The cruise industry is gearing up for a monumental addition to its fleet as Royal Caribbean International’s Icon of the Seas prepares to take to the waters. This colossal cruise ship, measuring a staggering 365 meters in length and weighing an estimated 250,800 tonnes, is set to rewrite the record books.1 To put it in perspective, that’s like keeping 25 Eiffel Towers afloat.
The anticipation is palpable as this engineering marvel readies itself for its grand debut. Icon of the Seas is more than just a ship; it’s a floating city of luxury and adventure. When it sets sail in January 2024, it will carry with it the hopes and dreams of travelers worldwide, eager to explore its myriad of features and experiences.
A Monumental Undertaking
The construction of Icon of the Seas was no small feat. This mammoth vessel was meticulously crafted at the Meyer Turku shipyard in Turku, Finland. Meyer Turku, one of Europe’s leading shipbuilders, lent its expertise to create this marvel of maritime engineering.
At an on-site press panel earlier this year, Royal Caribbean International president and chief executive Michael Bayley shared insights into the ship’s development. He highlighted the vessel’s role as a culmination of 50 years of learnings and technological advancements within the company.
“We are positioning it as the ultimate family vacation,” Bayley said. “And when you step back and look at all the energy and time that has gone into creating this ship, it is mind-blowing”.
The Icon completed its first set of sea trials on June 22, according to a Royal Caribbean statement. “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”.
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Unveiling the Icon of the Seas
The Icon of the Seas promises an unparalleled cruise experience. Scheduled to embark on its maiden voyage in January 2024, this mammoth vessel will accommodate approximately 5,610 passengers and boast a crew of 2,350. The ship’s pièce de résistance is undoubtedly its remarkable waterpark, aptly named Category 6. This aquatic wonderland will feature six record-breaking waterslides, including the Frightening Bolt, the tallest waterslide to sail, and the Pressure Drop, the first open freefall waterslide on a cruise.2
For families and thrill-seekers, it’s an adventure like no other. Meanwhile, those seeking relaxation can indulge in the seven pools and nine whirlpools, ensuring there’s something for everyone on board.
An Oasis of Entertainment and Dining
The ship promises more than 40 ways to dine, drink, and be entertained, many of which are included in the cruise fare. With 20 decks and eight neighborhoods to explore, the idea is to cater to every type of vacationer, with everything from areas dedicated to young families to adults-only spaces, such as Royal Caribbean International’s first dueling pianos bar.
There are 28 different types of accommodations, with more categories for families, more layouts with ocean views, and more space for group travelers. The cruise line says it’s the longest timeframe it’s ever dedicated to “designing the perfect home base.“
Icon of the Seas is also Royal Caribbean International’s first ship powered by liquefied natural gas (LNG) and fuel cell technology, as part of the company’s move to a clean-energy future.
As the Icon of the Seas prepares to set sail, it not only promises thrilling adventures but also a commitment to sustainability. This innovative approach aligns with Royal Caribbean International’s dedication to environmental responsibility and a cleaner, greener cruising future.
Icon of the Seas: Record-breaking Sales & Global Excitement
The buzz about the ship is such that advance sales have been record-breaking. Michael Bayley is reported to have described Icon of the Seas during the company’s quarterly financial results as “literally the best-performing new product launch we’ve ever had.”
Icon of the Seas will sail seven-night Eastern and Western Caribbean vacations from Miami all year round. Every sailing will include a visit to Perfect Day at CocoCay, Royal Caribbean’s award-winning private island destination, as well as its new expansion, Hideaway Beach.
In conclusion, the Icon of the Seas is poised to redefine the cruising experience. With its monumental size, groundbreaking features, commitment to sustainability, and overwhelming demand from eager travelers, it’s set to become the new standard for luxury cruises. As the world eagerly awaits its inaugural voyage, it’s clear that the Icon of the Seas represents the future of cruising—a future filled with adventure, luxury, and environmental responsibility.
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Sources
- “The world’s biggest cruise ship is almost ready.” CNN. Maureen O’Hare. June 27, 2023.
- Royal Caribbean