Royal Caribbean International, one of the world’s leading cruise line companies, has announced the imminent launch of its latest flagship vessel, the Icon of the Seas.

This gigantic cruise liner is the largest of its kind in the world, and will facilitate around 5,600 passengers and nearly 2,500 crew.

The ship’s crown jewel will be the world’s largest waterpark at sea. Named Category 6, it features six record-breaking water slides, or if that’s not quite your speed, you can relax in the boat’s seven pools and nine whirlpools.

Entertainment aboard the 365 metre vessel includes ice skaters dazzling with double axles on the ice rink and circus acts beneath a mesmerising, morphing waterfall.

If you love the nightlife you can hit up one of six bars aboard which feature jazz, stand-up comedy, DJs and even battling baby grand pianos (if you need us, that’s where we’ll be). 

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Refuel at one of twenty dining offerings across at least seven restaurant spaces, whether it’s California-inspired bites at Pier7 – open 24 hours – or an interactive teppanyaki experience at Izumi, a build-your-own bagel at at Park Café, or complementary soft pretzels at Basecamp, you’ll be hard-pressed going hungry on the Icon.

As for launch date, the Icon of the Seas was initially slated to set sail mid-2024 but the tides have been in Royal Caribbean’s favour. After completing its sailing trials on June 22, the larger-than-life cruiser will join the fleet in October 2023. Head to the Royal Caribbean International’s website here for booking details.

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