Royal Caribbean International, one of the world’s leading cruise lines, has announced more details about its upcoming mega-ship, Icon of the Seas. The ship, which is expected to be the largest cruise ship in the world when it debuts in early 2024, will feature new and innovative features that will redefine the cruising experience.
Icon of the Seas: A New Class of Ships
Icon of the Seas will be the first ship in Royal Caribbean’s new Icon class, which will use liquefied natural gas (LNG) and fuel cell technology to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and environmental impact. The ship will also have a sleek and futuristic design, with a glass dome at the front that will offer panoramic views of the ocean and transform into an entertainment venue at night.
The ship will have 20 decks, 2,805 staterooms, and a maximum capacity of 7,600 guests. It will also have eight distinct neighborhoods, each with its own theme and attractions. Some of the neighborhoods are familiar to Royal Caribbean fans, such as Central Park, Suite Neighborhood, and Royal Promenade. Others are brand new and exclusive to Icon of the Seas, such as Chill Island, Thrill Island, Hideaway, and Surfside.
Chill Island: A Relaxing Oasis
Chill Island is the ship’s new take on a pool deck, located mid-ship across three decks. It will feature four of the ship’s seven pools, including the brand’s first-ever swim-up bar at sea. Guests can lounge on sunbeds, hammocks, or cabanas, or enjoy a drink at one of the bars. Chill Island will also have live music and entertainment throughout the day.
Thrill Island: An Adrenaline Adventure
Thrill Island is the opposite of Chill Island, offering guests a variety of exciting and exhilarating activities. The highlight of Thrill Island is Category 6, the largest waterpark at sea, with six waterslides and a splash zone. Thrill Island will also have a FlowRider surf simulator, a rock-climbing wall, a mini-golf course, and Crown’s Edge, where guests can walk along the edge of the ship’s crown logo that hangs off the side of the top decks.
Hideaway: A Suspended Infinity Pool
Hideaway is another new neighborhood that will boast an industry first: a fully-suspended infinity pool that extends over the edge of the ship. The pool will offer stunning views of the ocean and the ship’s wake. Hideaway will also have plenty of deck space with sun loungers and a dedicated bar. Hideaway is expected to be an adults-only area, offering a serene and tranquil escape from the crowds.
Surfside: A Family-Friendly Zone
Surfside is designed to keep kids of all ages entertained, with water and dry activities, kids club areas, and an adjacent three-story family townhouse. The townhouse will have two bedrooms, two bathrooms, a living room, a dining area, and a balcony. It will also have a slide that connects the upper and lower levels. Surfside will also have a carousel, a playground, and a splash pad for younger children.
A New Level of Dining and Entertainment
Icon of the Seas will not only offer new neighborhoods but also new dining and entertainment options. The ship will have more than 40 ways to dine, drink, and be entertained on board. Some of the new venues include Pier 7, a seafood restaurant with an outdoor terrace; The Loft Bar & Lounge, a rooftop bar with live music; The Bistro at Central Park, a French-inspired cafe; and The Speakeasy Club, a hidden bar with a 1920s theme.
The ship will also have new shows and performances that will wow guests with spectacular effects and talent. Some of the shows include Iconic Dreams, a musical journey through iconic songs from different genres; Cirque du Soleil at Sea: ICONS!, an acrobatic show that celebrates iconic figures from history; and AquaDome Spectaculars, nightly shows that combine water features, lasers, projections, and fireworks in the ship’s glass dome.
A New Era for Royal Caribbean
Icon of the Seas is expected to set sail on her maiden voyage in January 2024 from Miami to the Caribbean. The ship will offer seven-night itineraries to destinations such as Puerto Rico, St. Maarten, St. Kitts & Nevis, Antigua & Barbuda, Barbados, St. Lucia, Grenada, Aruba, Curacao, Bonaire, Jamaica, Grand Cayman, Cozumel, and Labadee.
“With each new ship we raise the bar in travel industry while enhancing what our guests know and love,” said Jason Liberty president and CEO of Royal Caribbean Group in a statement. “From moment they step on board every experience is specifically designed to give them best vacation anywhere on land or at sea.”
Icon of the Seas will be a new giant on the horizon, offering guests a new level of cruising that is both innovative and sustainable. Royal Caribbean fans and newcomers alike can look forward to booking their tickets for this once-in-a-lifetime experience.