New Royal Caribbean Cruise Ship Is The World’s Biggest
Setting sail in luxury: Royal Caribbean’s Icon of the Seas, the world’s largest cruise ship.
In a groundbreaking move, Royal Caribbean proudly unveiled Icon of the Seas, the world’s largest cruise ship. It set sail on its maiden voyage from Miami, Florida on January 27, 2024. At 365 meters in length and weighing 251,000 gross tonnes, this floating marvel is poised to redefine the cruising experience. Promising passengers an unparalleled journey into opulence, the ship is meticulously crafted for an unforgettable trip of a lifetime.
Unveiling the Icon of the Seas
The Icon of the Seas cost over $2 billion to construct, representing the most significant project in Royal Caribbean’s 54 year history. Passengers can prepare to be enthralled by the grandeur and innovation as they step onboard. This colossal vessel stands as a testament to maritime engineering and design, pushing the boundaries of what a cruise ship can offer.
Where is Icon of the Seas going to sail from?
Travelers and cruise enthusiasts will be able to embark on a journey of a lifetime as the Icon of the Seas sets sail from the bustling port of Miami, in South Florida. Miami is known for its tropical allure and vibrant atmosphere, acting as the perfect starting point for an adventure through the Caribbean aboard this luxurious vessel.
Where is Icon of the Seas sailing to?
Explore exotic destinations in the Caribbean, with stops at pristine beaches, cultural landmarks, and vibrant local markets. Royal Caribbean offers 7 Night Western Caribbean and 7 Night Eastern Caribbean Cruise. While the majority of the itineraries include a day at Perfect Day at CocoCay, not all of them do, so be sure to keep an out for that if that is important to you. We definitely recommend it!
How much will it cost to sail on Icon of the Seas?
Royal Caribbean offers a range of packages, including all-inclusive deals, family packages, and special discounts for early bookings. Currently, the prices range from $1,725 to $2,640 per person, and can climb up to $5,125 per person around Christmas. These prices don’t include fees or taxes, so a more realistic budget should average around $2,000 per person or around $8,000+ per person for the high-end rooms and dates.
What is special about Icon of the Seas?
While onboard, there are so many amazing activities and things to do. During the day, cruisers can participate in educational workshops, culinary classes, themed parties and exclusive events. Then there’s Category 6, the largest waterpark at sea! This massive waterpark has 6 record-breaking waterslides, including the tallest waterslide on the seas, the first open free-fall waterslide on a cruise, the first family raft slide on a ship, and exhilarating mat racers.
Maybe hanging out in the water is your thing. The ship has seven pools, one for everyday of your seven nights at sea: including the Royal Bay pool, the worlds largest pool on a cruise ship. There’s also a large surf simulator called the FlowRider that funnels 30,000 gallons of rushing water to create the perfect waves for guests to surf. For those seeking an adrenaline rush, the Rock Climbing Wall has some of the best views at sea and takes climbing to another level… sea level. (see what we did there!?)
Another fun experience is a new stay-all-day neighborhood just for families called Surfside. It includes a kid-approved waterpark, a pool just for grownups, and plenty of food to fuel up for more fun activities. Other onboard highlights include a theater, an ice-skating rink, a music hall with live music, a sports bar with an arcade, a mini golf course, and much more!
Everything You Need to Know About Icon of the Seas
Size and Scale of the Ship
The Icon of the Seas boasts unprecedented dimensions, securing its place as the largest cruise ship globally. It measures 365 meters (1.197 feet) in length and weighs 251,000 gross tonnes. There are 20 decks, 2,805 staterooms, with capacity for 5,610 guests and 2,350 crew members. With its vast expanse, passengers can expect an array of opulent amenities, ensuring an unforgettable voyage.
Poolside Paradises Onboard
From pools tucked away on the top deck like Cloud 19, to a two-story sundeck and a private pool in the Suite Neighborhood, the ship provides a range of accommodations catering to different preferences. There are beachclubs and DJs, and pools that float in midair (in the first ever suspended infinity pool at sea.) There is fun swim-up bar called Swim and Tonic, and the sprawling oasis called Royal Bay in Chill Island. With 7 pools onboard, you will have no problem finding somewhere to dip your toes.
Dining, Food and Drinks Options
Culinary enthusiasts and foodies alike, will revel in an amazing food journey across the ship’s diverse dining options. For the coffee lovers, Starbucks is on Deck 5, but isn’t included. But, passengers can enjoy free restaurants and other eateries included with their cruise purchase from places like Cantina Fresca, Coastal Kitchen, El Loco Fresh, Main Dining Room, Park Cafe, Sorrento’s Pizza, Vitality Cafe, and Windjammer.
Cutting-Edge Technology and Smart Designs
Elevating the onboard experience, the Icon of the Seas integrates advanced technology seamlessly. Smart room controls, high-speed internet, and interactive entertainment systems ensure a connected and modern cruise experience.
Entertainment on Icon of the Seas
The Icon of the Seas is not merely a mode of transportation but a floating entertainment hub. Passengers can enjoy Absolute Zero, an ice skating show that will wow the whole family, or spend the night laughing at the Comedy Club. There are also 7 pools, a surf simulator, a rock climbing wall, an AquaTheater, a live music hall, a sports bar with an arcade, a mini-golf course, a casino, karaoke, and an escape room, just to name a few!
Something you can’t miss is the waterpark, Category 6. It’s officially the largest waterpark at sea with six record-breaking slides including the Frightening Bolt, the tallest waterslide to sail and the Pressure Drop, the first open free-fall waterslide on a cruise.
Wellness and Recreation
Fitness enthusiasts will find state-of-the-art facilities, including gyms with ocean views and wellness centers offering rejuvenating spa treatments. Outdoor enthusiasts can explore expansive decks with pools, sports courts, and more.
The Coolest Suite on a Cruise Ship: Ultimate Family Townhouse
For those families seeking the perfect combination of luxury and fun, and have an extra $80,000-$100,000 to spend for 7 nights onboard this amazing ship, should definitely consider the Family Townhouse. This is one of the most unique suites you’ll find on sea or land. The Ultimate Family Townhouse Suite and it is nothing short of spectacular. Whether you are traveling with the family, children, or a bunch of adults that will never grow up, this 3 level, mind-blowing suite is sure deliver the ultimate cruise experience!
The Ultimate Family Townhouse features:
– Sleeps 8 people
– 3 full bathrooms
– Dining room and kitchenette
– Cinema room with large day-bed, popcorn machine, and karaoke
– Private whirlpool on the suite balcony with an excellent view
– 3 levels and a slide to go from one level to the other
The debut of the Icon of the Seas marks a milestone in the realm of maritime luxury and innovation. From its majestic maiden voyage to its remarkable array of features, the incredible ship stands as a testament to Royal Caribbean’s commitment to redefining the cruising experience. So start packing, because now is your chance embark on a nautical adventure where luxury knows no bounds. For more information or to make a booking, visit the Official Royal Caribbean Icon of the Seas website.
