A shipyard in Finland has successfully completed the construction of what is set to become the world's largest cruise ship. The Icon of the Seas, owned by Royal Caribbean International, recently embarked on its first sea trials and is expected to be delivered in October of this year.
Impressively, the mammoth vessel measures a staggering 365 meters in length and is projected to weigh around 250,800 tonnes, making it as heavy as two CN Towers combined. When it sets sail in January 2024 in the Caribbean, it will accommodate approximately 5,610 passengers and 2,350 crew members. One of its most remarkable features will be the world's largest waterpark at sea, aptly named Category 6, boasting six record-breaking water slides. Additionally, the ship offers seven pools and nine whirlpools for guests seeking a more leisurely experience.
The Icon of the Seas is being constructed at the esteemed Meyer Turku shipyard in Turku, Finland. Royal Caribbean International's president and CEO, Michael Bayley, shared during a press panel that the vessel is on schedule to join their fleet on October 26, in preparation for its grand debut in 2024. The current titleholder for the world's largest cruise ship is another Royal Caribbean vessel, Wonder of the Seas, which measures a slightly smaller 1,188 feet in length and has 18 decks.
Royal Caribbean International positions the Icon of the Seas as the pinnacle of their evolution in the cruise line industry, leveraging the latest technology and building upon 50 years of experience. Bayley described it as the ultimate family vacation, acknowledging the immense effort invested in creating the ship.
The Icon recently completed its initial sea trials on June 22, encompassing comprehensive testing of various aspects such as the main engines, hull, brake systems, steering, noise levels, and vibrations. Despite a delayed departure due to wind conditions, everything was executed according to schedule.
With over 40 options for dining, entertainment, and drinks, many of which are included in the cruise fare, the ship aims to cater to every type of vacationer. Featuring 20 decks and eight distinct neighborhoods to explore, there are designated areas for young families as well as adults-only spaces like Royal Caribbean International's first dueling pianos bar.
The vessel offers an impressive array of 28 different types of accommodations, including various layouts with ocean views and increased space for group travelers. The cruise line dedicated extensive time to designing the perfect home base for guests.
An important milestone for Royal Caribbean International, the Icon of the Seas is the company's first ship powered by liquefied natural gas (LNG) and fuel cell technology, reflecting their commitment to a clean-energy future.
Throughout the construction process, approximately 2,600 workers have tirelessly contributed to the ship's realization. For the sea trials, hundreds of specialists were on board to assess its performance over a four-day period. Royal Caribbean plans to conduct a second set of sea trials later in 2023.
The anticipation surrounding the ship has resulted in record-breaking advance sales. Bayley described the Icon of the Seas as the most successful new product launch in the company's history during their quarterly financial results.
The Icon of the Seas will embark on seven-night Eastern and Western Caribbean vacations from Miami throughout the year. Each sailing will include a visit to Perfect Day at CocoCay, Royal Caribbean's renowned private island destination, along with its new expansion, Hideaway Beach.
