Icon of the Seas Amenities and Everything You’ll Love Onboard

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Icon of the Seas by Royal Caribbean Cruise Line is the world’s largest cruise ship. Not only is the ship itself built to an unprecedented scale, but Icon of the Seas offers an incredible array of complimentary and premium amenities tailored to all ages’ preferences.

From an enormous waterpark and a live entertainment venue that surrounds a giant waterfall to a diverse range of dining venues and lounges, there is something for every type of passenger on this larger-than-life cruise ship. Learn about them with this guide!

Icon of the Seas Overview

Following an epic naming ceremony, Icon of the Seas set off from Miami, Florida, for its first official voyage on January 27, 2024. As mentioned, not only is Icon of the Seas Royal Caribbean’s largest and most innovative cruise ship, but she is also currently the largest ever built. 

While constructing a ship that would redefine the size of a cruise ship was a major component of the planning for Icon of the Seas, the original vision was to build a ship that could become the ultimate family vacation at sea.

This included outfitting the ship with a diverse array of amenities that would appeal to families, adventure seekers, and just about any other type of cruise passenger. 

This 20-deck, 248,663 gross-ton cruise ship features 2,805 staterooms and suites and can accommodate up to 5,610 guests at double occupancy. It clearly met and exceeded the original vision.

Icon of the Seas Stats and Amenities
Icon of the Seas Stats and Amenities

To enhance the sense of wonder that guests experience when they board the ship, it is organized into eight unique “neighborhoods,” each with its own theme, style, dining establishments, entertainment venues, and other amenities. 

With so many different areas of the ship to explore, and such a wide range of amenities, Icon of the Seas can easily cater to different types of travelers, from families with young kids to adults seeking luxury and relaxation, there’s something for everyone, which we will explain in further detail below

First, let’s take a quick look at some of these themed neighborhoods to get an idea of what to expect.

Neighborhood Highlights

Here are just a few of the neighborhoods that are exciting the ship’s guests:

Thrill Island

Known as the ship’s adrenaline hot spot, the Thrill Island neighborhood is home to Category 6, the largest water park at sea, with six record-breaking water slides, a zip line, the Crown’s Edge, a fear-inducing skywalk that partially hangs over the edge of the ship.

There’s also the FlowRider surf simulator, a sports court, several dining spots, and much more. Access to the neighborhood is included, but certain amenities, including the Crown’s Edge and FlowRider, come with an extra cost.

Surfside

Surfside Neighborhood
Surfside Neighborhood

Surfside was designed to be the ultimate “Stay All Day” neighborhood, specifically made for families with young children. There are three unique water experiences, including an adults-only pool featuring The Lime and Coconut bar, several kid-friendly pools, splash pads, an arcade, a carousel, family-focused specialty restaurants, and even Social020, a teen social club. 

The AquaDome Neighborhood

The Royal Loft
The Royal Loft

Not only is the AquaDome one of the ship’s most exciting neighborhoods, but it is also one of its most eye-catching features. This enormous, futuristic glass and steel dome sits at the bow of the ship, offering visitors 360-degree ocean views.

The entire interior has an underwater aquatic theme, and it centers on the AquaTheater, which hosts a variety of dazzling live performances, including high-diving shows like “Pirates vs. Mermaids.”

Worth Reading: Icon of the Seas Cabins and Suites Guide

With an enormous cascading waterfall, themed restaurants like Hooked Seafood, the AquaDome Market, and a private VIP restaurant called the Celebration Table, it is a truly unique area of the ship packed with fun and excitement. 

Other Neighborhoods

With eight themed neighborhoods in total, there are another five that passengers will be able to explore, including Chill Island, Central Park, Royal Promenade, The Hideaway, and the Suite Neighborhood.

Family Fun

Aerial View of Icon of the Seas
Aerial View of Icon of the Seas

Now that we’ve provided a quick overview of the ship, let’s look at some of the ship’s many amenities, starting with those oriented toward family fun.

Given that Royal Caribbean intended Icon of the Seas to be the ultimate destination for a family-friendly vacation on the water, it’s no surprise that she is packed with family-oriented activities. 

Here’s a quick breakdown of the main options for family entertainment, which we have divided into two categories: complimentary versus paid amenities. 

Complimentary Family Activities

Families can experience these family activities, free of charge.

Category 6 Waterpark

Royal Caribbean's Icon of the Seas During Sea Trials
Royal Caribbean’s Icon of the Seas During Sea Trials

We have already mentioned the 17,000-square-foot Category 6 Waterpark, but it is worth jumping into in more detail as the biggest and boldest of its kind.

