Royal Caribbean has confirmed the addition of two more ships to its Icon Class fleet, slated for delivery in 2029 and 2030. These vessels will be identical in size to the current record-holder for the world’s largest cruise ship, the Icon of the Seas, which entered service in 2024, as well as its successor, the Star of the Seas, which set sail in August 2025.
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The third ship in the Icon Class series, Legend of the Seas, has commenced sea trials in Finland and is scheduled for public launch in July 2026. This highly anticipated vessel will introduce a remarkable array of features, including eight themed neighbourhoods and a staggering 28 dining venues, making it the cruise ship with the most dining options worldwide. Following its inaugural summer season in Europe, Legend of the Seas will embark on itineraries to Fort Lauderdale, offering trips around the Western and Southern Caribbean.
The fourth ship in this ambitious series, named Hero of the Seas, is expected to join the fleet in 2027. Furthermore, a fifth Icon Class vessel was announced in September 2023, with a planned delivery date set for 2028. The construction of all these vessels is part of Royal Caribbean’s long-standing partnership with the Meyer Turku shipyard in Finland, where the company has commissioned a total of 25 ships over the past thirty years. Each of the Icon Class vessels signifies a substantial engineering feat for the region, showcasing Finnish craftsmanship on a global scale.
Jason Liberty, Chairman and CEO of Royal Caribbean Group, expressed his enthusiasm for the Icon Class during a recent press release. He remarked, “The Icon Class reflects our bold creativity and engineering excellence that continues to define what a vacation can be.” Liberty highlighted the importance of collaboration with the Meyer Turku shipyard and the broader Finnish maritime cluster, emphasising the economic benefits generated for Finland.
The dimensions of the Icon Class ships are quite impressive; each vessel measures nearly 2,000 feet in length and approximately 220 feet in width. Accommodations will be substantial, featuring 2,805 staterooms, which allows for a double occupancy capacity of about 5,610 guests. Additionally, the ships will support a dedicated crew of 2,350 members, ensuring that operations run smoothly and that guest services are exemplary.
Entertainment options aboard these new vessels promise to be exceptional, catering to a wide range of tastes and age groups. One of the standout attractions is the Category 6 waterpark, renowned for its thrilling water slides and pools. Another unique feature is the Crown’s Edge ropes course, offering guests an adventurous experience suspended high above the deck.
In addition to expanding its fleet of cruise ships, Royal Caribbean has also announced plans to enhance its portfolio of land-based destinations. The aim is to increase the number of these venues from three to eight by 2028, indicating the company’s commitment to broadening the scope of its holiday offerings.
According to a recent report by the Cruise Lines International Association, the cruise industry has seen a resurgence, with approximately 37.2 million ocean-going cruises recorded globally last year. This marks a significant 7.5% increase compared to 2024. Furthermore, nearly 90% of those who have cruised previously indicated that they intend to take another cruise, signalling a robust recovery and optimistic outlook for the sector.
Royal Caribbean’s latest investments in the Icon Class reflect a strong confidence in the future of cruising, as the company looks to provide passengers with top-tier experiences on the high seas. With innovative designs and a plethora of entertainment options, the Icon Class ships are poised to redefine modern cruising for generations to come.