Icon of the Seas AquaDome: Design, Features and Facts

In January 2024, the world’s largest and most sophisticated cruise ship set off on its maiden voyage. While Royal Caribbean’s Icon of the Seas first made waves for her immense physical size, this is far from the only reason why the ship is capturing the imaginations of people from around the world. 

Sure, building the world’s largest cruise ship certainly turns heads, but it’s actually the ground-breaking layout and wide variety of amenities and entertainment options that the ship is outfitted with that makes Icon of the Seas stand out as such an incredible vessel.

At the heart of the ship’s majesty is its eye-catching AquaDome – a revolutionary concept that has broken records and redefined the cruise experience. 

We will take an in-depth look at the Icon of the Seas AquaDome so you can understand why it is making headlines and why so many cruise enthusiasts are excited to explore it first-hand.

What Is the AquaDome?

If you are unfamiliar with Royal Caribbean’s latest and most prestigious vessel, Icon of the Seas is the lead ship in the Icon class of cruise ships. Entering service on January 27th, 2024, by departing from the Port of Miami.

The record-breaking ship weighs a mind-boggling gross tonnage of 248,663 GT and stretches an incredible 1,196.7 feet from bow to stern. Given her immense size, the ship can also carry a maximum of 7,600 passengers and a crew of 2,350. 

The ship was also designed to have a truly unique layout that is based on the concept of dividing the ship into eight distinct and themed neighborhoods – Thrill Island, Surfside, Chill Island, The Hideaway, The Royal Promenade, Central Park, The Suite Neighborhood, and, of course, the highly prominent AquaDome. 

As mentioned, the AquaDome is one of the eight neighborhoods on the Icon of the Seas. It is also one of the most striking and impressive features of the entire ship. 

This immersive neighborhood is located right at the front of the ship and features an enormous glass dome atop the bow. Not only is this defining feature the largest glass dome ever created for a cruise ship, but it also houses a unique AquaTheater, where passengers can gaze at the largest waterfall at sea, live diving performances, and other unique shows that promise guests thrills and memories.

This next-level AquaTheater also stands out as the world’s largest and most complex floating aquatics theater. 

Beyond serving as a venue for live performances, the AquaDome also allows passengers to take in 270-degree wraparound ocean views from the comfort of one of its many lounge spaces. Guests can also enjoy a snack or meal at the AquaDome Market, the first-ever food hall on a Royal Caribbean International ship.

The AquaDome was designed to be a transformative space that changes from a tranquil oasis during the day to one of the most vibrant hot spots on the entire ship at night. With restaurants, bars, and nighttime entertainment, it is no wonder that cruise fans are so eager to explore the AquaDome for themselves. 

Overview of the AquaDome’s Layout and Design 

The front of the AquaDome is fully covered by the single largest glass dome ever added to a cruise ship, which gives the neighborhood its name. As mentioned, this transparent dome allows passengers to experience unobstructed views of the ship’s surroundings and the sky above.

The center of the dome is also home to the AquaTheater, which features wraparound seating and a waterfall cascading down from the center. During the day, this section of the AquaDome serves as a relaxation area with numerous lounge seats and various food and beverage options.

To help complement the serene atmosphere the designers had in mind, the décor has a very natural look and is lush with live plants. The atmosphere and 270-degree ocean views are best enjoyed from the comfort of the overlook pods, which are located at the front of the dome on the port side of the ship. 

At night, the AquaDome transforms into a vibrant hot spot for nightlife where passengers can enjoy live aquatic and aerial acrobatics performances. A deep-water swimming pool outfitted with the latest multi-media technologies allows viewers to immerse themselves in the show. 

Behind the AquaDome’s signature dome, the neighborhood features three dedicated dining spaces – the AquaDome Market (starboard side), Hooked Seafood Restaurant (portside), and Celebration Table, a bow-facing VIP dining establishment.

There is also a shared coffee shop and bar called Rye & Bean (starboard side), which allows passengers to purchase beverages they would like to enjoy during the various shows hosted in the AquaTheater. 

When entering the AquaDome, passengers will also pass the Royal Bling Shop, which carries Royal Caribbean International merchandise.

The Architecture and Innovation of the AquaDome

Icon of the Seas sets new standards for size and extravagance in the cruise industry, but without a doubt, the AquaDome stands out as one of its architectural highlights. 

