Icon of the Seas Tips & What’s New Onboard

Icon of the Seas is one of Royal Caribbean’s newest ships and the first of her class. The ship boasts a ton of new features including some “first at sea” experiences such as the first swim-up bar in the fleet, the biggest waterpark at sea and the first suspended infinity pool at sea. Royal Caribbean has been busy reimagining new features while keeping some of the fan favorites. Royal Caribbean’s goal with its first Icon Class ship was “redefining adventure and setting a new bar for extraordinary.” I think they have definitely succeeded in setting that bar!

There are so many new features of the Icon of the Seas, I wanted to mention them in one article to show why you’ll want to sail this massive ship.

Icon of the Seas Fun Facts:

• 250,800 GRT
• 1197 ft
• 20 Decks
• 2,805 Staterooms
• 7,600 Max Guest Capacity
• Powered by LNG
• 7 Pools and 9 Whirlpools
• 6 All New Record-Breaking Slides
• 1st of her class!

Icon of the Seas Ports:

Icon of the Seas will begin sailing from Miami with a mix of 7-night Eastern Caribbean & Perfect Day and 7-night Western Caribbean & Perfect Day itineraries. Each itinerary will include a stop at Perfect Day, so you’ll have plenty of time to enjoy Royal Caribbean’s private island and all its incredible inclusions.

Eastern Caribbean sailings include 3 options:

• Miami, Florida
• Philipsburg, St. Maarten
• Charlotte Amalie, St. Thomas
• Perfect Day at CocoCay, Bahamas
• Miami, Florida

• Miami, Florida
• Philipsburg, St. Maarten
• San Juan, Puerto Rico
• Labadee, Haiti
• Miami, Florida

• Miami, Florida
• Basseterre, St. Kitts & Nevis
• Charlotte Amalie, St. Thomas
• Perfect Day at CocoCay, Bahamas
• Miami, Florida

Western Caribbean sailings include:

• Miami, Florida
• Puerto Costa Maya, Mexico
• Roatan, Honduras
• Cozumel, Mexico
• Perfect Day at CocoCay, Bahamas
• Miami, Florida

Icon of the seas will have 8 Neighborhoods to keep sailors soaking up the sun and partying the night away.

Icon of the Seas 8 Neighborhoods: 

Thrill Island – You won’t want to miss all the adventures at Thrill Island like Category 6 Waterpark which boasts six record-breaking slides, and the not for the faint of heart, Crown’s Edge. You’ll also find revamped favorites like the new rock climbing experience called Adrenaline Peak, a new mini golf course, the popular FlowRider, and more.

• Category 6 waterpark is the largest waterpark at sea featuring the longest, tallest, and fastest slides. Frightening Bolt is the tallest drop waterslide at sea and the Pressure Drop is the first open free-fall slide at sea. There are height requirements with a range from 48 to 52 inches depending on the slide or ride, so make sure you’re aware before sailing. No one wants disappointed kids!
• Lost Dunes is the new mini golf course with nine holes allowing cruisers to play through shipwrecks, plane crashes and fallen palms.
• Crown’s Edge is a challenge that’s part skywalk, part ropes course, part thrill-ride along the ship’s Crown & Anchor. There is a section where the floor collapses and you’re hanging over the open ocean!
• Adrenaline Peak boasts the highest vantage point yet and 5 racing lanes allowing climbers to choose their difficulty level and challenge a friend to the top.

Surfside – This family-friendly neighborhood was built on the concept of allowing families to play, eat and drink together. Find Splashaway Bay Aquapark, Baby Bay, and the new Water’s Edge Pool to splash the day away. For parents who want to relax with the kids, the new Water’s Edge pool features in-water loungers and islands dotting the pool.

The area is also home to reimagined classics such as the arcade, carousel, and more. The arcade boasts retro and modern games including air hockey, skee-ball, claw machines, pinball and other fun games. Playscape offers sensory experiences for toddlers as well as physical play options for older kids. Plus the beach-themed carousel is fun for all ages and was inspired by pool floaties!

