Icon of the Seas Review: Navigating the Western Caribbean for 7 Spectacular Nights
Step aboard the Icon of the Seas and prepare to embark on a voyage through the captivating Western Caribbean. In this post, we’ll be examining both this ship’s incredible variety of facilities and its many charming ports of call to provide you with an idea of what to expect from your luxurious holiday.
A transparent ocean waits in Cozumel, vibrant Miami streets beckon, and wonders of nature populate the Bahamas. They are all yours over seven spectacular nights as Icon of the Seas charts indulgence and beauty on a grand scale.
Welcome to our review of exactly what you’ll find on board when cruising around the western Caribbean aboard Icon of the Seas!
About the Ship
On January 27, 2024, Royal Caribbean International’s stunning marvel Icon of the Seas set sail for the first time. This unprecedented cruise liner raises the bar when it comes to luxury voyages.
The lead ship in its class, Icon class, measures a colossal 364.75 meters long and weighs an incredible 248,663 gross tons – making it the biggest passenger ship ever to sail.
Home ported in Miami (USA), this floating metropolis can carry up to 7,600 vacationers plus a further 2,350 crew members spread out over no fewer than twenty decks.
Using environmentally friendly technology that is at the cutting edge of engineering know-how, cruising speed during normal operations is approximately twenty-two knots.
Accommodation On Board
The Icon of the Seas has a wide selection of staterooms for you to choose from. Each one is different and offers unique features and facilities:
- Suite Stateroom: For people who like luxury and lots of space, these suites are perfect. You’ll get extra-special service, too. Things like having your own concierge, being able to board first, and reserved seats when it comes to entertainment will be available for you.
- Balcony Stateroom: Wake up to stunning views right from your own room with a balcony stateroom! You won’t even have to leave your cabin.
- Ocean View Stateroom: Want breathtaking scenery every day? Get it all aboard the ship when you book an ocean-view stateroom. They feature windows overlooking the water, so nothing escapes your gaze!
- Interior Stateroom: A cozy retreat at the end of busy days awaits in these rooms without outside views. They still provide everything necessary for recharging before setting off on new adventures tomorrow morning.
Activities & Entertainment
Transforming into an entertainment haven after dusk, Icon of the Seas hosts a cacophony of laughter and melodies: anything from feel-good jazz-pop to guffaw-inducing comedy. The night scene – where bars pump until late – is multi-faceted. There’s a beat for everyone, whether that’s salsa or rock.
But it doesn’t end with the above. This vessel has seven pools in total (some with ocean vistas), including Hideaway high up in the sky and Cloud 17 – both offering unique vibes.
Waterbabe? Check out Category 6 – reportedly the biggest floating waterpark on Earth! Risk-takers can also try Crown’s Edge slides if brave enough.
Prefer something more interactive? En garde! Challenge mates atop the FlowRider surf simulator. Prefer land sports? How about scaling Adrenaline Peak’s vertical climbing wall?
More leisurely pursuits include a sports court, mini-golf course, or just chilling on deck. Trust us when we say there are plenty of opportunities here for lifelong memories!
Dining Options
With its wide-ranging selection of restaurants, Icon of the Seas makes every meal a special occasion. The Main Dining Room offers an elegant setting, while Windjammer Café and Aquadome Market have foods from around the world.
Suite guests can enjoy exclusive dishes at Coastal Kitchen or The Grove. For something lighter, Park Café and Basecamp serve sandwiches and snacks. Empire Supper Club and Chops Grille create gourmet meals to remember.
There are always tasty things happening at El Loco Fresh or Sorrento’s—perfect if you want quick but good-quality food, too.
Don’t forget about our specialty places like Empire Supper Club – it’s worth trying their menu out!
Plus, there are more than 20 other options onboard. So no matter what time, day or night, whether you’re feeling fancy pants or just need fuel – this ship has got something delicious waiting just for YOU!!