The glass dome extends from Deck 13 to Deck 20 above the entire ship’s bridge. With an astonishing surface area of 32,291 square, the 363-ton dome broke records.

This makes it the largest glass dome ever built for a ship. The previous record holder, P&O Iona cruise ship, featured a dome just 1/3rd the size of the Icon of the Sea’s AquaDome. 

Building such an enormous dome and constructing a ship that could safely support its immense weight was a significant challenge. After rigorous testing and constructing a mock-up dome, glass construction and engineering firm FRENER & REIFER successfully fabricated and installed the dome at the Meyer Turku shipyard in Finland.

The discreet steel structure of the dome is covered in 673 high-strength, crystal-clear glass panels, which are also secured in place with 1,600 feet of steel cables.

While the signature glass dome is unquestionably the main architectural innovation, the AquaDome is also home to a record-breaking 55-foot tall indoor waterfall, the centerpiece for the AquaTheater’s many live performances.

The majesty of the waterfall is also enhanced with a complex theatrical robotics system and a double 3D screen for eye-catching backdrops. 

Aquatic Attractions with the AquaDome

While the ship’s main aquatic attractions are located in the Thrill Island section of the ship, the AquaDome still lives up to its marine-themed name. Naturally, the main attraction is the stunning views the glass dome affords of the ocean surrounding the ship.

Even the furniture and wall dividers within the AquaDome give off an underwater theme as they follow the rounded, natural-looking curves the mind naturally associates with coral and a marine landscape.

With the central waterfall adding to this aquatic atmosphere, you will almost feel like you are spending time in an underwater paradise.

Unsurprisingly, the AquaTheater also allows passengers to watch exciting high-diving shows and movie-style live performances, like the “Pirates vs. Mermaids” main feature show, which is performed nightly. Luckily, the shows are visually stunning and comedic so that they will appeal to adults, but also exciting enough to thoroughly entertain kids.   

Once guests have taken in enough of the aquatic action on display in the AquaTheater, they can continue the maritime theme by enjoying a meal in the Hooked Seafood Restaurant or wandering for snacks in the AquaDome Market. 

Live Performances and Exclusive Shows

As mentioned, the AquaTheater at the front of the AquaDome hosts a dazzling array of live performances. From mesmerizing diving demonstrations and synchronized diving and singing shows to more encapsulating live plays, guests will have no shortage of live performances they can enjoy. The “Aqua Action!” diving show is a particular highlight, featuring Olympic-level high divers and synchronized swimming. 

Unquestionably, the “Pirates vs. Mermaids” show is designed to be the main attraction. Performed nightly, the play involves a mythical story involving epic action scenes, high dives, immersive screens, and a complex flying system that allows aerialists to whiz over viewers’ heads.

Due to their stage demands and the AquaDome’s unique ability to host them, both “Aqua Action!” and “Pirates vs. Mermaids” are exclusive to Icon of the Seas. 

During the calmer parts of the day, live musicians perform throughout the AquaDome so passengers can enjoy tranquil sounds from the climate-controlled overlook pods. 

In total, the productions shown in the AquaDome alone involve over 75 world-class performers. When you consider that it is far from the only area on the ship where you can enjoy live performances, you realize just how impressive the entertainment options on board the ship are. 

The Naming Ceremony

On January 25th, 2024, less than a week before Royal Caribbean International’s 55th anniversary, Icon of the Seas was unveiled in a grand naming ceremony in Miami, Florida. The naming ceremony was graced by one of the greatest athletes and sports icons of all time – Lionel Messi.

Following a traditional bottle-breaking ceremony outside of the ship, the AquaDome served as the centerpiece of the entire naming event. Guests and members of the press were invited to join the 2022 World Cup champion and eight-time Ballon d’Or winner on a tour of the state-of-the-art AquaDome.

The purpose of this event was to underscore the fact that the Icon of the Seas was not just the biggest cruise ship Royal Caribbean had ever built, it was also one of the most revolutionary and technologically complex. To make this clear, guests were treated to demonstrations of the AquaDome’s indoor waterfall and aqua show live performances.

While the AquaDome is far from the ship’s only impressive feature, its central role in the naming ceremony is a testament to the fact that it helps set Icon of the Seas apart as a masterpiece of innovation, luxury, and excellence!

AquaDome Dining Options

The AquaDome is home to three unique options for those looking to enjoy a meal or snack. 

