Cruise Through the Post
INTRODUCING ICON OF THE SEAS
The Icon of the Seas has arrived, and it’s not just a cruise ship – it’s a floating megacity. With record-breaking size, mind-blowing attractions, and a promise to redefine cruising, the hype surrounding this ship is massive.
I’ve cruised on my fair share of ships, from cozy vessels to bustling giants. But nothing prepared me for the sheer scale of the Icon of the Seas.
From the moment I stepped onboard, I was swept up in a whirlwind of thrilling slides, incredible dining, and non-stop entertainment.
Of course, all this innovation comes at a cost. Is the Icon of the Seas actually worth it? Let’s break it down.
ACCOMMODATION OPTIONS IN ICON OF THE SEAS
The Icon of the Seas boasts a staggering array of cabin options to suit different budgets and preferences. Let’s break down what you can expect:
- Variety & Options: My Take: The cabins on the Icon of the Seas are undeniably well-appointed. Yet, be prepared to pay more than you might on similar-sized ships from other cruise lines. Consider how important factors like cabin size, balcony views, and suite-level perks are to your overall cruise enjoyment when deciding if it’s worth the added cost.
- Comfort & Design: Even standard cabins offer a modern design with ample storage, comfortable beds, and surprisingly spacious bathrooms. Balcony and suite categories naturally step up in size and amenities, with some suites featuring butler service, expansive living areas, and even private hot tubs.
- Price Points: This is where the “worth it” question gets tricky. Prices vary wildly based on cabin category, sailing dates, and any promotions. Expect to pay a premium for a balcony stateroom compared to major competitors. Suites, as you’d imagine, come with an even higher cost. However, some unique cabin categories, like the Surfside family suites, might offer enough space and convenience to justify the expense for larger groups.
Tip: Check out detailed cabin tours and 360-degree photos available online to get a better sense of the different options before you book.
DINING OPTIONS IN ICON OF THE SEAS
From casual bites to multi-course gourmet meals, the Icon of the Seas aims to be a foodie’s paradise at sea. But does the reality live up to the promise?
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Included vs. Specialty: The ship offers a generous selection of dining options included in your base fare. The main dining room provides classic cruise fare, while the Windjammer buffet is your go-to for casual meals with tons of variety. You’ll also find several quick-serve options like Sorrento’s Pizza and the Park Café. However, the Icon of the Seas truly pushes the boundaries with its specialty restaurants. These come with an additional cost but offer unique cuisines and elevated dining experiences.
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Food Quality and Variety: In my experience, the food quality across both included and specialty venues was excellent. The main dining room offers well-prepared dishes with some adventurous options, while the buffet shines with fresh ingredients and diverse international stations. Specialty restaurants take things up a notch, with highlights like creative sushi at Izumi and authentic coastal cuisine at the Hooked Seafood.
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Dining Experience: The ambiance in the main dining room is traditional, but some of the included venues feel a bit crowded during peak times. The real standouts are the specialty restaurants, where the smaller scale and attention to detail create a more intimate and memorable experience.
My Take: The Icon of the Seas delivers a vast and delicious culinary landscape. If you’re happy with the quality of the included options, you won’t go hungry. However, true foodies who crave exceptional dining experiences will likely want to budget for a few specialty restaurants, and those can add up quickly.
Tip: Research specialty dining packages in advance. These can sometimes offer savings if you plan on trying several of the extra-cost venues.
ONBOARD ACTIVITIES AND ENTERTAINMENT
The Icon of the Seas aims to revolutionize cruise entertainment, and it certainly has the attractions to back it up. Here’s what sets it apart:
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Thrill Attractions: Let’s talk about the biggest buzz: the record-breaking water slides in the Category 6 waterpark, the adrenaline-pumping Crown’s Edge skywalk, the FlowRider surf simulator, and a dedicated rock-climbing wall. These aren’t your average cruise ship activities—they’re designed to get your heart racing.
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Pools & Relaxation: With seven pools and numerous whirlpools spread across its sprawling decks, there’s ample space to soak up the sun or cool off. Highlights include the adults-only Cloud 17 with its swim-up bar and the serene Cove Pool offering stunning ocean views.
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Shows & Performances: The Icon of the Seas delivers the high-energy production shows you’d expect on a Royal Caribbean ship. However, the standouts are its unique AquaTheater shows, featuring acrobatics and stunning water effects, and dazzling ice skating shows in the ice rink.
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Kids & Family: Kids clubs are divided by age group, catering to everyone from toddlers to teens with age-appropriate activities. The ship boasts an expansive arcade, a mini-golf course, and the whimsical Splashaway Bay water zone for younger children.
My Take: The Icon of the Seas is a playground for all ages. If you crave excitement, the thrill attractions will not disappoint. That said, even cruisers wanting a more laid-back experience will find ample places to relax and enjoy top-notch entertainment. It’s hard not to be impressed by the breadth of options.
Tip: Check the daily schedule in the Royal Caribbean app to plan your days, as popular shows and attractions can book up quickly.
ITINERARIES AND DESTINATIONS
Currently, the Icon of the Seas focuses exclusively on Eastern and Western Caribbean itineraries departing from Florida, and Miami. These are classic cruise routes, known for their beautiful beaches, vibrant cultures, and variety of experiences.
