caribbean cruise icon of the seas

Sneak preview of Icon of the Seas: Photos of Royal Caribbean's newest ship

Royal Caribbean's much-awaited Icon of the Seas — the new titleholder of world's largest cruise ship — arrived in Miami on Wednesday in advance of its first sailings with paying passengers , and The Points Guy was one of the first media outlets allowed on board to see it. Although contractors were still putting the finishing touches on multiple areas of the vessel, much of it is ready for guests.

TPG was able to explore the ship's five new neighborhoods — such as the young family-focused Surfside and the glass-domed AquaDome — and try some of the new onboard eateries. We even got to meet Rover, the ship's resident chief dog officer.

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We'll give you a more in-depth report once we board the ship in just over a week for a three-night preview cruise. But here, to whet your appetite for the most-talked-about ship of the year, are photos of the public spaces and a few suites on Icon of the Seas.

Royal Promenade

The Royal Promenade remains the Main Street of the ship, as it is on previous Royal Caribbean ships. But on Icon, it feels much more spacious, light-filled and airy thanks to walls of glass windows on both sides of the ship and the removal of cabins overlooking the thoroughfare. The main focal point is The Pearl, a walk-through sphere that is actually the structural support holding up the ship since the glass walls are located where most ships have a structural steel frame.

The Pearl Cafe replaces Cafe Promenade as the all-day, all-night grab-n-go snack spot and coffee shop. You'll find a higher quality of snack here than you might be used to on other ships. We predict this is going to be a key hangout and meeting spot for guests.

We're told the whale sculpture above the seating area is sized to scale!

Sorrento's complimentary pizza makes a return on Icon of the Seas.

Giovanni's has moved from Central Park to the Royal Promenade. The effect is that the restaurant will have a more bustling and energetic feel than quiet date spot.

Boleros returns for late-night Latin dance parties.

Dueling Pianos is a new bar-with-entertainment venue on the Promenade.

You can be the star at Spotlight Karaoke, a dedicated venue for guest entertainment.

But don't worry, the fan-favorite Schooner Bar is still here, now with the new craft cocktail menu Royal Caribbean introduced in 2023.

The Point & Feather is Icon's incarnation of the promenade pub. Its facade is open rather than closed off, with indoor and outdoor seating like the pubs on other ships.

Royal Caribbean partnered with master mixologists to create many of the drink menus on the ship. You can find some of their craft cocktail creations at the indoor-outdoor 1400 Lobby Bar.

Royal Caribbean is known for its fun art, and we giggled at this statue of a dog marking his territory on a lamppost.

But the real hero of the ship is Rover, the chief dog officer who will be a permanent resident on Icon of the Seas. She's here for the fun and to make the crew smile when they're far from home, but she'll greet guests, too, when she's in the mood.

The three-level main dining room, with its stunning chandelier, is located aft of the Royal Promenade on decks 3,4 and 5. Instead of the typical two set seating times, Icon will offer guests a choice of five, as well as flexible My Time Dining.

Also on the lower decks are the Casino Royale, Music Hall nightclub and the main theater.

Surfside is the new family-focused neighborhood on Icon of the Seas. Its mascot appears to be a larger-than-life pink flamingo.

The area is intended to create a no-compromises family vacation experience where parents can enjoy a resort-style pool, elevated casual dining and creative cocktails at the same time as their kids can splash in water-play areas, ride a carousel and explore climbing structures.

Surfside is home to Splashaway Bay, found on the pool deck of other Royal Caribbean ships.

Restaurants include the Surfside Eatery buffet, where everyone can enjoy an easy meal, and Pier 7, an extra-fee (if you're over 12, that is) California-style restaurant, which also serves breakfast all day.

Grab-and-go kid food is available from Surfside Bites, and an ice cream cone from Sprinkles.

The Lemon Post serves matching cocktails and mocktails so everyone in your family can quench their thirst.

Central Park

Central Park is as green and serene as on the Oasis Class ships, with a few venue swaps.

Izumi Sushi and Teppanyaki is now located here, with a new Izumi to Go quick-service window.

Lou's Jazz 'n Blues brings a bit more energy to the space with live music. Fun tip: Look for the top of The Pearl peeking out between Lou's and Izumi.

The Empire Supper Club is an intimate dining venue starring an eight-course meal and live entertainment.

Icon of the Seas has a unique beluga whale-style silhouette thanks to the rounded glass dome at the top forward section of the ship.

The AquaDome is a neighborhood all its own, centered around an enhanced AquaTheater with even more high-tech elements than on the Oasis Class ships.

Circling the pool-theater are the Hooked Seafood Restaurant, Oasis Bling logo jewelry store (coming soon: a Crown & Anchor throne just begging for photos) and the Rye & Bean coffee bar.

Our favorite area is The Overlook, a bar with fun lounge seating with views for miles out the wall of windows that make up the dome.

Don't miss the AquaDome Market, a five-stand food hall serving sweet and savory crepes, macaroni and cheese, Asian favorites, Mediterranean dishes and sandwiches.

Thrill Island

Category 6 is the largest water park ever found on a cruise ship, and it's located in the aptly named Thrill Island neighborhood.

You'll find six waterslides, including a drop slide.

Also in this neighborhood is the Crown's Edge ropes course that will test the limits of your courage, the rock-climbing wall, FlowRider surf simulator and a ship- and plane-wreck-themed minigolf course.

If all that racing adrenaline leaves you hungry, grab comfort food at Basecamp. The pretzels, hot dogs and tater tots are free, but you'll pay extra for chicken and waffle bites and Wisconsin-style cheese curds.

Or amp your energy up even further with a massive sugar rush at Desserted, a milkshake bar serving towering ice cream drinks topped with cookies and brownies (with or without a shot of alcohol).

Chill Island

The three-deck-high Chill Island is Icon's version of a lido or pool deck.

Deck 15 is swimming central with Royal Bay — the biggest pool in the fleet — and the Cove Pool, nestled up against the side of the ship for sea views.