The Hooked Seafood Restaurant offers a prix fixe menu heavily inspired by New England-style seafood classics. You can enjoy a wide range of cooked and raw seafood dishes.

Read Also: Icon of the Seas Restaurants – Dining Venue Guide

It is more of a casual restaurant, so you don’t need to worry about dressing up. Enjoying a meal at Hooked Seafood before a show at the AquaTheater is the perfect way to embrace the AquaDome’s aquatic theme.

The AquaDome is also home to the Celebration Table, a VIP restaurant that can be booked for parties of up to 13 guests. Reservations are required and can be made through the My Royal Cruise App.

While it is a bit expensive, guests can select their preferred type of cuisine ahead of time, so it is a fantastic way to celebrate a special occasion. Plus, you can take in stunning ocean views while you enjoy your private dining experience.

The addition of the AquaDome Market makes Icon of the Seas the first ship in the Royal Caribbean fleet to have an indoor food market. With five unique food stands, each offering cuisines from different parts of the world, it is a paradise for adventurous foodies.

Whether you want a quick bite or a full meal, you’ll be able to enjoy your food while enjoying spectacular ocean views. Talk about the perfect day at sea! 

For those just looking for a quick drink, Rye & Bean offers caffeinated classics and alcoholic beverages. Grab a drink before a show, or sit and enjoy a cozy hangout.

Technological Marvels and Eco-Friendly Initiatives

The dome is a technological marvel, and the interior seamlessly integrates the latest entertainment technology. From dynamic and 3D display screens and robotically controlled diving boards, the technology used to turn the AquaTheater into a fully immersive set for live performances is unlike anything else on the water today. 

The towering and color-changing waterfall that acts as the AquaDome’s centerpiece is another demonstration of the advanced technology that went into making Icon of the Seas, unlike any other cruise ship. 

Not only does the AquaDome feature technology that helps entertain guests but the AquaDome, like the rest of the ship, was designed with sustainability in mind. Eco-friendly construction practices, like building the dome on site rather than transporting it after completion, helped reduce the AquaDome’s carbon footprint.

The glass dome also reduces the need for overhead lighting during the day, which is another innovative initiative that reflects Royal Caribbean’s aim to minimize the environmental impact of the ship. 

The ship is also powered by a clean-burning liquified natural gas, which is the most impressive way that Icon of the Seas achieves the eco-friendly goals the designers had in mind.

Tips and Recommendations

While both major AquaTheater shows are free to attend, spots are limited. We highly recommend reserving your seats through the Royal Caribbean App as soon as possible, as they usually fill up. 

The overlook lounge pods also tend to fill up during the day, but luckily, most guests come and go throughout the day, so if you’re in the area, there’s a good chance you will be able to enjoy the views they offer.

Worth Reading: Icon of the Seas Cabins and Suites Guide

With the exception of the Celebration Table, which must be reserved ahead of time, the other AquaDome dining establishments do not require reservations.

With that said, arrive early if you have a specific time that you would like to eat. Hooked Seafood restaurants can get quite busy, but the market functions like any other market, so diners pass through quickly. 

What Sets the AquaDome Apart?

As the largest glass dome ever featured on a cruise ship, the AquaDome has redefined what is possible. The dome is impressive and has some truly unique features that have helped set Royal Caribbean apart as one of the most innovative cruise lines. 

Undoubtedly, the AquaDome will push other cruise lines to innovate and introduce new forms of entertainment. The cruise industry is one where innovation tends to push further innovation, so we will not be surprised to see it act as an inspiration for future cruise ship designs. 

As of now, we already know that Royal Caribbean plans to push things further with Star of the Seas, the next ship in the Icon Class of ships. Given that it arrives in 2025, we wouldn’t be surprised if the next ship features an even bigger version of the AquaDome!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) 

Is the AquaDome in the Icon of the Seas? 

Yes, the AquaDome is one of the signature features of Icon of the Seas. It is located at the front of the ship and is so big that it is visible from a great distance.

How much does it cost to go on the Icon of the Seas?

Costs depend on the type of accommodations booked, but seven-night packages tend to range from $3,500 to $7,500 per guest. 

Where does Icon of the Seas depart from? 

Week-long cruises on Icon of the Seas sail from the Port of Miami in Florida, USA. This may change in the future, but for now, every itinerary involves a departure from Miami.