The world’s largest cruise ship, a floating megastructure that is five times the size of the Titanic, first set sail from Miami at the start of last year. Owned by Royal Caribbean Group, Icon of the Seas stretches 1,197 feet in length, spans across 20 decks, and carries a gross tonnage of 248,663. It was built in Finland at a reported cost of £1.5 billion and has a maximum capacity of 7,600 people, including 5,610 guests and 2,350 crew members.
The giant cruise ship has 2,805 staterooms and a staggering array of amenities that make it less a ship and more a self-contained city at sea. Among its standout features are seven swimming pools and six waterslides, making it the largest waterpark ever built on a cruise ship.
There are 40 dining and drinking venues onboard, including a champagne bar, and eight distinct “neighbourhoods” designed to cater to different passenger interests.
Attractions include a rock climbing wall, a fitness center, a mini golf course, a spa, laser tag, an escape room, an ice skating rink called Absolute Zero, and even a carousel.
The ship also houses The Pearl, a massive art installation on the Royal Promenade, and the Quadome, a diving and performance venue set beneath a glass dome.
The Hideaway marks the first suspended infinity pool at sea, and the ship also has a 670-meter jogging track and the largest swim-up bar at sea, called Swim & Tonic.
Despite being powered by liquefied natural gas, a fuel promoted as more environmentally friendly than traditional marine fuels, Icon of the Seas faced criticism especially at the time of its launch with the International Council on Clean Transportation who raised concerns about potential methane leaks from LNG-fueled ships, arguing that their greenhouse gas impact may be greater than current regulations account for.
Royal Caribbean said that the ship is 24% more energy efficient than the standards set by the International Maritime Organisation and stated its intention to launch a net-zero emissions ship by 2035.
In a review on Cruise Critic, one cruise ship goer said: “Our family just returned from an unforgettable cruise aboard Icon of the Seas, and we can’t stop talking about it! With nearly 10,000 passengers and staff onboard, it holds the title of the largest cruise ship in the world—and it lives up to the hype.
“Despite its massive size, the ship never felt overcrowded. There are plenty of spaces for you to relax quietly, as well as vibrant spots with music and energy if that’s what you’re after. Whether you’re looking for peace or a party, there’s a place for everyone.”
Another person wrote on TripAdvisor: “Had a wonderful experience on Icon of the Seas in May 2025. The ship is not only very clean and comfortable, but innovative in design. Staterooms set the standard in functionality and comfort by blending simplicity with modern decor.
“The neighbourhoods were a great way to give a private feel to a ship full of people. We never waited in line for anything except Starbucks! Royal Caribbean staff knows hospitality. Anyone who says otherwise in a review is likely self-centered and full of themselves. The staff is friendly, knowledgeable, and always helpful.”
Someone else said: “Extremely awesome place! Crew were friendly and nice. Food was awesome. Shows, amazing especially the Aqua Dome. This will be a vacation I will never forget.”
The ship is making headlines now for different reasons, as just a few days ago it was the site of a tragic and disturbing incident involving two crew members.
According to authorities, on July 24, a 35-year-old male crew member stabbed his 28-year-old female colleague during a “personal dispute” while the ship was sailing close to San Salvador Island in the Bahamas.
Following the attack, the man fled and jumped overboard. He was later recovered by the ship’s rescue team and declared dead. The woman sustained stab wounds to her upper body and is reported to be in stable condition.
An autopsy is currently being conducted to determine the precise cause of the man’s death.
