The world's largest cruise ship, which is soon to be delivered in October this year, has successfully completed construction in Finland and embarked on its inaugural sea trial, informs CNN on June 27.
Royal Caribbean International's Icon of the Seas, measuring a staggering 365 metres in length (nearly 1,200 feet) and with an estimated weight of 250,800 tonnes, recently ventured into open waters. By January 2024, when it sets sail in the Caribbean, the ship will comfortably accommodate approximately 5,610 passengers and 2,350 crew members. Its standout feature will be the world's largest waterpark at sea, known as Category 6, boasting six record-breaking water slides. Alongside this, guests will have the option to enjoy the boat's seven pools and nine whirlpools for a more relaxed experience.
Meyer Turku shipyard, a prominent shipbuilder in Turku, Finland, is where the construction of the world's largest cruise ship is taking place. Royal Caribbean International president and chief executive Michael Bayley stated earlier this year, during a press panel at the shipyard, that the vessel is on schedule to join the Royal Caribbean fleet on October 26, preceding its debut in 2024.
Currently, the title of the largest cruise ship belongs to another vessel in the Royal Caribbean fleet, Wonder of the Seas, which embarked on its maiden voyage just last year. Wonder of the Seas measures a slightly smaller length of 1,188 feet and offers 18 decks for exploration.
Royal Caribbean International aims to present Icon of the Seas as the pinnacle of their cruise line's evolution, incorporating the latest technology and drawing from 50 years of experience and knowledge gained throughout the company's history.
Bayley expressed, "We are positioning it as the ultimate family vacation, and when you consider the tremendous effort and time invested in creating this ship, it is truly astonishing."
Royal Caribbean statement shows that the Icon of the Seas successfully completed its initial sea trials on June 22. These trials involved extensive testing of the main engines, hull, brake systems, steering, as well as evaluations of noise and vibration levels. Despite a departure delay caused by windy conditions, all tasks were completed promptly as scheduled.
The ship offers over 40 options for dining, drinking, and entertainment, with many of them included in the cruise fare. It consists of 20 decks and eight distinct neighbourhoods, aiming to cater to all kinds of vacationers. These neighbourhoods range from dedicated areas for families to exclusive spaces like Royal Caribbean International's inaugural duelling pianos bar, designed exclusively for adults.
With 28 diverse types of accommodations available, including more options for families, enhanced ocean views, and increased space for group travellers, the cruise line has devoted an unprecedented amount of time to meticulously design the perfect home base for passengers.
All-year-round, Icon of the Seas will embark on seven-night Eastern and Western Caribbean voyages departing from Miami. Each cruise will feature a stop at Royal Caribbean's renowned private island destination, Perfect Day at CocoCay, along with its recently expanded Hideaway Beach.
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