When Royal Caribbean’s Icon of the Seas launched in January 2024, we were told it offered a fresh approach to cruising, blending innovative design with a range of amenities tailored to families, couples, and solo travellers. This ship, the largest of its kind, delivers a holiday experience that balances thrills, relaxation, and thoughtful service across its 20 decks.
Guests boarding Icon of the Seas step into a world of choice and comfort. The ship’s layout revolves around eight distinct neighbourhoods, each with its own character and offerings. Families will find dedicated spaces for children, while adults can enjoy quieter retreats. Seven pools, including a suspended infinity pool, and six record-breaking waterslides provide endless aquatic fun. Dining options span over 40 venues, from casual buffets to upscale experiences, ensuring something for every palate. Entertainment ranges from ice skating shows to high-energy theatre productions, keeping evenings lively. The ship’s eco-conscious design, powered by liquefied natural gas, reflects a commitment to sustainable cruising.
Guest Experience
The experience aboard Icon of the Seas feels seamless and engaging. The ship’s clever layout, with elevator banks positioned to avoid overcrowding, makes navigation straightforward despite its size. Crew members, numbering 2,350, maintain a high staff-to-guest ratio, ensuring attentive service. Guests can tailor their days with activities like rock climbing, mini-golf, or relaxing by the pool, while children enjoy dedicated play areas. The Royal Promenade serves as a central hub, bustling with shops, eateries, and live music, creating a welcoming atmosphere day and night.
Reception Features
The Royal Promenade anchors the ship’s reception areas, acting as a lively entry point. A striking kinetic art installation, The Pearl, greets guests with its dynamic design. The guest services desk, shore excursion bookings, and nearby shops are conveniently located here, making it easy to plan activities or resolve queries. The area’s open layout and natural light create an inviting first impression.
Dining
With over 20 dining venues, the ship caters to all tastes. The Windjammer Marketplace offers a well-organised buffet with a wide selection for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Surfside Eatery provides a second buffet option in the family-friendly Surfside neighbourhood. For a more refined experience, Chops Grille serves prime cuts in an intimate setting, while Giovanni’s Italian Kitchen delivers hearty pizzas and pastas. Empire Supper Club offers an upscale eight-course meal paired with cocktails, and complimentary options like El Loco Fresh ensure quick, flavourful bites.
Entertainment
The AquaTheater, housed in the glass-domed AquaDome, showcases acrobatic performances against a 55-foot waterfall. The Royal Theater hosts musicals and live shows, while Absolute Zero offers ice skating spectacles. For a more relaxed evening, Lou’s Jazz ’n Blues serves cocktails with live jazz. The Crown’s Edge, a ropes course high above the ocean, adds an adrenaline-pumping option for thrill-seekers.
Accommodation
The ship’s 2,805 cabins cater to a range of preferences, with 80% designed for three or more guests, ideal for families. The Ultimate Family Townhouse, a three-story suite with a slide and private whirlpool, offers a unique stay, while Infinite Balcony cabins allow guests to extend their living space with the touch of a button. Surfside Family Suites include a kids’ nook, and Panoramic Ocean View rooms feature floor-to-ceiling windows. Storage can be tight in standard cabins, but thoughtful design ensures comfort.
Hospitality Features
Service on Icon of the Seas is attentive and efficient, with crew members trained to anticipate guest needs. The Royal Suite Class elevates the experience with perks like concierge service, priority boarding, and exclusive access to the Suite Neighbourhood’s pool and restaurants. Complimentary Wi-Fi, via the ship’s Voom system, keeps guests connected. Accessibility is well-considered, with 50 wheelchair-accessible cabins and trained staff to assist with embarkation and shore excursions.
