Royal Caribbean proudly announces the impending debut of the Icon of the Seas, slated to become the world’s largest cruise ship in January 2024, surpassing its predecessor, the Wonder of the Seas, by an impressive 6% in size and an additional 10 feet in length. Meticulously crafted at the Meyer Turku shipyard in Finland, the ship has completed rigorous testing during its trial run and is gearing up for its inaugural voyage from Miami on January 27, 2024.
Anticipation is high for the launch of Royal Caribbean International’s Icon of the Seas, a monumental cruise ship that has successfully completed its trial run and is set to redefine the luxury cruising experience. With awe-inspiring dimensions and an array of exceptional features, this colossal vessel promises an unparalleled journey for passengers.
Measuring an astonishing 1,200 feet (365 meters) in length and weighing an incredible 250,800 tonnes, the Icon of the Seas establishes new benchmarks in size and opulence. With a capacity exceeding expectations, the ship can host over 7,960 individuals, including 5,610 passengers and 2,350 crew members. Notable features include a groundbreaking water park named Category 6, seven pools, and nine whirlpools.
Surpassing the Wonder of the Seas, the Icon of the Seas marks a significant advancement in cruise ship design. Its construction, initiated in April 2022 at the Meyer Turku shipyard, has culminated in a vessel eagerly awaiting its inaugural voyage. Departing from Miami on January 27, 2024, the Icon of the Seas is expected to be based in Miami until at least April 2025, offering seven-night Caribbean cruises.
Boasting unprecedented features, the Icon of the Seas guarantees a memorable experience for passengers. Highlights include a captivating water park, family-centric areas, revamped pool decks, an aqua dome area, an aqua theatre, and expansive floor-to-ceiling windows offering stunning 220-degree views. The ship will also feature a sprawling park adorned with thousands of real plants, a swim-up bar, an infinity pool, and more.
Once completed, the Icon of the Seas will soar to a height of 20 decks, and all attractions within Category 6 will be complimentary.
Passengers can choose between two enticing itineraries. The Eastern Caribbean voyage includes stops at Miami, Phillipsburg, Charlotte Amalie, and an exclusive Private Day at CocoCay in the Bahamas. Alternatively, the Western Caribbean itinerary covers Miami, Roatan, Costa Maya, Cozumel, and a visit to the extraordinary Perfect Day at CocoCay.
To cater to diverse preferences, the ship offers 28 different types of cabins, with over 82% accommodating three or more guests and more than 70% featuring private balconies.
During extensive sea trials, the Icon of the Seas underwent rigorous testing of its main engines, hull, brake systems, steering mechanisms, noise, and vibration levels. Over 450 specialists dedicated more than 350 hours to assess the ship’s technical capabilities. Another round of trials is scheduled to push the ship’s limits further before joining the Royal Caribbean fleet officially.
As cruise enthusiasts eagerly await the Icon of the Seas, the ship is poised to redefine luxury cruising with its groundbreaking design and unparalleled facilities. Its impending debut in January 2024 promises a cruise experience that goes beyond conventional boundaries, ensuring an extraordinary vacation for travelers worldwide.
