Embarking on an odyssey of maritime marvel, the colossal Icon of the Seas, the world’s largest cruise ship, is poised to set sail from the enchanting Port of Miami on its maiden voyage on Saturday. Stretching an impressive 1,200 feet from bow to stern, this nautical marvel, crafted by Royal Caribbean, is set to indulge passengers in a seven-day island-hopping trip through the lush tropics.
The Icon of the Seas received its official christening earlier this week, with none other than soccer maestro Lionel Messi and his Inter Miami teammates. Royal Caribbean Group President and CEO Jason Liberty expressed, “Icon of the Seas is the culmination of more than 50 years of dreaming, innovating, and living our mission – to deliver the world’s best vacation experiences responsibly.” “She is the ultimate multigenerational family vacation, forever changing the status quo in family travel and fulfilling vacation dreams for all ages on board,” the CEO added.
Breaking several records
Unveiled in October 2022, the Icon of the Seas triggered a surge in enthusiasm, resulting in the single largest booking day and the highest volume booking week in Royal Caribbean’s storied 53-year history.
This Icon of the Seas is a floating marvel, featuring eight neighborhoods spread across 20 decks. With amenities ranging from six waterslides, seven swimming pools, and an ice-skating rink to a dazzling theater and over 40 restaurants, bars, and lounges, the cruise promises an unparalleled multigenerational family vacation experience. Capable of accommodating up to 7,600 passengers and supported by a crew of 2,350, this cruise ship embodies the epitome of luxury, innovation, and limitless adventure on the high seas.
Is it environmentally-friendly?
Environmental groups are concerned that the liquefied natural gas-powered vessel – and other giant cruise liners to follow – will leak harmful methane into the atmosphere. The ship is built to run on liquefied natural gas (LNG), which burns more cleanly than traditional marine fuel but poses greater risks for methane emissions. Environmental groups say methane leakage from the ship’s engines is an unacceptable risk to the climate because of its short-term harmful effects.
However, Royal Caribbean said that its new ship is 24% more efficient when it comes to carbon emissions than required by global shipping regulator the International Maritime Organization (IMO).
(With inputs from agencies)