Royal Caribbean’s Icon 4 Takes Shape with First Cabin Installations
Royal Caribbean International has marked a significant milestone in the construction of its fourth Icon-class cruise ship, temporarily named Icon 4. On January 9, 2026, the first modular cabins were successfully lifted onto the vessel at the Meyer Turku shipyard in Finland. This event highlights the ongoing progress of a ship that is set to redefine luxury cruising when it launches in late 2027.
The Icon 4 will feature a total of 2,800 staterooms, all designed to accommodate a wide range of guests. The cabins are prebuilt by Piikkio Works, a subsidiary of Meyer Turku, which streamlines the construction process. These modular units are delivered to the shipyard and lifted directly into the ship, allowing for efficient assembly. Meyer Turku shared this update on their Facebook page, emphasizing the importance of this phase in the ship’s development.
The construction of Icon 4 began in September 2025, marked by a traditional keel-laying ceremony. This event involved placing good-luck coins beneath the first steel block of the ship’s hull, a maritime custom meant to ensure a successful voyage. The ship is expected to join its sister vessels, including Icon of the Seas, Star of the Seas, and Legend of the Seas, which are already making waves in the cruise industry.
Icon-Class Ships: A New Standard in Cruising
The Icon-class ships are recognized as the largest cruise vessels in the world, each with a gross tonnage of 248,663 and a capacity for 5,610 guests in double occupancy. When fully booked, these ships can accommodate up to 7,600 passengers. This impressive scale is complemented by innovative features and amenities designed to enhance the cruising experience.
Icon 4 will be powered by liquefied natural gas (LNG) and will incorporate advanced alternative energy systems, including fuel cells for electrical power generation. These environmentally friendly technologies reflect Royal Caribbean’s commitment to sustainable cruising.
The existing Icon-class ships offer a variety of attractions, such as the Category 6 Waterpark, which includes thrilling rides like Frightening Bolt and Pressure Drop. Other entertainment options include a challenging ropes course at Crown’s Edge and rock climbing at Adrenaline Peak. Families can enjoy dedicated spaces like Surfside, while adults can relax in The Hideaway, which features an infinity pool and a beach club atmosphere.
Royal Caribbean Launches Construction of Fourth Icon Class Ship
As the construction of Icon 4 progresses, the next major milestone will be the ship’s float-out, expected to occur approximately one year before its launch. Royal Caribbean placed the order for this ship in August 2024, with options for additional vessels in the Icon class. While the homeport for Icon 4 remains unannounced, it is anticipated that it will follow in the footsteps of its sister ships, which primarily operate in the Caribbean and European markets.