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Typical Routes: Expect to see 7-night sailings split between Eastern and Western Caribbean itineraries. Eastern Caribbean cruises often include stops in Perfect Day at CocoCay (Royal Caribbean’s private island), Puerto Rico, and St. Thomas or St. Maarten. Western Caribbean itineraries frequently visit Mexico (Cozumel and Costa Maya), Honduras (Roatan), and Perfect Day at CocoCay.
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Port Variety: While these itineraries stick to popular Caribbean destinations, there’s enough diversity to appeal to both first-time and seasoned cruisers. You’ll find a mix of bustling port towns, idyllic islands, and opportunities for Mayan ruins adventures.
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Shore Excursion Options: The Icon of the Seas offers a vast array of shore excursions to fit every interest. Choose from beach days, snorkeling or diving adventures, historical tours, cultural experiences, zipline adventures, and much more.
My Take: Icon of the Seas itineraries are perfect if you want a fun-filled Caribbean getaway with guaranteed sunshine. However, if you’re seeking more off-the-beaten-path destinations or exotic itineraries, this ship might not be the best fit currently.
Tip: Perfect Day at CocoCay is a major selling point for many Icon of the Seas cruises. Research the attractions and experiences available on the island to see if they align with your interests.
OVERALL EXPERIENCE
The Icon of the Seas isn’t just about individual attractions or dining venues – it’s about the cumulative experience. Here’s what you can expect:
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Atmosphere and Vibe: This ship is massive, but surprisingly easy to navigate thanks to its well-designed “neighborhoods.” The atmosphere is energetic and lively, making it a great choice for families, groups, and those seeking a non-stop vacation buzz. If you crave tranquility, seek out the adults-only spaces or book a suite-level cabin that grants access to exclusive areas.
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Passenger Demographics: The Icon of the Seas attracts a wide range of travelers, making it a true multigenerational crowd-pleaser. You’ll find families of all sizes, couples celebrating milestones, groups of friends, and even solo travelers seeking a vibrant onboard experience.
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Service Levels: Service throughout the ship was generally friendly and efficient. While you might experience some wait times at peak periods, the staff’s enthusiasm and willingness to help certainly add to the positive overall experience.
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The “Wow” Factor: There’s no denying that the Icon of the Seas packs serious “wow” moments. From its record-breaking stats to its innovative technology, the ship is designed to impress. Whether you’re braving the Crown’s Edge skywalk, enjoying a dazzling AquaTheater show, or simply strolling the beautiful Royal Promenade, you’ll find plenty that stands out.
My Take: The Icon of the Seas is designed to be the ultimate cruise vacation, and for many, it will deliver just that. If you’re looking for a cutting-edge ship with non-stop entertainment, excellent food, and a fun-loving atmosphere, it makes a strong case. Be aware, however, that the focus on grand scale and innovation does come with a higher price tag.
THE PRICE FACTOR
We’ve covered the highlights of the Icon of the Seas, but there’s no escaping the elephant in the room: the cost. There’s no sugarcoating it – the Icon of the Seas is one of the most expensive cruise ships out there.
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Direct Cost Breakdown: Base fares for an Icon of the Seas cruise can start higher than similar sailings on other Royal Caribbean ships or even those offered by competitors. Beyond that, be prepared for added expenses: Drinks packages, specialty dining, shore excursions, internet access, and gratuities can easily add hundreds more to your final bill.
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Comparison to Similar Ships: To get a sense of the premium, compare the Icon of the Seas’ pricing with ships like Royal Caribbean’s Wonder of the Seas or those from lines like Carnival or Norwegian. You’ll likely find a noticeable difference.
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Value for Money: Here’s the question that matters – do the ship’s innovations, dining, and overall experience justify the higher price? The answer depends heavily on your priorities. If you’re seeking the latest and greatest attractions, a dazzling array of dining options, and a cutting-edge experience, the Icon of the Seas may well be worth it. However, if you’re a budget-conscious cruiser or primarily value port destinations over onboard bells and whistles, you might find better value elsewhere.
My Take: The price of the Icon of the Seas is a significant factor. Don’t get swept away by the hype without carefully considering if the ship aligns with both your budget and how you want to spend your vacation dollars.
Tips:
- Look for Deals: Monitor for promotions, early booking discounts, or shoulder-season sailings to potentially snag a better price.
- Budget Carefully: Factor in the extra costs beyond the base fare to get a realistic picture of your overall spending.
- Consider Your Priorities: If you’ll truly take advantage of everything the Icon of the Seas offers, the price might be easier to justify.
CONCLUSION
The Icon of the Seas is an impressive ship packed with innovation and fun. However, it’s crucial to weigh the cost against what you value most in a cruise vacation. If thrilling attractions, cutting-edge entertainment, and vast culinary choice are your top priorities, the Icon of the Seas delivers in spades. If you’re on a tighter budget or prefer a more destination-focused cruise, it might be wise to explore other options.
ADDITIONAL TIPS
- Book Early: The Icon of the Seas is in high demand, so booking well in advance can unlock early-bird discounts and ensure you get your preferred cabin category.
- Consider Shoulder Season: Sailing dates during the shoulder season (spring or fall) might offer slightly lower fares compared to peak summer or holiday periods.
- Research Promotions: Royal Caribbean often runs promotions throughout the year. Keep an eye out for deals that could save you money on your cruise fare.
- Look into Suite Perks: If the price of a suite fits your budget, weigh the extra perks like exclusive lounges, dedicated restaurants, and butler service which can greatly enhance your experience.
- Use a Cruise Booking Portal: A Booking portal can help you navigate the booking process, find the best deals for your sailing dates, and offer additional advice.
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