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On Saturday (27 January), Royal Caribbean’s Icon of the Seas, the biggest cruise ship in the world, embarked on its inaugural voyage.
The title has been claimed by this ship, surpassing its sister ship Wonder of the Seas. According to Royal Caribbean president Jason Liberty, the new vessel is described as the largest and most impressive ship on the planet, measuring longer than the Eiffel Tower.
Icon of the Seas has 18 passenger decks, seven swimming pools and over 40 restaurants and bars on board. It is able to hold 5,610 passengers on board (at double occupancy) and has a gross tonnage of 250,800.
The vessel will also feature the biggest water park on a cruise ship.
The luxurious cruise ship also offers eight unique “neighborhoods” on deck, each providing its own exclusive activities, entertainment, and dining choices. With the goal of setting new records, these neighborhoods offer several firsts: Thrill Island showcases the largest water park on a cruise ship, the first open-air free-fall slide at sea, and the tallest drop slide in the industry.
The vessel also offers Chill Island, which includes pools with ocean views and a bar that serves frozen cocktails. Additionally, The Hideaway boasts the first suspended infinity pool on a ship, which is surrounded by a sun terrace with multiple levels, whirlpools, and a beach bar.
“The cruise line’s president claims it to be the largest and most impressive ship on the planet.”
Additional communities in the area are The Hideaway, Surfside, and Aquadome, which boasts its own AquaTheater.
The ship has a strong emphasis on families, featuring the newly introduced Family Infinite Balcony and Surfside Family Suite. The Ultimate Family Townhouse, which includes a mailbox and classic white picket fence, is also available.
The Icon of the Seas will offer seven-night cruises throughout the year departing from Miami, with each route including a stop at CocoCay in the Bahamas. This will be the company’s initial ship to utilize fuel cell technology and run on liquified natural gas, a clean and efficient fuel source, making it their most environmentally friendly vessel thus far. However, according to Friends of the Earth’s 2022 rankings, Royal Caribbean still ranks second among polluters in the cruise industry.
Michael Bayley, the head of Royal Caribbean International, stated in the past: “Icon of the Seas represents the pinnacle of over 50 years of providing unforgettable experiences and our latest bold promise to those who enjoy vacationing. In today’s climate, loved ones are placing a higher importance on experiences that allow them to bond and partake in their own adventures.”
Source: independent.co.uk
