Sailing into Luxury: The Unforgettable Experience Aboard Icon of the Seas
In a time where the cruise industry places utmost importance on innovation and luxury, Royal Caribbean continues to set the bar higher with each new ship they introduce. Their newest vessel, the Icon of the Seas, is like nothing you've ever seen before. It's a perfect mix of state-of-the-art maritime engineering and an unforgettable experience for everyone on board. As we explore the details of this magnificent ship, it's clear that Royal Caribbean has once more pushed the boundaries of cruising, offering passengers an unforgettable voyage into the future of ocean travel.
Icon of the Seas has eight different neighborhoods, all offering something different. There are over 40 restaurants, 15+ bars, lounges at every corner, seven pools and a state-of-the-art AquaDome. From a beach retreat to a resort escape and a theme park adventure, the first Icon Class ship is designed for every kind of family and adventurer.
One of the many neighborhoods is Thrill Island. Here vacationers can scale new heights and reach top speeds. The lineup of adventures includes a Category 6 waterpark, the largest at sea, and the daring Crown’s Edge — a fear-inducing challenge that’s part skywalk, part ropes course, part thrill ride and an all-out test of your courage on the outside of the ship. Returning favorites include the FlowRider surf simulator and new takes on mini golf at Lost Dunes. There is also rock climbing at Adrenaline Peak, and rounding out the thrills, just steps away, are new and casual spots to recharge with bites and drinks like Basecamp and the Desserted Milkshake Bar.
At the new Chill Island, there’s a pool for every mood, each with prime ocean views. Four of the seven pools on Icon of the Seas are at the heart of this three-deck slice of paradise, with a larger variety of ways to kick back and soak in the sun or under the shade. Nearby are spots to eat and drink for the ultimate pool day, including The Lime & Coconut, El Loco Fresh & Cantina Fresca and Windjammer.
Surfside is a neighborhood where families with young kids can stay and play all day. Grownups can soak up the ocean views at Water’s Edge pool while keeping an eye on the kids at Splashaway Bay and Baby Bay. Not far from there is a reimagined beach-themed carousel, an arcade and neighborhood-wide activities – like a lively family festival and the Steel Pan Family Jam.
Tucked away, The Hideaway combines the good vibes of beach club scenes around the world and uninterrupted ocean views. At the center of it all is the first suspended infinity pool at sea, surrounded by a multilevel terrace, whirlpools, a variety of seating and a dedicated bar.
Perched at the top of Icon of the Seas is the transformational AquaDome. By day, vacationers can kick back and enjoy a bite to eat or a drink in this tranquil oasis with wraparound ocean views and a 55-foot-tall water curtain. At night it becomes a vibrant hot spot! Complete with new restaurants and bars like AquaDome Market – Royal Caribbean’s first food hall – and the Rye & Bean coffee bar. The real showstopper is the cruise line’s marquee aqua shows at the next-level AquaTheater.
Central Park is lusher and livelier than ever before. The signature open-air neighborhood has more ways to dine, drink and be entertained with live music at spots like Lou’s Jazz ’n Blues. You can also experience an eight-course meal at Empire Supper Club or sips at the Bubbles walk-up champagne bar. There are also reimagined favorites such as the neighborhood’s first Hibachi restaurant, Izumi. Enjoy all of this and more while surrounded by thousands of real plants.
The new and transformed Royal Promenade is the first to feature floor-to-ceiling ocean views and two fully connected decks. Day or night, the neighborhood comes alive and features more than 15 restaurants just in the Promenade alone! Also explore new lounges such as Dueling Pianos and the 1400 Lobby Bar. Icon of the Seas wouldn’t be the same without returning favorites with a twist and nearby experiences and spaces for kids, teens and the whole family.
The Suite Neighborhood is an exclusive enclave designed to offer unparalleled luxury and personalized service to guests staying in suite accommodations. This neighborhood encompasses a range of upscale amenities and experiences, elevating the cruise experience to new heights. One of the highlights is The Balcony, a private outdoor oasis featuring a sun deck, pool and hot tubs reserved exclusively for suite guests. This serene retreat offers a relaxing escape from the bustling ship, allowing guests to unwind in style while soaking up panoramic views of the sea.
Max out memories like never before on Icon of the Seas. Take a 7-night Eastern or Western Caribbean adventure from Miami featuring idyllic destinations in the Caribbean and an unmatched day of thrill and chill at Royal Caribbean’s award-winning private island, Perfect Day at CocoCay in The Bahamas. For more information or to book your Icon of the Seas vacation contact your local AAA Travel Agent.
AAA’s Insider Tip
Don’t miss the spectacular live entertainment onboard the new ship, with Must-See Shows like:
- The Wizard of Oz
- Aqua Action! (inside the AquaDome)
- Once Upon a Time: The King’s Royal Ball (inside the Ice Arena)
- Pirates vs. Mermaids (inside the AquaDome)