You’ll also find Adventure Ocean close by so little ones can roam whimsical rooms, find climbable creations to explore and enjoy the interactive tinker time at Workshop.  There is also dedicated programs for babies and younger kids at AO Babies and AO Juniors. However, it’s not all for little kids. Teens get their own exclusive space to hang out, Social020. Here they’ll find music, movies, the latest gaming consoles, and comfortable places to relax with new friends. My kids have always found new friends while cruising, so I highly encourage you to take advantage of these programs.

Looking to dine? Find fruit-forward drinks for kids and adults at The Lemon Post, plus a casual buffet and lunch options at Surfside Eatery and Surfside Bites.

Activities at Surfside include:

• Larger Than Life Family Festival – Get competitive with giant bowling pins, ring toss target, giant darts and more.
• The Big Shark Block Party – Admiral Awesome and friends give out fins for dress-up time and lead the dance party to all the kids’ favorite marine songs.
• Steel Pan Family Jam – Play Caribbean rhythms with kid-friendly sheet music and instruments.
• Once Upon a Bedtime Story – Wind down after a day of family fun with sleepy-time yoga and an original bedtime story each night.

Watch a great 30 second video from Royal Caribbean to see all the family adventures available.

Chill Island – This neighborhood has options for everyone with 3 decks, 4 pools and 6 whirlpools. This is where the biggest pool to set sail is located plus the first at sea swim-up bar.

• Royal Bay Pool is the largest pool at sea with over 40,000 gallons of water, in-water loungers and raised whirlpools offering elevated sea views.
• Swim & Tonic is the largest swim-up bar at sea. Grab a seat at the bar or relax on one of the in-water loungers.
• The Cove is more low-key with a disappearing edge and ocean views. This infinity edge pool is just steps away from all the action of Chill Island.
• Cloud 17 is an upscale retreat tucked away on the top deck. Find a secluded pool, cushioned loungers and daybeds, and private access to The Lime & Coconut bar while listening to live Caribbean music.

The Hideaway – Designed with disappearing edges and full-sized daybeds surrounded by water, this infinity pool is the another first of its kind at sea. Floating in mid-air 8 stories up, the pool brings beach club vibes to the back of the ship at this adults-only paradise. Hideaway Bar is the perfect spot to grab an adult cocktail, relax and listen to the resident DJs.

The Royal Promenade – Known as the heartbeat of Icon, this neighborhood boasts 15 bars, restaurants and cafes plus easy access to Central Park and Surfside. The Pearl is your WOW factor on the Icon of the Seas. It’s not only a lovely piece of art but it’s also an important architectural feature of the ship. You’ll also find the largest and most immersive ice-skating arena at sea, Absolute Zero, on The Royal Promenade. As with other ships with an ice-skating rink, there will be performances in the evenings now with high-resolution digital projection from ceiling to rink and open skate times during the day.

Located forward on Deck 6 you’ll find kid favorite Escape Room. You’ll have 60 minutes to uncover hidden clues, solve riddles, and crack complex codes to reach freedom. Guests must be at least 12 years old to participate and there is a fee. The attraction should open in July.

The redesign of the Royal Promenade eliminated the dark and narrow crowded feeling of the space and has opened up the area with natural light and a more inviting open space thanks to the addition of The Pearl.

Central Park – If you thought other RCCL’s Central Parks were impressive, wait until you see the lushest park yet with over 30,000 tropical plants and trees. You’ll find fine-dining eateries, upscale shops, bars and more. Central Park is always a spot that I love to just relax and enjoy my surroundings.

Aquadome – A tranquil oasis during the day with dining options, cocktails, and lounge spots transforms to an entertainment hotspot at night. Due to the location, you will not find a Solarium on the Icon of the Seas. The entertainment is essentially what used to be the AquaTheatre on the Oasis Class ships but the area has been upgraded with 220-degree views and even more thrilling stunts, technology and artistry. Performances take place under the towering 55-foot waterfall that shapeshifts as it cascades into the pool below.

Suite Neighborhood – A retreat exclusively for Star & Sky tier suite guests. The two-story suite sun deck has a private pool, hot tub, the Coastal Kitchen, and the new al-fresco dining at The Grove.

