World’s Largest Ship Almost Ready for its Maiden Voyage

The world’s largest cruise ship, Royal Caribbean International’s Icon of the Seas, has successfully completed construction at a shipyard in Finland and embarked on its maiden voyage for sea trials.

Details on the Vessel

Anticipated to be delivered in October this year, the mammoth vessel spans an impressive 365 meters (nearly 1,200 feet) and is projected to weigh a staggering 250,800 tonnes. With a capacity to comfortably accommodate 5,610 passengers and 2,350 crew members, the ship’s standout feature will be the world’s largest waterpark at sea, aptly named Category 6. This remarkable attraction boasts six record-breaking water slides, complemented by seven pools and nine whirlpools for those seeking a more leisurely experience.

Constructed at the esteemed Meyer Turku shipyard in Turku, Finland, Icon of the Seas is scheduled to join the Royal Caribbean fleet on October 26, 2023, with its inaugural voyage set for January 2024. The current title holder for the world’s largest cruise ship belongs to Wonder of the Seas, also part of the Royal Caribbean fleet, measuring a slightly smaller 1,188 feet in length with 18 decks to explore

What’s Special About the Ship?

Royal Caribbean International positions Icon of the Seas as the pinnacle of their evolutionary journey, incorporating cutting-edge technology and building upon 50 years of expertise. Described as the ultimate family vacation, the vessel offers over 40 dining, entertainment, and leisure options, with the cruise fare covering most of these expenses. The ship comprises twenty decks and eight distinct neighborhoods, catering to a diverse range of vacationers, including dedicated areas for young families.

Featuring 28 different accommodation types, including family-friendly options, ocean-view layouts, and spacious quarters for group travelers, Icon of the Seas embodies the longest design timeframe ever dedicated by the cruise line to create the perfect home base for passengers.

As an industry-leading initiative towards a clean-energy future, Icon of the Seas becomes Royal Caribbean International’s first ship to be powered by liquefied natural gas (LNG) and fuel cell technology. This eco-friendly approach demonstrates the company’s commitment to sustainable practices.

Advance Sales Show Promise

The ship has garnered significant attention, resulting in record-breaking advance sales. Michael Bayley, President, and CEO of Royal Caribbean International, hailed Icon of the Seas as the company’s most successful new product launch to date during the quarterly financial results announcement.

Embarking on seven-night Eastern and Western Caribbean itineraries from Miami year-round, every voyage aboard Icon of the Seas will include a visit to Royal Caribbean’s acclaimed private island destination, Perfect Day at CocoCay, along with its recently expanded Hideaway Beach section. The ship’s remarkable features, innovative design, and commitment to sustainability position Icon of the Seas as a game-changer in the world of cruising, promising an extraordinary experience for passengers seeking adventure, relaxation, and unforgettable memories.