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The 21 largest cruise ships in the world.

Book your next cruise vacation on one of these floating megaresorts.

The Largest Cruise Ships in the World

Courtesy of Royal Caribbean International

With every year comes bigger and grander cruise ships.

Just when you think cruise ships can't get any larger, a major cruise line unveils yet another longer, taller and grander state-of-the-art vessel – with the capacity to carry the population of a small town. To put the size of today's megaships into perspective: They often stretch three times longer than a 120-yard football field, and some feature nearly two dozen decks or measure more than 215 feet wide.

So, if you're looking for a vacation aboard a large-scale vessel, consider booking a voyage on one of the biggest cruise ships in the world. With cutting-edge technology and entertainment, world-class dining, and endless attractions and activities for cruisers of all ages, you may not even want to leave the ship. Here are the biggest cruise ships, arranged by gross tonnage.

• 1. Royal Caribbean Icon of the Seas
• 2. Royal Caribbean Utopia of the Seas
• 3. Royal Caribbean Wonder of the Seas
• 4. Royal Caribbean Symphony of the Seas
• 5. Royal Caribbean Harmony of the Seas
• 6. Royal Caribbean Oasis of the Seas
• 7. Royal Caribbean Allure of the Seas
• 8. MSC World Europa
• 9. Costa Smeralda
• 10. Costa Toscana
• 11. P&O Cruises Arvia
• 12. AIDAcosma
• 13. P&O Cruises Iona
• 14. AIDAnova
• 15. Carnival Jubilee
• 16. Carnival Celebration
• 17. MSC Euribia
• 18. MSC Virtuosa
• 19. Carnival Mardi Gras
• 20. MSC Meraviglia
• 21. Norwegian Encore

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Royal Caribbean Icon of the Seas

Length: 1,198 feet

Width: 213 feet

Gross tons: 250,800

Maximum number of passengers: 7,600

Icon of the Seas will be the largest cruise ship afloat when it debuts in January 2024. The next-level megaship is Royal Caribbean 's first Icon-class vessel and the first of three ships powered by liquefied natural gas, or LNG, which is considered a more sustainable alternative to other fuel options. The ship will have 2,805 staterooms and carry up to 2,350 crew. There's no end to the fun with eight unique neighborhoods, including the new Surfside: a stay-all-day space designed specifically for families.

Other features on the ship include seven pools, nine whirlpools and six record-breaking waterslides. There are also more than 20 new dining venues, such as the swanky Empire Supper Club, which features an eight-course tasting menu; the AquaDome Market, the line's first food hall; and sushi restaurant Izumi in the Park. Cruisers will also find other international cuisine, including Japanese, Mexican and Italian fare, as well as The Lemon Post, the Surfside Eatery and Pier 7 in the Surfside neighborhood.

Read: The Newest Royal Caribbean Ships

Royal Caribbean Utopia of the Seas

Length: 1,188 feet

Width: 211 feet

Gross tons: 236,860

Maximum passengers: 6,788

Royal Caribbean's first LNG-powered Oasis-class ship will sail its debut voyage in July 2024. The new ship will have 2,834 staterooms and up to 2,290 crew members, as well as eight neighborhoods to keep passengers entertained. Ten complimentary dining venues include the line's new food truck concept, The Spare Tire, which serves up handheld eats on the pool deck. The ship will also feature sloping beach-entry and resort-style pools, plus three Lime & Coconut bars on the outdoor deck.

In total, there are more than 40 dining options, bars and lounges on Utopia of the Seas. Many of Royal Caribbean's specialty dining and bar favorites are returning, such as Chops Grille, Giovanni's Italian Kitchen & Wine Bar, Rising Tide Bar and Vue Bar. Guests will also find familiar entertainment offerings with rock climbing walls, the AquaTheater, Splashaway Bay, laser tag, mini-golf, the Sports Court, Studio B and much more. With two casinos, five pools and a visit to private island Perfect Day at CocoCay, you'll never run out of things to do.

Read: The Top New Cruise Ships

Royal Caribbean Wonder of the Seas

Michel Verdure | Courtesy of Royal Caribbean International

Gross tons: 235,600

Maximum passengers: 7,084

Royal Caribbean's current largest ship at sea, Wonder of the Seas , first set sail in March 2022. The Oasis-class vessel has 2,867 staterooms and carries as many as 2,204 crew members. While you may get lost on this ship, you'll never be bored. Features include eight unique neighborhoods – such as Central Park, the Boardwalk, and the new Suite Class neighborhood, an exclusive space for suite guests.

Take advantage of the AquaTheater, an outdoor live entertainment venue with a 30-foot diving platform and incredible ocean views. Wonder Playscape is an underwater-themed outdoor space for kids filled with slides, climbing walls, games and more. You can also enjoy a few of Royal Caribbean's Oasis-class favorites, such as the FlowRider surf simulator, the rock climbing wall or laser tag at the Battle for Planet Z. If you dare, head into the Ultimate Abyss: Billed as the tallest waterslide at sea, it towers 150 feet above sea level and features an exhilarating 13-second ride through 10 stories of dark, winding tunnels.

When hunger strikes, dine at your pick of more than 20 complimentary and specialty restaurants, including the new Mason Jar Southern Restaurant & Bar. If you're craving a cold beer, a cocktail or a cup of Starbucks coffee, you'll have roughly a dozen bars and lounges at your disposal.

Read:  The Top Party Cruises

Royal Caribbean Symphony of the Seas

Width: 215.5 feet

Gross tons: 228,081

Maximum passengers: 6,680

Royal Caribbean's Symphony of the Seas , another Oasis-class ship, debuted in April 2018. This ship features 2,759 passenger staterooms and accommodates 2,200 crew members. There are seven distinct neighborhoods, four pools, roughly 20 restaurants (about half of which are specialty venues), and about a dozen bars and lounges. The ship even boasts two robotic bartenders that whip up drinks at the Bionic Bar.

Adults can enjoy Broadway-style shows in the onboard theaters and major international sports games at Playmakers Sports Bar & Arcade. Meanwhile, kids can cool down at the Splashaway Bay water park, soar on a zip line nine decks high through the Boardwalk neighborhood, try out rock climbing or attend a show at the AquaTheater.

Read:  Royal Caribbean vs. Carnival

Royal Caribbean Harmony of the Seas

Gross tons: 226,963

Maximum passengers: 6,687

Another Oasis-class ship, Royal Caribbean's Harmony of the Seas has been sailing since May 2016. The vessel features 2,747 staterooms and up to 2,200 crew members. Cruisers have plenty of places to dine thanks to eight complimentary venues – including the main dining room and Windjammer Marketplace, a globally inspired buffet – as well as nine specialty restaurants serving everything from burgers and shakes to Italian fare. The Boardwalk, one of the ship's seven neighborhoods, is a favorite spot for cruisers; it contains casual eateries, retail shops and carnival games.

Harmony of the Seas also has Splashaway Bay, the Ultimate Abyss waterslide and a trio of slides called The Perfect Storm. In the evening, don't miss a pre-dinner cocktail at the Rising Tide Bar, which offers a ride between the Central Park neighborhood and the Royal Promenade with dazzling skylight views. Sit back and sip your drink while the entire bar slowly floats between the decks.

Royal Caribbean Oasis of the Seas

Simon Brooke | Courtesy of Royal Caribbean International

Length: 1,187 feet

Width: 215 feet

Gross tons: 226,838

Maximum passengers: 6,771

Royal Caribbean's Oasis of the Seas was the largest cruise ship in the world when it was launched in 2009. The line's debut Oasis-class ship is nearly five times bigger than the Titanic by gross tonnage; it has 2,801 staterooms and carries 2,109 crew members.

Oasis of the Seas was reimagined in 2019, with many added amenities that are on newer Oasis-class ships, such as FlowRider simulators, the Perfect Storm waterslides, the Ultimate Abyss and Playmakers Sports Bar & Arcade. Across the ship's seven distinct neighborhoods, you'll also find state-of-the-art technology such as VOOM, billed as the fastest internet connection on the high seas – plus exciting live performances and theater productions, laser tag, escape rooms and more.

Royal Caribbean Allure of the Seas

Gross tons: 225,282

Maximum passengers: 6,826

Embarking for the first time in 2010, Allure of the Seas was Royal Caribbean's second Oasis-class vessel. The ship underwent a refurbishment in 2015. Allure of the Seas has 2,748 staterooms and 2,054 crew. Onboard highlights include seven neighborhoods, four pools, and several whirlpools and hot tubs, plus more than 20 dining venues and too many bars and lounges to count.

There are also plenty of entertainment options for guests of all ages, including an ice skating rink, the Sports Court, a nine-deck-high zip line, two rock climbing walls and two FlowRider simulators (a Royal Caribbean favorite). Kids will especially enjoy the interactive H2O Zone Water Park. Adults on this ship will appreciate Broadway productions like "Mamma Mia!," aerial acrobatic performances in Oceanaria (an original AquaTheater production) and '70s disco dance parties. If you find yourself on board for business reasons, rest assured that the ship's conference facilities can host as many as 1,394 guests.

Find a Royal Caribbean cruise on GoToSea.

MSC World Europa

Courtesy of MSC Cruises

Length: 1,093 feet

Width: 154 feet

Gross tons: 215,863

Maximum passengers: 6,762

MSC World Europa was one of the most anticipated new cruise ships when it launched in December 2022 as the first vessel in the line's MSC World-class fleet. It's also the first LNG-propelled ship by MSC Cruises , reaching a maximum cruising speed of 22.7 knots.

The ship's futuristic interior and exterior design features a 341-foot-long promenade. Half the promenade is covered with the Meraviglia-class LED sky screens, while the other half is open-air and offers ocean views. MSC World Europa features 2,626 staterooms and can house 2,138 crew members. As a special touch, each passenger deck is named after an international city, including London, Paris, Lisbon and Rome.

The ship is divided into distinct areas, with a quiet zen district for adults and a family zone that has bumper cars and roller skating. At the fleet's largest onboard water park, younger cruisers will find a twisty, stainless steel tunnel slide towering 11 decks high at the center of the ship. Luna Park Arena, the ship's 300-seat multifunction entertainment venue, can accommodate almost any performance or event.

When you're exhausted from all of the action, grab a bite to eat at one of 13 restaurants or a drink at a selection of bars and cafes. Then, take time to relax and unwind with a signature treatment at the Balinese-inspired MSC Aurea Spa. For an all-inclusive VIP experience during your voyage, book stateroom accommodations in the MSC Yacht Club. This exclusive part of the ship boasts premium suites, a separate pool, a private restaurant and lounge, butler service, and other amenities.

Costa Smeralda

Courtesy of Costa Cruises

Length: 1,106 feet

Width: 138 feet

Gross tons: 185,000

Maximum passengers: 6,554

Costa Smeralda was the first of the two Excellence-class vessels in the Costa Cruises fleet. The vessel debuted in 2019 as the Italian cruise line's largest ship to date. It was also the line's first vessel to use LNG power at sea and in port. The ship has 2,612 staterooms and can carry as many as 1,678 crew members.

Cruisers will never go hungry or thirsty, thanks to the 11 restaurants and snack bars plus 19 bars and lounges on Smeralda . One of the most notable dining venues on board is Archipelago, which serves innovative cuisine created by three world-renowned chefs. If you're interested in culinary pursuits, join other passengers for a cooking class at sea in the Food LAB. When it comes to entertainment, centrally located Colosseo – modeled after the piazzas across Italy – is the place to go for socializing and live performances. What's more, the ship also has 13 pools and hot tubs, an aqua park, the Beauty Spa Solemio, and the Squok Club for kids ages 3 to 11.

Costa Toscana

Costa Toscana, Costa Cruises' newest flagship and the second Excellence-class vessel in the fleet, set sail on its debut voyage in March 2022. Similar in size and passenger capacity to Costa Smeralda, Toscana is also LNG-powered. This vessel has 2,663 staterooms, and there can be up to 1,678 crew members on board.

Similar to Smeralda, Colosseo is the centerpiece of Toscana; you'll find live entertainment and themed bars in this area. There are 11 restaurants and snack bars plus 19 bars and lounges on the ship. For a refreshing aperitif with a view, head to the Aperol Spritz Bar, which features special beach cocktails. Another dining highlight is Sushino at Costa, the line's new sushi bistro. After dinner, take in unparalleled views of the sea along the Volare Skywalk, the highest point of the ship, which towers more than 200 feet above sea level.

Explore Costa Cruises deals on GoToSea.

P&O Cruises Arvia

Courtesy of P&O Cruises

Length: 1,130 feet

Maximum passengers: 5,200

Arvia joined the P&O fleet as sister ship to Iona in December 2022. It is also LNG-powered, has 2,614 cabins and carries up to 1,800 crew. The family-friendly ship offers guests many firsts, including Altitude, a new activity area with an escape room, a high-ropes experience, the Splash Valley aqua zone, the Sports Arena and much more.

Arvia has 30 bars and restaurants. New dining venues include the American-inspired 6th Street Diner and Green & Co. feat. Mizuhana, which focuses on sushi and plant-based dishes. For entertainment, plan to see the line's production of "The Official Take That Musical," an adaptation of London West End musical "The Band." Guests can also head to the dome beneath the SkyDome retractable roof for live performances, aerial displays, movies on the giant SeaScreen and DJ parties under the starry skies.

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Courtesy of AIDA Cruises

Gross tons: 184,600

Maximum passengers: 6,654

The sister ship to AIDAnova, AIDAcosma set sail in early 2022. The partly LNG-powered AIDA Cruises vessel has 2,732 staterooms and the capacity for up to around 1,500 crew members. With 17 restaurants and 23 bars and cafes, AIDAcosma offers passengers a seemingly endless number of venues to dine and imbibe. Other onboard attractions include a four-deck outdoor area, complete with an infinity pool and an expansive area for sunbathing; an indoor playground with a bouldering wall and ropes course; the Body & Soul Spa; and a 360-degree stage at the Theatrium.