New Staterooms on Icon of the Seas:

Royal Caribbean has some fun new staterooms on Icon of the Seas. Families will enjoy the new Family Infinite Balconies, Surfside Family Suites and Ultimate Family Townhouse with its three levels including an in-suite slide, cinema, and a private patio with exclusive entrance to Surfside. 80% of cabins designed to accommodate more than two guests, catering to families.

The new Infinite Ocean View Balcony rooms extend to an oceanside escape with the touch of a button and the Central Park View balcony rooms provide a private view of Central Park. If you want to get even more fancy without the kiddos, elevated accommodations include the new Sunset Suites and Infinite Grand Suites.

Icon of the Seas Dining:

Icon of the Seas has over 20 ways to dine onboard. There are several new dining options as well as fan favorite such as Chops Grille, Izumi, Sorrento’s and more.

Empire Supper Club – Get fancy with a new glitz and glam dining experience in Central Park. Here you’ll enjoy a multi-course menu of premium cuisine, each paired with the perfect beverage while listening to a three-piece live band. Additional fee applies.

Celebration Table – This exclusive dining experience is for only 14 guests. The private dining room offers 4 different family-style dining experiences where guests can choose from American, Italian, Asian or Seafood prix fixe menus. Additional fee applies.

Pier 7 –  Beachside bites of casual California cuisine from all-day brunch to surf and turf tacos and sharable platters. Additional fee applies.

Izumi in the Park – A new walk-up window serving Izumi favorites including sushi and Japanese inspired street foods. Additional fee applies.

Surfside Eatery – Casual buffet in the Surfside neighborhood with kid-approved foods and delicious choices for adults. Complimentary.

Surfside Bites – This grab-and-go window is quick for pool favorites such as popcorn chicken, hot dogs, and cinnamon-sugar donut holes. Complimentary.

Basecamp – Located in Thrill Island offers snacks such as soft pretzel bites with cheese sauce. Complimentary with upgraded à la carte items for a fee.

Pearl Cafe – Enjoy toasted sandwiches, ready-made salads, and sweet treats with expansive windows. Complimentary.

AquaDome Market – The first food hall concept for Royal Caribbean serving a selection of cuisines from around the world. Find 5 unique food stands serving up Asian dishes, sandwiches, salads and crepes. Complimentary.

Desserted – Get your sweet tooth on, with everything from classic shakes to boozy milkshakes. There is an additional fee or you can get floats included with the beverage package.

The Grove – Al fresco Mediterranean dining for cruisers in suites. Complimentary.

The Lemon Post – The first family-oriented bar at sea serving fruit-forward drinks for kids and adults. located in Surfside neighborhood.

A Few Returning Favorites:

Chops Grille – The signature specialty steakhouse located in Central Park. You’ll find a new butcher’s display with specialty cuts like wagyu beef and bone-in tomahawks. Additional fee applies.

Giovanni’s Italian Kitchen & Wine Bar – The Italian restaurant is always a favorite with hand-tossed pizza and Old World classics like veal meatballs. Additional fee applies.

Hooked Seafood – Get a taste of New England with fresh seafood dishes like whole Maine lobster and freshly shucked oysters. Additional fee applies.

Izumi Hibachi & Sushi is a returning favorite but has been updated and expanded! More guests will be able to enjoy their favorite hibachi dishes with an expanded teppanyaki section. Plus Izumi will have an al fresco area in a new Central Park location. Additional fee applies.

Main Dining Room – You’ll still find the classic cruise dining experience with the Dining Room in a a grand three-story venue. Complimentary.

Windjammer – The buffet features over 200 items with tantalizing global flavors. This will be the largest Windjammer in the fleet. Complimentary.

More returning favorites include Park Café, El Loco Fresh, and Sorrento’s. Park Café will now be open until 10pm! This is huge if you’re traveling with teens. My son was always hungry later at night and didn’t always want pizza. Complimentary.

Entertainment & Bars on Icon of the Seas:

You can’t go wrong with 15 nighttime venues on Icon of the Seas, again with new spots to hang out and grab a cocktail to Royal Caribbean’s tried and true hotspots. Some of the new options onboard include Dueling Pianos, Lou’s Jazz ‘n Blues, Rye & Bean, The Overlook Lounge and Overlook Pods, 1400 Lobby Bar, and Bubbles!