It features six record-breaking waterslides, including Pressure Drop, the cruise industry’s first open free-fall slide; Frightening Bolt, a 46 feet tall swirling waterslide that does a full 360-degree loop; Storm-Chasers, a dual racing slide; Storm Surge, a suspended raft-style slide that allows families of three to glide over the edge of the ship; and finally, Hurricane Hunter, a 425-foot-long slide that allows families of four to ride together. With two family raft slides and four others to enjoy, Category 6 is fun for the whole family.

Plus, all the slides are included, so all guests meeting the height requirements can enjoy them. With pools, loungers, and more, Thrill Island’s Category 6 is one of the ship’s most popular family-friendly attractions.

Splashaway Bay & Baby Bay

Icon of the Seas Water’s Edge pool
Render Courtesy: Royal Caribbean

Designed for young families to enjoy time together, Splashaway Bay is a kid-oriented aqua park with slides, water cannons, waterfalls, and more. With shallow pools, splash pads, and loungers for the parents to supervise in comfort, it’s another fun, safe, and fully included amenity ideal for families with young children. 

Surfside Neighborhood

We already touched on the ship’s Surfside Neighborhood, but it’s worth going into more detail since it is one of the top destinations for families with young kids.

Surfside offers child-friendly attractions, including an included carousel, Splashaway Bay, which we covered above, a huge dry playground called Playscape, and even a large infinity pool called the Water’s Edge for parents to enjoy while their children play. 

Plus, with five family-friendly places to grab food and drinks and plenty of tables and loungers, it’s easy for families to have a perfect day enjoying Surfside. 

Lost Dunes Mini-Golf

Another family-friendly activity is the ocean-themed mini-golf course on Thrill Island. No reservations are required, and the entire course is fully included for all guests. 

Adventure Ocean

AO Juniors on Icon of the Seas
AO Juniors on Icon of the Seas

Adventure Ocean is an award-winning kids club program Royal Caribbean features on several cruise ships. On Icon of the Seas, this daycare and kid drop-off zone includes a range of activities tailored by age group, from arts and crafts to educational games.

It’s an immersive environment that allows kids to enjoy themselves while their parents have the opportunity to enjoy their vacation their own way. While there’s a fee for overnight stays, access to Adventure Ocean is included for all guests. 

Social 020

Speaking of clubs, Social 020 is an included designated teen lounge where older kids can enjoy music, games, and a space to hang out away from their parents.

Royal Caribbean recognized that many teenagers could feel isolated on cruise ships, so they introduced this innovative area so families with teens could enjoy their vacation without anyone feeling left out. 

Paid Family Activities

Escape Room
Escape Room

Icon of the Seas also offers some paid activities, ranging from arcade games to a family-friendly escape room.

Surfside Arcade

Although Surfside is included and free for anyone to enter, the games in the Surfside Arcade are not free to play. Most cost between $1 and $3 per play. 

Laser Tag

Located in Thrill Island, laser tag is a fun activity for the whole family. This glow-in-the-dark, adrenaline-filled experience is open to guests over the age of 5, and the price per half hour of fun is $10 per guest. 

Royal Escape Room

For families looking to test their problem-solving abilities, the Royal Escape Room allows guests to uncover hidden clues, solve puzzles, and break codes to escape. You are given 60 minutes to escape, but it costs $8.99 for kids under 15 and $19.99 per adult. 

Dining and Drinks

Swim and Tonic Bar on Icon of the Seas
Swim and Tonic Bar on Icon of the Seas

While the family-friendly, theme park-style amenities on Icon of the Seas are certainly impressive, the vast array of dining options is another area where the ship is in a class of its own.

There are numerous types of restaurants, each serving its own cuisine and flavors, and even Royal Caribbean’s first swim-up bar, Swim & Tonic.

From complimentary venues to specialty dining establishments with additional fees or reserved for suite guests, here’s a basic breakdown of your options.

Complimentary Dining

Icon of the Seas offers a wide range of complimentary dining experiences that are sure to please anyone’s palate.

Icon of the Seas Dining Guide Infographic
Icon of the Seas Dining Guide Infographic

The Main Dining Room

As the name implies, this multi-level dining room is a top destination for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Centered around a giant chandelier and with attentive waiting staff serving multi-course meals, it’s definitely not your typical complimentary dining area.

Worth Reading: Icon of the Seas Restaurants – Dining Venue Guide

Windjammer Marketplace and Café

From international dishes to classic American favorites, this large buffet-style marketplace and café welcomes all passengers for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. It also offers some incredible views, making it a top destination for guests who prefer trying an assortment of different dishes. 