El Loco Fresh serves up complimentary tacos and quesadillas, and the Lime and the Coconut (you'll find one on each of Chill Island's decks) quenches your thirst with cool and refreshing cocktails. The Sprinkles soft-serve ice cream station is a returning staple.

Colorful seating and play areas call to adults and kids alike.

You'll find Swim & Tonic, the first swim-up bar on a cruise ship, on Deck 16. The Cloud 17 pool and hot tub are, of course, on Deck 17.

The Hideaway

Icon of the Seas' iconic back-of-ship cantilevered pool will be reserved for adults 18 and over. It will have a beach club vibe with a DJ, hot tubs, bar and lounge space. (Unfortunately, crew members were conducting water safety training when I went to photograph the space.)

Pro tip: The Hideaway is on Deck 15 but you need to access it from above since it backs up to the Windjammer buffet.

Suite neighborhood

Royal Caribbean has been on a journey to create a cohesive suite area over the past few new-builds, and the idea has finally come together on Icon of the Seas. The multideck suite neighborhood on decks 16 through 19 creates a ship-within-a-ship experience with everything upscale travelers will need.

Coastal Kitchen, the suites-only restaurant serving breakfast, lunch and dinner, is now two decks high with huge windows overlooking the AquaDome. Though the venue is the highest guest-rated restaurant across the fleet, Royal Caribbean still chose to take the menu up yet another notch. The dinner menu will now feature lobster in some form every single day.

The Grove is the name for both the quick-service alfresco Mediterranean restaurant on Deck 18 and the suite-exclusive sun deck on decks 18 and 19. It's the biggest suite sun deck in the fleet and features a bar, hot tub and pool.

Most of the cabins on board were closed to visitors but we did get to see three suites.

The Owner's Suite is 658 square feet with a 190-square-foot balcony.

The Icon Loft Suite is a two-deck-high suite with a living area below and a master bedroom upstairs.

The Royal Loft Suite is the fanciest suite on board (if you don't count the huge but family-friendly Ultimate Town House). It's got two floors, two bedrooms and multiple living spaces, and can sleep up to six people.

The Vitality Spa mostly has the soothing, neutral-colored look popular across the cruise industry. However, the To Dry For salon rocks a sassy vibe with pops of hot pink and graffiti-style wall art.

The thermal suite offers saunas, aromatherapy showers and heated loungers.

Two couples massage rooms and a new Quartz bed are just some of the amenities you'll find in the spa.

The spa also features the Vitality Cafe, a smoothie and juice bar.

The fitness center is not adjacent to the spa but on Deck 6 past the Royal Promenade.

Adventure Ocean

The kids areas of the ship are conveniently located close to Surfside. Go down the stairs toward the Royal Promenade but take an immediate U-turn. Adventure Ocean is divided into play spaces for babies and tots, preschoolers and school-age kids. There's even a theater space.

Across from Adventure Ocean are Playmakers Sports Bar and Arcade, teen club Social020 and the Absolute Zero ice skating rink. Unfortunately, the ship was hosting private functions in that area and they were inaccessible to visitors.

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Activities & entertainment

• Casino Royale *
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• Royal Promenade
• Spotlight Karaoke
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• Adventure Ocean
• Playmakers Arcade *
• Arcade at Surfside *
• Splashaway Bay
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• Whirlpools (9)
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• Category 6 - Waterpark
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• Cloud 17 - Adults-Only
• Cloud 17 Pool - Adults-Only
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• Crown’s Edge - Ropes Course
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• Starbucks - Coffee Bar *
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• Point & Feather - Pub *
• Giovanni’s Italian Kitchen & Wine Bar - Italian *
• Schooner Bar - Nautical Bar *
• Playmakers Sports Bar - Sports Bar *
• Sugar Beach - Candy *
• Surfside Eatery - Buffet
• Surfside Bites - Quick Bites
• Pier 7 - Beachside Bites *
• The Lemon Post - Popular Bar *
• Izumi Hibachi & Sushi - Hibachi and Sushi *
• Chops Grille - Steakhouse *
• Trellis Bar - Garden Bar *
• Bubbles - Champagne Bar *
• Park Cafe - Light Fare
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• The Lime and Coconut - Poolside Bar *
• Sprinkles - Ice Cream
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Royal Caribbean Unveils First Look At Icon Of The Seas — ‘The World’s Greatest Family Vacation’

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Icon of the Seas , Royal Caribbean’s newest ship and first in the newest Icon class, is still under construction in Finland. Thanks to modern technology, I got to preview what the guest experience on board is going to look and feel like next year. I relinquished my cell phone, donned a pair of special slippers and a set of 3D goggles, and stepped into the CAVE, a place inside Royal Caribbean’s Innovation Lab where ideas on what makes up a dream vacation take shape.  

I also took a separate virtual reality tour of one of the Surfside suites, a new class of staterooms that caters to young families. I was pretty impressed by all the tech bells and whistles that allowed me to get a feel for a ship that’s still in the process of being built, but even more impressed by the fun things in store for guests when they set sail on Icon of the Seas . 

Icon of the Seas is being built with families in mind, with the affirmation that family means different things to different groups of people. Whether you’re a large, multigenerational travel group trying to check that “something for everyone” box, or a friend group taking a trip together, Icon of the Seas has seemingly endless choices for activities you can enjoy with the people you’ve chosen to go on vacation with.  

I’m answering your questions about Royal Caribbean’s newest, biggest, and most fabulous cruise ship.  

I was a guest of the Royal Caribbean Cruise Line for this media preview. 

Where Will Icon Of The Seas Be Sailing?

Beginning in January 2024 (booking opens October 25), Icon of the Seas will be sailing to the Eastern and Western Caribbean from Miami. The ship will visit ports such as Cozumel, St. Maarten, and Honduras. Both the Eastern and Western Caribbean routes include a stop at Coco Cay, which is Royal Caribbean’s private island in the Bahamas. The Perfect Day at Coco Cay is Royal Caribbean’s premier spot for fun in the sun. The island opened in early 2020 and has been a popular spot for cruisers now that travel is in full swing again. 

What Is Icon Of The Seas’ Maiden Voyage?

