Icon of the Seas: The New Behemoth of the Seas Set to Boost Mexican Caribbean Tourism in 2024

The crown for the world's largest cruise ship is about to be taken by Royal Caribbean International's latest vessel, The Icon of the Seas. Due to visit the Mexican Caribbean ports of Cozumel and Mahahual in 2024, the ship is currently undergoing open water sea trials and is set to dethrone its sibling ship, Wonder of the Seas.

Measuring a colossal 365 meters (about 1,200 feet) in length and weighing in at 250,800 tons, The Icon of the Seas surpasses all existing records. The ship is expected to officially join Royal Caribbean's fleet in October 2023, as confirmed by Royal Caribbean International President and Chief Executive Michael Bayley at a press conference earlier this year.

The Icon of the Seas boasts an impressive capacity, designed to accommodate 5,610 passengers and 2,350 crew members. Ensuring an unforgettable voyage, the ship features an array of amenities, including seven pools, nine whirlpools, and the world's largest waterpark at sea, complete with six water slides. Further adding to the opulence, it hosts 20 decks, 40 bars and restaurants, and passenger lodgings are divided among eight unique "neighborhoods."

Sailing on the wave of sustainability, this ship is the first in Royal Caribbean International's fleet to be powered by liquefied natural gas. It will also use fuel cell technology to produce electricity and fresh drinking water onboard.

The Icon of the Seas is set to embark on its maiden voyage from Miami, Florida. With its route expected to enhance Quintana Roo's reputation as a world-class cruise ship destination. Quintana Roo saw over 60% of Mexico's total cruise ship tourism in the first quarter of the year, and the Icon's arrival is set to boost this further.

Increased cruise ship traffic has ignited controversy in Cozumel, where the construction of a fourth cruise ship pier has been paused due to lawsuits filed by environmentalists and citizen’s collectives. However, Quintana Roo Governor Mara Lezama is optimistic, stating on her social networks, “Receiving the largest cruise ship in the world means more tourism and shared prosperity for our destinations.”

In addition to docking along the Mexican coast, passengers aboard the Icon of the Seas will have the opportunity to visit other exotic destinations, such as the Caribbean islands of St. Maarten, Saint Kitts and Nevis, the Virgin Islands, and the Honduran island of Roatan.

With its arrival on the horizon, the Icon of the Seas is not just setting records in size and capacity but is also poised to leave a significant footprint in the world of cruise ship tourism.