P&O Cruises Iona

Length: 1,129 feet

Gross tons: 184,000

P&O Cruises' Iona, which launched in spring 2021, has the distinction of being the first LNG-powered British cruise ship. The family-friendly vessel has 2,614 cabins and carries 1,800 crew members. Iona's top features include the two-story SkyDome, a gin distillery, four pools, 10 entertainment venues, and 30 restaurants and bars offering a wide variety of food and beverage options.

With selections ranging from casual eateries to gelaterias to Indian- and British-inspired cuisine at Sindhu, you won't get bored with the restaurant choices. For an especially unique meal, dine and sip wine while watching aerial performances in the Grand Atrium at The Glass House. Or, enjoy dinner at The Limelight Club, an adults-only supper club venue featuring vocal performances and other live music. After dinner, check out the entertainment around the ship, including aerial productions in the Grand Atrium, guest and crew shows in Headliners, late night dancing in The Club House, and performances in partnership with the entertainment company Creativiva in the SkyDome.

Gross tons: 183,900

When German line AIDA Cruises' first Helios-class ship, AIDAnova, debuted in December 2018, it was the first LNG-powered cruise ship in the world. The ship is equipped with 2,626 staterooms, including the two-deck Penthouse Suite, and carries around 1,500 crew members. You won't miss this ship when it's docked in port: It features the line's signature exterior design, with bold red lips at the ship's bow and blue-and-yellow eyes on the port and starboard sides.

While on board, passengers can check out 17 restaurants, along with 23 bars and lounges; party the night away at the Beach Club; and take in live performances on the 360-degree stage in the Theatrium. When it's time to relax, head to the Body & Soul Spa, where you can book a massage, spend time in one of the hot tubs or saunas, take a dip in the private pool, and chill out on the private spa sun deck.

Carnival Jubilee

Width: 137 feet

Gross tons: 183,521

Maximum passengers: 6,631

Carnival Jubilee, as sister ship to Carnival Celebration and Carnival Mardi Gras, will offer many of the same features and amenities as its two predecessors when it launches in December 2023. The new vessel will have 2,687 staterooms, 1,735 crew and six zones of fun. Currents and The Shores are new to Jubilee . Currents is inspired by the underworld of the ocean with mermaids and sea monsters; it's designed with new bars, restaurants, music venues and high-tech spaces, including a wave-shaped LED ceiling and six LED windows that virtually take guests under the sea. The Shores is all about the outdoors, inspired by beaches and boardwalks. Cruisers can grab a slice of pizza at Coastal Slice, a hot dog at Beach Buns and a cocktail at Marina Bar.

On Jubilee, you'll also find Carnival Cruise Line favorites such as BOLT, the first and fastest roller coaster at sea, as well as Waterworks, the onboard water park with twin racing slides, three spiraling slides and more. The line's "next-level fun" ship will also include familiar eateries and lounges like Shaquille O'Neal's Big Chicken, Guy's Pig & Anchor Bar-B-Que Smokehouse, Cucina del Capitano, Fahrenheit 555 Steakhouse and more.

Carnival Celebration

Courtesy of Carnival Cruise Line

Carnival Celebration sailed its inaugural cruise in November 2022. Carnival's second-newest ship at sea is LNG-powered and the second in the line's Excel class, with 2,687 staterooms and as many as 1,735 crew. Guests will find new attractions to enjoy on the ship, such as the partnership with the Kennedy Space Center at Space Cruisers: This program is designed for children ages 2 to 11 at Camp Ocean.

Adults can check out the new bar at Latitudes, which features specialty cocktails and outdoor scenery through the virtual windows. Celebration has a variety of complimentary dining venues, including Shaq's Big Chicken, Guy's Burger Joint and Mexican favorites at BlueIguana Cantina. There is also a selection of specialty restaurants like Emeril's Bistro 1397, Rudi's Seagrill, the Steakhouse and Bonsai Teppanyaki. For action and 360-degree views of the ocean from the top of the ship, take a spin around the track on the BOLT roller coaster.

Compare Carnival Cruises on GoToSea.

MSC Euribia

Length: 1,087 feet

Width: 141 feet

Gross tons: 181,541

Maximum passengers: 6,327

MSC Euribia, the newest MSC Cruises ship, debuted in June 2023. The line's second LNG-powered vessel – and the fifth Meraviglia-class ship – has 2,419 cabins and can carry as many as 1,711 crew members. The ship's hull features Alex Flämig's artwork "#SaveTheSea" to highlight the company's dedication to preserving the marine ecosystem.

On board Euribia , guests will find five pools and 11 dining venues, offering everything from sushi and teppanyaki to Latin American street food. There are also 21 bars and lounges, the MSC Aurea Spa, the Ocean Cay Aquapark, luxury retail shopping and more. Two additional highlights are the longest – and most impressive – LED Dome at Sea, which covers the ceiling of Galleria Euribia, and the reimagined Carousel Lounge. The beautiful, updated space features floor-to-ceiling windows, outdoor terraces and cozy seating to enjoy live entertainment, including performances by one of the largest big bands at sea.

MSC Virtuosa

Maximum passengers: 6,334

This vessel launched in 2021 as a sister ship to MSC Grandiosa , the line's other Meraviglia Plus-class ship. MSC Virtuosa has 2,421 staterooms and carries around 1,704 crew members. It offers cruisers 11 dining venues plus 21 bars and lounges. At the heart of the ship, Galleria Virtuosa houses the largest shopping area on a cruise ship, with more than 12,500 square feet of retail space. In this area, you'll also find entertainment venues, restaurants and cocktail bars. And don't forget to look up: An impressive LED dome, one of the longest at sea, spans the ceiling of the promenade.

Another highlight to check out during your voyage is the MSC Starship Club, which features Rob, the first humanoid robotic bartender on a cruise ship. The multilingual expert mixologist even tells jokes and will show you a dance move or two. After all the indoor fun, head outside for a cool dip in one of MSC Virtuosa's five pools or take a ride on the slide at the Savannah Aquapark.

Book an MSC Cruise on GoToSea.

Carnival Mardi Gras

Gross tons: 180,000

Maximum passengers: 6,465

One of Carnival Cruise Line's newest ships, Mardi Gras , debuted in July 2021. Its name honors the line's first ship, the TSS Mardi Gras, which launched in 1972. The original Mardi Gras was around 27,000 gross tons and 650 feet long – in contrast, the new Carnival Mardi Gras weighs more than six times as much and is nearly twice as long. This ship also holds the title as North America's first LNG-powered ship. It has 2,641 staterooms and holds up to 1,745 crew members.

Six themed areas each offer unique dining and entertainment experiences. For New Orleans -inspired cuisine, head to the French Quarter; there, you'll find Emeril's Bistro 1396 and The Brass Magnolia, a bar reminiscent of The Big Easy's jazz culture and Garden District. Don't miss one of the ship's top onboard attractions: the BOLT roller coaster, where riders can hit speeds of nearly 40 mph at 187 feet above sea level.

Read: The Top Themed Cruises

MSC Meraviglia

Courtesy of Port Miami for MSC Cruises

Length: 1,036 feet

Gross tons: 171,598

Maximum passengers: 5,655

MSC Cruises' Meraviglia first set sail in 2017 with an impressive 2,244 staterooms and the capacity to carry 1,536 crew members. A dozen restaurants offer a wide variety of cuisines, including a Spanish tapas bar with dishes created by a Michelin-starred chef, Japanese teppanyaki, Italian fare, fresh seafood, steaks and more. There are also 20 bars, lounges and cafes serving everything from Champagne and cocktails to ice cream and crepes.

The central highlight of the ship is Galleria Meraviglia, a 315-foot promenade with eateries, boutiques and evening parties. Nightly entertainment includes live performances and shows in the Broadway Theatre and the Carousel Lounge. Kids will find plenty to do, as well: There's an Aquapark, an F1 simulator, a flight simulator, LEGO play areas, bowling and more. When it's time to wind down, book a signature treatment at the MSC Aurea Spa.

Norwegian Encore

Length: 1,094 feet

Width: 136 feet

Gross tons: 169,116

Maximum passengers: 3,998 (double occupancy)

Norwegian Encore was built in 2019 as one of Norwegian Cruise Line 's Breakaway Plus-class ships. The vessel has 2,040 staterooms and carries 1,735 crew members. There are several complimentary culinary venues on board, including three main dining rooms, The Local Bar & Grill, the Garden Café buffet, and grab-and-go options. Specialty dining restaurants offer a variety of cuisines, from seafood to steak to Japanese teppanyaki.

When it's time for cocktail hour, 14 bars and lounges serve up everything from cold brews to fine wine and whiskey. For a pre-dinner option, head up to the Observation Lounge for panoramic ocean views. Norwegian Encore is also home to several entertainment venues featuring award-winning live shows and performances.

You'll find the most fun on the ship's top decks. First, head to the Encore Speedway race track, which takes thrill-seekers on a heart-pumping ride through high-speed curves extending 13 feet off the side of the ship. Also at the top of the vessel you'll find The Haven: Norwegian's exclusive "ship within a ship" concept boasts luxurious suites, villas and penthouses with balconies. These luxe accommodations include perks like 24-hour butler service, a concierge and a private sun deck.

Find a Norwegian Cruise Line cruise on GoToSea.

Frequently Asked Questions

The largest cruise ship currently in service is Royal Caribbean's Wonder of the Seas, at more than 235,000 gross tons. Icon of the Seas will become the largest cruise ship in the world at 250,000-plus gross tons after its launch, set for January 2024.

Carnival Jubilee, scheduled to debut in December 2023, and Carnival Celebration are the line's largest ships at 183,521 gross tons.

The line's largest ship is Disney Wish at about 144,000 gross tons. The vessel is 1,119 feet in length and 128 feet wide; it has 1,254 staterooms and carries up to 4,000 passengers and 1,555 crew.

Why Trust U.S. News Travel

Gwen Pratesi has been an avid cruiser since her early 20s. She has sailed on nearly every type of cruise ship built, including the newest megaships, paddle-wheelers on the Mississippi River, and an 18-stateroom river ship on the Mekong River in Vietnam and Cambodia. She has also cruised on a traditional masted sailing ship and on a small luxury expedition vessel in Antarctica crossing the notorious Drake Passage twice. She covers the travel and culinary industries for major publications including U.S. News & World Report.

You might also be interested in:

• The Top World Cruises
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Tags: Travel , Cruises

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Watch CBS News

A look inside the Icon of the Seas, the world's biggest cruise ship, as it prepares for voyage

By Kris Van Cleave , Analisa Novak

January 18, 2024 / 12:14 PM EST / CBS News

Royal Caribbean is redefining the cruise industry with its latest ship, the Icon of the Seas. This $2 billion floating resort is largely booked until 2026.

Spanning nearly 1,200 feet, the cruise ship has 20 decks, which makes the Icon of the Seas the world's largest cruise ship.

It's a city at sea, accommodating up to 7,600 passengers in 2,805 staterooms and nearly 10,000 people, including the crew. The ship offers different experiences that include seven pools — one is the largest on any ship — the world's first onboard water park with six water slides, theaters, a casino and over 40 dining and drinking spots.

Jay Schneider, Royal Caribbean's Chief Product Innovation Officer, says the cruise ship is more than just its amenities.

"It's really about iconic experiences," he said.

And despite its massive size, Schneider said the ship is designed to avoid feeling overcrowded.

"We have purposely designed the ship to give more space for people," he said. "We believe, even at 7,500 guests, it won't feel to you like your entire hometown has joined the ship," said Schneider.    

Luxury comes at a price on the Icon. A weeklong Caribbean cruise costs about $3,500 for two people in an average stateroom. For those seeking more luxury, the Ultimate Family Townhouse – a three-story suite complete with touchscreen tables and a slide – can go for up to $100,000 per trip. The Royal Loft, aimed at high-rolling adults, offers two bedrooms, a private hot tub, and a spacious balcony starting at $40,000.

Colleen McDaniel, editor-in-chief at Cruise Critic, said that bigger ships benefit both passengers and cruise lines.

"It means more people can experience something. It means that there's a lot more amenities and activities onboard the cruise ship," McDaniel said. "The more people they can put on a cruise ship, of course, the better business they do, the more money they make."

Kevin Curran says the Icon took his breath away. Having followed the ship's construction for over a year, the Oregon resident said he's thrilled to be on its inaugural cruise from Miami.

"The more I watched the videos, the more I understood this was something special," he said.

Cruising is surging in popularity. Last year, passenger volume outpaced pre-pandemic numbers, and this year is expected to hit a new high of 36 million as spending on experiences has climbed 65% since 2019.

From the bridge, Captain Hendrik Loy is overseeing what amounts to a three-day test drive to the Bahamas.

"There is still fine-tuning that needs to take place," said Loy.

The Icon also champions environmental responsibility. It's powered by liquefied natural gas, treats its own waste, and produces its own water.

Emmy Award-winning journalist Kris Van Cleave is the senior transportation correspondent for CBS News based in Phoenix, Arizona, where he also serves as a national correspondent reporting for all CBS News broadcasts and platforms.

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How much it costs to sail aboard the world’s largest cruise ship.

This fall, Royal Caribbean opened up bookings for its newest, super-sized cruise ship, the Icon of the Seas, which will set sail in January 2024 .

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The record-breaking ship weighs 250,800 tons — 6% more than the current size leader among cruise ships, Royal Caribbean’s Wonder of the Seas, The Points Guy reported. The massive ship will be able to hold up to 7,600 passengers — also setting a record with the number of passengers it can accommodate on board. In addition, with six waterslides, it has the most of any cruise ship.

Royal Caribbean is touting its new ship as the “Icon of Vacations,” offering a first-of-its-kind combination of the “best of every vacation,” from a beach retreat to a theme park adventure. But does cruising on this super-sized ship come with a super-sized cost?

Here’s a look at how much it costs to sail aboard the world’s largest cruise ship, plus what you can anticipate getting to experience on board.

