Virgin Voyages’ Valiant Lady has visited Nassau, the capital of the Bahamas, for the first time, having enjoyed a full day’s port visit at the amazingly popular destination.
The inaugural visit was marked with a traditional plaque exchange to commemorate the occasion, and what will hopefully be the first of many visits for the ship during her upcoming years of service.
Valiant Lady Visits Nassau
Virgin Voyages’ Valiant Lady, the second of the cruise line’s distinctive “ladyships,” visited Nassau, Bahamas for the first time on Monday, January 8, 2024. Any inaugural visit is a reason to celebrate, as not only does such an occasion bring guests to enjoy the port, but also helps build a relationship between the cruise line and the port of call.
“The arrival of a new cruise ship is always a cause for celebration here. Having recently toured the stunning Scarlet Lady, I am particularly excited to welcome Valiant Lady to our shores,”said Marques Williams, operations manager for Nassau Cruise Port.“We welcome the Valiant Lady and hope to see more Virgin Voyages ships here soon.”
Williams presented the ship’s master, Captain Justin Lawes, a plaque to mark the occasion of Valiant Lady‘s first visit. Such plaques or similar items such as photographs or small sculptures are often displayed on cruise ships and can be a fun gallery for guests to browse to learn where their ship has sailed.
It should be noted that while Valiant Lady has not visited Nassau previously, the ship is no stranger to the Bahamas. She has called on Bimini – 130 miles (210 kilometers) west-northwest of Nassau – a number of times.
Valiant Lady Cruise Ship
Valiant Lady is sailing a 6-night voyage that departed Miami, Florida on Sunday, January 7, and includes visits to Grand Turk and Puerto Plata before the ship will arrive in San Juan, Puerto Rico on Saturday, January 13. At that time, the ship will remain homeported from San Juan through March, offering a series of 10 7-night itineraries featuring southern, southeastern, and Lesser Antilles destinations.
On March 23, 2024, Valiant Lady will leave San Juan for a one-way trip back to Miami, which will include another visit to Nassau. From Miami, the ship will offer a diverse range of 4- and 5-night sailings at least through October 2024.
Virgin Voyages in the Bahamas
Scarlet Lady, the first vessel in the Virgin Voyages’ fleet, made her inaugural call to Nassau in October 2021. The cruise line’s third ship, Resilient Lady, has not yet visited Nassau and is currently sailing from various Australian homeports. Resilient Lady is not scheduled to sail in the Caribbean at least until after October; her itineraries for the end of the year have not yet been announced.
Virgin Voyages, as an adults-only cruise line, tends to favor more exotic ports of call that may not be as frequently visited by big family-oriented cruise ships. In the Bahamas, this means ships typically call on Bimini for beach escapes and resort experiences, as well as a range of other shore tour options.
The ship’s visit to Nassau is just part of the cruise port’s phenomenal growth, with more than 4.4 million passengers visiting Nassau in 2023. Now, Valiant Lady will be part of what is already expected to be an even higher total for 2024.
“The variety of ships that grace our harbor, each offering its own unique charm and experiences, is a constant source of inspiration for us. It fuels our commitment to making Nassau Cruise Port a welcoming and inclusive destination for passengers, crew, and residents,”said Williams.
Though she isn’t quite two years old, having just set sail in early 2022, Valiant Lady has already been welcomed in many ports around the UK and the Mediterranean, where Virgin Voyages tours vessels in their inaugural seasons. She made her North American debut in October 2022 and has successfully welcomed tens of thousands of eager guests from all over the world.
Like all three ladyships in the Virgin Voyages fleet, the 110,000-gross-ton Valiant Lady can welcome 2,770 passengers aboard at each sailing, with just over 1,100 international crew members onboard to ensure everyone has a spectacular cruise.
MSC Cruises is further expanding its US operations with the deployment of one of its newest, largest vessels to Port of Galveston, bringing the line’s unique European influence to the Lone Star State.
Bookings are now open for the 7-night cruises with departures beginning in November 2025, just in time for a fabulous holiday season.
MSC Seascape Bookings Now Open for Galveston
After months of negotiations to bring MSC Cruises to Texas, the cruise line is now thrilled to open reservations for MSC Seascape sailing from Galveston beginning on November 9, 2025, bringing a new and exciting cruise option to millions of travelers who can drive or fly to the Lone Star State homeport.
“Expanding our U.S. footprint makes our unique cruise experience more accessible to travelers in the central and western parts of the country and it illustrates our commitment to providing families in the region with unparalleled vacation options.”
