Travel: THE ICON OF THE SEAS

     Royal Caribbean’s Icon of the Seas is the largest ship in the world on the water. If you stood it on its end, it would be taller than the Stratosphere Tower in Las Vegas and the Chrysler Building in New York City. At 1,196.7 feet, this new ship is the catalyst to move the cruise industry forward. Complete with 20 decks, space for 7,000 passengers, and 2,350 crew, this ship’s groundbreaking design featuring thoughtful and innovative elements, is the latest addition to the Royal Caribbean’s fleet that is undeniably state of the art. This ship provides cruisers of all ages with unforgettable experiences and gives everyone something to do with every minute of their time. This is Royal Caribbean’s Ultimate Family Vacation product and I was honored and thrilled to be invited to her naming ceremony.  

     This ship is about families. There are 14 categories of cabins. 80 percent of the cabins I visited are designed for families. This cruise my accommodation is the ultimate balcony cabin that has a window that, with the touch of a button, comes down the side of the wall halfway. It is accompanied by a second button to lower the shade that is adjusted to your liking during the day and floor length in the evening. The bath seemed larger than most ships offerings and the storage space is excellent.  We would comfortably do  a seven-day cruise in this cabin category. 

      Interesting to environmentalists about this ship is its features. This is the first in the Icon Class Ships joining Royal Caribbean’s fleet to be powered by liquefied natural gas (LNG). This is significant as it drastically reduces emissions and minimizes the ship’s environmental impact directly aligning with other major environmental goals of the cruise industry. This is highlighted with the Cruise Line International Associations (CLIA) 2023 report on preserving the oceans and creating cleaner seas.

     The ship’s amenities offered a wide range of exciting and fun activities along with engaging entertainment. The next-generation Ultimate Abyss slide which boasts being the tallest slide at sea along with the Sky Pad, which is a virtual reality bungee trampoline experience that will take any thrill-seekers to new heights. The Royal Caribbean’s favorite Flow Rider surf simulation and rock-climbing walls has space near the waterslide that just goes on forever.  Catching  my eye was  an experience called the Crown’s Edge. This is part zip line, part ropes course, part walk the plank, and part thrill ride. Test your courage as you dangle 154 feet above the ocean.   I did and recommend the experience highly. (The cost is 89.99 per person).  I  play mini golf at the Lost Dunes, stop at every eatery offering nibbles, and laugh a lot.

     There are seven pools, one for each day of the week. All pool areas have spacious seating as well as plentiful seating close by to food venues. I made sure to visit the neighborhoods on the ship! There is the Retreat for suites guests, Chill Island, Thrill Island, Surfside with a carousel. My favorite is Central Park. There are over 2700 live plants and trees, complete with live musical performances. It is truly a park. By the way.be on the lookout for the Rolling Piano Man. I met him playing in the elevator! He rolls around the entire ship taking requests and happy to play for you.

     No one is starved for food, drink, or entertainment. With over forty bars, and hot spots, this ship is a destination. Culinary enthusiasts will be in for a treat on this ship as there is a diverse range of dining options to suit every palate. From the casual eateries to specialty dining, these offerings will satisfy the most discerning guest. Something is always going on.

     Of special note is the entertainment. I was impressed. From ice shows, pub shows, jazz shows, tribute band shows to aqua. shows to the Broadway show, The Wizard of Oz. Icon of the Seas surpasses the standard cruise ship entertainment.  I recommend this new ship for everyone, especially first-time cruisers. And before I forget, “Yes”, there is a very large casino,

 The itinerary of Icon of the Seas is the Caribbean for 2024 and 2025. Look for two more ships debuting in Port Canaveral in  July 2024 with Utopia of the Seas , the sixth Oasis class ship, and  August of 2025, an Icon Class ship, Star of the Seas.  These ships are open for booking. Contact me for dates and great prices on any of these offers.