How Much It Costs To Cruise on the Icon of the Seas

The Icon of the Seas will offer four different seven-night routes, with starting prices ranging from an average of $998 to $1,409 per person.

A seven-night Western Caribbean & Perfect Day cruise departing from Miami with stops in Roatan, Honduras; Puerto Costa Maya, Mexico; Cozumel, Mexico; and CocoCay, Bahamas, starts at $998 per person for an interior cabin, with suites costing as much as $4,848 ($2,424 per person based on two people per suite). Cruises departing in February 2024 and traveling to the Western Caribbean start at $1,409 per person.

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The Icon also will be making two Eastern Caribbean & Perfect Day cruises, both departing from Miami. One will make stops in Basseterre, St. Kitts & Nevis; Charlotte Amalie, St. Thomas; and CocoCay, Bahamas; the other will make stops in Philipsburg, St. Maarten; Charlotte Amalie, St. Thomas; and CocoCay, Bahamas. Prices for both of these routes start at $1,058 per person, with suites costing as much as $5,665 ($2,832.50 per person based on two people per suite).

What Cruisers Can Expect Aboard the Ship

The sheer scope of the Icon of the Seas may be hard to fathom. It features 18 guest decks, 2,805 staterooms, seven pools, nine whirlpools and six waterslides. It also features eight “neighborhoods” including the club-like AquaDome, an on-board park dubbed Central Park, a beach club called The Hideaway and the family-friendly Surfside, which includes an aquapark and an adults-only pool.

It’s also home to Category 6, the largest water park at sea, and the Royal Bay, the largest pool at sea. There’s also plenty to eat (and drink), as it features 40 new and returning dining, bar and nightlife options.

“With each new ship, we raise the bar in the travel industry while enhancing what our guests know and love,” Jason Liberty, president and CEO of Royal Caribbean Group, said in a press release. “From the moment they step on board, every experience is specifically designed to give them the best vacation anywhere on land and at sea. With Icon of the Seas, we’ve taken this to a new level and made the ultimate family vacation.”

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This article originally appeared on GOBankingRates.com : How Much It Costs To Sail Aboard the World’s Largest Cruise Ship

Icon of the Seas review: What's it like on the world's largest cruise ship?

Editor's Note

It's "the biggest, baddest ship on the planet" (according to Jason Liberty, CEO of Royal Caribbean Group), the most expensive Royal Caribbean ship to book and a social media star with equal numbers of lovers and haters. But what's it really like to sail the 250,800-ton, 7,600-passenger Icon of the Seas? It's pretty dang fun.

Royal Caribbean's goal was not to break size records. Instead, the cruise line wanted to create an epic family vacation experience that would rival not only other cruise ships, but the best resorts and destinations on land. To do that, the line would need to put a wide variety of delicious dining venues, appealing watering holes with modern cocktail menus, inviting hangouts and attractions and entertainment for all ages onto one ship.

Is it any surprise that the ship needed to be humongous to house all that?

For cruise news, reviews and tips, sign up for TPG's cruise newsletter .

It's hard to be bored on Icon of the Seas, whether you like thrill rides or chill hangouts in the sun. With the ship divided up into "neighborhoods" with their own unique vibes, you're bound to find someplace to love. Or perhaps you'll find new areas of the ship to explore each day. The neighborhoods, plus some smart operational planning by the cruise line, make it easier than you think to make your way through the ship, no matter where you wish to go.

Whether you've been avidly waiting for this floating entertainment behemoth to arrive, or whether you've got a morbid curiosity about this sea monster, check your preconceptions and discover what it's really like to cruise Icon of the Seas.

Overview of Icon of the Seas

Icon of the Seas is 20 decks high (with 18 passenger decks) and 1,198 feet long and measures 250,800 gross tons. It can carry 5,610 passengers at double occupancy (two passengers per cabin) or up to 7,600 passengers at maximum occupancy, plus 2,350 crew members. These stats make it the largest ship in the world .

That's larger than fleetmate Wonder of the Seas, the 2023 record holder for the world's largest cruise ship. To compare, Wonder of the Seas measures 235,600 tons and carries 7,084 passengers at maximum occupancy.

However, Wonder of the Seas beats Icon of the Seas in one specific area: cabins. Wonder of the Seas has 2,867 cabins, while Icon of the Seas will only have 2,805. That's because Royal Caribbean has styled Icon of the Seas to attract more families, with 80% of cabins designed to accommodate more than two guests.

Related: The 7 classes of Royal Caribbean cruise ships, explained

Icon of the Seas also borrows the Oasis Class use of "neighborhoods" — themed areas of the ship with a mix of attractions and dining, drinking and shopping venues. It features eight neighborhoods, including three returning areas from its sister ships and five that are exclusive to its new class of ships.

From the lowest deck to the highest, here are the eight neighborhoods and what you can expect to find on board.

Royal Promenade

The Royal Promenade is a Royal Caribbean staple found on all Voyager, Freedom and Oasis Class ships. Icon of the Seas offers a two-deck version of this indoor mall-like space with multiple shopping, dining and drinking establishments. Highlights of Icon's Royal Promenade are floor-to-ceiling glass windows on either side that bring light and sea views into the space and The Pearl, the ship's iconic indoor sphere that functions as an artistic stairway and also as the support structure that holds up that section of the ship.

Surfside, on Deck 7 aft, is a neighborhood dedicated to young families . It's open to the sky and the back of the ship. A slide leads from Deck 8 down to the neighborhood, and the area is mere steps from the Adventure Ocean kids club and Social 020 teen club on Deck 6.

The stay-all-day destination for kids under 7 and their adult caregivers features family-friendly eateries, the Lemon Post bar with a menu of matching kid-and-adult mocktails and cocktails, a carousel, an arcade, a splash area with slides aimed at the youngest splashers and an infinity pool for grown-ups.

Despite its name, Surfside will not be home to Royal Caribbean's surf simulator, the FlowRider.

Related: Is Icon of the Seas the 'ultimate family vacation'? It depends

Central Park

Another open-to-the-sky neighborhood, the greenery-filled Central Park makes a return on Icon. On Deck 8, it lures adult cruisers to its bars and restaurants for a romantic date night or walk in its onboard park, featuring live trees and plants. New venues here include a grab-n-go window for Izumi's sushi, the intimate and upscale Empire Supper Club, jazz club Lou's Jazz 'n Blues and the walk-up Champagne venue, Bubbles.

Icon of the Seas does not have a Boardwalk, but it does offer its own version of that neighborhood's popular AquaTheater. The AquaTheater — which hosts acrobatic and diving shows in a high-tech stage/pool — has been moved from its outdoor, lower-deck, back-of-ship location on Oasis-class ships to an indoor, upper-deck, front-of-ship spot on Icon.

The theater is the marquee attraction within the ship's Deck 15 AquaDome neighborhood — if the draw is not the dome itself. The giant 363-ton glass-and-steel structure offers guests 220-degree ocean views. Inside, you'll find dining and drinking venues, cozy lounge space, a Royal Caribbean logo jewelry store and new cabins with panoramic views through the dome.

Chill Island

Aft of the AquaDome is Chill Island, Icon's main pool area featuring four of the ship's seven pools among its three decks. It will include the line's first swim-up bar, Swim and Tonic, and what Royal Caribbean is claiming is the largest pool at sea. Pools and hot tubs are positioned along the edges of the ship so guests can take in the sea views while soaking in the water.

Cabanas will be available to rent in this neighborhood, but there'll be plenty of free lounge space, too.

The Hideaway

High above Surfside, at the back of Deck 15, is The Hideaway — Royal Caribbean's take on an adults-only beach club. The main attraction here is the first suspended infinity pool at sea. It's flanked by tiered lounge space, hot tubs and a bar specializing in Champagne and Champagne-based cocktails.

Thrill Island

Thrill Island is Icon's go-to neighborhood for adrenaline-pumping activities. Found on Deck 16 aft, it's home to all the wild top-deck attractions Royal Caribbean is known for — as well as some new thrills.

The FlowRider surf simulator, Lost Dunes miniature golf, the Adrenaline Peak rock climbing wall and the sports court are all Thrill Island staples. Category 6 is the largest water park at sea, featuring an open free-fall slide, the tallest drop slide at sea, family raft slides that accommodate four riders at once and two mat-racing slides. The Crown's Edge is a ropes course-style attraction based around a giant version of the ship's crown-and-anchor logo.

Suite neighborhood

The ship's final neighborhood spans decks 16 to 19. The Suite neighborhood is a mix of many of the ship's top suites plus restaurants, lounges and outdoor areas exclusive to suite guests and some of Royal Caribbean's most loyal travelers. Icon of the Seas' suite neighborhood is Royal Caribbean's largest restricted-access enclave for suite guests, a la Norwegian Cruise Line 's The Haven.

The Coastal Kitchen restaurant returns, but is now two decks high, with windows overlooking the AquaTheater. The sun deck has been transformed into The Grove, a multistory space featuring an alfresco restaurant and bar, pool, hot tub and lounge areas.

Related: Royal Caribbean Crown & Anchor Society cruise loyalty program: The ultimate guide

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What I loved about Icon of the Seas

It's surprisingly easy to get around.

You might think you'd spend a week lost on the largest cruise ship on the planet. But you can learn your way around Icon of the Seas in a day. That's because the neighborhood concept (arranging themed attractions in one area of the ship) makes it easy to figure out where you're going.

The Royal Promenade on decks 5 and 6 is the central public space, flanked by the main dining room and the theater. Its upper level leads to Deck 7's family-focused Surfside, which leads up to leafy Central Park. (And if you don't want to hit Surfside, you can get directly from The Royal Promenade to Central Park via stairs by the Pearl Cafe.)

Chill Island, Thrill Island, The Hideaway and The Aquadome all flow into each other across the ship's top decks. The AquaDome is at the front (easy to remember once you've seen the outside of the ship with its bulbous forehead), with The Hideaway and the water park at the back for balance.

It's not perfect; I definitely got turned around in the huge elevator lobbies (there are two, each with 12 elevators), and I never remembered which spaces were on the forward or aft ends of the Royal Promenade. But the few dead ends are easily learned; access the Hideaway from Thrill Island (not the Windjammer), Absolute Zero from Playmakers and the Royal Theater from the Promenade (not through the casino). You'll be a pro in no time.

Related: Why the world's largest cruise ship won't be as crowded as you fear

The lighter, brighter Royal Promenade is the best in the fleet

The Royal Promenades on Royal Caribbean ships have always been compared to shopping malls because the long corridors are lined with restaurants, bars and shops and suffer from a lack of natural light. The second-level dead ends also frustrated guests trying to get from point A to B on a megaship. So the cruise line rethought out the promenade space on Icon of the Seas, and came up with a winning design that's lighter and more inviting.

Royal Caribbean ditched the promenade-facing cabins for multideck-high glass walls that flood the space with light. The need for a replacement structural support led to the creation of The Pearl, the central focal point art piece of the neighborhood. The cafe behind it is a win for its comfy windowside seating with killer views and elevated cafe snacks.

Another win is that the upper level is now a complete circle, so you can walk from the forward to the aft elevator banks and back on both decks of the Royal Promenade. There's even a stairwell up into Central Park.

Plus, some of the new venues on the promenade are quickly becoming guest favorites. The hip 1400 Bar, with its craft cocktails and central indoor-outdoor location, and Dueling Pianos Bar were happening hot spots on my sailing.

Related: TPG's first impressions of Icon of the Seas

The shows are incredible

My favorite evenings combine dinner and a show, and the top-notch entertainment is something I've always loved about Royal Caribbean. Icon of the Seas brings it in a big way with its new shows.

I was dreading a 90-minute version of "The Wizard of Oz" but fell in love with Icon's production due to its creative use of flying technology, gorgeous costumes and sets, adorable puppets and modern staging. "Starburst," the ice show, combined some stellar skating moves with an incredible juggler, and the AquaTheater is always killer no matter what those divers, dancers and acrobats are doing.

I was also pleased to see that Icon of the Seas will introduce shorter shows at earlier show times for families with young kids in the AquaTheater and Absolute Zero ice rink.

What I didn't love about Icon of the Seas

Thrill island is more extreme than i expected.

I was so excited to take my 9-year-old daughter on all the Category 6 waterslides at Thrill Island, and figured that we'd play there for hours, as we did on a recent trip to the Great Wolf Lodge water park. But four of the six slides were simply too extreme for a kid and her mom.

Our favorites were the two family raft slides, where two to four riders slide together in round rafts. But there wasn't a basic body slide that a kid could ride again and again without a friend or parent along. All the others had steep drops or were face first and super fast, with too much water in your eyes and nose.

Opposite the water park, the new Crown's Edge ropes course is also not a play-all-day, kid-friendly course, like the ones I've tried on Carnival cruise ships and Great Wolf Lodge. The course is extremely short, with a vertigo-inducing section over the open ocean. It's also got a steep entry fee (the water park is free).

I was hoping that Thrill Island would be a place where older kids and their parents could spend an entire afternoon hopping from ride to ride. The Lost Dunes minigolf course and the rock climbing wall are very accessible. But I'd rate the water park and ropes course more T for teen than E for everyone.

Related: What are the largest cruise ships in the world?

New Infinite Ocean View Balcony cabins are a mixed bag

On Icon of the Seas, Royal Caribbean added a new kind of balcony room: the Infinite Ocean View Balcony. An idea borrowed from sister line Celebrity Cruises , these cabins bring the balcony sitting area into the cabin's interior to create a longer room. To bring the fresh air in, the far wall of each cabin is a wall of glass, and the top half can roll down at the push of a button (like a car window).

Some of these cabins look out over the ocean, while others face inwards, overlooking Central Park.

I loved the extra cabin space and the additional sitting area facing a window. However, we rarely opened the window because it messed with the entire room's climate control as heat (or, in my case, chilly breezes) flooded the cabin. Plus, noise from other decks, like the poolside DJ, also infiltrated the entire room.

