Royal Caribbean’s Icon of the Seas, the world’s largest cruise ship, lived up to the hype for the first passengers during preview sailings from the Port of Miami. The $2 billion behemoth boasts eight distinct neighborhoods and can hold nearly 10,000 passengers and crew at full capacity. The shared sentiment among passengers was that big is indeed beautiful, with many feeling that they could spend days on board and still not experience everything the ship has to offer.
Passengers on board explored the various offerings with awe, enjoying champagne at the walk-up Bubbles bar in the Central Park neighborhood and trying out water slides like Frightening Bolt and Storm Surge in the water park. Families found joy in areas like Surfside, which features a beach-themed carousel and wading pool. Some lucky guests had the opportunity to dine at the exclusive Empire Supper Club, which offers an eight-course dinner with cocktail pairings and live jazz. Surprises like pop-up piano performances and magicians added to the excitement.
Getting used to Icon’s size, which is nearly four New York City blocks long, presented a learning curve for many passengers. With vast open-air interiors and elevators located at the ends rather than the middle, getting lost was inevitable. However, the ship also offers tranquil spaces like bed loungers overlooking the ocean and cozy booths in areas like the AquaDome for passengers to relax and unwind. Staterooms come in 28 categories, ranging from basic interior cabins to luxurious suites like the Ultimate Family Townhouse.
Passenger interest in Icon has been overwhelming, with the ship breaking booking records upon its announcement in 2022. The remainder of 2024 sailings are almost sold out, indicating a strong appetite for the outsized experience that the ship offers. Icon is the first of a new class of megaships by Royal Caribbean, with two more on the way and a third scheduled to debut in August 2025. The prospect of more big ships in the future has the cruise community excited, with many eager to experience the next wave of colossal cruise ships.
Despite the excitement surrounding Icon and its success, adjusting to the ship’s massive size can be a challenge for some passengers. Signs are abundant, but getting lost is common. The ship’s design almost guarantees that passengers will exceed their daily step count. However, there are plenty of serene spaces on board to escape the busyness, from outdoor seating areas to cozy lounges with ocean views. Whether passengers are looking for adventure or relaxation, there are options to suit everyone’s preferences on Icon of the Seas.
Overall, the general consensus among passengers is that Icon is a game-changer in the world of cruising. The variety of offerings, from fine dining experiences to thrilling water slides, ensures that there is something for everyone on board. With its massive size and impressive amenities, Icon of the Seas has captured the hearts of passengers and set a new standard for luxury and entertainment on the high seas.