Booking information will be on Royal Caribbean’s website on Tuesday, October 25. If you’re part of the line’s Crown & Anchor loyalty program, look for special access a day early.  

“My inbox has been overflowing since Royal Caribbean revealed the details of Icon of the Seas earlier this week. It’s fair to say I’ve been SLAMMED!” says Jenn Greene, a travel agent with MEI/MouseFan Travel . “I’ve been a travel agent for almost 11 years and I’ve never had so many requests for an inaugural cruise.”

How Big Will Icon Of The Seas Be?

Icon of the Seas is equipped to carry 7,600 passengers at maximum occupancy, making it the world’s largest cruise ship, a designation previously held by Royal Caribbean’s Wonder of the Seas . When completed, the new ship will be 20 decks high and measure 1,198 feet long. With the crew on board, Icon of the Seas will carry nearly 10,000 people. 

What Will Icon Of The Seas Feature?

Nearly everything under the sun. The focus with Icon is family being together and offering an array of activities that families can do together. The ship is designed based on ways families can enjoy being on vacation and doing things they have fun doing, whether that’s tackling new adventures, relaxing on the deck with a fruity drink, or a little bit of both. 

“Now more than ever, families and friends are prioritizing experiences where they can bond and enjoy their own adventures,” said Michael Bayley, president, and CEO of Royal Caribbean International. “We set out to create a vacation that makes all that possible in one place for the thrill-seekers, the chill enthusiasts, and everyone in between.” 

What is Icon Class on Royal Caribbean?

Icon class is Royal Caribbean’s newest, largest class of cruise ships. Two other Icon class ships are rolling out over the next two to three years, bringing the total number of cruise ships in this class to three. 

We’ll have a better idea of how Icon class compares to Oasis class once construction is a little further along, but we do know that Icon class ships are going to be big. Based on the media preview I attended at Royal Caribbean’s innovation lab in Miami, the overarching theme of Icon Class ships is “more.”  

If you prioritize greener travel, you may be happy to learn Icon of the Seas will be Royal Caribbean’s most sustainable ship to date. The ship will be powered by liquified natural gas (LNG) and utilize new fuel cell technology. It will also utilize shore power connection and waste heat recovery systems. 

The names of the second two Icon class ships have not yet been revealed. 

What Will Icon Of The Seas Feature That Wonder Of The Seas Does Not?

There are still some details about the fun awaiting passengers on Icon of the Seas that have yet to be revealed. CEO Michael Bayley teased at a press conference in Miami on October 18 that the best experiences are still under wraps and will be revealed soon. 

That said, based on what we know right now, here are some standout features of Icon of the Seas that aren’t present in Wonder of the Seas .

More Space For More People

The Wonder of the Seas is equipped to carry 6,988 passengers at maximum occupancy. Icon of the Seas tops that at 7,600 passengers. However, more passengers doesn’t mean more staterooms. Icon has 62 fewer staterooms than Wonder . 

A Full Water Park At Sea

Category 6 is Icon of the Seas’ water park featuring six record-breaking slides, including an open free-fall slide, the tallest drop slide at sea, the first family raft slides at sea, and the cruise industry’s first mat-racing duo slides. 

Swim-Up Bar

If you’ve been missing the resort vibe on cruise ships, Icon of the Seas has designed a swim-up bar with you in mind. Swim & Tonic is Royal Caribbean’s first swim-up bar. 

Surfside: New Stateroom Class And Neighborhood

You might be picking up on the fact that Icon of the Seas has been designed with epic family vacations in mind, which makes it perfect for multigenerational travel groups. The brand-new Surfside neighborhood includes 42 Surfside suites, a new stateroom category catering to young families. Surfside will house children’s play areas, including a signature carousel, family pools, and splash pads for toddlers and babies. The spacious, mid-tier Surfside suites will have direct access to the Surfside neighborhood. 

There Are Four More Brand New Neighborhoods

Royal Caribbean terms their themed fun zones as “neighborhoods” and you’ll find five new spaces to play in that don’t yet exist on any other cruise ship. I’ve described Surfside above. Here’s what else you can look forward to. 

Thrill Island

Thrill Island contains the Category 6 water park described above as well as Crown’s Edge, the ultimate activity for adrenaline junkies. Part skywalk, part ropes course, and part thrill ride, it culminates in a surprising and shocking moment that will see travelers swing 154 feet above the ocean. 

Chill Island

If you don’t want the thrills, you can chill. Chill Island is a three-deck slice of paradise featuring the largest pool at sea, an adults-only area, and a bar dedicated to frozen cocktails. 

The Hideaway

This tucked-away space 135 feet above the ocean combines beach club vibes with uninterrupted ocean views. The first suspended infinity pool at sea is located here. I will also be located here when Icon of the Seas sets sail!

The AquaDome is a transformational space that will feature tranquil waterfalls and ocean views by day and serve as an entertainment space by night. The AquaTheater, which features Royal Caribbean’s marquee aqua shows featuring a transforming pool, four robotic arms, and state-of-the-art projection, will be located here.

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• 8 Fantastic Luxury Dining Options Aboard Oceania Cruises

Although Jill is an expert in Texas travel and theme park travel, she'll jump at the opportunity to go just about anywhere. From multigenerational trips to couples getaways, Jill never met an adventure she didn't like. Her most memorable travel experience was when her adult daughter took her to Morocco for her 52nd birthday, affirming that the travel bug has been successfully passed to a new generation.

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Inside royal caribbean’s icon of the seas.

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ROYAL CARIBBEAN ARABIA

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MEET THE ICON OF VACATIONS

Icon of the seas, arrives 2024, this is more than a vacation upgrade. it’s the best family vacation in the world — where you’ll have the time of your life, multiple times a day. introducing the new icon of the seas℠, arriving early 2024., set sail for a first-of-its-kind royal caribbean® adventure onboard icon of the seas℠. brace yourself for the largest waterpark at sea, category 6. or choose from seven pools including royal bay℠, the largest swimming pool on a cruise. and in between, fuel bolder bonding with tons to do for everyone in your crew at the ultimate stay-all-day family destination right onboard, surfside℠. plus, discover dishes to delight every appetite, with 40 dining redefining concepts. only on royal caribbean®..

