Share the Magic Travel Agency’s owners were recently invited to embark on an extraordinary journey on a preview voyage of Royal Caribbean’s newest cruise ship, Icon of the Seas. We’re sharing their firsthand experience from the incredibly elegant, entertaining, and modern ship which also happens to be the largest cruise ship in the world. Join us as we delve into the awe-inspiring features, captivating shows, delectable dining options, and more that make this cruise ship an icon in its own right.
Discover the perks of booking through Share the Magic Travel agency. We’re excited to share an exclusive onboard credit offer that enhances your cruise experience. Learn how this complimentary credit can be used for spa treatments, specialty dining, or even as a souvenir fund.
Icon of the Seas: Setting Sail into Greatness
The adventure began on the Icon of the Seas, a ship that redefines the boundaries of luxury and scale. Unlike any other cruise ship, the Icon of the Seas boasts grandeur and opulence that surpasses expectations. The thrill of stepping onto the largest cruise ship globally and exploring its vast decks that felt like a floating city was a new and exciting experience.
“It’s unbelievable. It is truly unbelievable, something I’ve been looking forward to for a year. It lived up to the hype.” – Brandon White, Owner – Share the Magic Travel
Cruising into the Future: What Sets Icon of the Seas Apart
Unprecedented Size and Scale
The Icon of the Seas lives up to its name, standing as a testament to maritime engineering and design. It’s not just a ship; it’s an immersive experience. The sheer size and scale sets the ship apart from any other cruise ship we’ve ever encountered.
“I expected when I stepped on board that we would feel it,” said Brandon. “We did a cruise on the Wonder of the Seas last year, and it was pitched as the largest cruise ship ever built, and it was an Oasis class ship, so there were ships just like it but just built a little differently before. When you step onto the Wonder, you feel like it’s familiar, and maybe there are nicer versions of things you’ve seen before. When you step onto the ship, it feels like you’ve never seen anything like it. The more Royal Caribbean cruises you have done, the bigger the Icon of the Seas will feel. It’s not going to be familiar at all. It’s crazy how the size and scale of this ship is so much larger.”
Rover, the Chief Dog Officer
Yes, there’s a dog onboard. Meet Rover, the adorable CDO (Chief Dog Officer) onboard the Icon of the Seas, a furry friend who adds a delightful touch to the cruise experience, especially for younger travelers or those with anxiety.
Action-Packed Days: Things to Do on Icon of the Seas
For those seeking excitement, Icon of the Seas offers an array of activities. Don’t miss a chance to explore the Category 6 water park which features heated slides and thrilling attractions and the heart-pounding Crown’s Edge zip line. One of our favorites was the family-friendly Surfside area.
“It truly was an unbelievable ship. It’s the best ship in the world hands down. If you’re looking for a cruise vacation, I would 100 percent recommend Icon of the Seas.”
Next-Generation Entertainment
Those who love to sit back and enjoy the ride and those who love to partake in every opportunity available can delve into the mesmerizing world of entertainment onboard the Icon of the Seas. From Broadway-caliber shows to thrilling aqua performances, there’s literally something for everyone – including a breathtaking Wizard of Oz production, cutting-edge ice skating shows (pun intended), and the gravity-defying Aqua Show that left us in awe.
“Some of the best shows we’ve ever seen on a cruise ship were on the Icon of the Seas.”
Iconic Cuisine on the Icon of the Seas
Indulge your taste buds with the diverse culinary offerings on Icon of the Seas with more than 20 different dining options. Cruises can take a gastronomic journey, exploring quick-service options like Sorrento’s Pizza and Surfside Eatery or delve into the exquisite world of specialty dining at Chops Grill, Azumi, and Giovanni’s Italian. There truly is something for every taste.
The AquaDome Market: A Culinary Innovation
One of the most exciting features of the Icon of the Seas is the Aquadome Market, a new concept on Royal Caribbean ships featuring just about every type of culinary cuisine and experience you can imagine, including a build-your-own mac and cheese station.
Sorrento’s Pizza
A Royal Caribbean classic, Sorrento’s Pizza is a highlight for most loyal Royal cruisers. With a location on every Royal Caribbean ship, Sorrento’s has established itself as a fan favorite among cruise dining options, with pizza available until 2:00 a.m.
Chops Grille
Chops Grille redefines the art of steakhouse elegance with a menu curated to satisfy the most discerning palates. Serving only the finest cuts of USDA beef expertly aged and flame-grilled to perfection and an extensive selection of premium dishes, including mouthwatering seafood, flavorful sides, and a carefully curated wine list, Chops Grille is a must-visit destination for those seeking a truly unforgettable dining experience at sea.
