The world's largest cruise ship made its first trip to the open sea: what is it like
Finland has completed the construction of the ship, which should become the world's largest cruise ship. It made its first trip to the open sea for sea trials before the first sailing. The edition told in more detail CNN.

Photo: IStock
Royal Caribbean International's Icon of the Seas is a giant at 365 meters (nearly 1200 feet) long and weighing 250 tons. In comparison, it's like trying to keep two CN Towers afloat.
When the ship sets sail in the Caribbean in January 2024, it will comfortably accommodate around 5610 passengers and 2350 crew members. Part of the entertainment on the ship will be the world's largest marine water park. It will be a Category 6 park with six record-breaking water slides. But guests who prefer a more relaxing holiday can relax in the seven pools and nine jacuzzis.
"Mind-blowing"
The liner was built at the Meyer Turku shipyard, one of the leading shipbuilders in Europe, in Turku (Finland). At a press conference earlier this year, Royal Caribbean International President and CEO Michael Bailey revealed that the vessel is due to join the Royal Caribbean fleet on October 26, ahead of its 2024 debut.
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The current holder of the title of the world's largest cruise ship is another Royal Caribbean ship, the Wonder of the Seas, which made its maiden voyage in 2022 and measures just under 1188 feet (362 m) in length and 18 decks.
Royal Caribbean International introduces Icon of the Seas as the pinnacle of cruise line evolution, using the latest technology and 50 years of experience.
“We position it as the perfect family vacation. If you take a step back and look at all the energy and time spent on creating such a ship, the scale is amazing, ”said Bailey.
Icon completed its first series of sea trials on June 22, according to Royal Caribbean.
“During these sea trials, Icon of the Seas traveled hundreds of miles, during which the main engines, hull, braking systems, steering, noise and vibration levels were tested,” the statement said. “Everything was done on time, according to schedule, despite the fact that her sailing had to be postponed due to wind.”
"Perfect home base"
The ship will offer over 40 dining, drinking and entertainment options, many of which are included in the cruise price. With 20 decks and eight areas to explore, the idea is to satisfy any vacationer (from areas reserved for young families to adult-only spaces like Royal Caribbean International's first duel piano bar).
There are 28 different accommodation types, expanded categories for families, more ocean view floor plans, and more space for group travelers. The cruise line says this is the longest time it has ever devoted to "designing the perfect home base."
Icon of the Seas is also Royal Caribbean International's first ship to run on liquefied natural gas (LNG) and fuel cell technology, part of the company's move toward clean energy.
2600 workers per day
Around 2600 people work daily on Icon of the Seas. During sea trials, hundreds of specialists were on board, who evaluated the performance for four days.
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Royal Caribbean announces that a second series of sea trials is scheduled for late 2023.
Record sales
The hype surrounding the ship is such that pre-sales have been record-breaking. Michael Bailey reportedly described Icon of the Seas during the company's quarterly financial results as "literally the most efficient new product launch we've ever had."
Icon of the Seas will sail seven-night eastern and western Caribbean voyages year-round from Miami. Each sailing includes visit to Perfect Day at CocoCay, Royal Caribbean's award-winning private island, as well as its new extension, Hideaway Beach.
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