Icon of the Seas: The World’s Largest Cruise Ship Sets Sail with Spectacular Features and Controversy
There is nothing subtle about the world’s largest cruise ship. Royal Caribbean’s new Icon of the Seas is a behemoth that towers over the seas like a multilayered birthday cake. With its seven swimming pools, whimsical striped carousel, groves of tropical greenery, and twisting waterslides in vibrant colors, this $2 billion ship is a sight to behold.
On January 10, the Icon of the Seas sailed into the Port of Miami, greeted by a cacophony of fireboat salutes and a banner flag flyover. The ship’s arrival caused a traffic halt along the causeway to Miami Beach, as people couldn’t help but stop and admire this magnificent vessel. Even Argentine soccer star Lionel Messi joined in on the ship’s early fanfare as its “godfather,” christening the ship on January 23.
Officially the biggest cruise ship in the world, the Icon of the Seas is set to embark on its maiden voyage from Miami on January 27. With a capacity to carry a whopping 7,600 guests and 2,350 crew members, this ship promises to offer next-level experiences at sea.
The list of superlatives and firsts on the Icon of the Seas is extensive. From Category 6, the ship’s 17,000-square-foot water park with thrilling slides like Frightening Bolt and Hurricane Hunter, to the first cantilevered infinity pool at sea and the largest ice arena at sea, this ship has it all. Passengers will be entertained by 50 musicians and comedians, including the largest orchestra at sea and the first at-sea performance of “The Wizard of Oz.” There’s even a resident golden retriever named Rover, who holds the title of Chief Dog Officer.
However, along with the excitement surrounding the Icon of the Seas, there has also been controversy. Social media images of the ship generated polarized opinions, particularly regarding the potential environmental impact of such a large vessel. Royal Caribbean claims that the Icon of the Seas is 24% more energy efficient than required for ships designed today and plans to introduce a net-zero ship by 2035. Nevertheless, critics argue that the ship’s use of liquefied natural gas (LNG) is a climate blunder due to the release of methane, a potent greenhouse gas.
Despite the blowback, interest in the Icon of the Seas remains high among avid cruisers. The ship is the most researched topic on the cruising website Cruise Critic so far in 2024. Colleen McDaniel, editor-in-chief of Cruise Critic, describes the Icon of the Seas as “absolutely groundbreaking for the industry.” Its innovative features and amenities, such as eight different onboard “neighborhoods” designed to cater to different demographics and interests, have captured the attention of both families and adults-only travelers.
The ship’s neighborhoods offer a range of experiences, from Royal Caribbean’s first swim-up bar at sea to family-friendly dining options and water play areas for young kids. For adults, there’s The Hideaway, inspired by international beach club scenes, featuring a suspended infinity pool with breathtaking ocean views. The ship’s more than 40 onboard restaurants, bars, and lounges provide an array of culinary options, including pay-extra offerings like a walk-up sushi window and a specialty restaurant with an eight-course menu.
Impressive engineering feats are on display throughout the Icon of the Seas. From the AquaDome, which houses a theater, water curtain feature, and Royal Caribbean’s first food hall, to the sphere-shaped Pearl that provides structural support while offering colorful vignettes and ocean views, this ship is a marvel.
Royal Caribbean International designed the Icon of the Seas to compete with any other family vacation option, not just other cruise ships. The ship aims to offer a mashup of thrill and chill, catering to the desires of passengers to make memories, try new experiences, and have endless options for entertainment and relaxation.
As the Icon of the Seas sets sail on its maiden voyage, it is clear that this ship is more than just a means of transportation. It is a floating resort, a destination in itself, offering an unparalleled vacation experience. Whether you’re a family with young children, an adult seeking relaxation, or someone looking for adventure, the Icon of the Seas promises to deliver an unforgettable journey on the high seas.