ALL NEW WAYS TO AMAZE

Icon of the seas℠ brings on thrills never imagined, next-level chill never dreamed possible and a fusion of art and innovation never expected..

DIAL UP THE DARING

Take your best-ever vacation and crank it up — way up. This is a whole new kind of adventure with new thrills that change the way you play for good. Like six record-breaking waterslides and an all-out test of courage dangling high above the ocean.

POOL HOP NONSTOP

Save room for some extra splash. Pick from seven different pools, plus nine whirlpools to satisfy any mood you're in. Or cool off with refreshing cocktails at The Lime and Coconut® bar spanning multiple levels of chill beach vibes.

EVERYTHING BUT THE EXPECTED

Technology and artistry merge on the new Icon of the Seas℠, inspiring awe on a grand scale. From performances that push the bounds of bravery to mixology magic against a background of wraparound ocean views — icons don’t just steal the show, they change the way you see it forever.

STAND OUT NIGHTLIFE

There’s never been a night out like going all out onboard the new Icon of the Seas℠ with over 15 spirit-sipping spots and vibrant live music venues to choose from. When the sun goes down, your night lights up with possibilities.

Or Contact our Reservations Team Middle East: +971 4 331 4299 Saudi Arabia Toll Free: 800 897 1419 Email: [email protected]

Set your sight, on paradise, miami is your gateway to the world’s best family vacation. dial up action-packed adventures or unplug and chill while you explore some the most sought-after eastern and western caribbean islands on the planet. do it all — your way — on the new icon of the seas℠..

WESTERN CARIBBEAN GEMS

Turn up bold adventures at some of the most beautiful destinations in the Western Caribbean. Marvel at lush tropical jungles in Roatán, trek through Mayan ruins in Cozumel — and brave the tallest waterslide in North America at our gamechanging private island, Perfect Day at CocoCay.

EASTERN CARIBBEAN WONDERS

Unlock the shores of the Eastern Caribbean and max out memories like never before on 7-night getaways. Discover all-out adventure in the tropics on every sailing with stops at our private destination, Perfect Day at CocoCay in The Bahamas. Voted Best Private Island by Travel Weekly readers, it’s a place unlike any other.

RELATED DESTINATIONS

Health and safety protocols, guest conduct rules, and regional travel restrictions vary by ship and destination, and are subject to change without notice. due to evolving health protocols, imagery and messaging may not accurately reflect onboard and destination experiences, offerings, features, or itineraries. these may not be available during your voyage, may vary by ship and destination, and may be subject to change without notice..

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About Icon of the Seas

Icon of the Seas incorporates thrilling new features with those that have been a staple of family vacations on Royal Carribbean's beautiful ships. Guests will appreciate the seamless combination of technology and artistry evident throughout the ship. Featuring a number of firsts-at-sea including additional neighborhoods, taller adrenaline-inducing waterslides, Crown's Edge, the transformational AquaDome and more. At 250,800-tons and welcoming up to 7,600 guests, this stunner is prepared to entertain your multi-generational group with activities and entertainment for families, couples, adults and children. Adventure-seekers rejoice, she will keep you going and if relaxation is on your agenda there are plenty of spaces, and environments conducive to that.

Eight unique "neighborhoods," both favorites and new to the line are perfect for everyone. Surfside neighborhood is for families with younger children. Vibrant and home to Splashaway Bay, Baby Bay and the ever-popular handcrafted carousel. Thrill Island neighborhood is a true amusement park at sea. Play a round of putt putt at Lost Dunes, catch the perfect waves on Flowrider, race down a variety of waterslides at Category 6, take a walk on the exhilarating side along Crown's Edge and Adrenaline Peak rock climbing wall, to name a few. AquaDome neighborhood houses the Aquatheater, eateries and more. Throughout these neighborhoods you'll discover delicious dining venues , welcoming bars and laid-back lounges, captivating entertainment and shops brimming with all manner of trinkets and treasures.

The ice arena, Absolute Zero, onboard Icon of the Seas is significantly larger than on her sister ships. This increase provides more space for the mesmerizing choreography their skating team effortlessly perform backed by spectacular backdrops. The AquaTheater offers even more amazing aerial acrobatics and synchronicity beneath a glorious 3-story waterfall in the magical Aquadome. See if you can make it out of the escape room before your time is up. Enjoy fantastic shows in the Royal Theater. Live music will keep guests grooving in the Music Hall. Challenge the house in the high energy Casino Royale, hopefully Lady Luck is on your side.

Vitality Spa & Fitness offers everything you may desire to wind down or gear up. The menu of spa services and treatments includes various medi-spa treatments, massages, wraps, facials and more. Hair and nail services are available in the beauty salon. State of the art Technogym facilities and fitness classes will help you hit your personal target zone. Entertainment venues and lounges include The Attic for laughter and libations, Spotlight Karaoke where you can tune up your vocal chords with a selection of beverages, Point & Feather an English pub serving up pints accompanied by acoustic guitar, in addition to Boleros for salsa, merengue and mojitos.

Decadent dining choices abound on Icon of the Seas. Complimentary restaurants and eateries in addition to the main dining room include Sorrentos for hot and fresh pizza, Vitality Café offers healthy snacks, Park Café for sandwiches and such, El Loco Fresh for a Mexican fiesta of flavors, Windjammer and Surfside Eatery which are both buffets. Suite guests have exclusive access to Coastal Kitchen and The Grove. Specialty dining choices feature, among others, Chops Grille featuring perfectly prepared steaks, Hooked Seafood, Giovanni's Italian Kitchen & Wine Bar, Izumi Hibachi & Sushi, Desserted Milkshake Bar and Sugar Beach both serving sweet treats. Everyone in your group will find exactly what their tastebuds are craving.

