Icon of the Seas: World's largest cruise ship arrives in Florida, official debut set for January 27

Image Copyright © Kenneth Karsten - ShipSpotting.com

On Wednesday, Royal Caribbean's highly-anticipated Icon of the Seas cruise ship debuted at Port Miami, marking the beginning of its year-round operations. According to officials in a news release, the arrival was met with celebratory fireboat salutes, banner planes in flight, and a community celebration at the Pérez Art Museum.

The colossal vessel is preparing to embark on its inaugural 7-night cruise to the Caribbean on January 27 as the first ship in Royal Caribbean's new Icon Class, Icon of the Seas, is joined by two more additions to the fleet. The Star of the Seas is scheduled to sail from Port Canaveral in 2025, followed by another ship in 2026.

Measuring an impressive 1,198 feet in length and boasting 20 decks, Icon of the Seas has claimed the title of the world's largest ship, surpassing the former record-holder, Wonder of the Seas (1,188 feet).

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

1. 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.

2. Chill Island – Four of the seven pools on board 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. The Lime & Coconut also returns with four locations, including Royal Caribbean’s first frozen cocktail bar.

3. 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.

4. The Hideaway – This neighborhood is 135 feet above the ocean and combines good vibes of beach club scenes worldwide and breathtaking ocean views. The first suspended infinity pool at sea is at the center of it all.

5. 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, with restaurants, bars, and the cruise line’s marquee aqua shows at the next-level AquaTheater.

The ship features eight distinct 'neighborhoods,' each functioning as a destination with various unique experiences, live entertainment, and delectable food and drink options. Icon of the Seas also offers seven pools (one for each day of the week), a 55-foot indoor waterfall, the largest waterpark at sea, and much more.