Inside the Icon Class: Everything You Need to Know About the World’s Biggest Ships

Discover everything you need to know about Royal Caribbean’s Icon Class ships, including Icon, Star, Legend and Hero of the Seas.

Royal Caribbean has always been at the forefront of cruise innovation, but the Icon Class has raised the bar even higher. Home to the world’s biggest cruise ships, these groundbreaking vessels combine record-breaking attractions, innovative technology and resort-style experiences to create unforgettable holidays for every type of traveller.

With four ships now confirmed, the Icon Class continues to redefine cruising. In this guide, we’ll cover the Royal Caribbean Icon Class ship names, explain how many Icon Class ships there will be, explore the eight unique neighbourhoods and compare the Icon Class with the popular Oasis Class.

What is Royal Caribbean’s Icon Class?

The Icon Class is Royal Caribbean’s newest generation of cruise ships and the largest ever built. Measuring more than 248,000 gross tonnes, these ships have been designed to offer something for everyone, from adrenaline-filled attractions and world-class entertainment to peaceful retreats and luxurious accommodation.

They’re also the cruise line’s first ships powered primarily by liquefied natural gas (LNG), alongside advanced technologies that improve energy efficiency and support more sustainable operations.

Royal Caribbean Icon Class ship names

Icon of the Seas

• Maiden voyage: January 2024
• Status: In service

Star of the Seas

• Maiden voyage: August 2025
• Status: In service

Legend of the Seas

• Maiden voyage: July 2026
• Status: Launching in 2026

Hero of the Seas

• Maiden voyage: August 2027
• Status: On sale

Icon of the Seas

The first ship in the class introduced a completely new way to cruise. From the largest waterpark at sea and seven swimming pools to the stunning AquaDome entertainment venue, Icon of the Seas was designed to be the ultimate family cruise holiday destination.

Is Legend of the Seas Icon Class?

Yes. Legend of the Seas is the third ship in the Icon Class and will feature the same signature experiences, including Thrill Island, Surfside, Central Park and the AquaDome, alongside exciting new entertainment and dining options.

Star of the Seas

Building on the success of Icon, Star of the Seas offers the same iconic neighbourhoods, thrilling attractions and impressive entertainment while giving guests even more opportunities to experience Royal Caribbean’s newest innovations.

Hero of the Seas

Launching in 2027, Hero of the Seas is the fourth ship in the Icon Class. She introduces even more family-focused experiences, including nine pools, new waterslides, additional dining venues and the Ultimate Family Treehouse suite, making her one of the most exciting cruise ship launches in Royal Caribbean’s history.

How many Icon Class ships will there be?

At present, Royal Caribbean has confirmed four Icon Class ships:

• Icon of the Seas
• Star of the Seas
• Legend of the Seas
• Hero of the Seas

Given the popularity of the class, it’s possible more ships could be announced in the future, but Royal Caribbean has not confirmed any beyond Hero of the Seas.

What is so special about Icon of the Seas?

While every ship in the Icon Class offers an incredible holiday, Icon of the Seas set a new standard for cruising by introducing several world-first experiences.

Highlights include:

• Category 6, the largest waterpark at sea
• The AquaDome, featuring spectacular diving and aerial performances
• Crown’s Edge, combining a skywalk, ropes course and thrill ride
• Seven unique swimming pools, including Royal Bay, the largest pool at sea
• More than 40 dining and drinking venues
• Family-friendly accommodation, including the Ultimate Family Townhouse

Combined with innovative design and exceptional entertainment, it’s easy to see why Icon of the Seas has become one of the world’s most talked-about cruise ships.

Guide to the eight neighbourhoods on Icon Class ships

One of the defining features of the Icon Class is its eight unique neighbourhoods, each offering its own atmosphere and experiences.

Thrill Island is home to Category 6, Crown’s Edge, the FlowRider surf simulator and other adrenaline-fuelled attractions.

Chill Island is the ship’s main pool area, perfect for relaxing sea days with multiple pools, whirlpools and poolside bars.

Surfside has been designed specifically for young families, with splash zones, family dining and accommodation close to children’s facilities.

The AquaDome transforms from a peaceful observation lounge during the day into a spectacular entertainment venue at night.

The Hideaway offers an adults-focused beach club atmosphere with an infinity pool, ocean views and live DJs.

Royal Promenade is the bustling heart of the ship, filled with cafés, shopping, bars and live entertainment.

Central Park features thousands of real plants, speciality restaurants and peaceful outdoor spaces for relaxing strolls.

Suite Neighbourhood provides exclusive restaurants, lounges and private sun decks for suite guests seeking a more luxurious experience.

Difference between Icon and Oasis Class

The biggest difference between Icon and Oasis Class ships is that the Icon Class builds on the success of its predecessor with even more innovative features. While Oasis Class ships introduced Royal Caribbean’s neighbourhood concept, Icon Class ships expand this to eight neighbourhoods, including the family-focused Surfside and the impressive AquaDome entertainment venue.

Icon Class ships also feature Category 6, the largest waterpark at sea, and are Royal Caribbean’s first ships powered primarily by liquefied natural gas (LNG). Both classes offer exceptional dining, entertainment and family-friendly experiences, but the Icon Class represents the cruise line’s most advanced and innovative ships to date.

Experience the future of cruising with Bolsover Cruise Club

From Icon of the Seas to the newly announced Hero of the Seas, Royal Caribbean’s Icon Class continues to redefine what’s possible at sea. Whether you’re looking for thrilling attractions, relaxing adults-only spaces or unforgettable family adventures, these record-breaking ships offer something for everyone.

If you’re ready to discover the world’s biggest cruise ships for yourself, explore the latest Royal Caribbean cruises with Bolsover Cruise Club and find your perfect Icon Class adventure.