World’s largest cruise ship set to sail in January 2024

(CMR) The world’s biggest cruise ship, Icon of the Seas, will begin cruises in January 2024 after it recently passed its first ocean trial in Turku, Finland.

The Royal Caribbean International’s latest ship will debut in Miami in January 2024 after completing a second round of sea trials later this year. The Icon of the Seas completed its first set of sea trials on June 22, according to a Royal Caribbean statement.

“During her first set of sea trials, Icon of the Seas traveled hundreds of miles, during which the main engines, hull, brake systems, steering, noise, and vibration levels were all tested. Everything was done on time as outlined in the schedule, despite her departure being delayed due to wind conditions.” the statement said.

Icon of the Seas is nearly 1,200 feet long and will be able to hold around 5,610 guests and 2,350 crew. In addition to seven pools and nine whirlpools, it also features the world’s largest waterpark at sea,  with six water slides, including the tallest drop slide at sea. There are 20 decks, 40 bars and restaurants, and lodging is divided into eight neighborhoods:  Aquadome, Central Park, Chill Island, Royal Promenade, Surfside, Suite Neighborhood, The Hideaway, and Thrill Island.

The ship will also have the industry‘s first open free-fall slide, the first family raft slides at sea, and the industry’s first mat-racing duo. Additionally, Icon of the Seas is home to Royal Caribbean‘s first swim-up bar at sea, the largest pool at sea, and the first suspended infinity pool at sea.

“With each new ship, we raise the bar in the travel industry while enhancing what our guests know and love. With Icon of the Seas, we’ve taken this to a new level and made the ultimate family vacation,” Jason Liberty, president, and CEO of Royal Caribbean Group, said.

“We set out to create a vacation that makes all that possible in one place for the thrill-seekers, the chill enthusiasts, and everyone in between, without compromise,” Michael Bayley, president and CEO of Royal Caribbean International, stated.

Icon of the Seas will sail from Miami all year, with each cruise visiting Royal Caribbean’s private island destination, Perfect Day at CocoCay in the Bahamas.