Royal Caribbean's Third Icon Class Ship Floated Out at Meyer Turku Shipyard

What's Happening?

Royal Caribbean's Legend of the Seas, the third ship in its Icon Class, has been floated out at the Meyer Turku shipyard. The ship measures 365 meters in length, nearly 50 meters in width, and has a gross tonnage of approximately 248,000. It features a giant glass and steel dome, the AquaDome, and offers eight distinct neighborhoods, numerous pools, and various dining options. The Icon Class ships are notable for running on natural gas, with enhanced energy efficiency through new-generation engines and waste heat recovery systems. Legend of the Seas is set for delivery in the summer of 2026.

Why It's Important?

The float out of Legend of the Seas represents a significant advancement in cruise ship design and sustainability. By utilizing natural gas and energy-efficient technologies, Royal Caribbean is addressing environmental concerns and setting a precedent for the industry. This development is crucial as the cruise industry faces increasing pressure to reduce its carbon footprint. The introduction of innovative ships like Legend of the Seas could influence other cruise lines to adopt similar practices, potentially leading to a more sustainable future for maritime travel. Additionally, the expansion of the Icon Class fleet supports economic growth through job creation and increased tourism.

What's Next?

With the delivery of Legend of the Seas scheduled for 2026, Royal Caribbean will continue to focus on completing the fourth Icon Class ship, expected in 2027. The company has options to build additional ships in this class, indicating a long-term commitment to innovation and sustainability. As the cruise industry evolves, stakeholders will likely prioritize environmental initiatives and explore new technologies to enhance passenger experiences. The successful integration of these practices could lead to broader industry changes, encouraging other companies to follow suit and contribute to global sustainability efforts.