Royal Caribbean, a renowned luxury ship manufacturer, recently conducted the inaugural sea tests for its ambitious new project, poised to become "The Largest Cruise in the World" and surpassing one of the company's existing vessels. The Icon of the Seas, spanning an impressive 365 meters and accommodating 7,600 passengers, outshines the Wonder of the Seas, which currently holds the record with its length of 362 meters and capacity for 7,080 passengers. This recent sea trial marked the first time the Icon of the Seas ventured into open waters.
During the four-day testing period, experts meticulously assessed various aspects of the ship's performance, including engine efficiency, steering capabilities, brake system effectiveness, hull resistance, vibration levels, and noise reduction measures. Following the successful completion of this stage, the Icon of the Seas returned to its birthplace at the Meyer Turku shipyard in Finland, where it will remain until its official commencement of operations.
More than two thousand employees, alongside 450 specialized professionals, actively participated in the rigorous sea tests. In the coming months, further examinations will be conducted to ensure the vessel's durability and resilience. It is expected that the inaugural voyage will set sail from Miami in January 2024, embarking on a seven-night journey that includes stops at CocoCay (Bahamas), Cozumel (Mexico), Philipsburg (St. Maarten), and Roatan (Honduras), and subsequently repeated several times throughout the year.
In its pursuit of surpassing size expectations, Royal Caribbean has not only focused on the Icon of the Seas' dimensions but also on enhancing the onboard experience. Notably, the ship will house the world's largest water park, Category 6, along with an impressive selection of 40 bars and restaurants. Adventure enthusiasts can anticipate thrilling attractions such as free-fall slides and group rafting experiences. Meanwhile, those seeking relaxation will find solace in the ship's seven pools, each offering a captivating view of the surrounding seascape.