Royal Caribbean has revealed details of its newest ship—the Icon of the Seas.
On Thursday, Oct. 20, Royal Caribbean unveiled its new ship as the vacation industry’s first-of-its-kind combination of the best of every vacation.
The company revealed the design in a 3D virtual tour at its headquarter in Miami.
The 250,800-gross-tonne Icon of the Seas—the largest cruise ship built to date—is a beach retreat, a resort escape, and a theme park adventure at the same time, catering to every type of vacationer and aiming to be the world’s best family vacation option.
This statement that we made about being the world’s best family vacation option is what Icon is going to be.
Michael Bayley, Royal Caribbean International CEO
The Icon of the Seas features a lineup of firsts and next-level favorites across eight neighborhoods, from adrenaline-pumping thrills at the new Thrill Island to the luxurious four-level Suite Neighborhood. Additionally, the ship has 28 room categories that range from standard rooms to suites. Accommodations include rooms for families of three, four, five, six and more.
Highlights
A big highlight of the new ship is the Aqua Theatre enclosed in the AquaDome. By day, it will be a tranquil oasis where guests can enjoy a bite or drink, while by night it will transform into a vibrant place with entertainment.
The Surfside neighborhood is a candy-coloured retreat for families with young kids aged six and under.
The Water’s Edge is an infinity-edge pool that bridges the space from one side of the ship to the other. The suspended pool is adjacent to The Hideaway, an adults-oriented bar and lounge with beach club vibes.
The Icon also features six waterslides in Category 6, the first true waterpark at sea, according to Royal Caribbean. The slides are the heart of the new Thrill Island neighborhood that also features a thrill ride called Crown’s Edge.
The mid-ship pool area, called Chill Island, includes the Swim & Tonic, Royal’s first onboard swim-up bar.
The interior design has been reimagined with a new look. The Royal Promenade features The Pearl, a three-deck sphere split by a staircase that will serve as an entry portal to the ship. The promenade includes also Absolute Zero, the ship’s ice arena.
Finally, the Ultimate Family Townhouse features an in-suite slide, a cinema space, karaoke and a private entrance to the Surfside neighborhood.
The line expects delivery in early November 2023, with the maiden voyage from Miami in late January 2024.