The new rooms also had a few design flaws, which were repeated in other categories as well. These included a lack of outlet variety by the beds, clunky wire baskets beneath the wardrobe that were hard to access because they were too close to the cabin's sofa and possibly not enough general storage for anyone traveling as a family in one room.

Icon of the Seas cabins and suites

Royal Caribbean cruisers will have 14 new cabin and suite types to choose from out of 28 total accommodation types. Many of these are family-friendly rooms that sleep four guests; some can accommodate six or eight guests. In total, 313 cabins and suites are listed specifically as family-focused accommodations, though many regular room types can sleep more than two guests.

Related: Royal Caribbean cruise ship cabin and suite guide: Everything you want to know

Inside cabins

The most affordable rooms on Icon of the Seas are inside cabins (and they're still not cheap). In addition to standard 156-square-foot inside cabins and 178-square-foot Spacious Interior cabins, new 157-square-foot Interior Plus rooms feature extra-large walk-in closets.

Icon of the Seas also features 187-square-foot Surfside Family View Interior cabins (replacing Boardwalk View cabins) and similarly sized Central Park View Interior cabins. These rooms do have windows, but they look inward onto the neighborhoods.

No rooms on Icon of the Seas are listed as offering the "virtual balconies" found on select Royal Caribbean ships.

Ocean-view cabins

Icon of the Seas has only two types of ocean-view rooms with a window but no balcony. Its new Panoramic Ocean View rooms are within the AquaDome, offering floor-to-ceiling windows rather than the standard picture window. They will also be larger than the standard balcony cabin at 258 square feet (compared to 160 to 187 square feet).

Balcony cabins

The majority of Icon of the Seas' cabins are balcony rooms , ranging from 196 to 285 square feet in indoor space, with private verandas of 50 to 70 square feet. The ship introduces four new types of balcony cabins to the fleet.

The Infinite Ocean View Balcony cabin design takes an idea from Royal Caribbean sister line Celebrity Cruises, where instead of a standard balcony external to the ship, the room features a glass wall with a window that can roll down halfway (like a car window) to allow fresh air in. There are also curtains to close off that area from the rest of the cabin to create a veranda-like space.

Additionally, Icon has an extra-long family version of this room type. The Family Infinite Balcony cabin can sleep up to six people, with an alcove featuring upper and lower beds for kids, a separate sleeping area for grown-ups, a living area and a split bathroom (toilet and sink in one room and shower and sink in the other).

Also new to Icon are smaller Surfside Family View Balcony cabins and Infinite Central Park View Balcony cabins. Central Park balcony rooms, which look out over the interior's open-to-the-sky neighborhood, come in regular balcony versions as well. Icon also features hundreds of standard balcony cabins looking out to sea.

I stayed in an Infinite Central Park View Balcony cabin, which has the same cabin design as the regular Infinite Balcony room but overlooks the interior neighborhood instead of the sea. As I said above, I adored the additional interior space, but didn't make much use of the window. In addition to climate control issues, when I opened the window in my room, the noise from around the ship flooded my cabin, and I'm not sure any conversations I had on my "balcony" would be private.

I also discovered that all the inward-facing rooms of any category lack privacy. From my room, I could see straight into the cabins across from me. I watched people leaning on their balcony and room attendants cleaning cabins. And, yes, I did see a dude in his underwear one morning. Any time we needed to change clothes and once it got dark outside, I would close the curtains, changing my lovely room with a view into an inside cabin with no natural light.

Related: Which cruise ship cabin category should your family book?

Royal Caribbean offers three tiers of suites , and each subsequent tier comes with increasing Royal Suite-class perks and amenities .

Icon's Sea-tier suites include Junior Suites and four new Sunset Junior Suites with expansive balconies.

The Sky tier includes several new suite types, starting with the Surfside Family Suites. These 269-square-foot suites sleep four with a glassed-in living area that can turn into a kids bedroom at night, plus a real 53-square-foot balcony overlooking the Surfside neighborhood.

Sky Junior Suites have the same layout as regular Junior Suites but are high up on the ship's top decks. Guests in these suites receive additional Sky-tier perks (such as access to all the Suite neighborhood amenities), whereas regular Junior Suites come with more limited amenities. Sunset Suites and Sunset Corner Suites feature extra-large balconies and beds that face the ocean rather than a wall.

Panoramic Suites are within the ship's iconic AquaDome structure, with floor-to-ceiling glass windows. You won't miss the balcony when you're gazing out to sea from your chic sitting area in front of the glass wall.

The Infinite Grand Suite offers the new convertible balcony design in conjunction with a larger space that sleeps four and includes a split bathroom, useful when multiple guests need to get ready at the same time.

Of the nine top Star-tier suites, only one, the Royal Loft, is on other Royal Caribbean ships. Seven of these top accommodations are new Icon Loft Suites, two-deck-high accommodations with two bedrooms, two bathrooms, a large balcony with a private dining area and floor-to-ceiling windows.

The creme de la creme of suites on board is the three-deck-high Ultimate Family Townhouse, an evolution of the Ultimate Family Suite that wowed guests on Oasis-class ships. In addition to kid and adult sleeping areas, this 1,772-square-foot top-level suite features an in-suite slide, a movie-viewing room, a karaoke machine and spacious indoor living spaces.

It also offers 751 square feet of outdoor space divided among two balconies and a "backyard" with a pingpong table, outdoor seating and a white picket fence leading directly to all the Surfside neighborhood attractions. It can sleep up to eight guests.

Icon of the Seas restaurants and bars

Icon of the Seas takes Royal Caribbean's drinking and dining game to the next level. The line added new-to-the-brand restaurants to ensure that every neighborhood had a food venue easily accessible, with more quick-service eateries and options for families.

In addition, the line worked with master mixologists to create new and innovative bar menus, complete with zero-proof mocktail options, in watering holes throughout the ship.

Related: The ultimate guide to Royal Caribbean cruise ships and itineraries

Restaurants

Icon of the Seas showcases new dining venues and updated spins on guest favorites. From elevated dining experiences to quick bites, here is what you can expect on board.

The Dining Room: The three-level main dining venue (decks 3, 4 and 5) will offer three courses of globally inspired dishes, such as escargot and spaghetti Bolognese, as well as the cruise line's signature dishes. The center chandelier is stunning. Choose from multiple set-dining times or a more flexible dining plan . You'll find plenty of variety, a kids menu and waiters willing to expedite your dinner so you can make a show, even giving you your dessert to go. (Included.)

Windjammer Marketplace: It wouldn't be a Royal Caribbean ship without an enormous pool deck buffet, and Icon of the Seas has its version on Deck 15. The options are varied and tasty, with Indian entrees and a gluten-free counter in the back. I was impressed with the quality of my meals here. (Included.)

Sorrento's Pizza: You'll find several restaurants within the Royal Promenade, starting with Sorrento's . The popular complimentary all-day and late-night pizza parlor on the Royal Promenade churns out several flavors of pies daily. You'll also find a soda machine here. (Included.)

Giovanni's Italian Kitchen & Wine Bar: The extra-fee purveyor of pizza, pasta, meatballs and more Italian specialties found on some Oasis Class ships and a smattering of other Royal Caribbean vessels has a new location on Icon of the Seas. It's moved from Central Park (on Oasis Class ships) to the upper level of the Royal Promenade, open to all the hubbub and foot traffic of the bustling neighborhood. (Lunch $24.99 per person, dinner $54.99)

Pearl Cafe: This new grab-and-go coffee shop in the Royal Promenade is your day or night spot for fresh sandwiches, pastries and to-go salads. The warm sandwiches are a cut above what you'll find in its predecessor, the Promenade Cafe, but its comfy seating and stellar views steal the show. (Snacks included, but coffee drinks cost extra.)

Playmakers Sports Bar & Arcade: Bite into a juicy burger or an outrageous dessert at this extra-fee bar and grill. You can even order signature cocktails that come in football helmets. Playmakers has been repositioned to Deck 6 in an interior location across from Adventure Ocean and Social020 at the far end of the second level of the Royal Promenade. It makes the bar feel like more of a dive and less like a family-friendly grill where you'd take your kids for burgers. (A la carte pricing.)

Surfside Eatery: This new family-friendly buffet venue in the Surfside neighborhood is open for breakfast, lunch and dinner. It serves up kid-friendly casual fare and options for adults, meaning families don't need to trek up to the Windjammer buffet for meals, and kids can play within sight of their parents if they finish eating first. (Included.)

Pier 7: Also in Surfside, Pier 7 is the casual specialty restaurant aimed at families dining together. It serves California-inspired dishes for lunch and dinner, as well as breakfast all day (but not at night). The baja fish tacos and Korean fried chicken were excellent, and the warm toffee chocolate cake was perfectly molten with bruleed marshmallows on top. Kid dishes include grilled cheese and chicken tenders; brunch options range from a pancake board to eggs Benedict. (Included for kids under 12; a la carte pricing for adults.)

Surfside Bites: This walk-up window eatery makes it easy to grab quick snacks like burgers, popcorn chicken, french fries and cinnamon-sugar churros. (Included.)

Izumi Hibachi & Sushi: Another relocated venue, Izumi takes its rolls, sashimi and juggling hibachi chefs to a new and larger Central Park location with more hibachi tables. It will also feature a Royal Caribbean first: Izumi in the Park, an all-day grab-and-go window for sushi takeout. (Hibachi $64.99 per person, sushi priced a la carte.)

Chops Grille: Royal Caribbean's steakhouse returns to Central Park on Icon but with a twist. Guests can now choose their own cut of meat from the butcher's display. Also, an open window provides diners with a view of chefs preparing their selected cut. (Lunch $29.99 per person, dinner $69.99.)

Park Cafe: This casual favorite for breakfast, lunch and snacks also returns to Central Park on Icon of the Seas. Its Royal Kummelweck roast beef sandwich has a cult following. (Included.)

Empire Supper Club: Designed to evoke an atmosphere of New York City in the 1930s, this new venue offers an upscale experience. Guests can savor an extravagant eight-course meal (think: caviar and wagyu), complete with entertainment. Each dish is paired with a cocktail created by celebrity mixologist Tony Abou-Ganim specifically for Royal Caribbean. A meal here will set you back some serious cash, though with spots for only 38 guests a night, you'll have to book quickly to get a table. ($200 per person.)

Vitality Cafe: Icon of the Seas' spa area on Deck 14 is home to a healthy cafe for extra-fee smoothies and fresh juices. (A la carte.)

AquaDome Market: The line's first food hall will feature five dining options — Feta Mediterranean (fresh pitas and bowls), Toast and Garden (sandwiches and salads), Mac's (macaroni and cheese with varied toppings like beef chili or bacon), GNGR (Asian dishes like tofu-vegetable stir-fry and sweet-and-sour shrimp with pineapple) and Creme de la Crepe (both sweet and savory options). (Included.)

Celebration Table: The new private 14-seat dining experience provides an ideal backdrop for celebrating milestone events. Choose from exclusive American, Italian, Asian and seafood menus. The table is set up inside Hooked Seafood, and your party pays the same rate to reserve the table regardless of whether you fill all the seats or not. Unlike a Chef's Table, you cannot purchase individual meals and seats and join a larger group at Celebration Table. ($999 for dinner for up to 14 people.)

Related: The ultimate guide to cruise ship food and dining

Hooked Seafood: Found in the AquaDome neighborhood, this New England-style seafood venue is the place to go when you're craving oysters, fish & chips and lobster rolls after staring at the waves all day long. (Lunch $24.99 per person, dinner $64.99.)

Sprinkles: Help yourself to ice cream at this Chill Island poolside lineup of soft-serve machines. You'll also find a soft-serve machine in the Surfside neighborhood. (Included.)

El Loco Fresh: Fast-casual Mexican hits the spot after a day in the sun. Pick up a quick lunch or dinner at this Chill Island outpost. (Included.)

Basecamp: When you've worked up an appetite after all the sliding, climbing and surfing at Thrill Island, head to Basecamp to fuel up. Order a hot dog, warm pretzel and tater tots for free, or pay a la carte for comfort food like chicken waffle bits, shrimp bao buns and Wisconsin cheese curds. (A la carte pricing.)

Desserted: Thrill-seekers can enjoy a different kind of rush at this milkshake bar in the Thrill Island neighborhood. You'll find sugary options for kids and spiked versions for grown-ups. At $14 a milkshake, we expected more than just a cute photo; get a cone of soft-serve and top it with a cookie or brownie from the buffet, and you'll replicate the taste for free. (A la carte pricing.)

Coastal Kitchen: This restaurant, exclusive to suite guests and Royal Caribbean's top-tier Pinnacle loyalty program members, features a new two-story layout overlooking the AquaTheater. (Included for select guests.)

The Grove: Icon's expanded Suite neighborhood now includes a casual, alfresco Mediterranean restaurant, reserved for suite guests. (Included for select guests.)

Royal Caribbean is doubling down on the craft cocktail craze with Icon of the Seas. The line worked with master mixologists to create new bar concepts and menus to take the ship's drinking game to the next level. If you're game to try them all, buy your drink package in advance of your cruise when they're often discounted.

The Royal Promenade is home to Royal Caribbean's first double-pianist bar, Dueling Pianos. The two performers take requests and involve guests in musical fun. It is definitely becoming a hot spot at night. That doesn't mean the lone pianist at the Schooner Bar on the opposite end of Deck 6 is feeling lonely. The nautical-themed bar is always a fan favorite.

You'll also find dueling coffee bars here — the dedicated Starbucks venue on Deck 5 and the Pearl Cafe, serving coffee drinks on Deck 6. Other Royal Promenade bars include 1400 (the place for craft cocktails that pay homage to the cruise line's history), Spotlight Karaoke (for that musical buzz), Boleros (the always popular bar and lounge for Latin music and dancing) and the Point & Feather pub.

Down on decks 3 and 4, the Music Hall is the place to jam out and dance to live music. Next door, the casino, of course, has its own bar.

You might not think the ship's family neighborhood would have a bar, but the Lemon Post in the Surfside zone serves both cocktails for the parents and mocktails (elevated lemonade mixes and overly sweet colorful juice concoctions) for the kids.