Icon of the Seas offers a wide variety of accommodations to suit everyone's needs. Your family will enjoy more options such as a range of sophisticated suites includes, among others, connecting staterooms, Surfside Family Suites, Sunset Corner Suites and the first-ever Ultimate Family Townhouse with its 3-levels and 1,700 square feet, an in-suite slide, karaoke station, cinema room and private patio. Additional stateroom choices include innovative virtual balconies, various neighborhood views, oceanview balconies, inside, accessible options and many more including Infinite Ocean View Balconies where you simply push a button and bring the outside in. All staterooms and suites offer sumptuous bedding, ample storage, serene color palettes, comfortable sitting area, flat-screen tv, in-room safe and mini-fridge among other desirable amenities.

The Adventure Ocean Youth programs are available for babies, kids, tweens and teens. Trained youth staff supervise all programs and your younger cruisers will love Royal Babies & Tots, Aquanauts, Explorers, Voyagers and the teens-only programming. Age-appropriate activities include themed parties, arts and crafts, science experiments, games and more. Whether teens choose to participate in pre-planned events or kick-back in The Living Room, Fuel Teen Club, or Arcades they create their own gameplans.

Icon of the Seas cruises to breathtaking destinations worldwide.

Ultimate Family Townhouse

Three-decks-high stateroom featuring The Yard. Includes a mailbox, table tennis, outdoor seating, outdoor games and seating nook.Main level inlcudes a private balcony with whirlpool and six person dining table. Upper level inlcudes a private balcony accessible from the master bedroom overlooking Surfside. Full bathroom with shower and sink on the main level. Master bathroom with two sinks and two shower heads. Kids bathroom with two sinks and a tub.

Two-decks-high stateroom with panoramic views. Main level features a bedroom with closet and vanity and two twin beds that convert to Royal King; dining area with wet bar, piano, living room with sofa that converts to double bed; bathroom with shower and integrated bench. Master bedroom features a King size bed with Matermoll bathroom with tub, shower, two sinks, half bath (toilet compartment with sink); and a walk-in closet - all on the second level. Includes vestibule with mini bar and two lounge chairs (retreat) at the top of the stairs - vestibule serves as added privacy - and has no direct view to the bedroom. The Private balcony features whirlpool and dining area, bar with sink. Bathroom on main level

Two-decks-high stateroom with panoramic views. Main level features living room with sofa that converts to double bed and dining area with a dry bar. Second level features Master bedroom and bathroom. Bedroom has two twin beds that convert to a Royal King size bed. Bathroom includes a shower for two. Closets exist on each level. Private balcony features a dining area.One bathroom with shower and integrated shower bench on main levelMaster bathroom with two shower heads on second level. Icon Loft Access- Two-decks-high stateroom with panoramic views. Main level features living area with a sofa that converts to double bed and bath with shower. Elevator lift to the second level. Master bedroom on second level features two twin beds that convert to Royal King and bath, plus vanity. Private balcony includes chairs, dining area with dry bar. Stateroom: 968 sq. ft. (inclusive of the opening) Stateroom: 807 sq. ft. (excluding the opening) Balcony: 115 sq. ft.

Owner's Suite

Two twin beds that convert to Royal King. Private bathroom with tub and shower and two sinks, stone entry, large closets, dressing area in bedroom, living area with table and sofa that converts to a double bed. Private balcony with table and chairs.

Sunset Corner Suite

Bedroom area with two twin beds that convert to Royal King. Full bathroom with tub and two sinks. Living room with sofa that converts to double bed. Dry bar area and vanity/desk. Private balcony with seating area and private dining.

Sunset Suite

Infinite Grand Suite

Bedroom area with two twin beds that convert to Royal King. Split bath with one compartment containing a tub and sink and the other with a sink and toilet. Living room features sofa that converts to double bed with the option to extend the interior to outdoors with the convertible balcony. Private balcony with seating area and private dining.

Grand Suite

Panoramic Suite

Bedroom area with two twin beds that convert to Royal King. Dressing area in bedroom. Full bathroom with tub. Seating area with sofa. Extension of room that is a panoramic seating area.

Sky Junior Suite

Bedroom area with two twin beds that convert to Royal King. Dressing area in bedroom. Full bathroom with tub. Seating area with sofa. Private balcony.

Surfside Family Suite

Bedroom area with two twin beds that convert to Royal King. Split bathrooms with a shower, sink and toilet and sink. Sitting area with sofa, converts to a full bed. Private balcony with Surfside neighborhood view.Private balcony with Surfside neighborhood view.

Sunset Junior Suite

Bedroom area with two twin beds that convert to Royal King. Full bathroom with tub. Seating area with sofa that converts to double bed. Private balcony. Sleeps up to 4.

Junior Suite

Family Infinite Ocean View Balcony

Room with two twin beds that convert to Royal King bed, vanity and seating area with sofa and convertible balcony extendng the interior to outdoors. Separate room with bunk bed. Split bathroom. Connecting staterooms through private vestibule (72 of the 77 staterooms have the connecting staterooms feature). Cabin can sleep up to 6 passengers.

Spacious Infinite Ocean View Balcony

Two twin beds that convert to Royal King, seating area with sofa, full bathroom, shower with bench. Convertible balcony extends the interior to outdoors.

Ocean View Large Balcony

Connecting Ocean View Balcony

Two twin beds that convert to Royal King, seating area with sofa, full bathroom, shower with bench and private balcony.

Ocean View Balcony

Two twin beds that convert to Royal King, seating area with sofa, full bathroom, shower with bench and private balcony.Ocean View Balcony Access- Two twin beds that convert to Royal King, seating area with sofa, full bathroom and private balcony.Stateroom: 301 sq. ft.Balcony: 80 sq. ft.

Spacious Infinite Central Park View Balcony

Central Park View Balcony

Two twin beds that convert to Royal King, seating area with sofa, full bathroom, shower with bench and private balcony with Central Park view.

Surfside Family View Balcony

Two twin beds that convert to Royal King, seating area with sofa, full bathroom, shower with bench and private balcony with Surfside view.

Panoramic Ocean View

Two twin beds that convert to Royal King, seating area with sofa, full bathroom, shower with bench and extension of room that is a panoramic seating area.

Two twin beds that convert to Royal King, private bathroom and seating area.

