The construction of the world’s largest cruise ship, Icon of the Seas, measuring an impressive 365 meters (1,200 feet) in length and weighing an estimated 250,800 tonnes, has been finalized at a shipyard in Finland and has embarked on sea trials in preparation for its anticipated delivery in October of this year.
The ship was built at Finland’s Meyer Turku shipyard, a renowned European shipbuilder. Royal Caribbean International President and CEO, Michael Bayley, confirmed that the vessel is on schedule to join the company’s fleet on October 26, positioning it as the ultimate family vacation experience.
“We are positioning it as the ultimate family vacation and when you step back and look at all the energy and time that has gone into creating this ship it is mind-blowing,” Bayley said.
The Royal Caribbean issued a statement following the initial set of sea trials of the ship on June 22.
“During her first set of sea trials, Icon of the Seas traveled hundreds of miles, during which the main engines, hull, brake systems, steering, noise, and vibration levels were all tested,” the statement said. “Everything was done on time as outlined in the schedule, despite her departure being delayed due to wind conditions.”
Key Facts
- 20 total decks with 18 guest decks
- 28 different accommodation types
- 2,350 crew members from international backgrounds
- 2,805 staterooms available
- Accommodates 5,610 guests (double occupancy) with a maximum capacity of 7,600 guests
- Features 7 pools and 9 whirlpools for guest enjoyment
- Boasts 6 record-breaking waterslides
- Weighs 250,800 gross tons (GT)
- Measures 1,198 feet (365 meters) in length
- Constructed at Meyer Turku shipyard in Turku, Finland
- The first ship to be powered by liquefied natural gas (LNG) and fuel cell technology
The Icon of the Seas will embark on seven-night Eastern and Western Caribbean cruises from Miami in January 2024, offering passengers the chance to visit the award-winning private island destination, Perfect Day at CocoCay, as well as its newly expanded Hideaway Beach.
How much does it cost to go on the cruise?
The first cruise is already sold out, but starting in February 2024, visitors can begin their journey in Miami, Floria (US), and spend seven nights onboard the Icon sailing through the Western Caribbean with ports of call including the Bahamas, Mexico, Honduras St. Maarten, and St. Thomas. Prices for the trips will vary but start at about $1,700 per person.
Features of Royal Caribbean’s Icon of the Seas
Royal Caribbean’s Icon of the Seas is set to launch with numerous new features, including the largest waterpark at sea, seven pools, and a family-oriented Surfside neighborhood.
- Thrill Island – This neighborhood, offers splash-tastic fun for all ages on Deck 16. The Park includes six waterslides, including the industry’s first open free-fall slide, the tallest drop slide at sea, Storm Surge and Hurricane Hunter, and the Storm Chasers pair of slides.
- Chill Island – The ship also features seven pools, including the Royal Bay pool, which is the largest at sea at over 40,000 gallons. Other pools and whirlpools include the Hideaway Pool, which offers infinity views and an energetic beach club vibe.
- Crown’s Edge – It is a combination of ropes course, high plank skywalk, and zip line, at about 154 feet above the ocean.
- Surfside – The Surfside neighborhood, designed for younger families with children under 6, features happy, colorful decor, and a high-energy arcade and Sugar Beach eatery.
- Swim & Tonic, the largest swim-up bar at sea, provides in-water loungers and group seating.
- Lime & Coconut offers four locations, including Royal Caribbean International’s first-ever frozen cocktail bar.
- AquaDome – This transformative space with a waterfall feature, offers wraparound ocean views and a calming atmosphere. The AquaTheater features a transforming pool, robotic arms, and state-of-the-art projection for the best water performances.
- The Pearl – This unique sphere-shaped structure, connects decks with special effects and lighting, making it a photo hotspot.
Largest Waterpark at Sea
The ship features the largest waterpark at sea, with six record-breaking slides: Pressure Drop and its 66-degree incline make it the industry’s first open free-fall slide; the 46-foot-tall Frightening Bolt, the tallest drop slide at sea; Storm Surge and Hurricane Hunter, the first family raft slides at sea with four riders per raft; and Storm Chasers, cruising’s first mat-racing duo.
Icon of the Seas vs Titanic
The $1.68 billion cruise ship from Royal Caribbean is five times the Titanic. This Wonder of the Seas is a massive, 362-meter-long, 236,857-ton vessel that boasts 20 restaurants, 19 swimming pools, 11 bars, an ice rink, a Vegas-style casino, divers, robot cocktails, and a Boardwalk. With a crew of 2,300 and 4,200 passengers, the ship features 18 decks, including the Suite Neighborhood, which caters exclusively to suite guests. The seven-day maiden voyage began in Fort Lauderdale, Fla., and will set sail for the Caribbean.