In Central Park, guests find the new jazz club Lou's Jazz 'n Blues, with cocktails themed to the biggest jazz cities around the world. The walk-up Champagne venue, Bubbles, features mimosas, bellinis and other bubbly-based drinks. The Trellis Bar is also back, now with an extra-fee food menu to accompany your beverage of your choice.

In the AquaDome, the Overlook is a gorgeous lounge featuring special nooks (Overlook Pods) and wraparound windows providing fantastic ocean views. Order the Overlook Bar's signature drink, the AquaDome Spritz, exclusive to this ship and venue. The new coffee shop Rye & Bean will offer caffeine hits and cocktails starring tea and coffee. (Don't miss the chai Old-Fashioned that smells as good as it tastes.)

Beverage destinations in Chill Island include a three-story Lime and Coconut Bar (now with frozen cocktail machines) and Cantina Fresca (serving margaritas). Swim & Tonic is the line's first swim-up bar.

The Basecamp bar in Thrill Island is the place to steady your wobbly post-ropes-course knees with a drink, or you can order a Desserted milkshake with a shot of Baileys or Fireball. The Hideaway Bar serves the adults kicking back in their no-kids-allowed resort-style infinity pool hangout.

Suite guests will find bars exclusive to them in the Coastal Kitchen restaurant and the Grove sun deck. The spa also keeps guests refreshed with the Vitality Cafe smoothie bar.

Icon of the Seas activities

A Caribbean cruise is all about fun in the sun, and Icon of the Seas' upper decks are the place to be.

Chill Island is the ship's three-deck pool area with multiple pools and hot tubs situated along the sides of the ship for stunning ocean views. You'll also find a couple of ping-pong tables and a dry slide from Deck 16 to 15. Open-air cabanas are available to rent.

The Hideaway is an adults-only retreat with hot tubs, lounge chairs facing the ship's wake and an infinity pool cantilevered over the sides of the ship 15 decks up. You can only access The Hideaway from above on Deck 16; don't try to cut through the Windjammer Marketplace like we did. You won't get there.

Thrill Island consolidates all of Icon of the Seas' high-octane activities into one area along Deck 16 aft. Here, you'll find the FlowRider surf simulator, Lost Dunes minigolf courses and rock climbing wall.

Most of Thrill Island is dominated by the Category 6 water park with six slides. Two are raft slides that accommodate two to four people, and two are toboggan-style forward-facing racing slides. One is a drop slide and the other is a 90-degree plunge. Most of the slides are pretty extreme, and little kids (and their wussy parents) might find them too intense.

Also new on Icon of the Seas is the Crown's Edge ropes course. Its claim to fame is that the course takes you around the ship's giant logo, out over the ocean, with a zip line finish. However, there's not much else to the attraction; it's possibly the shortest ropes course we've ever traversed. You'll spend more time gearing up than you will enjoying the course. Crown's Edge offers a fun thrill, but I don't think it's worth paying $89 per person for one run of the course.

Related: 35 Royal Caribbean cruise tips and tricks that will make your voyage better

The ship's Vitality Spa on Deck 14 offers salon services for men and women, plus all your favorite spa treatments and an extra-fee thermal suite with heated loungers and aromatherapy showers. The fitness center is separate, located on decks 5 and 6 (though the Deck 5 entrance is off the jogging track that loops that deck). It's a sprawling gym, with space upstairs for fitness classes.

If you're looking for kid-friendly water play areas, the Surfside family neighborhood is your destination. It features Baby Bay for diapered tots; Splashaway Bay, with a dump bucket, water sprayers and junior waterslides; and an infinity pool for grownups and older siblings. Kids can also enjoy a climbing structure and the carousel with its colorful cartoon creatures to ride.

The Adventure Ocean kids club and Social 020 teen lounge, both on Deck 6, are the it spaces for the under-18 crowd. Adventure Ocean is easily accessible from Surfside, with a long entrance hallway peppered with gaming screens so kids can be entertained while they wait to be checked in (or parents can sneak in a game while they wait to pick up).

Unlike on older ships, Adventure Ocean is divided into AO Babies, the nursery for ages 6 to 36 months; AO Juniors for 3- to 5-year-olds, with their own play space; and the main Adventure Ocean club for kids ages 6 to 12. The Adventure Ocean space is further divided into the Hangout, with video games and digital game tables; the Arena for sports and active play; and the Workshop for science experiments and art projects. A theater space is set to host a black-light, interactive puppet show that families can participate in together.

Drop-off play at Adventure Ocean is free during the day and early evening; it's an hourly rate per child after 10 p.m. The nursery also charges per hour for drop-off at any time.

Social 020 is hidden between Playmakers and the Absolute Zero ice skating rink. It has gaming pods, hangout nooks and comfy seating, and foosball tables. It's meant to be a place for teens ages 13-17 to meet up and hang out, but much of the teen programming will take place around the ship. Look for teen-only takeovers of the water park and Hideaway Pool, VIP seating for select shows, group dinners at Izumi and exclusive laser tag play.

Absolute Zero is the ship's skating rink, accessed from Deck 6. If you're inspired by the cast of its shows, you can lace up and try a few spins during open skating hours on sea days. This is typically where Royal Caribbean hosts its laser tag games as well.

On the opposite end of Deck 6, Icon's escape room sits across from the Crown Lounge for Crown & Anchor VIPs.

You have to search to find the ship's casino on Deck 4. The Casino Royale has all your favorite slots and table games. Other nightlife options include Spotlight Karaoke for embarrassing guest performances, Music Hall for dancing, Dueling Pianos and Lou's Jazz 'n Blues for live music and Playmakers for watching sports and playing table games.

You'll also stumble upon live music across the ship, from the pool deck to Central Park to the pub.

The ship offers a mix of programming from Latin dance classes to liquor tastings, spa seminars, pool games, trivia and more. Check the line's app or the printed Cruise Compass daily newsletter so you don't miss events around the ship.

Family programming in Surfside will be led by Admiral Awesome, who's more or less the family cruise director. You won't miss him in his wild, brightly colored outfits. Activities include the Larger Than Life Family Festival (with giant games and face painting) and evening bedtime stories.

You'll find souvenir and jewelry shops throughout the ships, but predominantly in Central Park and along the Royal Promenade. A Park West art gallery is here, too.

Surfside features the Sugar Beach candy shop and Sunshine & Sundries, which sells plush dolls and kid swim gear you forgot to pack. Don't miss Royal Bling in the AquaDome, where you can buy Royal Caribbean logo jewelry, including a bejeweled chalice that costs $100,000 and comes with a free lifetime drinks package on all Royal Caribbean ships.

The guest services and NextCruise desks are located on the Royal Promenade by the pub. Shore excursions and the photo gallery are behind The Pearl on Deck 5. A conference facility and medical center are located on the ship's lower decks.

Icon of the Seas shows

Royal Caribbean is known for its innovative high-tech, large-scale shows — in the theater, in the water and on the ice. The entertainment on Icon of the Seas stays true to brand and does not fail to impress.

It's difficult to know this early on how hard it will be to get a seat at your preferred show time with so many people on board. It's a good idea to figure out how early you can book shows and book them in advance on the Royal Caribbean app or the "My Royal Cruise" section of the website, or as soon as you board. You'll also want to arrive early for the best seats — or to get in a standby line in case of no-shows.

Icon of the Seas' Royal Theater is located forward of the Royal Promenade on decks 4 and 5. Its signature show is "The Wizard of Oz," and you shouldn't dismiss it. Royal Caribbean has found a way to modernize the show, and the impressive special effects, including set pieces flying above the audience, will captivate cruisers of all ages. Don't miss Toto and other puppets created by Jim Henson's Creature Shop.

"Wizard of Oz" employs the biggest-ever orchestra at sea (16 pieces), so it's no surprise that Icon of the Seas' second theater show highlights their talents. "Showband!" was not running on my sailing, but the line describes it as an immersive, sensory experience, employing state-of-the-art technology.

On the opposite side of the Royal Promenade on Deck 5 aft is the Absolute Zero ice rink. You can access it past Playmakers on Deck 6. The venue features a circular rink versus the square ones in the Studio B rinks on sister ships.

Its new show is "Starburst," which is themed around the elements (carbon, helium, etc.). Group, solo and pair skating numbers are combined with next-level juggling by a character dubbed "The Starman."

The costumes are creative and fun (including glow-in-the-dark and light-up outfits), and the use of lighting and video on the walls and the ice sets a spacey scene. The round ice stage makes it easier for the skaters to use the entire space to get up speed to do jumps and tricks. You'll gasp at the impressive lifts, spins and jumps the skaters can execute on a moving ship.

The same cast will also present a second, shorter, family-focused show called "Once Upon a Time: The King's Royal Ball." In the show's story, familiar fairytale characters come to a king's party to entertain the families of the world.

Royal Caribbean's famous AquaTheater has been moved from an outdoor space at the back of the ship to the indoor AquaDome at the front of the ship on Deck 15. It also will run a longer, later main show and a shorter, earlier family-friendly show. Neither were ready yet on my preview sailing, but we got to see a few numbers, and they were jaw-dropping and stunning as only acrobatic/diving/synchronized shows with robots, wild lighting and video imagery can be.

The main show, "Aqua Action!" doesn't have a storyline, as far as I could tell, but is meant to push the boundaries of entertainment and wow every audience. You'll witness an aerial pas de deux, dancing robotic arms, crazy high dives and dancing with a lot of splashing. Trust me — you'll be mesmerized. Arrive early because the seating area is surprisingly small given the size of the ship and the popularity of these shows.

The family show is called "Pirates vs. Mermaids," featuring an epic battle to decide who truly rules the waves.

Icon of the Seas will carry on Royal Caribbean's Promenade parade tradition with a pirate-themed show called "Ships Ahoy!" Look out for a soon-to-debut Promenade street party focused on one-hit wonders.

The Attic is the ship's comedy club, located on the Royal Promenade on Deck 6 forward. You'll definitely want to show up early to get a seat for these popular shows.

Live bands perform at night in The Music Hall on decks 3 and 4 by the casino.

Icon of the Seas itinerary and pricing

Icon of the Seas sails weekly from the port of Miami. Its itineraries include weeklong Eastern and Western Caribbean itineraries that began with the ship's maiden voyage on Jan. 27, 2024. Travelers can book one of several routings available through April 2026:

• Seven-night Eastern Caribbean voyages with stops at St. Kitts, St. Thomas and Royal Caribbean's private island in the Bahamas, Perfect Day at CocoCay
• Seven-night Eastern Caribbean voyages with stops at St. Maarten (the Dutch side of the island of St. Martin), St. Thomas and Perfect Day at CocoCay
• Seven-night Eastern Caribbean voyages with stops at St. Thomas; San Juan, Puerto Rico; and Perfect Day at CocoCay
• Seven-night Eastern Caribbean voyages with stops at St. Maarten, San Juan and Labadee, Royal Caribbean's private beach on Haiti
• Seven-night Eastern Caribbean voyages with stops at Puerto Plata, Dominican Republic; St. Thomas; San Juan; and Perfect Day at CocoCay
• Seven-night Western Caribbean voyages with stops at Roatan, Honduras; Costa Maya and Cozumel, Mexico; and Perfect Day at CocoCay
• Seven-night Western Caribbean voyages with stops at Costa Maya, Cozumel and Perfect Day at CocoCay

Related: The 5 best destinations you can visit on a Royal Caribbean ship

Cruises on Royal Caribbean's newest and largest ship don't come cheap, and the prices have only increased since the ship first went on sale in 2022. Expect premium pricing for this highly sought-after ship.

When we checked in January 2024, the lowest price for an Icon of the Seas sailing was $1,775 per person, based on double occupancy, for an inside cabin. The cheapest balcony cabins started at $2,426 per person. These prices are for cruises departing in January 2026!

The most expensive sailing at present is a New Year's cruise, departing Dec. 28, 2024, with inside cabins starting at $9,419 and balconies at $10,104 per person.

You might wonder if Icon of the Seas' fares are all-inclusive — they are not. The fares include meals in the main dining room, buffet and a handful of other complimentary restaurants; most entertainment and activities; use of the kids club; and basic drinks like standard coffee and tea, milk and select juices at breakfast. You will pay extra for soda and alcoholic beverages, specialty restaurants, spa treatments and select activities.

Related: 11 extra charges on cruise ships that will drive you nuts — and what you can do about them

What to know before you go

Required documents.

Since Icon of the Seas is currently sailing round-trip from Florida, U.S. citizens can sail with either a current passport or an official copy of their birth certificate and a driver's license or other government-issued photo I.D. Passports must be valid for at least six months.

The name on your reservation must be the same as what's printed on your passport or other official proof of nationality. Double-check if you've recently gotten married or go by a different version of your name.

If you're traveling with a child for whom you are not the legal guardian, you will need to bring a notarized letter, signed by the child's parents or legal guardians, giving you permission to travel with the child.

Related: What documents do you need for a cruise? From passports to printouts, here's what to take

The room stewards and dining staff on Icon of the Seas are friendly and helpful and deserve an extra thank-you. Royal Caribbean makes that easy by charging you an automatic gratuity of $18 to $20.50 per person per day, depending on your cabin category, added to your onboard account and final bill. You are allowed to adjust this amount at the Guest Services desk before disembarking, but please don't — even if you are disappointed by the service. Gratuities are an important part of crewmembers' paychecks.

An 18% gratuity is added to bar, specialty dining and spa/salon bills. You should not feel pressured to add an additional tip.

Related: Everything you need to know about tipping on cruise ships

Royal Caribbean has one of the fastest Wi-Fi systems at sea, called Voom, and you can take advantage of this on Icon of the Seas. Currently, Wi-Fi packages with streaming bandwidth start at $30.99 per day for one device (or $24.99 per day per device for packages accommodating two, three or four devices), though prices do change over time.

