By
Laura Hyde |
PortMiami has welcomed Royal Caribbean International’s Icon of the Seas, the largest cruise ship in the world, ahead of its official debut on 27 January 2024. Icon of the Seas will homeport year-round at the American port.
Local Florida residents and Royal Caribbean fans joined port and cruise line executives and employees to witness the arrival of Miami’s newest resident. Icon of the Seas’ arrival was celebrated with fireboat salutes, banner planes in flight and a community celebration at Pérez Art Museum.
“Miami-Dade County is thrilled by the arrival of Icon of the Seas, which will attract cruise passengers from around the world and positively impact our economy,” said Daniella Levine Cava, Miami-Dade County Mayor. “Not only are we celebrating the delivery of the largest cruise ship in the world, but the most sustainable ship in Royal Caribbean’s fleet to date.”
Following the arrival, final preparations will be made ahead of the ship’s naming celebration on 23 January when footballer Lionel Messi will christen Royal Caribbean’s first Icon-class ship. Icon of the Seas will spend its maiden season sailing seven-day Western and Eastern Caribbean itineraries.
From October 2022 to September 2023, PortMiami welcomed almost 7.3 million passengers and set a new record-breaking year in cruise activity.
“The port’s success is a direct result of its strong partnerships,” said Hydi Webb, PortMiami director and CEO. “I want to thank the entire Royal Caribbean team for their support and for choosing PortMiami as the Icon of the Seas’ home.”