Royal Caribbean Takes World’s Largest Cruise Ship Icon of the Seas Out for its First Spin
Overview
Royal Caribbean has recently conducted sea trials for its new cruise ship, Icon of the Seas. The ship, which surpasses the size of the Oasis-class ships, is set to arrive in Miami later this year and begin sailing with customers in January 2024. The sea trials involved testing the ship’s main engines, bow and propellers, as well as noise and vibration levels. This is the first of three announced ships in the Icon class, with the next two set to be delivered in 2025 and 2026.
Engineering Feat
Similar to the existing Oasis-class ships, Icon of the Seas is divided into neighborhoods. The most notable addition to the ship is the AquaDome, a massive engineering feat weighing in at 363 tons. Located at the top and front of the ship, the AquaDome will serve as a venue for diving and aerialist shows. During the day, it will also feature a 55-foot-tall waterfall and various bars and restaurants. The ship is about 15,000 gross tons larger than the current world’s largest cruise ship, Wonder of the Seas, with a maximum capacity of 7,600 passengers.
New Spaces and Amenities
Icon of the Seas will feature a range of new neighborhoods and amenities. The Surfside neighborhood, located at the aft of the ship, replaces the Boardwalk space found on Oasis ships and offers family-friendly activities. The top deck will be home to Thrill Island, featuring the largest water park at sea and a thrilling ropes course. For those seeking relaxation, Chill Island will offer a swim-up bar, in-water loungers, and tables. The ship will also have seven pools shipwide.
Unique Dining Offerings
Royal Caribbean has revealed details about some of the unique dining options on Icon of the Seas. The ship will feature the Empire Supper Club, a 1920s-themed, high-end specialty restaurant, and the AquaDome Market, a food hall concept with dedicated venues for macaroni and cheese and crepes, among other options.
Advice for Potential Passengers
For passengers considering a cruise on Icon of the Seas, it is important to keep in mind the ship’s large size and capacity. While the ship offers a range of amenities and dining options, it may also be crowded, especially during peak times. It is advisable to plan activities and dining reservations in advance to ensure an enjoyable experience. Additionally, those seeking a more relaxed atmosphere may want to prioritize areas such as Chill Island and The Hideaway.
Conclusion
The release of Icon of the Seas represents a significant milestone for Royal Caribbean. As the world’s largest cruise ship, it offers an impressive array of amenities and dining options. However, potential passengers should be prepared for large crowds and plan their activities accordingly. With its planned arrival in Miami later this year, Icon of the Seas is poised to provide an unforgettable cruising experience for those seeking adventure and luxury on the high seas.
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The image is for illustrative purposes only and does not depict the actual situation.
