The world's largest cruise ship the Icon of the Seas launched it's first public voyage today. With 2 extra decks and around 12,000 gross tonnes more than the until now largest Wonder of The Seas. Both these vessels are operated by Royal Caribbean International (RCI). RCI operate the top 6 largest cruise ships.

Maiden Voyage

Icon of the Seas set sail from a cloudy Miami Florida, hoping for better weather further south. The gigantic vessel maneuvered steadily out to sea, soon underway in open water it crept over the horizon, onward in to Caribbean waters. It's first trip being a 7 day excursion around various islands, including Saint Kitts and Nevis.

Capacity Of Passengers And Crew At Nearly 11,000 People

With a maximum capacity of passengers and crew at nearly 11,000 people , it boasts 40 bars / restaurants, 7 swimming pools with 6 slides, a theatre and ice rink, this amazing ship is like a floating small town. All this spread across 8 "neighbourhoods" and through 20 decks.

Already Popular

Initial sales have been very strong with the chief executive claiming it to be "best performing new product launch ever."

The ship will tour the Caribbean all year long, taking passengers on seven day trips to various islands. Each trip will include a stop at RCI's own private island CocoCay and Hideaway Beach.

Location of CocoCay island Bahamas

RCI's own private island CocoCay.
They claim to own the island, but the agreement with the government of the Bahamas hasn't been made public. It may well be a lease agreement. The island is part of the sovereign state country, the Commonwealth of The Bahamas.

 

Best Quality Build

Built in Finland for nearly $2 Billion. She sailed (please excuse the pun) through sea trials clearing the way for the maiden voyage today.

About The Author
Clare Marshall
Chewells Contributor

Clare is our lady for the cruise industry. She worked on cruise ships from a young... »

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Replies

• Amanda Duarte (Feb 29, 2024)
  5 times the size of the titanic. Why has everyone online got to mention that stat on it's maiden voyage!
• Jane (Jan 29, 2024)
  Hope they got plenty elevators and maps. Take you a week to find your way round the place.

• Name