After months of anticipation, Royal Caribbean International finally revealed the first details of the new Icon of the Seas in late October.
Set to open a new class of ships in the company’s fleet, the vessel will have a very a unique design, with a full set of new features and state-of-the-art green technology.
Here’s all we already know about the ship, its features, and its itineraries:
New Largest Cruise Ship in The World
The Icon of the Seas will become the biggest cruise ship in the world when it debuts in early 2024.
At over 250,000 tons and a capacity of 5,610 guests, the newbuild will be significantly larger than its fleet mate Wonder of the Seas, the 227,625-ton vessel that currently holds the title.
Royal Caribbean’s Greenest Ship Yet
Equipped with LNG-powered engines and new fuel cell technology, the Icon of the Seas will be Royal Caribbean International’s greenest ship yet.
The vessel will also use other proven applications, such as shore power connection and waste heat recovery systems, to be among the industry’s most sustainable cruise ships to date.
Eight Neighborhoods
The public areas of the Icon will comprise eight different neighborhoods which, according to Royal Caribbean, are destinations in themselves. Each of the zones will offer an array of experiences, live entertainment, and ways to grab a bite and a drink, the company added.
Spread around the entire vessel, the neighborhoods have different functions and may cater to distinct publics.
The new Surfside zone, for instance, was designed for young families, focusing on adults and kids ages six and under. Located at the stern of the vessel, the area features pool areas for both adults and children, as well as dining options, a bar, a carousel, an arcade, and more.
Five Brand-New Adventures
In addition to Surfside, the Icon will feature four more new neighborhoods, including AquaDome. Located at the top of the vessel, the area is described by Royal Caribbean as a transformational place unlike any other.
By day, the neighborhood offers wraparound ocean views and a waterfall, while, by night, it becomes a vibrant place for a night out, complete with restaurants, bars, and the cruise line’s marquee aqua shows at the AquaTheater. After debuting on the Oasis Class, the show venue will feature a new transforming pool, four robotic arms, state-of-the-art projection, and more.
Other new neighborhoods include Thrill Island, highlighted by Category 6, the largest waterpark at sea; Chill Island, with its four different swimming pools; and The Hideaway, where guests will find the first suspended infinity pool at sea, multilevel sun terraces with whirlpools, a variety of seating and a dedicated bar.
Three Returning Favorites
Three signature neighborhoods of former ship classes are also making returns, including the Royal Promenade. The area now features floor-to-ceiling ocean views, Royal Caribbean said, plus more than 15 restaurants, cafes, bars, and lounges.
The Central Park is also making a return and, according to the company, will offer a lusher and livelier experience, along with more ways to dine and be entertained. The Icon will also feature the largest Suite Neighborhood, complete with four decks, a multilevel private pool deck, and a two-story Coastal Kitchen.
More returning favorites include experiences like new takes on mini golf at Lost Dunes, rock climbing at Adrenaline Peak, and Absolute Zero, Royal Caribbean’s largest ice-skating rink, in addition to dining venues such as Giovanni’s Italian Kitchen & Wine Bar and the Asian-inspired Izumi.
New Cabins Including a Three-Level Family Suite
The Icon of the Seas will offer 28 different cabin categories which, according to Royal Caribbean, were thoughtfully designed for every type of vacationer.
Among the new accommodations are layouts made for families of three, four, five, and more, including the three-story Ultimate Family Townhouse, complete with its own white picket fence and mailbox. Also new are the brand’s first Sunset Corner Suites and Panoramic Ocean Views in AquaDome.
Year-Round Service in the Caribbean
Starting in early 2024, the Icon will sail year-round on Eastern and Western Caribbean vacations from Royal Caribbean’s Miami Cruise Terminal.
Every seven-night cruise will visit the company’s private island destination in the Bahamas, Perfect Day at CocoCay, in addition to ports like Cozumel, Mexico; Philipsburg, St. Maarten; and Roatan, Honduras.
Record-Breaking Bookings
Royal Caribbean International saw its single largest booking day in its 53-year history when reservations opened for Icon’s inaugural season.
According to the company, the public’s interest in the ship led to the record-breaking booking spree. “The enthusiasm and excitement for Icon are undeniable in more ways than one,” said Michael Bayley, president and CEO of Royal Caribbean International.