The 170,400-gross-ton ship, one of the largest and most innovative in the MSC Cruises fleet, will offer 7-night Western Caribbean sailings visiting top ports such as Roatan in Honduras and Costa Maya and Cozumel in Mexico. At each destination, the cruise line will be offering immersive shore excursions to explore local culture, flavors, history, and much more.
Travelers will be able to enjoy wildlife tours, natural swimming holes, world-class snorkeling, spectacular Mayan ruins, archeology tours, ancient caves, wildlife encounters, and other excursion options. Exact offerings will vary based on destination and sailing date.
Growth in Galveston
MSC Seascape, joining the array of ships sailing from Galveston, is the latest step in the homeport’s amazing growth.
“Welcoming MSC Cruises and the MSC Seascape to Galveston offers cruise passengers a new cruise experience and opportunities to explore Galveston Island, a tropical Texas island rich with history, Victorian architecture, sparkling beaches and great restaurants,” said Rodger Rees, Port Director & CEO, Galveston Wharves. “MSC passengers can come for a fabulous cruise and stay to discover our island treasures.”
Port of Galveston, Texas (Photo Credit: Ceri Breeze)
In addition to MSC Cruises, Disney Cruise Line, Royal Caribbean International, Norwegian Cruise Line, Princess Cruises, and Carnival Cruise Line all offer sailings from Galveston. While some lines only offer seasonal deployments, there are amazing cruise options from Galveston year-round.
Of special note is that one of Norwegian Cruise Line’s newest ships, Norwegian Prima, is currently sailing from Galveston, as is the brand-new Carnival Jubilee, which just debuted with her inaugural sailing from Texas in December 2023.
Onboard MSC Seascape
During each cruise, guests will also have multiple days at sea to enjoy everything the Seaside-EVO class vessel has to offer, including the ROBOTRON thrill ride, six outstanding theater production shows, 11 different dining venues, six swimming pools, and the unique glass-floored Bridge of Sighs on Deck 16 with a unique and thought-provoking ocean view.
“MSC Seascape’s family-friendly amenities, award-winning entertainment and innovative offerings will help us deliver exceptional value and memorable journeys for more guests than ever before,”said RodrÃguez.
Photo Credit: MSC Cruises
The ship also features more than 7,500 square feet of space dedicated to youth programs for ages 0-17, offering great entertainment and activities for younger cruisers.
Altogether, MSC Seascape can welcome 5,179 guests per sailing, and is also home to more than 1,600 international crew members. Currently, the ship is homeported from Miami, Florida offering a variety of Caribbean and Bahamas itineraries, including calls on MSC Cruises’ private island, MSC Ocean Cay.
The ship will remain in Miami through early September 2025. During the few weeks’ gap between her deployment to Miami and her move to Galveston, the ship may offer additional cruises or could enter a maintenance dry dock, refreshing her for her new homeport.
A recent guest onboard Wonder of the Seas described having difficulty with an adjacent stateroom and after feeling unsuccessful with assistance from the cruise ship’s security department and Guest Services, posted her concerns on TikTok as a way to get a resolution.
Was her tactic successful, and is it the proper way to address concerns from a situation onboard?
Woman Experiences Poor Conduct on Wonder of the Seas – But Was Hers Better?
A recent passenger onboard Royal Caribbean International’s Wonder of the Seas, Cayce Evans Newton, had hoped to enjoy a wonderful New Year’s cruise with 19 of her family members, but instead found herself at frequent odds with guests in the next door stateroom.
In a video posted to the social media video site TikTok where she goes by the username itsmecayce, Newton described the situation she and her family members encountered while trying to enjoy quiet nights in their staterooms during the ship’s December 30 sailing, an 8-night Eastern Caribbean and Perfect Day itinerary.
“We are on day four of our cruise and we’ve had an ongoing problem with the people in the room next to us, playing loud music all night long, really loud,”Newton said.“Now they’re smoking on their balcony, which is an interior balcony, smoking in their room, and just making so much noise, really rude music.”
@Royal Caribbean how can we get help with nightmare stateroom neighbors? We paid over $40,000 for our family group of 20 people for this vacation. Weve cslled guest services and security numerous times and nothing has helped.
Newton mentions that she and her family members had called security eight times to report the poor behavior by day four, and had spoken with Guest Services but without results.
“We’re not getting any relief from the problem of the people next door,”she said.
