Unveiling the Icon of the Seas: A Royal Caribbean Adventure in Miami
Hey everyone,
As you probably know, I recently had the amazing opportunity to check out the stunning Icon of the seas – the new ship by Royal Caribbean – right here in Miami. RCCL graciously invited me to experience the Icon class of ships, and I'm excited to share my key takeaways with you.
Family Fun on the High Seas: I'm a big advocate for family travel on big ships, especially because I have three incredibly energetic boys. The cruise life is our go-to for exploring the world, and the Icon of the Seas truly delivers. With all the slides and the fantastic Thrill Island waterpark on board, my kids would be entertained for hours. While they're having a blast, I’d plan to find the perfect spot to relax – a daybed or hot tub, maybe both.
Poolside Bliss: A personal favorite of mine is grabbing breakfast and hanging out at the pool deck until lunch. The ship has a variety of pools, including Surfside, a dedicated neighborhood for the little ones. It's a genius move by Royal Caribbean to have all the kid-friendly stuff in one area, creating a more relaxed environment for everyone.
Staterooms and More: The staterooms on the Icon of the Seas are spacious with plenty of storage. I love the new connecting rooms setup – no more doors between rooms, just double doors creating a small foyer. Perfect for larger families like mine!
These are the new connecting doors. You’ll have two doors that can be closed to create almost a suite experience.
Inclusions to Impress: The ship introduces some fantastic inclusions. The Aquadome Market is a must-visit for crepes, gyros, and ramen served in a food court style. There are also kid-friendly restaurants in Surfside with all the favorites. And, of course, El Loco Fresh is here, offering not only the usual delights but additional Mexican fare.
Surfside Neighborhood - all kid things in one place. (Adventure Ocean, Arcade, Splash Pad, even Family Friendly Staterooms)
Unforgettable Entertainment: The entertainment on this ship is mind-blowing. The production of The Wizard of Oz is nothing short of spectacular, with impressive set changes, technology, a live orchestra, and 3D effects.
Endless Options: With 7 pools, 40+ restaurants and bars, and a design that emphasizes open spaces, the Icon of the Seas provides endless options for relaxation and exploration. The ship's layout encourages al-fresco experiences on multiple floors, allowing you to feel the sea breeze and soak up the sun.
Negatives (Minor Hiccups): Yes, the ship is large, and you'll definitely get your steps in. Royal Caribbean did their best to keep everything close with the neighborhood concept but definitely pack those tennis shoes. Personally, I found the bed in my stateroom a bit too hard, but a quick chat with the steward could have probably fixed that.
In summary, the Icon of the Seas offers an incredible cruise experience with a perfect blend of family-friendly features, innovative inclusions, and world-class entertainment. Despite a few minor quirks, I'm already planning my return voyage with my family, ready to make lasting memories.
So, if you're on the lookout for a Caribbean vacation that combines luxury and excitement, set sail on the Icon of the Seas – an unforgettable adventure awaits! ⚓🚢