The Icon of the Seas, Royal Caribbean’s 1,198-foot-long cruise ship, known as the world’s largest with a gross tonnage of 250,800, was poised for its inaugural passenger journey from Miami on Saturday. The departure time was scheduled for 5 p.m. ET, marking the commencement of a seven-day round-trip voyage to the Eastern Caribbean.
Argentinian soccer star Lionel Messi officially christened the vessel on Tuesday. With 20 decks and a capacity for approximately 10,000 passengers and crew, the $2 billion Icon of the Seas was constructed in Turku, Finland. Earlier this month, it sailed to the Port of Miami in anticipation of its maiden voyage with passengers.
World’s Largest Cruise Ship Poised for Inaugural Passenger Voyage Departure from Miami (Credits: Pune.News)
Distinguished features of the 20-deck ship include a curved parabolic bow designed to reduce waves and enhance stability, as well as the use of liquid natural gas as fuel. The ship employs a reverse-osmosis system for over 90% of its freshwater supply and a microwave-assisted pyrolysis system to convert waste into energy, contributing to its power needs.
The Icon of the Seas boasts numerous amenities, such as multiple performance theaters, over 40 bars, restaurants, and lounges, along with unique cocktails and non-alcoholic beverages crafted exclusively for this cruise liner. Additionally, the ship features a water park and designated “neighborhoods” catering to different age groups, including an adults-only area.
Among its notable superlatives are the world’s largest water park at sea, the first cantilevered infinity pool at sea, the largest ice arena at sea, and the largest swimming pool at sea.
Notably, the Icon of the Seas positions Royal Caribbean as the operator of the world’s two largest cruise ships, with the Wonder of the Seas, measuring 1,188 feet in length and boasting a gross tonnage of 235,600, having been launched in 2022. This new vessel introduces the latest class of cruise ship for Royal Caribbean.
