royal caribbean's icon of the seas to sail in 2024 as world’s biggest cruise ship with waterpark

Dubbed world’s biggest cruise ship can occupy 5,600+ guests

Royal Caribbean has its sights set on claiming the title of the world’s largest cruise ship with its multi-leveled and technicolor Icon of the Seas, set to be released in January 2024. The massive cruise ship combines various types of getaways, from beach retreats to resort escapes and theme park adventures, all in one place. Built in Turku, Finland, it can accommodate 5,610 guests, 20 open decks, and features six record-breaking waterslides, seven swimming pools, nine whirlpools, 2,805 staterooms, and 1,198 feet (365 meters) in length.

Prior to its anticipated debut in January 2024, Royal Caribbean has already completed its initial round of sea trials. In June 2023, the Icon of the Seas embarked on its maiden voyage in the open ocean. After four days of testing its technologies and equipment, including the main engines, hull, brake system, steering, and noise and vibration levels, the ship returned to the Meyer Turku shipyard where it is being constructed.

As Royal Caribbean states, bringing the world’s biggest cruise ship to life is a monumental undertaking involving over 2,000 specialists, covering hundreds of miles, utilizing four tugboats weighing between 37 to 67 tons, and requiring over 350 hours of work. The next step in the journey will be a second round of sea trials scheduled for later in 2023, leading up to its grand inauguration in Miami in January 2024.

images courtesy of Royal Caribbean

Icon of the Seas introduces 8 expansive neighborhoods

Royal Caribbean Icon of the Seas stages eight neighborhoods for the guests to explore with five of them focused on water adventure. The world’s biggest cruise ship offers a variety of experiences for vacationers, starting with Thrill Island which features a record-breaking waterpark with exhilarating slides. Hopping into Chill Island provides multiple pools with stunning ocean views and a swim-up bar for the guests.

Surfside is a family-friendly area with activities for young children, while The Hideaway offers a secluded paradise with a suspended infinity pool. At AquaDome, guests can enjoy ocean views, a waterfall, and vibrant entertainment options. The Icon of the Seas retains Royal Caribbean’s signature neighborhoods too with the Royal Promenade now boasting floor-to-ceiling ocean views and offering over 15 dining, cafe, bar, and lounge options. Central Park gets even more vibrant and lush, brimming with greenery and additional dining and entertainment choices.

The world’s biggest cruise ship has also expanded Suite Neighborhood where accommodations are located across four decks, including a private sun deck with a pool, whirlpool, and dining area. Returning favorites include Lost Dunes, a revamped mini golf experience, Adrenaline Peak for rock climbing enthusiasts, and Absolute Zero, the largest ice arena in the Royal Caribbean fleet.

Royal Caribbean has its sights set on claiming the title of the world’s largest cruise ship with Icon of the Seas

Royal caribbean to sail year-round after debut

Royal Caribbean has designed 28 different types of rooms to cater to every type of vacationer. There are new layouts specifically created for families of different sizes, offering features like alcoves for kids and even a three-story townhouse. The rooms provide ocean views, including the first Sunset Corner Suites and Panoramic Ocean Views in the AquaDome. The Icon of the Seas, Royal Caribbean’s newest ship, will also be powered by fuel cell technology and liquefied natural gas (LNG), making it environmentally friendly.

Icon of the Seas will sail year-round after its debut in January 2024, offering seven-night Caribbean vacations to guests from Miami. Every cruise will include a visit to Royal Caribbean’s private island destination, Perfect Day at CocoCay, where guests can enjoy more waterpark slides, relaxing beach cabanas, and other types of adventures. The world’s biggest cruise ship is also expected to include other stops on its way such as Cozumel, Mexico; Philipsburg, St. Maarten; and Roatan, Honduras.

the massive cruise ship combines beach retreats, resort escapes and theme park adventures in one place