Royal Caribbean Launches the World’s Largest Cruise Ship

Icon of the Seas officially joined Royal Caribbean’s 28-ship fleet on Monday, taking the crown as the world’s largest cruise ship.

The world’s biggest cruise ship is now in the hands of her new owner, with Royal Caribbean International accepting delivery of 1,198 feet long, and 250,800 gross ton Icon of the Seas on November 27, 2023.

The grand delivery ceremony took place at the Meyer Turku shipyard in Finland, where Royal Caribbean welcomed Icon of the Seas, a culmination of two-and-a-half years of meticulous design and construction. With a capacity of 7,600 guests and 2,350 crew, this floating resort is set to embark on its inaugural series of cruises from Miami, commencing in late January 2024.

Towering 20 decks above the water, Icon of the Seas is an impressive testament to Royal Caribbean’s commitment to pushing the boundaries of ship design.

Onboard, travellers can expect seven pools, a water park with six water slides, and 28 different ways to stay, across 2804 staterooms with everything from virtual balconies to grand suites and the new three-level Ultimate Family Townhouse.

Before the launch of the Icon class ships, the Wonder of the Seas held the coveted title of the world’s largest cruise ship since its debut in 2022, measuring 1,188 feet in length and boasting a gross tonnage of 235,600.

Construction has already begun on the cruise line’s second Icon-class ship, Star of the Seas, sailing from mid-2025.

Featured image: Courtesy Royal Caribbean International