Often you can get the best discounts on onboard Wi-Fi by purchasing your plans online in advance of your cruise. If you're a member of Royal Caribbean's Crown & Anchor Society cruise loyalty program, check to see if you're eligible for discounts on Wi-Fi packages.

Certain suite guests and upper-tier loyalty program members receive complimentary Wi-Fi, so know your included perks before you sign up for a package.

Related: How fast is the internet on Royal Caribbean ships? We put it to the test

Carry-on drinks policy

Royal Caribbean guests of legal drinking age can bring one bottle of wine or Champagne onto Icon of the Seas at boarding. If you want to drink that bottle outside your cabin in a restaurant or lounge, you must pay a $15 corkage fee.

Guests can also bring up to a dozen standard cans, bottles or cartons of nonalcoholic drinks such as sodas on board on embarkation day.

Smoking policy

Smoking (including e-cigarette smoking) is forbidden in cabins and on cabin balconies, and those who violate this rule will face a $250 cleaning fee.

Passengers can smoke in Icon of the Seas' casino while playing or in a designated outer area on Deck 17 by the Cloud 17 pool area.

Icon of the Seas does not offer self-service launderettes. Passengers can pay extra for laundry, pressing and dry cleaning services.

Electrical outlets

Cabins on Icon of the Seas have a ton of outlets, though not always where you want them. In my Infinite Ocean-View Balcony cabin, I found two USB, two USB-C, one North American-style 110-volt outlet and one European-style 220-volt outlet by the desk. Two more USB outlets were hidden in the shelving across from the sleeping area. One side of the bed had a USB outlet and the other a 110-volt outlet. (I would have preferred to have one of each on either side of the bed.)

There's also an outlet for shavers by the bathroom shelving near the sink.

The onboard currency is the U.S. dollar, but you won't need cash on the ship. You'll receive a SeaPass card that functions as your shipboard ID, room key and credit card. You'll charge shipboard purchases (drinks, souvenirs, extra-fee meals, shore excursions and so on) to your onboard account, and Royal Caribbean will charge your credit card on file once the cruise ends. You can check your onboard bill in the cruise line's app or at Guest Services.

The shops on CocoCay also take your SeaPass card. The onboard Starbucks outlet (not other cafes where Starbucks-brand beverages are sold) should take Starbucks gift cards and payment through the Starbucks app.

Drinking age

You must be 21 to consume alcohol on Icon of the Seas.

During the day, people dress casually. T-shirts, shorts, athletic wear, casual sundresses and bathing suits are commonly worn on board and ashore. Bring a cover-up to go from the pool back indoors.

You'll also want to dress for the activities you plan to do on board. Wear long pants, socks and a sweatshirt for skating in Absolute Zero (and bring something warm to wear when you go to one of the shows); full-coverage swimwear for the FlowRider and waterslides; and closed-toe shoes and a glasses strap for the Crown's Edge ropes course (and skip the skirt so you can easily put on the jumpsuit).

In the evening, the ship does have a suggested dress code, either casual (just look decent, but shorts are frowned upon at dinner), smart casual (nice restaurant or date attire) or formal (your version of fancy). A seven-night cruise will typically have two formal nights.

Royal Caribbean ships are pretty casual about the dress codes. What you really want to avoid is swimwear, bare feet, pajamas and athletic-style tank tops in the main dining room and specialty restaurants. And dress for your dining venue: You'll want to get dolled up more for a meal at the Empire Supper Club or Chops Grille than you might at Pier 7 or Giovanni's.

Related: Ultimate cruise packing list

Bottom line

Icon of the Seas is a groundbreaking ship for Royal Caribbean, introducing new venues, attractions and accommodation styles while bringing back and evolving fan favorites from past ships. Entertainment is next-level, and the ship's amazing attractions are sure to please all types of vacationers with multiple interests.

Though the ship is the line's largest, it's easy to get around, with lots of crowd control measures in place. You will, however, want to book quickly to obtain your preferred restaurant and show reservations. It might be difficult to be spontaneous and still get to see and eat everything you wish.

The ship has put special emphasis on catering to families with young kids and has created innovative programming for teens. However, its adults-only pool area, inviting bars with creative cocktail menus and plethora of grownup entertainment venues make the ship a perfect option for multigenerational families, friend groups and couples, as well.

Planning a cruise? Start with these stories:

• The 5 most desirable cabin locations on any cruise ship
• A beginners guide to picking a cruise line
• The 8 worst cabin locations on any cruise ship
• The ultimate guide to what to pack for a cruise
• A quick guide to the most popular cruise lines
• 21 tips and tricks that will make your cruise go smoothly
• Top ways cruisers waste money
• The ultimate guide to choosing a cruise ship cabin

Icon of the Seas

Introducing Icon of the Seas

A first-of-its-kind Royal Caribbean Adventure

It's thrills you never dared to imagine

And next-level chill you never dreamed possible

The largest waterpark at sea

Brace yourself for Category 6, the largest waterpark at sea with six record-breaking slides. Like the Frightening Bolt, the tallest waterslide to sail. And the Pressure Drop, the first open freefall waterslide on a cruise.

Category 6 waterpark

6 record-breaking waterslides at sea

A new stay-all-day neighborhood just for families

Discover adventure for the ages — all the ages — at Surfside SM . With a kid-approved sprawling aquapark, a pool just for grownups, plus plenty of bites to fuel up for bolder bonding — your whole crew will never want to leave.

First for families

7 pools for every mood.

Choose a different pool for every day of the week, including Royal Bay — the largest pool at sea. Next-level views are never far away, with an array of infinity edges to keep you connected to the ocean.

The largest pool at sea

What Makes It Iconic

Make the most of every moment onboard. Dial up the daring. Unwind like never before. Bond over new bites 
and toast to next-level nightlife. And catch showstopping spectaculars that will leave you in awe. This is your week to enjoy everything you’ve ever loved about every vacation — all rolled into one.

Perfect day the western way

Icon of the Seas ℠ brings on the most thrilling Western Caribbean adventures for the whole family. From lush tropical jungles in Roatán to Mayan ruins in Cozumel — plus the tallest waterslide in North America at our game-changing private island, Perfect Day at CocoCay — there’s never been more exciting opportunities for bolder bonding.

Eastern adventures to perfect day

Max out memories like never before on 7-night adventures to the Eastern Caribbean onboard Icon of the Seas ℠ . Every sailing on our newest, thrill-packed ship stops at our private destination, Perfect Day at CocoCay in The Bahamas. Voted Best Private Island by Travel Weekly readers, it’s a place unlike any other where you can turn up the thrills or unplug and chill.

Iconic Stays

Make room for awesome

On the new Icon of the Seas℠, where you stay is just as thrilling as how you play. From expansive balconies that invite the sea breeze to our most over-the-top family accommodations — our range of spacious rooms is designed with family comfort in mind.  Use the arrows to explore more.

Family rooms redefined

Finding your crew’s just-right space is easy, with more rooms designed for families.

Family infinite ocean view balcony

Surfside family suites

Over the top just got topped

A family vacation doesn’t get any more VIP than in the first-ever Ultimate Family Townhouse — a sprawling adventure-filled pad with three levels of incredible surprises.

Ultimate family townhouse

Private patio to surfside

Three incredible levels

Stays with views for days

There’s no shortage of ways to score unbelievable ocean views from your room. With spacious balconies, extended ocean side escapes, and floor-to-ceiling panoramic windows, there’s so much to see at sea.

Spacious Infinite ocean view balcony

Panoramic suites

Sunset corner suites

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Guide to what's included

Perfect day at Cococay

Making an Icon

• Port Overview
• Transportation to the Port
• Uber & Lyft to the Port
• Dropping Off at the Port
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• Things to Do
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• Restaurants Near the Cruise Port
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• Tips For Visiting
• Shore Excursions
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• Which Airport Should I Use?
• Transportation to the Ports
• Dropping Off at the Ports
• Fort Lauderdale Airport to Miami
• Inexpensive Hotels
• Hotels near the Port
• Hotels With Shuttles
• Budget Hotels
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• Faster to the Fun
• More Articles
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• How to Get the Best Cruise Deal
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• Cruises Under $300
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• Spring Break Cruise Deals
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• 107 Cruise Secrets & Tips
• Tips for First-Time Cruisers
• What to Pack for a Cruise
• What to Pack (Alaska)
• Packing Checklist
• Cruising with Kids
• Passports & Birth Certificates
• Bringing Alcohol
• Cruising with a Disability
• Duty-Free Shopping
• Cruise Travel Insurance
• Things to Do on a Cruise Ship
• What Not to Do on a Ship
• News & Articles

Full List: The 10 Current Largest Cruise Ships on the Planet

If you think cruise ships have gotten bigger, it’s not just your imagination. Whereas a ship built in the 1990s might hold 2,500 passengers and come in at around 75,000 gross tons (a measure of ship size), that’s nowhere near the ships built today.

Today, any new ship from a major line will be at least 140,000 gross tons, with many much larger than that. Passenger counts have also swelled, with many new ships carrying 5,000 cruisers when completely full.

But the largest cruise ships on the planet are in another league altogether. They can measure up to 250,000 gross tons (roughly triple the size of a ship built 30 years ago!) and when at full capacity with crew, have nearly 10,000 people onboard.

Why Are Cruise Ships So Big?

Truth be told, while the size of massive modern ships is staggering, not everyone likes the large ship experience. Some people can find them too crowded and too hard to navigate. But not everyone feels that way, and cruise lines have invested literally billions into building ships that are as large as possible. So what is the appeal of a mega ship?

Amenities/Activities: For passengers, the big advantage of size comes with everything that can be fit onto the ship. Instead of the old days where there was a pool, some loungers, and a buffet, modern mega ships are literal resorts at sea.

There are multiple pools, more than a dozen restaurants, casinos, ziplines, literal parks, ice-skating rinks, rock-climbing walls, spas, and more bars than you can count on your fingers and toes.

All of that combines into an experience that can exceed expectations and keep passengers coming back for more.

Efficiencies of Scale: For cruise lines, one big positive about a larger ship are greater efficiencies. Instead of having the cost of building two smaller ships — and the costs of having two sets of crew to run them both — one larger ship offers the chance for just as many passengers at a lower cost.

Marketing: Finally, one overlooked aspect of why cruise ships are bigger than ever has to do with marketing and publicity. There’s a certain awe and interest that comes with the world’s largest ships. Seeing them in port is essentially a giant billboard for a cruise line. And the largest ships also get significant press due to their size. All of that can translate into more interest, ticket sales, and prices for the newest — and biggest — ships.

With that in mind, here is the current list of the world’s largest cruise ships as of now…

Icon of the Seas

When it comes to the largest ships, Royal Caribbean is the undisputed leader with the six biggest cruise ships in the world. But the king of the fleet — and the largest cruise ship in the world — is Icon of the Seas .

Icon of the Seas doesn’t sail with passengers until 2024, but it’s already made waves. It’s not just the massive size (250,800 gross tons and 7,600 passengers at maximum capacity), but what’s onboard. A full-fledged waterpark, seven different pools, and eight different neighborhoods offer a spot for everyone. This ship looks to change cruising forever.

• Gross Tonnage: 250,800
• Length: 1,198 feet
• Passenger Capacity: 5,610 double occupancy; 7,600 max capacity
• Year Built: 2023

Wonder of the Seas

Wonder of the Seas is the latest edition of Royal Caribbean’s Oasis-class ships (until Utopia of the Seas arrives in 2024), which were the largest class in the world until the new Icon class took the torch. Still, it’s not as if Wonder of the Seas is a slouch.

At 235,600 gross tons, there’s room for 7,084 passengers and an amazing amount to see and do onboard. This includes Central Park, the mid-ship outdoor promenade that winds through lush gardens, and the AquaTheater, where performers put on aquatic shows, including towering high dives at sea.

• Gross Tonnage: 235,600
• Length: 1,188 feet
• Passenger Capacity: 5,734 double occupancy; 7,084 max capacity
• Year Built: 2022

Symphony of the Seas

Each iteration of Oasis-class ships has arrived just slightly larger than the previous when it comes to gross tonnage. That means they each had their time as the largest in the world before another arrived on the scene. In this case, Symphony of the Seas (228,000 gross tons and the ability to hold 6,680 passengers) took the crown in 2018.

Today, it’s the third-largest cruise ship on the planet, but it’s no slouch. It holds seven different neighborhoods, nearly 3,000 staterooms, three waterslides, and Ultimate Abyss — a 10-story dry slide.

• Gross Tonnage: 228,081
• Passenger Capacity: 5,518 double occupancy; 6,680 max capacity
• Year Built: 2018

Harmony of the Seas

Built in 2016, Harmony of the Seas features 18 decks, more than 225,000 gross tons (about 10% smaller than Icon of the Seas) and can carry nearly 6,700 passengers when completely full. That’s good enough to make it the fourth-largest cruise ship in the world.

It features many of the same components of other ships in the class, like the adults-only Solarium, Central Park, and the AquaTheater. That’s not to mention 17 different spots to grab a bite to eat.

• Gross Tonnage: 226,963
• Passenger Capacity: 5,479 double occupancy; 6,687 max capacity
• Year Built: 2016

Oasis of the Seas

The ship that started the trend of truly mega ships is also the namesake of the Oasis class — Oasis of the Seas. If you notice, most of the largest ships on our list were built recently. This ship first began sailing in 2009 and set off the “arms race” of larger ships that continues today.

Following a refurbishment, it now features three waterslides, a dozen lounges, 2,801 cabins (including one with a panoramic view right above the ship’s bridge), a splash pad for kids, and even an escape room themed like the 1960s NASA mission control. And did we mention 20 different places to find something to eat?

• Gross Tonnage: 226,838
• Length: 1,187 feet
• Passenger Capacity: 5,602 double occupancy; 6,771 max capacity
• Year Built: 2009

Allure of the Seas

Following a refurbishment of Oasis of the Seas, Allure of the Seas — which was the second ship in the class and built in 2010 — is actually now the smallest of the group based on tonnage. Still, that’s good enough for sixth largest in the world at “just” 225,000 gross tons.