Surfside Family View Interior

Central Park View Interior

Spacious Interior

Interior Plus

Two twin beds that convert to Royal King, walk-in closet, private bathroom and seating area.

View Deck Plan

Adrenaline Peak

Chops Grille

Costal Kitchen

Decks: 16 17

Dining Room

Decks: 3 4 5

Giovanni's Italian Kitchen & Wine Bar

Hooked Seafood

Izumi Hibachi & Sushi

Playmakers Sport Bar & Arcade

Sugar Beach

The Grove Suite Sun Deck

Decks: 18 19

Vitality Cafe

Windjammer Marketplace

Cantina Fresca

Diamond Club

Point & Feather

Schooner Bar

Swim & Tonic

The Lime And Coconut

Decks: 15 16 17

Trellis Bar

Centeral Park

Chill Island

Port Gangway

Running Track

Absolute Zero

Aquatheater

Royal Theater

Medical Center

Casino Royal

Conference Center

Water's Edge Pool

Decks: 15 18

Tabel Tennis

Escape Room

Next Cruise

Royal Promenade

Fitiness Center

Vitality Spa

Decks: 12 14

Spotlight Karaoke

Adventure Ocean

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7 Night Eastern Caribbean & Perfect Day

Royal Caribbean International is known for ships with a wow factor. From ice skating rinks to zip lines, if you can think of it, you can find it on a Royal Caribbean cruise.

Explore the islands or get up close and personal with some intriguing wildlife when you cruise to the Eastern Caribbean.

In Miami, you’ll enjoy a small taste of the tropical weather many of you will experience during your cruise, and you’ll see why Miami is one of the most popular places to live in America.

• Icon Of The Seas - Passenger Capacity: 5,610 (double occupancy) Year Built: 2024 Last Refurbished: N/A

Take advantage of limited-time offers and special deals

Cruise Line

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Icon Of The Seas

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Destination

Eastern Caribbean

Ports of Call

Miami, Florida , Philipsburg, St. Maarten , Charlotte Amalie, St. Thomas, U.S. Virgin Islands , Perfect Day at CocoCay

• Itinerary & Pricing

7 Night Eastern Caribbean & Perfect Day sailing on the Icon Of The Seas

Departure dates: jun 2024 - apr 2026.

From $16,659

From $13,619

From $3,000

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From $1,982

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From $1,744

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Stateroom prices for Jun. 15, 2024

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*** All itineraries are subject to change without notice. Please confirm your itinerary on the Review page before purchasing your cruise.

Rates & offers are subject to select dates & categories, cruise only, per person, based on double occupancy, in US Dollars & include NCCF. Government taxes & fees are additional and vary based on sailing. All government taxes and fees may change without notice -- please confirm at time of booking. All rates & offers are capacity controlled, are subject to availability & confirmation, & may change without notice. Additional restrictions may apply. Information deemed reliable but not guaranteed -- please confirm details at time of booking. Stateroom photos are for sample purposes only -- actual design and layout may vary.

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Why Royal Caribbean does not have to share details of passenger who died on world’s largest cruise ship

T he public may never know the full details surrounding the death of a passenger who reportedly jumped from the world’s largest cruise ship earlier this month.

Under maritime law, Royal Caribbean is not obligated to release the findings of its investigation into the death of the passenger on the Icon of the Seas.

The law allows the company, and other cruise lines — to downplay details that might cast them in a negative light, said Florida-based lawyer Keith Brais, whose firm specializes in injuries and incidents at sea.

“They wouldn’t even need to report on how much alcohol might have been involved if it makes them look bad,” he told The Post.

Royal Caribbean has not commented on the specific details of the incident and has only expressed its condolences to the family of the deceased.

The US Coast Guard in Miami said it assisted with the search, but it is not involved in the investigation into the passenger’s death.

Deaths on cruise ships are rare — but unique circumstances of a floating city in international waters — the Icon of the Seas can carry up to 7,000 people — means that they are not handled like deaths on land.

When an unidentified man jumped from Royal Caribbean’s new 1,200-foot-long Icon of the Seas on the first day of a seven-day voyage on Sunday, a rescue boat from the ship found him and brought him back aboard.

Passengers were initially told that the man was in the intensive care unit, but the Coast Guard confirmed to The Post that he died.

The Icon of the Seas proceeded on its voyage around the Gulf of Mexico after the incident.

It’s not clear where the man’s body is now, but it was likely taken to the ship’s morgue until it can be transferred to authorities on land, Brais said.

The ship has stopped in Honduras and Mexico, and is set for one more port of call in the Bahamas before it returns to Miami on Saturday.

While the US Coast Guard assisted Royal Caribbean in the search and rescue of the man who fell overboard, officials said it was the cruise line’s rescue boat that ultimately found and transported the body, and it would be up to the company to investigate the case.

Brais said Royal Caribbean is not required to release its findings to the public, adding that it is rare for a company to publish anything that could make them seem liable for the death.

“As a result, the cruise line is likely to find that the passenger’s death resulted from ‘natural causes,’ even if the totality of the circumstances at hand suggests otherwise,” according to his law firm.

Braise noted that in his decades of experience in the industry and law, alcohol is involved in the majority of cases.

Royal Caribbean did not respond to The Post’s request for comment.

The Cruise Vessel Security and Safety act, which was passed in 2010, mandates that cruises not only follow strict regulations to ensure passengers are safe, but to also track crimes aboard their ships.

In regards to Sunday’s incident, Brais said the man’s family should look at whether Royal had the proper barriers in place to keep people from falling overboard and if they had Man-Overboard cameras installed that alerted them to the incident.

Even if Royal Caribbean was found to be negligent in the man’s death, the compensation could be limited to just covering funeral expenses under the Death of the High Seas Act, Brais added.

It can be difficult to determine how many deaths have occurred on cruise ships as it’s up to the companies to report such incidents.

According to the Department of Transportation’s Cruise Line Incident reports, there have only been four deaths aboard major cruise lines between January 2020 to March 2024.

Despite these numbers, Brais said it’s not rare for such man overboard stories to make headlines once every three weeks.

