By
Alex Smith |
Royal Caribbean International launched the largest cruise ship in the world, Icon of the Seas, in January 2024. After being christened by Argentina and Inter Miami CF footballer Lionel Messi, the ship set sail from Miami, Florida, on its inaugural passenger voyage. The vessel, which was constructed by Finnish shipbuilder Meyer Turku, is the product of more than 50 years of innovation, according to Gerard Nolan, vice president of Europe, Middle East and Africa at Royal Caribbean International.
“We’re delighted to have received our top guest satisfaction scores on Icon’s sailings since launch,” explains Nolan. “With Icon, the team set out to design something truly unique – a family holiday experience that leads the way in the industry. The response from global media, travel partners and suppliers has been nothing short of phenomenal. Icon represents the ultimate multigenerational holiday, changing the status quo in family travel and offering the ideal holiday for everyone.”
Royal Caribbean International’s second Icon-class ship, Star of the Seas, is currently under construction at Meyer Turku in Finland, and is expected to launch in summer 2025.
In June 2024, the brand took delivery of the Oasis-class Utopia of the Seas from French shipbuilder Chantiers de l’Atlantique after two years of construction. Royal Caribbean Group president and CEO Jason Liberty was joined in the ship’s AquaTheater by the brand’s president and CEO Michael Bayley and the shipyard’s general manager Laurent Castaing, as well as more than 1,600 crew members and workers. “This was Utopia’s first party of many and recognised the achievements of the nautical engineers, designers, architects and others,” says Nolan.
Ahead of welcoming its first guests in July, Utopia of the Seas was christened by Grammy award-winning US singer Meghan Trainor. “[Trainor is] a fitting partner for the ultimate short getaway which brings weekend energy to every day of the week,” says Nolan. “Trainor hosted the ultimate party and concert onboard for the ship’s inaugural sailing. With the combination of more than 40 ways to dine, drink and celebrate; more pools than the days to count; ways to thrill and chill; and more of all the above at Perfect Day at CocoCay – Royal Caribbean’s private island in The Bahamas – Utopia brings unmatched weekend energy for everyone and every day of the week.”
Chantiers de l’Atlantique is to build a seventh Oasis-class ship for Royal Caribbean International, which is expected to join the fleet in 2028.
Royal Caribbean International
Royal Caribbean International and singer Meghan Trainor christened Utopia of the Seas in Port Canaveral, Florida, in July 2024
As well as investing in its fleet of ships, Royal Caribbean International is also contributing to the destinations it visits. In 2025 it will open Paradise Island Beach Club in Nassau, The Bahamas. “We broke ground there in April and can’t wait to bring our guests to this 17-acre slice of paradise,” says Nolan. “At the heart of the ultimate beach day experience will be the culture and people of The Bahamas. The beach club will feature three stunning pools, two beaches, swim-up bars, private cabanas, spots for food and drinks, and more.”
In 2026, Royal Caribbean International will also open Royal Beach Club Cozumel in Mexico. “The destination will include a combination of experiences for everyone, from striking beaches and pools to swim-up bars, a variety of dining spots – including a restaurant, bar, lounge and a street market – and hands-on experiences such as tequila tastings and cooking classes,” says Nolan. “The aim is an experience that combines familiar Royal Caribbean touches with the spirit of Mexico, alongside amenities and activities for every type of holidaymaker.
“We are continuing to invest and enhance our fleet with our next big amplification planned for Allure of the Seas in early 2025, before the ship commences its European summer season sailing the Western Mediterranean from Barcelona. It’s an incredibly exciting time for Royal Caribbean International, with Star of the Seas launching next year, new private destinations in the works and a third Icon-class and seventh Oasis-class ship on order.”
This article was first published in the Autumn/Winter 2024 issue of Cruise & Ferry Review. All information was correct at the time of printing, but may since have changed. Subscribe for FREE to get the next issue delivered directly to your inbox.