On the ship, you’ll find 18 decks, 2,748 staterooms and more than 6,800 passengers when completely full. That’s definitely a lot of people, but remember that you also have a lot more space to spread out, giving plenty of elbow room.

• Gross Tonnage: 225,282
• Passenger Capacity: 5,496 double occupancy; 6,826 max capacity
• Year Built: 2010

MSC World Europa

While Royal Caribbean has a lock on the largest ships, the title of largest cruise ship from outside that cruise line goes to MSC World Europa.

Coming in at almost 216,000 gross tons, it’s roughly 14% smaller than Icon of the Seas. But don’t think it’s some slouch. From bumper cars to seven pools to an 11-story slide, there’s no shortage of things for kids to do. Adults will love the 13 different dining options and an indoor promenade or Panorama Lounge for shopping, having a drink, or just relaxing.

This ship will be joined in 2025 by sister-ship MSC World America, set to sail stateside.

• Gross Tonnage: 215,863
• Length: 1,094 feet
• Passenger Capacity: 5,231 double occupancy; 6,762 max capacity

Costa Smeralda/Costa Toscana (Tie)

These two ships come in at a tie for the eighth-largest cruise ship in the world. Built in 2019 and 2021, respectively, they both belong to Costa Cruises. And if the shape of the ship looks familiar, that’s because Costa is a sister line to Carnival. A similar design is used for Carnival’s largest ships, Mardi Gras, Celebration, and Jubilee. However, those ships come in just under the 185,000 gross tons seen with Smeralda and Toscana.

Both ships offer 13 pools and hot tubs, nearly a dozen restaurants and just under 20 bars and lounges. And if you like balcony views? There are 1,550 balcony rooms on each, providing plenty of options for the roughly 6,500 passengers that can sail at full capacity.

• Gross Tonnage: 185,010
• Length: 1,106 feet
• Passenger Capacity: 5,224 double occupancy; 6,554 max capacity
• Year Built: 2019/2021

P&O Arvia

Taking the crown as the 10th-largest cruise ship in the world is Arvia from P&O Cruises. Measuring just under 185,000 gross tons, it offer a similar design to ships like Costa Smeralda and Carnival Celebration, but don’t think these ships are all the same.

For instance, Arvia features a unique Skydome area that is a pool area with retractable roof by day and an entertainment venue by night. It also features its own rum distillery onboard, meaning you can take home rum literally made on the ship. Kids will love the Altitude zone that features a ropes course, mini-golf, and more. There’s also Mission Control, a submarine-themed escape room.

All told, a reported 6,685 passengers can enjoy the ship at one time.

• Gross Tonnage: 184,700
• Length: 1,130 feet
• Passenger Capacity: 5,200 double occupancy; 6,685 max capacity

More on Large Ships:

• The World’s Largest Cruise Ship Compared to Famous Places
• The World’s Largest Cruise Ships Sailing For Each Line (With Photos)
• Photos: See the New Icon of the Seas Sail for the First Time

Popular: 39 Useful Things to Pack (17 You Wouldn't Think Of)

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What the World’s Largest Cruise Ship Is Really Like, from a Passenger Aboard Its First Voyage (Exclusive)

The massive and much-hyped ship embarks on its maiden voyage from Port Miami on Jan. 27, but PEOPLE got a first look during the preview sailing

Natalia Senanayake is an Editorial Assistant, Lifestyle at PEOPLE. She covers all things travel and home, from celebrities' luxury mansions to breaking travel news.

Royal Caribbean

Calling all cruisers! Royal Caribbean’s shiny new ship, Icon of the Seas , is finally ready to make its official debut.

PEOPLE got a first look at the world’s largest cruise ship on a preview sailing ahead of its official maiden voyage on Jan. 27, and spent days exploring the vessel to see if it’s really the perfect combination of “thrill and chill” like the cruise line says. After experiencing a trip on the floating mini city (really, it has eight neighborhoods including a Central Park!), we can confirm that Icon has everything cruise lovers could want in a vacation and then some. 

Here’s everything to know about the record-breaking Icon of the Seas, including what you can only learn by sailing on it. 

The ship will depart from Port Miami next week for its first seven-night sailing and head for a number of destinations throughout the Eastern and Western Caribbean.

Ports will include Puerto Costa Maya in Mexico, Roatan in Honduras, Cozumel in Mexico, Basseterre in St. Kitts & Nevis, Charlotte Amalie in St. Thomas, and Royal Caribbean's private island retreat Perfect Day at CocoCay in the Bahamas.

Prices for both trips currently range from $3,600 all the way up to $100,000 per week depending on the route and type of accommodation. 

The Superlatives

Icon of the Seas is breaking records in more ways than one. It boasts the world’s largest water park at sea ( Category 6 ) and pool at sea ( Royal Bay ). It's also just slightly longer than and holds a higher passenger and crew capacity than Royal Caribbean’s Wonder of the Seas , which formerly had the title of largest cruise ship in the world.

After completing a round of sea trials in June 2023 and naming soccer star Lionel Messi its official Icon in December, the ship is finally ready to start bringing cruisers on a larger-than-life vacation through the Caribbean. 

It’s Basically a Floating City

Cruisers can spend hours exploring each of the eight neighborhoods aboard the ship that all strive to create a unique travel experience based on specific vacation styles. The open-air Central Park is a lush oasis that surrounds passengers with four live plant walls and offers a number of restaurants and bars to dine at — including a walk-up champagne bar and an eight-course dining experience at Empire Supper Club . Guests can even let loose and sway along to live music at Lou’s Jazz ‘n Blues . 

The Royal Promenade boasts stunning ocean views through the cruise line’s first floor-to-ceiling window feature equipped with connected decks. The neighborhood also offers more than 15 dining options (the ship in total offers over 40 ways to dine and drink) that can be enjoyed by families and solo adult passengers alike. Additional restaurants, bars and cafes can be found at the AquaDome which has a 55-foot waterfall display as well as panoramic views of the ocean. 

For those looking to lounge by the pool and relax, The Hideaway offers a suspended infinity pool overlooking the sparkling sea, while Chill Island features the most expansive pool at sea at 5,813 sq. ft. The neighborhood also includes a swim-up bar, Swim & Tonic , where cruisers can enjoy refreshing frozen drinks while wading in the water. However, because the ship can hold up to 7,600 guests at max capacity, the bar gets packed pretty quickly so you'll need to claim your spot early.

For adventurers and families, Thrill Island and Surfside are the spots to be. Thrill Island is where Category 6, is located, along with additional daring excursions like the free-fall Pressure Drop slide, FlowRider surf simulator and rock climbing at Adrenaline Peak. Thrill-seeking cruisers can also challenge themselves at Crown’s Edge where they’ll be suspended 154 feet above sea level. 

Meanwhile at Surfside, Royal Caribbean’s first-ever neighborhood designed specifically for families, parents and kids can enjoy their own mini adventures through the beach-themed carousel, family festival and more fun-filled activities. Parents can even have a chance to unwind at the Water’s Edge pool while they watch their kids play in the nearby Splashaway Bay or Baby Bay.

Last but not least, at the Suite Neighborhood , guests can experience the multilevel sundeck at The Grove, enjoy the luxurious private pool and eat at the two-deck Coastal Kitchen. 

Accommodations for All Kinds

With 2,805 staterooms and more than 28 different types of rooms, Icon of the Seas offers a unique way of cruise living. Guests can soak in the views in Royal Caribbean’s first-ever Infinite Balcony Room that can fit up to four people. The room’s private terrace allows cruisers to escape for a while and breathe in the fresh, salty air. 

Surfside Family Suites accommodate families of four and are conveniently located in the heart of Surfside making it easy for kids to jump straight into the action. They offer a private balcony that overlooks the neighborhood so families can always have a glimpse of the fun. 

To take a family getaway above and beyond, cruisers can consider booking the 2,523 sq. ft. Ultimate Family Townhouse that accommodates up to eight people. The three-story space boasts an indoor slide, a wraparound balcony with a whirlpool, an outdoor patio with table tennis and direct access to Surfside. 

This accommodation is so packed with activities and extra space that it costs $100,000 for the whole seven-night sailing and it's already booked through the next year.

Another noteworthy suite is the two-level Icon Loft which is priced at approximately $64,000 for a week. It includes a private hot tub, a wraparound balcony, a piano and primary bedroom with a freestanding bathtub. Both the Icon Loft and Ultimate Family Townhouse offer complimentary specialty restaurants, special beverage packages and unlimited wifi.

Meanwhile, all Sea Class rooms require guests to purchase separate wifi packages.

The least expensive stateroom on Icon of the Seas is the Interior Plus which costs about $3,600 a week.

Entertainment

The option to enjoy live entertainment is always a plus on any vacation, especially if you’re looking to escape some of the chaos happening throughout the 20 decks on board. A good place to start would be the first rendition of The Wizard of Oz at sea in the Royal Theater. The production is similar to a Broadway-level show, from cast members floating over the audience to fake snow falling from the ceiling and more spectacular special effects in between. 

To see the first cast of robots perform the unimaginable, guests can head to the AquaTheater at the AquaDome to see performances that blend together theatrical and live-action movie experiences.

If a show isn’t the vibe for the night, cruisers should head over to Boleros bar and lounge to hear Travesia bring Latin rhythms to life. Afterwards, the Adult Comedy LIVE! show located in The Attic is a good place to laugh the night away.

A Mini Paradise Awaits at CocoCay and the New Hideaway Beach 

It wouldn’t be a Royal Caribbean cruise without a Perfect Day at CocoCay stop. The company’s private Bahamas island retreat promises to keep the adventure going at Thrill Waterpark with 14 slides to ride.

The island is also offering a new addition for adults only called Hideaway Beach — its first-ever private escape where grownups can admire the stunning white sand and turquoise waters without any interruptions. 

While the new addition does imitate a relaxing beach club feel with free-flowing drinks and snacks to enjoy all day long, it also presents a similar issue to Swim & Tonic in that it gets packed really quickly. Be prepared to walk to the other side of the cove and spend a few minutes looking for a lounge chair before you can sit back and relax.

A Few More Things to Keep in Mind

Although this is the largest cruise ship in the world, cruisers should expect to feel the boat moving from time to time. Depending on the weather, it can rock to the point that guests may lose their balance, and it's definitely more intense towards the front of the ship. For those who get seasick easily, it's best to book a stateroom towards the middle of the ship where less movement is felt.

This truly is a massive ship. It has a gross tonnage of 250,800 which is about five times more than the Titanic at 46,328, according to CNN . It also takes approximately six minutes to walk from one end of the ship to the other — and that's without stopping to chat with the incredibly friendly crew members on board.

And for the ultimate cruise nerds, Icon's Captain Henrik Loy told preview guests that the ship can reach a speed of about 24 knots (28 mph) during an exclusive tour of the vessel's bridge. The ship was cruising at about 11 knots (13 mph) during this sailing, and the captain added that the max speed is very fast and not needed for this type of trip.

Icon of the Seas Is Just the Beginning  

Also during the preview sailing, Royal Caribbean shared an exclusive look ahead at the next epic adventure they have up their sleeve. Star of the Seas will become the newest ship to join the cruise line's Icon Class when it makes its debut in August 2025. While it won't be the next largest cruise ship in the world, it will still aim to create an epic vacation on board through its accommodations, dining, entertainment and more.

The company also confirmed that an unnamed Icon 3 ship is currently in the works, but the timing and name of the ship has not yet been announced.

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• Largest cruise ships worldwide 2024, by gross tonnage

Royal Caribbean's Icon of the Seas was the largest cruise ship worldwide as of July 2024. The vessel, which also topped the ranking of the  longest cruise ships worldwide , has a gross tonnage of nearly 249,000. Another Royal Caribbean cruise ship, Utopia of the Seas, followed on the list, with a gross tonnage of over 236,000. 

Largest cruise ships worldwide as of July 2024, by gross tonnage (in 1,000s)

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Royal Caribbean is launching what it says is the world's longest cruise. It lasts 274 days, and prices start at $61,000.

• Royal Caribbean is launching a 274-night Ultimate World Cruise, with prices starting at $61,000.
• The cruise would visit 65 countries, including Brazil, China, and Morocco.
• The inaugural cruise is scheduled to depart from Miami on December 10, 2023.

Royal Caribbean is launching a 274-night cruise around the world to set sail in 2023.

Prices start at $61,000 per person.

In a press release on Wednesday, the cruise line said it was "the longest and most comprehensive world cruise out there."

The company said the Ultimate World Cruise, set to depart from Miami, would visit more than 150 destinations in 65 countries on all seven continents.

Royal Caribbean said stops would include Casablanca in Morocco; the Great Barrier Reef in Australia; Antarctica; Brazil, where passengers can see the Christ the Redeemer statue on New Year's Eve; and Beijing.

The cruise starts at $61,000 per person

The inaugural cruise is scheduled to depart from Miami on December 10, 2023, and return on September 10, 2024.

Passengers would travel on the Serenade of the Seas , which has 13 decks and a mini-golf course, an arcade, a rock-climbing wall, a pool, a theater, and a spa. The ship can accommodate almost 2,500 passengers and more than 800 crew members, Royal Caribbean said.

Prices start at $61,000 for a person in an interior stateroom, rising to $65,000 for an oceanview stateroom and $79,000 for a balcony stateroom. A stay in a junior suite starts at $112,000 per person.

Royal Caribbean said passengers would get a 10% discount if they pay in full by January 6, 2023.

The pandemic ground world travel to a halt last year, and cruise lines' revenue plummeted . Carnival Cruises said in June 2020 that it would sell six cruise ships after posting a $4.4 billion loss.

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With the rollout of COVID-19 vaccines, the industry has rebounded .

"Now more than ever, people have resolved to travel the world and make up for lost time," Michael Bayley, the president and CEO of Royal Caribbean, said in the press release.

The Ultimate World Cruise is split into four legs: the Americas and Antarctica, Asia and the Pacific, the Middle East and the Mediterranean, and northern Europe. Passengers can book them individually rather than opting for the full nine-month trip.

