Royal Caribbean Shows Off Icon of the Seas during Shipyard Tour

Construction of Royal Caribbean’s Icon of the Seas, which will be the largest cruise ship ever when it’s completed next year, is well underway at the Meyer Turku shipyard in Finland. Travel Market Report had a chance to visit the ship and learn more about it. 

Icon of the Seas will be the first in an all-new class of ships for Royal Caribbean in 10 years. The design has a large focus on entertainment and food for families, and includes lots of changes based on the feedback from consumers.

“Number one reason guests choose to book a vacation experience is food and beverage,” said Tim Klauda, vice president of product development.  “Convenience, choice, bonding, and experience are what guests consider.” 

Food & Beverage
Icon of the Seas will have over 20 new food and beverage concepts to draw in guests. During the shipyard tour, Royal Caribbean teased a brand new adults-only dining venue that will be a multi-course fine dining experience with seats for only 38 guests. 

Additions like the Lemon Post, the first-ever bar for adults and kids, Pearl Cafe, a spot that will provide amazing views of the ocean from the promenade, and Surfside eatery, a buffet experience specifically designed for young families are certain to be draws. Both the Lemon Post and Surfside Eatery will be available in Surfside, the new neighborhood dedicated specifically to families with kids 5 and younger.

Other first for the line will be a swim-up bar for adults and the largest pool deck at sea. 

Plus, Central Park will feature a venue dedicated specifically to live music. </p

Entertainment
Entertainment options are getting a major revamp, too. The Wizard of Oz will be playing in the Royal Theater and the ship will have the only drone show available at sea. And, of course, the AquaTheater returns, with its popular diving and acrobatic shows. In addition, Wheel of Wow, a famous Monte Carlo circus, and a new comedy show will be available for guests to see.

Accommodations
As for the staterooms, the brand took guest feedback seriously when it came to designing new additions like the Infinite Veranda Category. 

“Our guests are more interested in connectivity, convenience, and flexibility when it comes to their staterooms,” said Krissia Larios, senior design associate, newbuild design. 

In total, Icon of The Seas will have 28 different room categories, several of which are new for the brand. 

Royal Caribbean broke one-day sale records when it opened up bookings for the new ship. Already, the ship’s Ultimate Family Townhouse suites are sold out for the entire duration of its first year in operation. 

Icon of the Seas debuts on January 27, 2024 with a season of seven-night Caribbean sailings out of Miami.