According to cruise expert Dr. Ross Klein, who maintains a master list of media reports of incidents where passengers have gone overboard, there have been at least 410 people who have fallen off cruises or ferries in the last 24 years.

Icon of the Seas death is the second so far this year aboard a Royal Caribbean cruise. In April, a drunk 20-year-old passenger reportedly jumped to his death from the Liberty of the Seas following a dispute with his father.

Royal Caribbean halts cruise for search and rescue mission after man jumps overboard

• Updated: May. 29, 2024, 9:05 p.m. |
• Published: May. 29, 2024, 2:35 p.m.

A cruise passenger on the Royal Caribbean "Icon of the Seas" cruise jumped overboard, prompting a search and rescue mission where the passenger ultimately was found dead. TNS

• Katherine Rodriguez | NJ Advance Media for NJ.com

A cruise passenger on the Royal Caribbean “Icon of the Seas” cruise jumped overboard, prompting a search and rescue mission where the passenger ultimately was found dead.

The passenger jumped from the 1,200-foot-long ship shortly after it left Miami, Florida, for Honduras Sunday morning, according to a statement from the Coast Guard obtained by The New York Post.

Once people noticed the emergency, the ship immediately halted its operations and the 2,350-person crew conducted a search-and-rescue mission. The ship stayed put for two hours, according to Cruise Hive.

The passenger was brought back onboard in critical condition. He eventually died of his injuries.

It is unclear what caused the man to jump, although his identity is being kept secret for the privacy of the deceased individual and his family.

The “Icon of the Seas,” which is the world’s largest cruise ship, took its maiden voyage in January 2024.

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Travel plans in disarray as P&O Cruises retires iconic Pacific Explorer

For Jane Newson, taking a cruise every year has been her chance to see the world when other options were too expensive. 

For months, she's been saving for a much-anticipated trip next year from Auckland to Tonga aboard the P&O Pacific Explorer.

She would be joined by her partner and some of her closest friends, including two who are nearing their 80th birthdays.

"It is lovely to be away for a week and not to have to do any of the things you do at home," she said.

"[These trips] offer a fantastic opportunity for people to cruise that don't have high incomes."

But on Tuesday, Ms Newson received an email advising her cruise had been cancelled, hours after P&O announced it was retiring the Explorer and folding operations into its parent company Carnival Cruises .

"It's a shame, such a shame, and we are all so disappointed, especially because there was six of us going," she said.

Social media has also been flooded with comments from disillusioned cruise ship passengers who had planned to take trips onboard the Pacific Explorer next year, while others have lamented the loss of the brand after 90 years on the water.

For Caitlin Dennis, the iconic cruise company shaped her life.

She took her first cruise onboard a P&O ship when she was 16 and would later go on to work on several cruise ship companies as a dancer and singer.

"It's a really sad loss to the industry and to the wider public," Ms Dennis said.

"That first cruise inspired me to go and seek out a career on a ship and I know a lot of other entertainers that work on that ship are going to be devastated about it."

A sign of things to come

The Pacific Explorer, which travels through Australia, New Zealand and the Pacific and is known affectionately as "Dora" among the cruise community, will be retired on March 2 next year.

P&O's larger cruise ships, the Pacific Encounter and Pacific Adventure will be rebranded and transferred to the Carnival Cruise Line fleet, along with their workforces.

P&O Cruises Australia issued its surprise notice to customers on Tuesday.

"As a result, all itineraries on Pacific Explorer scheduled to sail after 2nd March 2025 are being cancelled," it said.

"If you are booked on one of these itineraries you will be contacted by guest services in the coming days with refund details.

"We are all immensely proud of P&O Cruises Australia's 90-year heritage of dedicated operations in the region, and Carnival Cruise Line are honoured to carry forward its storied legacy and continue to deliver the same onboard experiences and itineraries."

Carnival CEO Josh Weinstein said in a statement that the decision to retire the Explorer was made due to the South Pacific's "small population" as well as "significantly higher operating and regulatory costs".

The senior lecturer in tourism management at the University of South Australia, Freya Higgins-Desbiolles, said the cruise ship industry appeared to be moving away from the smaller cruise liners of 2,000 passengers.

This year the world's biggest cruise ship, Icon of the Seas, was launched by Royal Caribbean International. It can take 7,600 passengers, almost four times the capacity of the Pacific Explorer.

"The major cruise companies are all moving towards 'mega-ships' so this could be the end of cruise companies like P&O that have a national character and serve a particular market," Professor Higgins-Desbiolles said.

"They are decommissioning and part of the reasoning is the environmental consciousness of passengers. They want to be more environmentally responsive to changing technology."

She said the cruise industry was also still recovering from the global pandemic, with high operating costs and port fees impacting on their bottom line.

The Explorer brought in tens of thousands of tourists to several Australian towns, including Airlie Beach and Cairns, on day trips.

Professor Higgins-Desbiolles said there will be fears about the effect on local economies.

"Some of the regional destinations will be wondering how the change in itinerary will impact on them and we won't know that straight away," she said.

"Places like Cairns, Airlie Beach and Adelaide, Kangaroo Island and Port Lincoln could all be affected."

Queensland Tourism Minister Michael Healy said he was "surprised" by Tuesday's announcement and there may be "some impact" on coastal communities, where the Pacific Explorer docks.

"I have had correspondence from the company talking about strategic alignment and I look forward to investigating that," Mr Healy said.

A spokeswoman for Carnival Australia told the ABC no-one from the company was available for an interview but did say "thousands" of passengers would receive refunds for cancelled Pacific Explorer trips.

Customers who had cruises booked on the Explorer after March 2 2025 have the option of a refund or credit for Carnival with extra onboard spending money.

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Royal Caribbean and Carnival Cruise ships leave from Baltimore for the first time since the collapse of the Key Bridge

• Cruise ships left the Port of Baltimore for the first time since March 26.
• The port's terminal was blocked after the Francis Scott Key Bridge collapsed and killed six workers.
• Rebuilding the bridge will take four years and could cost up to $1.9 billion.

Two months after Baltimore's Francis Scott Key Bridge collapsed, cruise ships are now taking off from the Port of Baltimore.

