The maritime world is abuzz with excitement as Royal Caribbean International prepares to unveil its latest masterpiece, the Icon of the Seas.
Scheduled to enter service on 27 January 2024, this cruise ship, the lead vessel of the Icon class, is set to redefine the standards of luxury and innovation in the cruise industry.
Let’s delve into the details of this maritime marvel, from its conception to its groundbreaking design.
Icon of the Seas – All you need to know
Specifications
- Name: Icon of the Seas
- Operator: Royal Caribbean International
- Port of registry: Nassau
- Builder: Meyer Turku, Turku, Finland
- Gross Tonnage: 250,800 GT
- Length: 364.75 meters (1,196.7 ft)
- Beam: 48.47 meters (159.0 ft)
- Decks: 20
- Speed: 22 knots (41 km/h; 25 mph)
- Capacity:
- 5,610 passengers (double occupancy)
- 7,600 passengers (maximum capacity)
- Crew: 2,350
Maiden voyage and status
The much-anticipated maiden voyage of Icon of the Seas is scheduled for 27 January 2024, departing from PortMiami in the US.
With a status of “Delivered to Royal Caribbean,” the vessel is ready to embark on its journey of creating unforgettable memories for passengers.
The History of Icon
Project Inception
In October 2016, Royal Caribbean and Meyer Turku collaborated to bring the Icon class into existence, with two ships expected to be delivered in 2023 and 2025.
The vessel, classified by DNV, marks a significant milestone in the ongoing partnership between the cruise line and the Finnish shipbuilder.
Construction Milestones
- Steel-Cutting (June 2021): The construction journey began with the cutting of steel, symbolizing the birth of Icon of the Seas.
- LNG Tank Installation (October 2021): Royal Caribbean announced the installation of the first LNG tank in Rostock, Germany.
- Keel Laid (April 2022): The keel was laid, solidifying the ship’s structure and setting the stage for further development.
- Sea Trials (June 2023): Icon of the Seas embarked on its inaugural sea trials, showcasing its seaworthiness.
- Official Handover (November 2023): On 27 November 2023, the ship was officially given over to Royal Caribbean, anticipating its debut in January 2024.
Bridge Crossing
On 1 December 2023, Icon of the Seas achieved a historic moment by passing under the Great Belt Bridge in Denmark, following in the wake of Allure of the Seas in 2010.
Design and Innovation
Sustainable Power
Icon of the Seas is a pioneer in environmentally friendly cruising powered by liquified natural gas (LNG). Equipped with six multi-fuel Wärtsilä engines generating 67,500 kW of power, the ship can run on both LNG and distillate fuel.
Innovative features, such as fuel cells for electricity and freshwater production, further establish Icon of the Seas as a trailblazer in sustainable technology within the Royal Caribbean fleet.
Unprecedented Features
The ship boasts an impressive array of amenities, including:
- Decks and Pools: With 20 decks, seven swimming pools, and six water slides, Icon of the Seas promises a dynamic and entertaining environment for passengers.
- Record-Breaking Attractions: Royal Caribbean proudly claims that the ship features the tallest waterfall, the tallest water slide, the largest waterpark, and the first suspended infinity pool on any cruise ship.
As Icon of the Seas prepares to make its grand debut, the cruise industry eagerly awaits the arrival of this colossal and groundbreaking vessel.
From its inception in 2016 to its innovative design and sustainable features, Icon of the Seas is poised to make waves in the world of cruising, setting a new standard for luxury, entertainment, and environmental responsibility.
As the largest cruise ship in the world, it is not just a vessel but an icon in the making.
