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Royal Caribbean just revealed the details of the newest member of its fleet, Icon of the Seas, and it's unlike any cruise ship at sea.
When it launches in January 2024, Icon of the Seas will become the largest cruise ship in the world, surpassing Wonder of the Seas, another one of Royal Caribbean's ships that currently holds the title.
Icon of the Seas will have a gross tonnage of 250,800 and be able to accommodate up to 5,610 guests.
With 18 passenger decks, seven swimming pools, eight distinct “neighborhoods” to explore, more than 40 restaurants, cafes, and bars, and half a dozen water slides, cruisers will have no trouble staying entertained.
Here's what to expect on the Icon of the Seas:
Over-The-Top Experiences
In the highly-anticipated reveal of Icon of the Seas, Royal Caribbean shared new details about the ship, including the ways that it will revolutionize the cruising experience.
Along with becoming the largest cruise ship in the world, Icon of the Seas boasts other firsts, including the first water park at sea and the first suspended infinity pool at sea.
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Although the concept of “neighborhoods” on Royal Caribbean ships is not a new one, Icon of the Seas does introduce five totally new neighborhoods for guests to explore:
- Thrill Island: The first water park at sea with half a dozen heart-pounding attractions high above the ocean.
- Chill Island: Enjoy a drink from the swim-up bar Swim & Tonic and get some peace and quiet at the adults-only retreat Cloud 17.
- Surfside: A neighborhood designed for young families where parents can keep an eye on the kids from Water's Edge pool as they play in Splashaway Bay or Baby Bay. Nearby is the arcade and kids' clubs.
- The Hideaway: Located 135 feet above the ocean, guests can enjoy uninterrupted ocean views and take a dip in the first suspended infinity pool at sea.
- AquaDome: Take in wraparound views of the ocean and a stunning 55-foot waterfall. By night, catch a show at the AquaTheater.
With 28 different types of accommodations onboard, including layouts designed for larger families, there's an option for everyone.
Who Is Icon Of The Seas For?
Based on the details that have been released about Icon of the Seas, it's clear that this ship is looking to attract families with young children.
“With each new ship, we raise the bar in the travel industry while enhancing what our guests know and love,” stated Jason Liberty, the president and CEO of Royal Caribbean Group. “Every experience is specifically designed to give them the best vacation anywhere on land and at sea. With Icon of the Seas, we’ve taken this to a new level and made the ultimate family vacation.“
Cruisers who are looking for an adults-only vacation should consider a cruise line like Virgin Voyages, which does not allow children.
Another option is looking for an itinerary that is less likely to be popular with families (such as a European cruise on Royal Caribbean).
Where and When Will Icon Of The Seas Sail?
Icon of the Seas will be completed in late 2023 and commence journeys in January 2024.
The ship will sail year-round on 7-night Eastern and Western Caribbean itineraries from Miami, Florida.
Every cruise will include a port of call at CocoCay, Royal Caribbean's private island in the Bahamas.
Cruises will be available for booking on October 25, 2022.
Michael Bayley, the president and CEO of Royal Caribbean International, summed it up by saying, “Now more than ever, families and friends are prioritizing experiences where they can bond and enjoy their own adventures. We set out to create a vacation that makes all that possible in one place for the thrill-seekers, the chill enthusiasts, and everyone in between, without compromise.”
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Opinions expressed here are the author’s alone, not those of any bank, credit card issuer, hotel, airline, or other entity. This content has not been reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by any of the entities included within the post.