Royal Caribbean International is moving full steam ahead with its second Icon Class ship, which is set to debut in 2025. The steel-cutting ceremony in the Meyer Turku shipyard in Turku, Finland, marked the first step in the months-long process of building this new vessel, which will follow the Icon of the Seas, which sails in January 2024.
The Icon Class ships are touted as “introducing a new era of vacations for years to come.” According to Royal Caribbean International, they represent a combo platter of the best tidbits from every type of vacation, from the beach escape to theme parks to resorts and are created with every family member in mind. While the ship has yet to be named, the line announced more details would be forthcoming later this year.
Icon of the Seas Has a Sister
You might have already booked clients on Icon of the Seas, but if not, you might want to take a second look. This is the first new type of vessel for Royal Caribbean since 2014, and it is indeed a ship of superlatives. When she begins service next year, she will be the largest cruise ship in the world by gross tonnage (250,800), carrying 7,600 passengers at max occupancy (10,000 or so when you count the crew). It will also be home to the tallest waterfall at sea (55 feet), the largest pool at sea (Royal Bay Pool) and the biggest waterpark at sea (Category 6).
The ship will be 20 decks high and will have eight different neighborhoods, which will make it easier for your clients to figure out where they are and where they want to go. These include Thrill Island, Chill Island, Suite Neighborhood, Surfside, AquaDone, Central Park, Royal Promenade and The Hideaway.
The ship will offer weeklong Eastern and Western Caribbean itineraries, all with visits to the line’s private island, Perfect Day at CocoCay.
For more information, visit royalcaribbean.com.