AquaDome Market

Icon of the Seas AquaDome Market
AquaDome Market

The first-ever market-style establishment in the entire Royal Caribbean fleet, this unique food hall has five unique food stands, each serving menu items from around the world, including Korean BBQ, Mexican tacos, and Greek power bowls. It also has a dedicated coffee shop called the AquaDome Café. 

Located in the ship’s AquaDome, it’s an exciting option that is included for all guests. 

El Loco Fresh

A casual establishment serving lunch and dinner dishes inspired by Mexico, including tacos, burritos, and even some Tex-Mex favorites. You can also grab dishes to go so you can enjoy a meal outside in the sunshine. 

Park Café

Central Park Neighborhood on Icon of the Seas
Central Park Neighborhood on Icon of the Seas

This classic deli is located in the Central Park neighborhood and is another included spot that’s great for casual lunches or a quick bite between meals. 

Sorrento’s Pizza

A go-to spot for freshly made pizzas, pasta, casual bites, and draft beer. It’s included for all guests and open late into the night. 

Surfside Eatery

Surfside Eatery on Icon of the Seas
The Surfside Eatery on Icon of the Seas

A complimentary buffet in the Surfside neighborhood, this is a great spot to fill up on surfside bites after working up an appetite in the aqua park.   

Paid and Suite-Only Specialty Restaurants

Looking for something a little more special? You’ll find several paid food options and suite-only eateries on the ship as well.

The Coastal Kitchen

Although it is technically an included establishment, it is exclusively available to suite guests. For those who have booked a suite, this upscale restaurant serves Mediterranean dishes and cocktails. 

The Grove

Another option exclusively for suite guests is The Grove, an open-air Mediterranean restaurant located on the suite sun deck. It’s a great place to enjoy a glass of champagne in the sun. 

Empire Supper Club

Icon of the Seas Empire Supper Club
Icon of the Seas Empire Supper Club

A paid upscale restaurant in Central Park is a top location for gourmet American-style cuisine, like steaks and seafood. Pair your meal with some bubbles to truly indulge. 

Celebration Table

Groups of up to 12 guests can book this VIP experience. Select your choice of a multi-course meal from the chef’s menu and a signature cocktail, which is always paired with your chosen meal. It’s the perfect destination for those celebrating a special occasion while they’re cruising. 

Chops Grille

A classic steakhouse where chefs will grill your selection to your exact preferences. Most main dishes are priced around $30 to $40. 

Izumi Hibachi & Sushi

For fresh sushi and a variety of teppanyaki dishes, the enormous menu at this Japanese restaurant is well-worth paying extra for.

Pier 7

Another new addition, this open-air establishment, serves casual bites to more complex surf-and-turf dishes. Don’t let the laid-back vibe fool you; the food is incredible. 

Hooked Seafood

Hooked Seafood
Hooked Seafood

Specializing in New England-style seafood, it’s a casual establishment with great views. Look out of the AquaDome and enjoy lobster rolls, seafood chowder, and raw oysters. Usually priced between $20 and $40 per guest, it’s a great place to treat yourself before a live show. 

Playmakers Sports Bar

Playmakers Bar on Icon of the Seas
Playmakers Bar on Icon of the Seas

Like your favorite sports bar on land, Playmakers has pool tables and live sports on the TV. Enjoy pub favorites, draft beer, a glass of scotch or rye, and live music in a casual atmosphere. 

Lou’s Jazz n Blues

Sip a classic cocktail, grab a bite to eat, and listen to live music. It’s a perfect date spot for couples looking for somewhere to spend an evening. 

Entertainment and Leisure

In addition to the activities aimed towards family fun, there are plenty of other entertainment and leisure options on Icon of the Seas. From free experiences to premium options available for a fee, there’s plenty to do for those seeking some thrills.

Free Entertainment Options

You’ll find plenty of free entertainment onboard, too, including the following options.

The AquaDome Shows

Icon of the Seas AquaTheater Show
Icon of the Seas AquaTheater Show

We already mentioned the AquaTheater, an included venue offering high-diving performances, acrobats, light shows, and more. 

Absolute Zero

A complimentary ice-skating rink that doubles as a venue for on-ice live performances, it’s a fun destination for all guests. 

The Royal Theater

Watch Broadway-style performances that are catered to adults, as well as family-friendly productions during the day. 

The Music Hall

Watch live music performances, including rock bands, dueling pianos, and DJs. The venue also hosts Spotlight Karaoke for those brave enough to get on stage. 

