RCI-Royal Caribbean's newest vessel Icon of the Seas, currently holding the title of the world's largest passenger ship, docked at Mahahual on Tuesday, February 6th, with ~7600 passengers.
The huge vessel, stretching 365 meters (1198 ft) in length and boasting 20 decks, arrived at the Grand Costa Maya dock in Mahahual on her inaugural journey from Miami.
Governor Mara Lezama, present to greet the ship upon its arrival, remarked that the presence of the Icon of the Seas underscored Quintana Roo's steadfast commitment to the recovery of cruise tourism, which had faced significant challenges in recent times but was now experiencing notable growth and development.
With max capacity 7600 passengers plus 2350 crew members, Icon OTS was welcomed by Royal Caribbean executives Jay Schneider, Senior Vice President of Product Development, James Boink, Vice President, Andre Pousada, Regional Vice President, and Jaime A. Lopez, Director of Product Development. Governor Lezama emphasized that the ship's arrival marks a new chapter for the Grand Costa Maya, highlighting the region's dedication to responsible tourism and a promising future.
In 2023, Quintana Roo welcomed 1618 cruise ships, with 462 stopping in Mahahual/Costa Maya, bringing in 2+ million cruise tourists. By the end of 2023, the state recorded an 18% increase in cruise passenger numbers, totaling 6+ million compared to the 5 million received in 2019.
Additionally, January 2024 saw 217 cruise ships docking between Mahahual and Cozumel ports.
RCI's newest vessel Icon OTS boasts 19 decks, 7 swimming pools, 6 water slides, and 40+ venues (restaurants, bars, and lounges). The liner has the largest water park at sea and the largest swimming pool on a cruise ship.
Icon's arrival at Mahahual was accompanied by various local charitable donations, as well as the exchange of a commemorative plate and key between Governor Mara Lezama, State Secretary of Tourism Bernardo Cueto Riestra, Director of APIQROO Vagner Elbiorn, and the ship's Master - Captain Henrik Loy.
Following her stop at Mahahual during her Maiden Voyage, the Icon of the Seas is set to continue her journey to the island of Cozumel.