Bookings opened on Wednesday for Royal Caribbean's loyalty-program members at the diamond level or above and will open on October 27 for all other passengers, the company said.

Royal Caribbean said it would announce prices for the four individual legs of the trip when bookings for them open in December.

Watch: The world's largest cruise ship just landed in Miami — here's what it's like on board

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Largest Cruise Ships

See here the world's largest cruise ships list (including vessels under construction ) owned by the best cruise line companies . This article is also integrated with our ship dimensions , passenger capacity , and old cruise ships surveys.

CruiseMapper's list of biggest cruise ships includes all vessels with gross tonnage/volume over 150,000 GT-tons .

Each one of these behemoth ships is an engineering marvel produced by our contemporary age of fun and super technologies. Kudos to their builders and double kudos to their proud owners who have invested so much in these newbuild projects!

Note: In the following table, all links are internal (CruiseMapper) and redirect to the liner's itinerary schedule where you can compare dates and prices per person (double occupancy cabin rates).

The world's largest river cruise ship is Victoria Sabrina . The 2020-launched riverboat is China-built, owned by Victoria Cruises China and deployed year-round on Yangtze River. The vessel has the impressive volume of 17000 GT-tons, LOA length 150 m (492 ft), width 22 m (72 ft), 7 decks (5 with cabins), 270 staterooms, max capacity 690 passengers plus 195 crew/staff.

Oasis-class - biggest cruise ship in the world ever built

World's currently largest cruise ship class is produced exclusively for RCI-Royal Caribbean andin 2 sub-series - Oasis-Class (Allure OTS, Oasis OTS) and Oasis-Plus (Harmony OTS, Symphony OTS, Wonder OTS). These are sisterships from the fleet of the second- largest cruise shipping company in the world - RCCL-Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd (as shipowner) that follows only Carnival Corporation (as shipowner).

As to vessels' dimensions, each boasts the unimaginable weight of 227,000-230,000 GT / gross tons, LOA length 362 m (1187 ft) and waterline width 47 m (154 ft). The extreme breadth is over 60 m (198 ft). As the GT is a volume measurement, the ship's actual mass (called displacement) is approx 100,000 tons (the hull alone weighs about 54,000 tons). Surpassing all passenger ship standards, building cost and all previous ship travel vacation concepts, the Oasis-class ships are currently the only passenger shipping vessels of such immense size.

Other interesting numbers are the above waterline height (72 m / 236 ft), depth (23 m / 74 ft below waterline), 16 passenger decks, draft/draught (9,3 m / 31 ft), cruising/service speed 23 knots (26 mph / 42 kph), capacity 5400 passengers at double occupancy (max 6296 / 6870) and officers+crew capacity 2165.

The world's biggest cruise ship propulsion system guarantees the perfect maneuverability by 3 rotatable Azipod thrusters (suspended under the ship's stern), each with a huge electric motor and a 6 m (20 ft) propeller. The ship offers great stability due to its enormous size. And in times of need - there are 18 lifeboats, each with a capacity of 370 people.

Oasis-Plus class is also currently the world's most technologically advanced and energy-efficient cruise vessel ever built. It is equipped with a new-generation exhaust gas cleaning system (multi-stream scrubbers) and with a hull lubrication system allowing the ship to float on air bubbles (created around the hull) thus reducing drag and increasing fuel efficiency.

Regarding cruise accommodations , this class of vessels has some of the largest suites at sea - measuring 150 m2 (over 1600 ft2, balcony included). Another signature feature is the 7 "neighborhoods" (theme-park-like areas), 5 large swimming pools, a huge casino, a full-size volleyball/basketball court, large-capacity bars, and lounges. Oasis-Plus ships additionally have waterslides (created by Aquatic Design & Engineering) and a total of 23 "water fun" areas (swimming pools, large-size outdoor jacuzzies, waterslides, flowriders/surf simulators). The stern-located Ultimate Abyss water slide is 150 ft (45,70 m) above sea level. It features 31 sections, two 360-degree circles, 27-degree slide incline, 28 m (92 ft) serpentine-like drop, 13,14 seconds average sliding time (top to bottom), around 300 small LED lights and graffiti artworks throughout.

These phenomenal ships were manufactured by STX Europe (shipyard Turku Finland / Oasis-class) and in by STX France (shipyard Saint-Nazaire France / Oasis-Plus). The new Oasis ships are 2,15 m (7 ft) longer.

Biggest Carnival cruise ship - "Carnival Pinnacle" class

Watch this amazing YouTube video about the "Carnival Pinnacle cruise ship". The project was designed by the Italian shipbuilder Fincantieri as their biggest ever passenger ship - GT tonnage 200,000 tons, capacity 6000 passengers, length 380 m (1246 ft), The "Pinnacle Project" was initiated by Carnival Corporation in 2004 to tip the scales in the "Carnival vs Royal Caribbean" competition.

Carnival Pinnacle was never built as the project was officially canceled (mainly due to the vessel's incredible cost at that time). However, many of the project's elements and innovative design features were later adapted for other large-sized cruise liners built for rival companies.

Icon of the Seas: Your guide to pricing, itineraries, activities aboard the world's largest cruise ship

Royal caribbean's first icon of the seas sailing from florida sold out within 24 hours.

If you were hoping to be aboard the maiden voyage of Royal Caribbean's Icon of the Seas cruise ship, you're out of luck. In less than 24-hours, the cruise line says it has filled the slots for the first sailing of Icon of the Seas from Miami, Florida. The ship is being hailed as the world's largest cruise ship

MIAMI - When Royal Caribbean's Icon of the Seas sets sail for the first time in January 2024 from Miami, Florida, it will take the title of the world's largest cruise ship. 

The highly anticipated ship will feature 20 decks and measure 1,198 feet in length – which will dethrone the current world’s largest ship Wonder of the Seas (1,188-feet) – and it will have the capacity to carry up to 7,600 passengers!

With so many people to please, Royal Caribbean promises that the new ship will offer something for every kind of vacationer – from thrill-seekers to chill enthusiasts and everyone in between. 

Reservations opened in October 2022, but if you're still not sure about hitting the high seas aboard this groundbreaking ship, here's everything we know so far about pricing, itineraries and onboard activities.

What activities are on board Icon of the Seas?

T he ship is home to eight ‘neighborhoods,' each one being a destination in and of itself filled with unique experiences, live entertainment, and delicious food and drink choices. Icon of the Seas will be home to seven pools (one for every day of the week), a 55-foot indoor waterfall, a rocking climbing wall, the largest waterpark at sea and much more.

Royal Caribbean's Icon of the Seas: First look at AquaDome

In a tranquil oasis by day, guests can take in wraparound ocean views and an awe-inspiring waterfall as they enjoy a bite or drink. By night, it becomes a vibrant place great for a night out. (Courtesy: Royal Caribbean)

Some of the experiences to look forward to on Icon of the Seas are detailed below: 

• Thrill Island – This lost island adventure is home Category 6, the largest waterpark at sea, with six record-breaking slides: Pressure Drop and its 66-degree incline make it the industry’s first open free-fall slide; the 46-foot-tall Frightening Bolt, the tallest drop slide at sea; Storm Surge and Hurricane Hunter, the first family raft slides at sea with four riders per raft; and Storm Chasers, cruising’s first mat-racing duo.
• Chill Island – Among the seven pools on board, four are in this three-deck slice of paradise. There’s a pool for every mood, each with prime ocean views: the vibrant Swim & Tonic, the line’s first swim-up bar at sea; Royal Bay Pool, the largest pool at sea; Cloud 17, an adults-only retreat; and the serene, infinity-edge Cove Pool. Plus, The Lime & Coconut returns with four locations, including Royal Caribbean’s first frozen cocktail bar.
• Surfside – This family-friendly oasis is where grownups can chill at the Water’s Edge pool, as they keep an eye on the kids at Splashaway Bay and Baby Bay.
• The Hideaway – This neighborhood 135 feet above the ocean and combines good vibes of beach club scenes around the world and breathtaking ocean views. The first suspended infinity pool at sea is at the center of it all.
• AquaDome – In a tranquil oasis by day, guests can take in wraparound ocean views and an awe-inspiring waterfall as they enjoy a bite or drink. By night, it becomes a vibrant place great for a night out, complete with restaurants, bars and the cruise line’s marquee aqua shows at the next-level AquaTheater.

A first look inside Royal Caribbean's new cruise ship, Icon of the Seas, which will boast seven pools, nine whirlpools, a huge water park with six slides, including a free-fall slide, and 40 bars, restaurants and other nightlife options. Photos via Royal Caribbean/handouts.

After a busy day on deck, families can retreat to their rooms that have been designed with everyone in mind. For families of three, four, five and more, there are comfortable accommodations to consider like the Family Infinite Balcony and Surfside Family Suite, as well as the three-story Ultimate Family Townhouse, complete with its own white picket fence and mailbox. 

Itinerary for Icon of the Seas

When Icon of the Seas sails from the Port of Miami, travelers can choose from four different routings to the Eastern or Western Caribbean for their seven-night adventure. 

The following itineraries are available:

• Eastern Caribbean & Perfect Day:

Miami, Florida - Philipsburg, St. Maarten - Charlotte Amalie, St. Thomas - Perfect Day at CocoCay, Bahamas - Miami, Florida

Miami, Florida - Basseterre, St. Kitts & Nevis - Charlotte Amalie, St Thomas - Perfect Day at CocoCay, Bahamas - Miami, Florida

• Western Caribbean & Perfect Day:

Miami, Florida - Roatan, Honduras - Puerto Costa Maya, Mexico - Cozumel, Mexico - Perfect Day at CocoCay, Bahamas - Miami, Florida

Miami, Florida - Puerto Costa Maya, Mexico - Cozumel, Mexico - Perfect day at CocoCay, Bahamas - Miami, Florida

How much does a trip on Icon of the Seas cost?

As of Jan. 26, 2023, the cheapest rate shown was $1,007 per person for a seven-night sailing to the Eastern Caribbean with an interior room on Oct. 19, 2024. The price goes up for more premium rooms, with the highest being the suite for $2,879 per person.

The sailing with the highest rate was the Western Caribbean trip on Feb. 17, 2024, with the cheapest room priced at $1,581 per person and the suite for $3,443 per person. 

Prices vary depending on the date of sailing. 

Keep in mind, these fares are not all-inclusive. While many activities, meals in the main dining room and some drinks are included in the price , other amenities – including specialty dining, spa treatments, and alcoholic beverages – will cost you extra. 

So if you're ready to start planning your iconic getaway, Royal Caribbean says this first-of-its-kind adventure will take your family vacation to the next level.

"With each new ship, we raise the bar in the travel industry while enhancing what our guests know and love," said Jason Liberty, president and CEO, Royal Caribbean Group. "From the moment they step on board, every experience is specifically designed to give them the best vacation anywhere on land and at sea. With  Icon of the Seas,  we’ve taken this to a new level and made the ultimate family vacation."  

August 27, 24

Man buys apartment on cruise ship - and it's cheaper than living at home

By James Kay

A man who bought an apartment has revealed that he did so because it's cheaper than living at home - and it comes with the perk of traveling!

We all love a nice vacation, but what if I told you that you could go on vacation indefinitely and it could end up being cheaper than your standard housing costs?

Austin Wells, a 28-year-old from San Diego, bid farewell to the hustle and bustle of city living, opting for a unique life on the high seas, as reported by CNBC .

Wells' new floating abode is far from ordinary. The cruise ship boasts an impressive array of amenities, including 20 dining restaurants and bars, a microbrewery, a library stocked with 10,000 books, a movie theater, three inviting pools, a fully-equipped gym, an art studio, and even an onboard medical facility.

One might assume that such an extravagant lifestyle would come at a premium, but Wells' costs may astonish you.

He made the decision to live on the cruise ship after securing a remote position with Meta - the tech giant that owns Facebook and Instagram - allowing him the freedom to explore various countries for an estimated three and a half years.

The ship, known as Storylines MV Narrative, is scheduled to set sail in 2025 and is poised to embark on a breathtaking journey that includes stops in Rome, Naples, Venice, Slovenia, Croatia, Greece, and Turkey.

Wells' role in Meta's augmented and virtual reality division is fully remote, affording him the flexibility to travel continuously without being tethered to midweek office meetings.

Wells' studio apartment on the MV Narrative - a residential luxury cruise ship - comes with a price tag of $300,000 for a 12-year lease.

Given that the average rent in San Deigo (as of July 2024) works out at an estimated $2,995 per month, per RentCafe , it's safe to say that Wells' decision is much cheaper than if he decided to stay on land. (That would work out at $431,280 over 12 years.)

His room measures 237 square foot, with the ship boasting around 500 rooms and apartments in total, per Metro . According to the company behind the liner, owners can choose from "coastal" or "contemporary interior design styles".

Wells explained to CNBC: "The thing that most excites me is I don’t have to upend my daily routine in order to go see the world.

"My working hours will be shifted towards evenings, nights, and very early mornings. But that does open up the ability for me to... maybe see a city midday to afternoon and then start my workday around 6:00PM or 7:00PM.

"This is probably the first time ever that there is even the ability to have a standard job and even consider working and living from a floating apartment complex."

For those times when Wells might miss his family and friends or feel a bit seasick, he has the option to rent out his apartment if he wishes to return home, or he can extend an invitation to friends or family to join him on the ship for a month.

If you're enticed by the idea of leaving behind your overpriced city flat and setting sail, you're in luck, as there are still apartments available on the ship.

Most leases run for 24 years, approximately the life of the vessel, although Wells secured a 12-year lease by getting in early. Prices for other apartments start at around $1 million and can soar to a staggering $8 million.

For those seeking an even more carefree experience, there's a "fractional ownership" option of three months per year, and an all-inclusive package can be added for an extra fee of $2,100 per person.

So the question is, what are you waiting for? More information can be found here .

Featured image credit: Phill Jackson/Royal Princess & Princess Cruises/Getty

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