A Royal Caribbean ship called Vision of the Seas left from the port on Saturday for a trip to Bermuda. And a Carnival Cruise ship called Pride destined for Greenland and Canada left Baltimore on Sunday.

The two trips are notable as the first cruise ships to leave Baltimore since the port was blocked by the collapse of the Francis Scott Key Bridge on March 26. The bridge collapsed after being hit by a cargo ship, killing six workers. The Francis Scott Key Bridge services about 30,000 people a day.

"We've been working through this process for the past two months," Jonathan Daniels, the director for the Port of Baltimore said in a video posted to X on May 25 by the port.

One week ago, the port's terminal was the headquarters for the recovery operations for the Francis Scott Key Bridge, Daniels added. The terminal is also a massive area of tourism for Maryland, bringing in 440,000 cruise passengers a year, Daniels told the Baltimore Sun.

The project to rebuild the Francis Scott Key Bridge will take four years and is estimated to cost between $1.7 billion and $1.9 billion, a spokesperson for the Maryland Department of Transportation said in May 2023.

Watch: The container ship that destroyed the Francis Scott Key Bridge has crashed before

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FAITES CONNAISSANCE AVEC THE ICON OF VACATIONS

Icon of the seas.

Ces vacances ne seront pas simplement mieux. Ce sont les meilleures vacances en famille au monde, où vous passerez les meilleurs moments de votre vie, plusieurs fois par jour. Voici le nouvel Icon of the Seas℠ .

Levez l'ancre pour une aventure Royal Caribbean® inédite à bord de l'Icon of the Seas℠ . Préparez-vous pour le plus grand parc aquatique en mer, Category 6. Ou faites votre choix parmi les sept piscines, dont Royal Bay℠, la plus grande piscine sur un navire. Et entre deux, tissez des liens encore plus forts avec une foule d'activités pour chaque membre de votre équipage dans la destination préférée de toute la famille à bord, Surfside℠. Découvrez également des plats pour chacune de vos envies avec 40 options révolutionnaires de restauration.

DES SOUVENIRS À RACONTER

Profitez pleinement de chaque minute lors de cette semaine ultime d'escapade en famille dans les Caraïbes occidentales et orientales. Et faites escale à Perfect Day at CocoCay dans les Bahamas, quel que soit votre itinéraire.

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DE NOUVELLES FAÇONS DE VOUS SURPRENDRE

L'Icon of the Seas℠ dépasse votre imagination en matière de frissons et vos rêves de détente les plus fous, sans oublier l'incroyable fusion de l'art et de l'innovation.

OSEZ TOUJOURS PLUS

Embarquez pour les meilleures vacances de votre vie et sortez le grand, très grand jeu. Préparez-vous à vivre un tout nouveau genre d'aventure qui change votre façon de jouer pour de bon. Avec six toboggans détenteurs de records et le test de courage ultime, loin au-dessus de l'océan.

DÉCOUVREZ ICONIC THRILLS

D'UNE PISCINE À L'AUTRE

Gardez de la place pour un dernier plongeon. Faites votre choix parmi les sept piscines différentes et les neuf bains à remous, conçus pour répondre à chacune de vos humeurs. Ou rafraîchissez-vous avec un délicieux cocktail du bar The Lime and Coconut®, pour une ambiance décontractée comme à la plage sur plusieurs étages.

DÉCOUVREZ ICONIC CHILLS

RÉSERVÉ AUX SURPRISES

La technologie rencontre l'art à bord du nouvel Icon of the Seas℠ , pour vous offrir un spectacle d'une grandeur inédite. Des performances qui repoussent les limites de la bravoure à la mixologie dans un décor unique dominant l'océan, les vraies icônes ne se contentent pas de voler la vedette, ils changent le spectacle à jamais.

DÉCOUVREZ ICONIC WOWs

SORTIR DÎNER ET BOIRE UN DERNIER VERRE

Régalez-vous avec plus de 20 options de restauration à bord. À la tombée de la nuit, une multitude de possibilités s'offre à vous. Avec plus de 15 lieux d'animation et de musique live, chaque soirée à bord est une source inépuisable de plaisirs et de divertissements.

EXPLOREZ LES BARS ET LA VIE NOCTURNE

TOUS EN CABINE

Cabine pour tous

POUR TOUS LES JOURS

LA MAISON ULTIME

POUR TOUTE LA FAMILLE

À VOUS LA VUE SUR LE PARADIS

Miami est votre passerelle vers les meilleures vacances en famille au monde. Vivez des aventures riches en action ou détendez-vous et faites le vide alors que vous explorez les îles les plus prisées des Caraïbes occidentales et orientales. Ce que vous voulez, comme vous voulez, voilà le programme à bord de l'Icon of the Seas℠

JOYAUX DES CARAÏBES OCCIDENTALES

Vivez des aventures audacieuses dans les plus belles destinations des Caraïbes occidentales. Émerveillez-vous devant la splendeur de la jungle tropicale de Roatán , visitez les ruines mayas de Cozumel et affrontez le plus haut toboggan d'Amérique du Nord dans notre île privée inégalée, Perfect Day at CocoCay.

DÉCOUVREZ NOS CROISIÈRES DANS LES CARAÏBES OCCIDENTALES

MERVEILLES DES CARAÏBES ORIENTALES

Découvrez les rivages des Caraïbes orientales et repartez avec des souvenirs absolument inoubliables de cette escapade de 7 nuits . Vivez une aventure hors du commun sous les tropiques quel que soit votre itinéraire en faisant escale dans notre destination privée, Perfect Day at CocoCay , dans les Bahamas. Élue plus belle île privée par les lecteurs de Travel Weekly , cette île n'a pas d'égal.

DÉCOUVREZ NOS CROISIÈRES DANS LES CARAÏBES ORIENTALES

PLAISIR DES SENS, RÉGAL DES YEUX

Un nouveau monde de découvertes sensationnelles vous attend avec le nouvel Icon of the Seas℠. Parcourez notre galerie d'images pour découvrir ces merveilles en avant-première.

POURSUIVEZ L'EXPLORATION

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