Dueling Pianos – Part piano bar and entertainment venue, two piano players performing together on stage singing, entertaining, engaging with the audience, and playing music to suit all ages. Make sure to get a seat early as this the performances are super popular!

Lou’s Jazz & Blue’s Classic – A pop Jazz & Blues lounge with live music in Central Park.

The Overlook Lounge – Inside the AqauDome, this venue has two levels of floor-to-ceiling wraparound windows.

The Overlook Pods – Find next-level nooks are the first of their kind at sea and are perfect spot for board games, listening to live music or relaxing up with a cocktail.

1400 Lobby Bar – The first time the Royal Promenade has ever opened up to the outdoors with an al fresco lounge.

Trellis Bar – Tucked away in Central Park, snag pre-dinner appetizer and  handcrafted cocktails under the stars.

Bubbles – A new walk-up champagne bar in the heart of Central Park.

Rye & Bean – Get your gourmet coffee here with amazing views. You’ll find a fun coffee cocktail bar here in the evening.

Music Hall – Dane the night away to the best cover bands in this two-story venue.

The Attic – Adults-only with rotating comedians in a venue modeled after Manhattan’s dark and intimate comedy cellars

Boleros – Latin-themed club serves up Cuban mojitos, Brazilian caipirinhas, and classic cocktails to the sound of a four-piece band playing salsa, cumbia, merengue, samba, and more.

Point & Feature – A fleet favorite English pub to listen to live music, grab a drunk or play darts.

Spotlight Karakoe – Another fleet favorite is the karaoke venue and bar.

Playmakers Sports Bar and Arcade – Watch the game live and grab a drink in another fleet favorite bar.

Lime & Coconut – Caribbean pool bar with 4 locations across the 3 decks of Chill Island including the first dedicated frozen drink bar.

Icon of the Seas Entertainment Line-up

Royal Caribbean is know for its Broadway-style renditions and the entertainment on Icon of the Seas won’t disappoint. Here’s some of the fun new shows that will delight the entire family.

Wizard of Oz – The biggest Royal Theater cast and the biggest orchestra join Dorothy and her friends, somewhere over the rainbow on the most famous journey of all time.

Aqua Action – Live theater with futuristic technology and extreme athletic skills. Watch the daredevils perform beneath the towering waterfall in AqauDome.

Starbusrt: Elemental Beauty – Fusing celestial science with awe-inspiring artistry at the biggest ice-skating arena at sea, Absolute Zero.

Once Upon a Time – An ice spectacular to take young ones to a land far, far away. “Once Upon a Time: The King’s Royal Ball features all the most famous fairytale superstars, celebrating their fabled quests.”

Showband! Live. Music. Now –  Phenomenal vocal artists accompanied by sixteen top-tier musicians and visuals create a fully immersive experience.

The Effectors – This Royal Theatre comic book-inspired ensemble Find out how Luke, Pixel, Reverb and Captain Viz uncovered their superpowers and discover the ominous origins of the villainous Crash.

Father Daughter Dance – Create lasting memories with your loved ones with music, dancing, and photo ops. All combinations of families are welcome to this event.

Need help booking your cruise? I’m a Travel Advisor with Royal Caribbean University training and personal experience with the brand. 

Icon of the Seas Tips

Book shows in advance – This is always a tip but with the fantastic new line-up of shows, you don’t want to miss out. Reservations can be made in advance in the app. Didn’t get a reservation? Arrive early and join the stands-by line. You’re not guaranteed a spot but you have a decent chance if you’re closer to the front of the line.

The shows will be available to reserve on the first day of the month before the sailing and guests will be able to view all the shows by date and time, or select the individual show they desire. Entertainment reservations can be made online up to 4 days before the sail date*. Please note that there will be availability to reserve onboard as well. Each guest may reserve only one seating for each show.

Book activities in the app once your board – Some of the free activities will “sell out” so ensure you book them in your app early. You can always cancel later.

Adaptors – Royal Caribbean has FINALLY taken cruisers complaints about the lack of outlets and added more to the stateroom! Please note that Royal Caribbean policy now states “Guests cannot bring electrical extension cords, including power boards or surge protected power boards”. You should be okay with just a USB hub as this doesn’t violate the current policy of having electrical outlets. The ship also had a European outlet if you’d like to bring an adaptor to take advantage of more charging space.

