π Exploring the Icon of the Seas π
Ahoy, cruisers! If you’ve ever dreamed of a perfect blend of luxury, adventure, and relaxation all in one majestic vessel...an experience perfect for that multigenerational trip...then let me introduce you to the crème de la crème of cruising – the Icon of the Seas! π’β¨
Unveiling the Icon of the Seas
The Icon of the Seas is Royal Caribbean’s latest marvel, designed to redefine cruising as we know it. This colossal ship can host up to 7,600 guests, and at a staggering 1,198 feet in length and a beam of 159 feet, there's plenty of room for everyone to enjoy their dream getaway! π Her maiden voyage was January 27, 2024, and she has some wonderful itineraries to choice from.
Key Highlights
- All-Inclusive Neighborhoods: The ship offers eight distinct neighborhoods, including Thrill Island, AquaDome, Surfside and my favorite Hideaway – ensuring that there is a piece of paradise for everyone. ποΈ
- The Largest Waterpark at Sea: With six record-breaking waterslides, it’s an adventurer's dream come true, open daily from 9am to 10pm. Enjoy these slides as many time as you want! π¦
- Family Fun: Icon is a haven for families with attractions like Surfside, designed specifically for families with young children, but offering something for all π
- Iconic Dining: With a plethora of dining options ranging from some of the most loved fine dining specialty restaurants to casual eateries like Windjammers, every meal is a culinary delight. Fun fact: Icon offers over 40 restaurant, bars and lounges! π½οΈ
- World-Class Entertainment: Be prepared to be wowed with Broadway-style shows, high level acrobatic productions, ice-skating performances, and live music at every turn! Even washing your hands at Windjammers can be a lively experience with song and dance!π
Must-Visit Areas Onboard
- The Overlook: This breathtaking space offers uninterrupted views of the ocean. With so many different styles of chairs, couches and more and with the plush carpet under your feet, the Overlook is perfect for relaxing with a book or a cocktail in hand. ππΉ
- The Hideaway: A stunning cliffside retreat complete with the first-ever suspended infinity pool at sea. Hovering 8 stories above the ocean, this area is adults only, offers 2 hot tubs and is the ultimate spot for those Insta-worthy shots as you watch the waves go by! πΈπ
- Surfside: Tailor-made for young families, Surfside features slides, both wet and dry, splash pads, and fountains designed to delight kids of all ages. Also located here is a carousel, ice cream cones, and place to eat and relax, it's the ultimate kids’ paradise. πΆπ¦
- Cliffhanger & Crowns Edge: Thrill-seekers, rejoice! Cliffhanger is the ultimate rock climbing wall, extending high above the ship with stunning ocean views for a challenge like no other. While Crowns Edge is part skywalk and part ropes course and if you are brave enough to look down, you see the waves of the ocean speeding by!π§βοΈπ
Final Thoughts
The chairs...WOW! There were SO many chairs, different colors, sizes, shapes, you can sit in a different type of chair many times each day!
The Colors...From bright fun colors to calming neutrals and everything in between, it is relaxing and fun to walk around take it all in!
Windjammers...we were here during embarkation time and there were A LOT of people - but the buffet stations are spread out, offering short lines and easy access to a lot of really great food! My favorite, the mashed potatoes and gravy - so good!
