Royal Caribbean Begins Construction on Fourth Icon-Class Ship
Royal Caribbean Celebrates Keel-Laying of Fourth Icon Class Ship
Royal Caribbean has marked a significant milestone in its fleet expansion with the keel-laying ceremony of its fourth Icon Class ship. This event took place at the Meyer Turku shipyard in Finland, where the first steel block was ceremoniously placed on a bed of newly minted coins, a traditional maritime gesture believed to bring good fortune to the vessel and its crew. The unnamed ship is set to join the ranks of the innovative Icon Class, which includes the recently launched Icon of the Seas and the upcoming Star of the Seas and Legend of the Seas.
Icon Class Revolutionizes the Cruise Experience
The Icon Class has begun to transform the cruise industry, with the inaugural ship, Icon of the Seas, entering service in early 2024. This vessel has set new benchmarks for onboard entertainment, family-oriented amenities, and overall scale. Following closely, Star of the Seas debuted this summer, enhancing the cruise experience with fresh offerings and diverse itineraries. The next ship in the lineup, Legend of the Seas, is currently under construction and is expected to launch in 2026.
Royal Caribbean’s commitment to this innovative class of ships is evident with the addition of the fourth vessel. Each Icon Class ship aims to redefine the vacation experience at sea, blending thrilling adventures with family-friendly attractions, a variety of dining options, and ample relaxation spaces. The company has emphasized that the new ship will continue this trend, promising to deliver an unparalleled cruising experience.
The keel-laying ceremony signifies the official commencement of physical construction, marking the moment when the ship begins to take form in the dry dock. As construction progresses over the next two years, more details regarding the ship’s name and onboard features are anticipated to be revealed in the coming months. This development underscores Royal Caribbean’s strategic focus on expanding its most ambitious and innovative fleet to date.