Bring magnetic hooks, packing cubes and hamper – Storage space is at a premium on the Icon, so you’ll want to have extra ways to keep your cabin organized. The ships are metal, so strong magnets hooks are great. You may also want to consider packing cubes as they can be stacked and are great even if you use them to just store socks and under garments. We always had specific colors for each kid when traveling. A collapsable hamper or laundry bag are fantastic for keeping in the closet. Once it gets full, we dump it into an empty suitcase that’s been stored under the bed.

More dining times in the Main Dining Room – Icon has added a total of 4 dining times! On Deck 4 of the main dining room the seating times are 5pm and 8pm while on Deck 5 of the main dining room the seating times are 5pm, 6:45pm, and 8:30pm!! Don’t worry, My Time Dining is still available from 6:30pm to 9pm daily on Deck 3 of the main dining room.

Wear comfortable shoes – The ship is HUGE so plan to do a lot of walking.

What to wear? – If you’d like to participate in the theme nights you’ll find Caribbean night, white night, formal night and wear your best night. You can participate if you’d like or not.

What to pack for activities – You’ll want close-toes shoes for Crown’s Edge. Long pants are required to ice-skate plus you’ll want a sweatshirt and layers to keep you warm on the ice.  You’ll also want a sweater or similar during the shows as it can be chilly.

Get your scare on at Crown’s Edge on port days to save $ – Yep, there is a fee for Crown’s Edge. While the cost of the attraction has decreased substantially since its launch, you still pay a hefty fee. BUT, you can save money by going on a port day. The rate is $49 on a sea day and $39 on a port day. Please note that this rate is subject to change.

Read my Royal Caribbean Cruise Line Secrets & Tips article for more tips specific to sailing with RCCL.

You can’t do it all – There is so much to do on this ship, that you’ll need to prioritize the activities/shows/dining you want to experience. Use the calendar in the app to keep it all organized so you don’t forget your must-do’s. Then relax, there is always the next cruise to experience the rest!

Consider staying on the ship during a port day – As mentioned, there is so much to do that you could spend all 7 days on the ship and still likely not get to do/see everything. If you can stay on the ship during a port day, it will allow you more time to explore the ship with less guests. This also means that popular areas like the pool, water slides and Flowrider will have less crowds.

Morning pick me up at Pearl Café – This is a great alternative to get your morning coffee as Starbucks can be a long wait. Pearl Café is open 24 hours a day to satisfy those late-night craving as well.

Don’t miss brunch – I really love the brunch availability on Virgin Voyages, so it’s great that Icon of the Seas is now offering this choice. Head to Deck 3 of the main dining room on sea days between 8:30am – 12pm to find a mix of complementary breakfast and lunch items.

Charge your device around the ship – Icon of the Seas knows that cruisers like to stay connected and phone batteries (and other devices) can die quickly. Head to the Overlook Lounge or The Pearl Cafe to find outlets. Using phones for photos, videos, staying connected with family and using the app to know what’s happening around the ship, means low batteries happen. We always travel with a power bank or two.

Checkout the Deck Plans prior to sailing – Since the Icon of the Seas has changed and moved a lot of its venues, take some time before your cruise to familiarize yourself with the Deck Plans. This will give you a bit of a “leg up” once you’re onboard.

Royal Caribbean has done a fantastic job of adding new amenities, dining, and entertainment options to the Icon of the Seas while keeping some of the fleet favorites that longtime cruisers love. Enjoy all the new “first at sea” experiences with the kids like the new 6 record breaking slides then relax in the evening dining at the new Empire Supper Club. The Icon of the Seas is one of the most family friendly ways to vacation, so don’t miss out!

Looking for more cruise content?

• Utopia of the Seas Tips & What’s New Onboard
• Royal Caribbean Cruise Line Secrets & Tips
• 24 Things to Pack for a Cruise: Plus Printable Packing List for Cruise Vacations
• FREE Printable Cruise Planner (another option)
• Cruising Do’s & Don’ts – Essential Tips for a Great First Cruise
• 5 Tips for Selecting Cruise Shore Excursions