Itinerary
Begin and end your thrilling seven-night adventure to the Bahamas and Western Caribbean in Miami’s vibrant city. Sail away from Port Miami on this journey, which includes visits to sunny locales and scenic cruising days.
- Day 1 – Miami, Florida: Set sail from Miami’s bustling port as your voyage begins.
- Days 2 & 3 – Cruising: These two days at sea let you appreciate life by the ocean waves. Whether you relax poolside or enjoy spa treatments while watching the ship’s entertainment, do whatever brings you joy.
- Day 4 – Puerto Costa Maya, Mexico: Discover ancient Mayan ruins or marvel at marine life like never before when you visit this port.
- Day 5 – Cozumel, Mexico: Experience an island paradise renowned for its breathtaking coral reefs.
- Day 6 – Cruising: Enjoy another day of sailing on the open sea. With numerous activities and relaxation spots onboard, it’s entirely your choice how to spend your time.
- Day 7 – CocoCay in the Bahamas: Create unforgettable moments during a trip to Royal Caribbean’s exclusive private island retreat.
- Day 8 – Back to Miami, Florida: Although your vacation ends where it began, you’ll forever keep treasured memories.
Excursions
Immerse yourself in the spirit of Miami, Florida, with customized activities and adventures that suggest the true essence of each place you explore on your trip.
Miami, Florida
Whether you’ve just arrived or are back from a cruise, don’t miss diving into the lively scene ashore at Miami, where there’s so much to see and do.
Check out Little Havana: think music and art studios that double as museums showcasing Cuban culture and flavorsome fare you won’t soon forget.
Or just stroll around South Beach’s Art Deco District. It’s like stepping back in time to another era.
If relaxing is more up your alley, then why not lay out on its famous sandy white shores? Shopping plus waterfront dining equals Bayside Marketplace-BONUS!
Puerto Costa Maya, Mexico
Immerse yourself in the heart of Mayan culture with a trip to Chacchoben’s ancient ruins. Scale stunning pyramids and admire its tropical backdrop.
If you love water sports, head out on a snorkeling or scuba diving expedition along glorious coral reefs beneath Costa Maya’s turquoise seas.
Prefer dry land? Tour the bustling Mahahual village. Buy artisanal crafts, sample Mexican seafood dishes, or simply unwind on soft white sands with a cool drink.
Cozumel, Mexico
In Cozumel, there’s no shortage of excitement on land or underwater. Explore the breathtaking Palancar Reef — part of a massive underwater ecosystem called the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef — while scuba diving or snorkeling.
This is where you’ll find some of the most spectacular coral formations and sea life on Earth.
On dry land, learn about Mayan culture at the ancient ruins in San Gervasio. Or sip tequila like a connoisseur during an organized tasting session: Mexico’s most famous export.
For something more laid-back, stroll along San Miguel’s waterfront promenade with its stunning vistas across the ocean. Here, you’ll come across shops, bars, and restaurants.
Perfect Day at CocoCay, Bahamas
CocoCay, the exclusive island owned by Royal Caribbean, strikes an ideal balance between relaxation and adventure. For those who want a break from sunbathing and watersports, take on Daredevil’s Peak — North America’s highest slide.
Or swim in the huge freshwater pool Oasis Lagoon. Snorkel amidst hidden surprises beneath the waves or simply float above them in The Bahamas’ famously translucent seas.
If you want something extra special, rent a cabana — complete with service staff — on Chill Island for pure beachside indulgence unmatched anywhere else.
Bottom Line
Set out on an incredible adventure aboard the Icon of the Seas. With luxurious cabins, including suites, balconies, ocean views, or interiors to choose from, there’ll be no end to comfort and relaxation throughout your trip.
Expect world-class entertainment guaranteed to leave you amazed and evenings filled with laughter and excitement. Sample a host of different dining options – each designed to tickle taste buds perfectly.
Dive into pools and waterslides aplenty for sun-soaked fun that never stops. Try thrilling activities that will unite loved ones like never before – leaving memories destined to last forever.
Don’t wait – book now for an unforgettable journey on board Icon of the Seas!