Adrenaline Peak Rock Climbing Wall

Thrill-seekers can scale this wall whenever they want. Although climbing walls are usually something you need to pay extra for, it is surprisingly offered for free to all passengers on Icon of the Seas.

The Sports Court

Sports Court on Icon of the Seas
Sports Court on Icon of the Seas (Photo Credit: Felix Mizioznikov)

With rolling itineraries that include drop-in basketball, tennis, pickleball, volleyball, and more, the Sports Court and all sports equipment are fully complimentary. 

The Seven Swimming Pools

Pools and Slides on Icon of the Seas
Pools and Slides on Icon of the Seas

The ship has seven swimming pools that are open to all guests, including the Royal Bay Pool, which is not only the largest pool in the fleet but also the biggest on any cruise ship.

For adults looking to get away from the crowds, the Hideaway Pool is adults-only and is the first suspended infinity pool to ever be featured on a cruise ship. 

Paid Leisure Activities

If you’re willing to spend a little for your onboard entertainment, Icon of the Seas has a several options.

FlowRider Surf Simulator

FlowRider may cost $69 per person, but it’s an excellent opportunity to learn how to surf. With private lessons available, it’s a fun activity that is one of the ship’s top attractions. 

Crown’s Edge Obstacle Course and Zip Line

Royal Caribbean Logo on Icon of the Seas
Royal Caribbean Logo on Icon of the Seas (Photo Credit: Felix Mizioznikov)

This aerial obstacle course sits above Thrill Island and is a unique experience that gets the heart racing. At $89.99 per person, it’s fairly expensive but lots of fun. 

The Casino Royal

This fully functional casino on the water is a fun option for those hoping to try their luck. While it is paid, suite guests can enjoy complimentary drinks. 

Health, Fitness, and Spa

Guests looking to prioritize wellness can explore several options on Icon of the Seas, from workout facilities to spa treatments; there are both paid and unpaid options to explore.

Complimentary Health & Fitness

For guests who want to maintain their wellness routines while onboard, the Icon of the Seas offers two complimentary spaces to focus on fitness and mental health.

The Fitness Center

This fully equipped gym features cardio machines, spin classes, free weights, a sauna, a steam room, and a huge stretching area. It’s also accessible to all guests. 

Paid Leisure Activities

Looking for another way to treat your mind and body while onboard? These paid leisure activities can get your heart pumping or help you wind down.

The Vitality Spa

With services that include massages, facials, and other body treatments, it’s another amazing place to relax and unwind. All guests can access it, but services are paid. Prices range from $100 to $300, depending on the type of service and duration.

The Thermal Suite

Another paid relaxation area, the Thermal Suite features traditional Turkish baths, aromatic steam rooms, saunas, heated loungers, saunas, and more.

Access costs around $20 per guest, but you can purchase a 7-day pass for $60.

Personal Training Sessions

For those looking to use their getaway as an opportunity to set new goals and start fresh, private fitness classes and training sessions are available for a fee. Check at the front desk of the Fitness Center if you are interested. 

Technology and Connectivity

Icon of the Seas Docked in Miami, Florida
Icon of the Seas Docked in Miami, Florida (Photo Credit: Ceri Breeze)

Beyond the dining opportunities and amenities, Icon of the Seas offers incredible technology to ensure all guests enjoy their vacation.

For starters, Ocean Medallion is a type of wearable technology attached to each guest’s account. It provides hands-free room access, tap-style purchasing, and other personalized services. 

There’s also the Royal Caribbean App, which makes it easy to book shows, make reservations, and even book excursions from the convenience of your smart devices.

For those looking to stay connected while they are at sea, the VOOM Wi-Fi and Streaming Packages offer lightning-fast internet access at a cost of around $15.99 per day per guest. Package deals are also available for multiple days and families, while certain suite guests enjoy complimentary internet. 

Conclusion

With so many complimentary and paid amenities, it’s almost impossible to be bored on Icon of the Seas. The ship is packed with entertainment and dining options that appeal to all types of guests and age brackets.

Read Also: Icon of the Seas vs Wonder of the Seas – A Giant Comparison

Whether you’re looking for family-friendly fun or want to indulge in extravagant and varied dining experiences, relax and unwind, or simply explore, Icon of the Seas offers something for everyone.

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Emrys Thakkar
Emrys Thakkar
The founder of Cruise Hive, Emrys has been reporting on the cruise industry since 2008. Expert insights and tips featured on a number of publications including The Express, Business Insider, Fodor's Travel and more. Worked for Carnival for 8 years and traveled to more than 34 countries and been on over 100 cruises.

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