RCI-Royal Caribbean International's most popular so far vessel Icon of the Seas (the world's largest cruise ship by length and volume/GT-tonnage) has made its presence known in the Caribbean ahead of the maiden voyage scheduled for January 27th, out of Miami Florida USA.
Recently, the ship arrived in Ponce Puerto Rico for regulatory inspections and logistical preparations.
Michael Bayley (RCI's President and CEO) shared the news in a Tuesday Facebook post, highlighting the upcoming regulatory inspections, equipment loading and unloading, and crew-related activities in the port. The ship, boasting 19 decks and 2805 staterooms (accommodating up to 5610 guests served by 2350 staff/crew) is set to reach Miami on January 9th.
Officially delivered to RCI at the Meyer Turku shipyard in Turku Finland on November 27, 2023, Icon OTS is gearing up for its first 7-day Caribbean sailing. The itinerary will feature year-round Eastern or Western Caribbean island destinations from PortMiami, such as Mexico (Cozumel and Costa Maya), St Maarten, St Thomas, and CocoCay Bahamas (Royal Caribbean’s private island).
Passengers on board can look forward to an array of exciting amenities, including the world's largest waterpark at sea, 8 distinct neighborhoods, and a diverse selection of 40 bars and dining options.
Icon OTS takes the prestigious title of the "world's largest cruise ship" from Wonder of the Seas, another RCI vessel, measuring 1188 ft (362 m) in length and with 17 decks.