’s largest cruise ship when launched in 2018, with the most complete amenities and top-tier experiences.
Why Choose Symphony?
Symphony is the 4th Oasis Class ship, incorporating lessons learned from the previous three with multiple enhancements:
- Larger Ultimate Abyss - More thrilling than Harmony’s
- Optimized pool deck - More seating and shade
- Upgraded kids area - Larger Adventure Ocean
- Better soundproofing - Improved cabin acoustics
Exclusive/Upgraded Highlights
Ultimate Abyss
- 10 stories tall, speeds up to 9 mph
- Symphony version is longer, more thrilling
- Free to experience
Playscape Kids Area
- New outdoor kids zone on Symphony
- Slides, climbing structures, splash features
- Ages 6-12 favorite
Splashaway Bay Water Park
- Upgraded kids water park
- More slides and splash features
- Family must-visit
Broadway Shows
- Hairspray - Classic musical
- Full stage, professional cast
- Free to watch
7 Neighborhoods
| Neighborhood | Symphony Highlights |
|---|---|
| Central Park | 20,000+ real plants |
| Boardwalk | Upgraded AquaTheater |
| Royal Promenade | Wider shopping street |
| Pool & Sports | Optimized seating layout |
| Spa & Fitness | Larger fitness center |
| Entertainment | Hairspray musical |
| Youth Zone | Expanded kids area |
Key Amenities
| Amenity | Details |
|---|---|
| Ultimate Abyss | Yes (upgraded) |
| FlowRider | 2 |
| Rock Climbing Wall | Yes |
| Zip Line | Yes (82 feet high) |
| Carousel | Yes |
| Bionic Bar | Yes |
| AquaTheater | Yes (upgraded) |
| Ice Skating Rink | Yes |
| Laser Tag | Yes |
| Escape Room | Yes |
Dining Options
Complimentary
- Main Dining Room - Three decks, classic dining
- Windjammer - Buffet
- Park Cafe - Central Park
- Solarium Bistro - Adults-only area
- Vitality Cafe - Healthy options
Specialty
- 150 Central Park - Fine dining
- Chops Grille - Steakhouse
- Izumi - Japanese (sushi/hot pot/teppanyaki)
- Jamie’s Italian - Jamie Oliver’s
- Hooked Seafood - Seafood
- Playmakers - Sports bar
- Starbucks
Cabin Recommendations
| Type | Rating | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Interior | ⭐⭐⭐ | Budget choice |
| Central Park View | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ | Unique experience, quiet |
| Boardwalk View | ⭐⭐⭐ | Nice view but potential noise |
| Ocean Balcony | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | Top pick |
| Sky Loft Suite | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | Duplex suite, luxury experience |
| Ultimate Family Suite | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | Family dream, has a slide! |
Special Recommendation: Ultimate Family Suite
Symphony’s exclusive family suite:
- Slide inside the room!
- LEGO wall, gaming consoles
- Separate kids bedroom
- Butler service
- Pricey but one-of-a-kind experience
Best For
| Traveler Type | Rating | Reason |
|---|---|---|
| Ultimate Seekers | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | Most complete Oasis Class |
| Families | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | Ultimate Family Suite, upgraded kids facilities |
| First-Time Cruisers | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | Maximum experience |
| Miami Departures | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | Year-round homeport |
| Budget Conscious | ⭐⭐⭐ | Slightly pricier than Harmony |
Symphony vs Harmony Comparison
| Item | Symphony | Harmony |
|---|---|---|
| Launch Year | 2018 | 2016 |
| Tonnage | 228,081 | 226,963 |
| Ultimate Abyss | Upgraded | Standard |
| Broadway Show | Hairspray | Voices (replaced Grease) |
| Price | Usually 10-15% more | More affordable |
| Kids Facilities | Upgraded | Standard |
Conclusion: Symphony is more complete but pricier; Harmony offers better value.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Newest amenities - Most complete Oasis Class
- Family-friendly - Upgraded water park and play areas
- Ultimate Family Suite - One-of-a-kind family experience
- Miami homeport - Rich itinerary choices
Cons
- Higher prices - Most expensive Oasis Class (except Wonder)
- Most crowded - 5500+ passengers
- Some extras cost - Specialty dining, drinks, etc.
Common Itineraries
- Miami departures - Year-round homeport
- Eastern Caribbean 7-night
- Western Caribbean 7-night
- Perfect Day at CocoCay
- Seasonal - Occasional Europe cruises
Ingrid’s Take
Symphony is the “full power” Oasis Class. If budget allows and you want the most complete experience, it’s the top choice.
Especially recommended for families with kids — Playscape, Splashaway Bay, Adventure Ocean are all upgraded, and the Ultimate Family Suite is truly unique.
My advice: If the price difference is within 10%, choose Symphony; if it’s bigger, Harmony is equally impressive.
Last updated: March 2026