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

Step aboard the world’s largest cruise ship, and you quickly realize Icon of the Seas isn’t just another floating resort—it’s a bold reimagining of what a vacation at sea can be. With record-breaking amenities and vibrant neighbourhoods to explore, this ship promises a level of thrill and variety that goes far beyond the ordinary Caribbean cruise.

But what’s it really like to set sail on Icon’s debut season, and how do you make the most of all that’s onboard? We interviewed two of our seasoned CAA Travel Consultants, including one experiencing their very first cruise. 

You'll want at least a week experience everything 

“To truly take in Icon of the Seas, you’ll want at least seven days on board,” one Travel Consultant advises. “It’s easy to underestimate just how much there is to do. A weeklong sailing barely scratches the surface.”

Spend a morning drifting from pool to pool, afternoons savouring signature bites, and evenings enjoying dazzling shows. Each day brings new opportunities to match your mood or travel style—whether that’s a quiet sunrise or a splashy night on the town.

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

With over 7,000 guests, Icon could feel overwhelming. Instead, its clever layout across 20 decks and distinctive neighbourhoods means you can always find a corner to call your own. Whether you crave a lively scene or a quiet moment by the sea, there’s room for every traveller.

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

Icon of the Seas is home to the largest pool at sea—Royal Bay—with over 40,000 gallons of sparkling water, in-water loungers, and raised whirlpools, all facing the ocean. Our Travel Consultants found lounge chairs easy to secure, even on busy days, and noted the gently sloping pool entries, which are great for guests with mobility needs.

Check out the new Swim & Tonic, the cruise line’s largest swim-up bar at sea, located in the vibrant Chill Island neighbourhood. Drift up for a cocktail and live music without ever leaving the water.

Thrill-seekers, don’t miss the record-breaking waterpark: Frightening Bolt, the tallest waterslide at sea, the Pressure Drop—the first open free-fall slide on a cruise—and family raft rides like Storm Surge and Hurricane Hunter. Each offers a unique rush with ocean views to match.

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

Dining on Icon is an adventure all its own, with 20 new and signature venues. Our consultants rave, “The food is really good,” while another highlights, “The French onion soup was one of the best I’ve had.”

Complimentary options abound: Basecamp is great for snacks like pretzel bites, while Pearl Café serves pastries and sandwiches 24/7. The Aquadome Market, the cruise line’s first food hall, features five specialty food stalls perfect for sampling.

For a special night out, Empire Supper Club brings an eight-course tasting menu inspired by old New York, while Pier 7 leans casual with coastal favourites. And for dessert lovers, Desserted crafts towering milkshakes are sure to satisfy any sweet tooth.

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

The lineup on Icon is bold and memorable, spanning four distinct theatres. Don’t miss Starburst at Absolute Zero, the biggest ice arena at sea—where athleticism and artistry meet under dazzling lights.

For a bit of Broadway at sea, Icon hosts the first-ever performance of The Wizard of Oz on the waves. One consultant gushed, “They did a fantastic job—absolutely magical.”

The new AquaDome’s 17-meter waterfall takes ship entertainment to the next level. Catch Aqua Action! and Pirates vs. Mermaids for jaw-dropping acrobatics and aquatic stunts, rain or shine.

Elsewhere, there’s live jazz at Lou’s Jazz ‘N Blues, duelling pianos, and energetic acts at the Music Hall and Comedy Club. With so much variety, boredom is never an option.

It’s the perfect ship for young families 

Families, rejoice: Surfside is a dedicated neighbourhood designed with parents and kids in mind. With a splash park, toddler play zones, and activities for every age, little sailors are kept busy from sunrise to sunset.

Parents can unwind knowing there are plenty of dining options and shaded seating. Stay-all-day convenience means Surfside is a spot you—and your kids—will want to return to again and again.

You'll be surprised by how spacious the rooms are 

Icon boasts 28 stateroom types, many designed to maximize ocean views and comfort among the highlights: suites with private sun decks, two-story layouts, and sunset vistas—plus the new Suite Neighbourhood with an exclusive pool, hot tub, and dedicated dining.

Both consultants remarked on the stateroom size: “I thought it would be much smaller, but it was so spacious. We had no issues sharing and felt completely comfortable the whole trip.”

Make sure to download the app 

Before you embark, download the Royal Caribbean app. It streamlines everything from check-in to daily planning: reviewing your schedule, making dining reservations, and mapping out the day’s activities. “Everything you need is at your fingertips,” our experts say.

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 in onboard spending per stateroom on select itineraries.