Suite Life: Icon of the Seas Suites and Accommodations
Suite perks include priority access to shows, priority access to some of the top dining, and access to the Grove, which is the private suites only area with hot tubs and buffet. Suite Lounge is a great spot to get away from the hustle and bustle if it feels crowded, especially on a sea day. Whether you choose an interior stateroom, ocean-view cabin, balcony suite, or indulge in the exclusive offerings of a suite with a private balcony, each option is thoughtfully designed to elevate your cruise experience.
- Interior Staterooms: Cozy and inviting, interior staterooms provide a peaceful retreat with all the essential amenities, making them an excellent choice for those seeking a value-packed cruising experience.
- Ocean-View Cabins: Wake up to breathtaking views of the sea in the well-appointed ocean-view cabins. Enjoy the natural light and soothing ambiance as you cruise to your dream destinations.
- Balcony Suites: Elevate your stay with a private balcony suite, where you can unwind and take in the fresh sea air. Sip your morning coffee or enjoy a romantic sunset from the comfort of your own outdoor space.
- Suite Accommodations: Indulge in the epitome of luxury with suite accommodations, featuring spacious living areas, premium amenities, and exclusive perks. Suites often come with priority embarkation, concierge service, and access to private lounges.
No matter your choice, expect meticulously designed cabins with modern furnishings, plush bedding, and thoughtful touches that create a home away from home. With a variety of accommodation options to suit every preference, Royal Caribbean’s Icon of the Seas ensures a restful retreat after each day of exploration and adventure at sea.
Icon of the Seas Frequently Asked Questions
Where does Icon of the Seas sail out of?
Royal Caribbean’s Icon of the Seas sets sail from the beautiful oceanside city of Miami.
Is there kid-friendly entertainment on Icon of the Seas?
It’s common for cruise ships within the Royal Caribbean fleet to provide a variety of kid-friendly entertainment options, and Icon of the Seas is no exception. Royal Caribbean is known for its family-friendly atmosphere and activities suitable for all ages. In addition to the dedicated kids’ spaces, Royal Caribbean usually offers family-friendly shows, game nights, and other activities suitable for children of various age groups. The cruise line aims to provide a memorable experience for families, ensuring that both parents and kids have plenty of options for entertainment and relaxation.
How far in advance should I book a cruise on Icon of the Seas?
If you have flexibility in your travel dates, you may find more options and better prices. Mid-week departures or off-peak seasons might offer more competitive rates. If you have specific travel dates and preferences, booking early is generally a prudent approach to secure the best options and prices for your cruise on the Icon of the Seas.
- Early Booking Discounts: Cruise lines often provide early booking discounts and incentives for passengers who reserve their cabins well in advance. Booking several months or even a year ahead may help you secure lower prices and have a broader selection of stateroom options.
- Promotional Periods: Keep an eye on Royal Caribbean’s promotional periods. Cruise lines periodically offer special promotions, such as discounted fares, onboard credits, or complimentary upgrades. Booking during these promotional periods can provide additional value.
- Peak Travel Seasons: If you plan to cruise during peak travel seasons, such as school holidays or popular vacation times, it’s advisable to book well in advance. These periods tend to fill up quickly, and waiting until the last minute may result in limited availability and higher prices.
- Last-Minute Deals: While last-minute deals can be found, especially if the cruise is not fully booked, this approach involves more uncertainty. If you have specific preferences for your stateroom or itinerary, waiting until the last minute might limit your options.
The ideal timing for booking a cruise on Royal Caribbean’s Icon of the Seas depends on various factors, including your preferred travel dates, the type of stateroom you desire, and any promotional offers or discounts available.
Icon of the Seas Onboard Perks: Share the Magic Travel Agency
If you book a cruise on the Icon of the Seas with Share the Magic Travel, we’re going to throw in on board credit just for booking with us at no cost to you. An on board credit is essentially money deposited onto your Royal Caribbean account that you are able to spend on the ship, whether it be at the spa, for drinks, for specialty dining or for souvenirs – whatever you would charge to your room, you get to use your on board credit for it.
Set Sail on the Icon of the Seas
As we wrapped up our journey on the Icon of the Seas, we couldn’t wait to reflect on the unparalleled experiences, innovative features, and excitement that awaits future cruisers. This majestic ship truly is like no other. Join us in celebrating the wonders of the seas and start planning your own adventure aboard this extraordinary cruise ship. Bon voyage!