Royal Caribbean's Icon of the Seas: A New Era in Cruising

Royal Caribbean has officially named its newest ship, the Icon of the Seas, which now holds the title of the world’s largest cruise ship. The naming ceremony took place in Port Miami, with superstar Lionel Messi doing the honors.

A Dream Realized

“Icon of the Seas is a culmination of over 50 years of dreaming, innovating, and living our mission each and every day to deliver the world’s best vacations and doing so in a responsible way,” said Jason Liberty, CEO of Royal Caribbean Cruises. This sentiment was echoed by Michael Bayley, president and CEO of Royal Caribbean International, who thanked his entire team for their hard work and dedication.

Unprecedented Size and Features

The Icon of the Seas is nearly 1,200 feet long and weighs 250,800 gross tons. It can accommodate a maximum of 7,600 guests, with a crew of 2,350. The ship features over 40 restaurants, bars, and lounges, eight distinct neighborhoods, seven pools, nine whirlpools, and six record-breaking waterslides.

One of the most notable features of the ship is the AquaDome, the single largest glass and steel structure to be lifted onto a cruise ship. This innovative feature is just one of the many ways that the Icon of the Seas is pushing the boundaries of what is possible on a cruise ship.

Entertainment and Crew

The ship will also host more than 75 world-class performers and as many as 50 live musicians and comedians. Perhaps the most anticipated crew member, however, is Rover, the Chief Dog Officer onboard. This unique addition to the crew highlights the family-friendly nature of the Icon of the Seas and its commitment to providing a fun and enjoyable experience for all guests.

Future Plans

The Icon of the Seas is the first in its class, with two other ships set to arrive in 2025 and 2026. The ship will sail out of Miami to the Caribbean and Royal Caribbean’s private island Perfect Day at Coco Cay. This new class of ships represents a significant step forward for Royal Caribbean and the cruise industry as a whole.

In conclusion, the Icon of the Seas is a testament to Royal Caribbean’s commitment to innovation and excellence. With its unprecedented size, unique features, and commitment to providing the best possible vacation experience, the Icon of the Seas is truly a game-changer in the world of cruising.