Sailing Royal Caribbean's Icon of the Seas: Insider tips from travel experts

Royal Caribbean's Icon of the Seas, the inaugural ship of the groundbreaking Icon class, is the largest cruise ship in the world. It embarked on its maiden voyage on January 27, 2024, and offers island-hopping trips throughout the Caribbean. This remarkable vessel is not just about size; it's packed with exciting features, including the largest pool and waterpark at sea, a family-friendly Surfside Neighbourhood that kids will adore, and various new restaurants to satisfy every palate. 

In addition to its impressive amenities, Royal Caribbean recently announced plans to expand the Icon class by ordering up to three more ships, further solidifying its commitment to innovation and guest experience in the cruise industry. 

But should you consider Icon of the Seas for your next vacation? Two of CAA's Travel Consultants sailed on this new ship class, with one embarking on their very first cruise. To help you decide, they share their tips and all the key information you'll want to know before booking. 

You'll want at least 7 days to experience everything 

You'll want at least a weeklong trip to appreciate everything this massive ship offers. One Travel Consultant suggests, "You need seven days of cruising to nowhere to fully appreciate the size and everything on the ship."  

From high-energy entertainment to tranquil relaxation areas, the ship is designed to cater to every type of traveller. Imagine a day spent lounging by the pool, followed by an evening of world-class dining and entertainment, only to realize you've just scratched the surface of what's available. 

You won't have to worry about the ship feeling crowded 

With over 7,000 guests on board, you might anticipate a bustling atmosphere. However, the ship's spacious design across 20 decks – including various neighbourhoods, each with its unique vibe – ensures you'll always find a serene spot to relax.  

With 7 pools, there is no shortage of places to swim  

The largest pool at sea, Royal Bay, is perfect for lounging and soaking up the sun. It features over 40,000 gallons of water, in-water lounge chairs, and raised whirlpools.  

With seven pools available, finding a spot by the water is always easy. The two staff aboard the Icon of the Seas shared that securing a lounge chair was a breeze. They also highlighted that the pools feature gently sloping entries instead of ladders, making them easily accessible for passengers with mobility challenges. 

A new addition is the Swin & Tonic, Royal Caribbean's largest swim-up bar at sea in the vibrant Chill Island neighbourhood. Guests can enjoy an ice-cold drink while lounging in the water and listening to music. 

But the fun doesn't stop there! Get ready to make a splash at the largest waterpark at sea, featuring Frightening Bolt, the tallest waterslide to sail, and Pressure Drop, the first open free-fall waterslide on a cruise. There is Storm Surge, the first suspended family raft slide at sea, and Hurricane Hunter, a thrilling family raft ride with unexpected drops that will leave you breathless.  

Make sure to try some of the 20 new and signature places to dine 

On the Icon of the Seas, guests can indulge in an impressive array of dining options featuring 20 new and signature venues that elevate the culinary experience to new heights. One CAA Travel Consultant happily recalled, "The food is really good." Another noted, "The French onion was so good – one of best I've had." 

There is an impressive assortment of new complimentary dining options to pick from. At Basecamp, savour snacks like soft pretzel bites or crispy shrimp bar buns. For those needing a caffeine fix or a quick bite, Pearl Café has you covered with its 24-hour service offering coffee, snacks, pastries, and sandwiches. You also want to try The Aquadome Market, Royal Caribbean's first-ever food hall, featuring five diverse food stands that promise to tantalize your taste buds. 

There are also plenty of new specialty dining options, like the Empire Supper Club. There, you can enjoy an eight-course American menu in an elegant setting that captures the charm of old New York. Or, if you're in the mood for something more casual, Pier 7 offers beachside bites, from refreshing mango shrimp tostadas to surf 'n' turf tacos. And don't forget to save room for dessert at Desserted, where you can satisfy your sweet tooth with a massive milkshake. 

Don’t miss the spectacular shows like The Wizard of Oz 

The entertainment on the Icon of the Seas is incredible; there is a diverse lineup of new shows across four spectacular stages.  

Guests can experience the thrilling spectacle of Starburst in Absolute Zero, the largest ice arena ever featured on a Royal Caribbean ship, where dazzling performances unfold on the ice against a backdrop of stunning visual effects and captivating music. This state-of-the-art venue offers a unique blend of artistry and athleticism that leaves audiences on the edge of their seats.  

In addition, audiences can delight in the first-ever rendition of the beloved classic The Wizard of Oz performed at sea in the splendid Royal Theatre. This enchanting production brings Dorothy and her friends' magical journey to life with vibrant costumes, breathtaking choreography, and a talented cast that captivates viewers of all ages. One CAA Travel Consultant enthusiastically shared, "The Wizard of Oz was amazing! They did a fantastic job."  

Compared to the Aqua Theatre on previous ships, the AquaDome stands out with its fully enclosed design and a stunning 17-meter-tall water curtain. You won't want to miss the spectacular Aqua Action! and Pirates vs. Mermaids. 

In addition to the shows, you can enjoy performances at Dueling Pianos, Lou's Jazz' N Blues, and Spotlight Karaoke. For those seeking a fun night out, the Music Hall and Comedy Club provide fantastic acts, while Boloeros and Point & Feather offer an inviting atmosphere for relaxing and unwinding. There's something for everyone to enjoy. 

It’s the perfect ship for young families 

Our travel experts highly recommend this ship, especially for families, thanks to its exciting new Surfside area. This vibrant space is specifically designed for young families and features a fantastic kid's aquapark where children can splash, slide, and play safely.  

Beyond the aquapark, Surfside is packed with family-friendly amenities, including a dedicated area for toddlers with interactive play zones. Its exceptional kids' programs keep the little ones entertained, allowing parents to enjoy some much-needed relaxation. 

Plus, with various dining options and activities catered to families, Surfside offers a stay-all-day neighbourhood experience. 

You'll be surprised by how spacious the rooms are 

The Icon of the Sea boasts an impressive array of 28 different types of rooms. Among the exciting new offerings are new suites specifically designed for guests to enjoy sunset views each evening. 

Another new area is the Suite Neighborhood, which is exclusive to Suite guests. It features a luxurious two-story sun deck with a private pool, hot tub, and two restaurants. This space offers elevated comfort and relaxation for those looking to indulge during their voyage. 

Our staff stayed in a stateroom and were impressed by its spaciousness. One was surprised by the size of the rooms, "I thought it was going to be much smaller, and it was actually very spacious. The two of us had no problem sharing the room; it was great."  

Make sure to download the app 

You'll want to download the Royal Caribbean App before you depart, "I definitely suggest people go and use the app because it does have everything that you would need in there."   

With the app, you can easily manage your booking, check-in, view daily schedules, and even make reservations for dining and entertainment. It's designed to enhance your cruise experience and keep you informed and connected throughout your vacation. 

Plan your trip on The Icon of the Seas 

Book an appointment with a CAA Travel Consultant to start planning your Royal Caribbean cruise. With your CAA Member Benefits, you'll receive sparkling wine, a welcome fruit basket in your stateroom upon arrival, a complimentary print or digital photograph, and up to $100 onboard spending per stateroom on select itineraries.