A cruise in the Caribbean may sound like a perfect way to spend a holiday, but why not travel in style on the world’s biggest cruise ship? That’s what thousands have been doing since Royal Caribbean’s Icon of the Seas set sail for the first time back in January 2024.

The 1,200 feet (365 metres) ship is equipped with a staggering 20 decks with capacity for up to 7,600 guests across 2,805 staterooms. Royal Caribbean’s latest offering is effectively a floating city with seven swimming pools, a theatre and an ice rink all fitted aboard. Decks 16 and 17 have six incredible waterslides, including the ferocious ‘Frightening Bolt’ ride, making it the largest waterpark at sea. 

Deck 5 is fitted with a large running track around the ship’s perimeter, offering stunning ocean views. Other attractions on board include laser tag, mini golf, a rock climbing wall, a casino and a fitness centre.

Those after a more relaxing holiday can enjoy the 13 complimentary restaurants or sit back in style at one of the 14 speciality eateries, including Giovanni’s Italian Kitchen and Hooked Seafood. The Icon of the Seas also boasts 18 bars, including a music hall and Spotlight Karaoke. 

The ship was first unveiled by Royal Caribbean back in October 2022, sparking huge interest from excited tourists. At the time, the new boat led to the largest single booking day and highest volume booking week in Royal Caribbean’s history. It embarked on its debut sailing in 2024. 

The boat has received generally positive feedback with a 3.5 rating after 84 reviews posted on TripAdvisor. One British family claimed that it was “one of the best holidays we’ve been on”, with the whole experience described as “excellent”. 

Another said that the “food is excellent”, admitting the staff are “hardworking and polite”. One family said it was a “bucket list experience”, with the cruise having “everything you can possibly imagine”.

The ship sets sail from Miami, Florida, and travels to postcard destinations in the Caribbean. The boat stops off at Royal Caribbean’s private island, dubbed ‘Perfect Day’ at CocoCay. However, tourists can also stop off at ports in Mexico, Honduras and the Bahamas. 

But, boarding the world-famous boat does come with a hefty price tag, with a seven-day Western Caribbean trip starting from £882 per person.

Jason Liberty, group president and CEO at Royal Caribbean, said: “Icon of the Seas is the culmination of more than 50 years of dreaming, innovating and living our mission – to deliver the world’s best vacation experiences responsibly. 

“She is the ultimate multigenerational family vacation, forever changing the status quo in family travel and fulfilling vacation dreams for all ages on board.”