Newton tags Royal Caribbean in the video’s description to attempt to catch the cruise line’s attention, and several times asks the cruise line directly for assistance, claiming that very little was done onboard at that point. To date, Newton’s video has had more than 423,000 views.
Is This a Karen Situation?
While social media users are generally on the side of those who may indeed be under stress from poor behavior, what Newton brings up next has rubbed many commenters the wrong way.
Newton mentions that her group of travelers had paid more than $40,000 for their getaway, and that a small child was part of the group and being subject to the “disturbing language” and poor behavior of the travelers next door.
Those details seem to indicate what could be considered a sense of entitlement, causing many commenters to label Newton as a Karen – a derogatory, slang term for someone who may be a busybody or exhibit excessive entitlement, often with an “I want to talk to a manager” perspective.
It should be noted, however, that at no point does Newton offer any personal attacks or unkind comments about the travelers she claims are causing the disturbances. She does point out that the ship has smoking areas, lounges and nightclubs that play music, and plenty of opportunities for everyone to enjoy themselves, without disrupting the peace of other passengers.
@Royal Caribbean good luck getting the smoke stench out of cabin 10709 on Wonder of the Seas. Guest Services tried to be helpful but never resolved the issue with the noise and smoking. Thank you to everyone who left kind and helpful comnents. We had a wonderful trip but not sure if we will ever cruise RCCL again.
“We want them to have fun just like we want to have fun,”she said.
She does offer a potential solution, but the idea also has commenters seeing a sense of entitlement.
“I don’t know if you can move them, kick them off the boat, I don’t know what you can do for them,”she said after mentioning the ship’s code of conduct, which all passengers agree to before boarding.
Royal Caribbean’s Guest Health, Safety, and Conduct Policy does state that “It is a condition of boarding and remaining onboard any of our ships or in our private destinations, that all guests comply with this Policy and all of our health and safety policies and procedures.”
Royal Caribbean Wonder of the Seas (Photo Credit: Darryl Brooks / Shutterstock)
While much of the policy is concerned with interactions between guests, it does state that “boom boxes, loud radios, or other noise nuisance(s) are not permitted” and that “Smoking is not permitted inside any stateroom or on any stateroom balcony.”
If guests violate these policies, they could have certain onboard privileges removed, be confined to their staterooms or a holding cell, or even removed from the ship and denied future cruises with all of Royal Caribbean Group’s cruise lines.
What Was Done
In a follow-up video on the last night of the cruise, Newton updated her viewers on the situation.
“Guest Services was great keeping in touch with us, but they never really resolved the problem,”she said.
Newton was offered a free bottle of wine and a complimentary lunch at Johnny Rockets onboard the ship, plus her daughter was offered a 10% discount on a future sailing due to the inconvenience and disturbance of being right next to the offending stateroom.
Photo Courtesy: Royal Caribbean
“It was definitely a rough week with those people. We were trying to just get over it, trying not to be bothered by it. We had a great vacation,”she concluded.“It is what it is.”
On a ship the size of Wonder of the Seas – at 235,600 gross tons with more than 5,700 guests aboard – it is inevitable that not all passengers will agree on what constitutes acceptable behavior, good music, or other conditions that might make one’s cruise experience more or less enjoyable.
While reaching out on social media is not always the nicest way to seek a resolution, Newton and her family members did work through appropriate channels – calling ship’s security and Guest Services – to try to improve the situation, without escalating any problems with their neighboring passengers.
With the proliferation of influencers on different social media platforms increasingly wanting their own exclusive video footage, more and more travelers are hoping to bring drones onboard cruise ships.
While drones are not explicitly prohibited at all times, Carnival Cruise Line has responded to guest inquiries and clarified why the popular robotic aircraft are not permitted for use on ships.
Drones Not Permitted for Onboard Use
Carnival Cruise Line Brand Ambassador John Heald, who answers hundreds of questions daily on his popular Facebook page, has addressed the somewhat controversial topic of drones.
Travel influencers – individuals who market themselves through social media promoting brands, destinations, and experiences – are always looking for new photos and video footage that will set them apart from the thousands of other influencers looking for the same market share. Exclusive drone video footage is a top option to showcase oneself in a unique way.
Drones, however, are not permitted for use onboard Carnival cruise ships. The technology is listed under the “Items for Port Use Only” section of Carnival Cruise Line’s prohibited items list. Heald has also directly responded to inquiries about drones and their use onboard.
Carnival cruise ships in port (Photo Credit: pablopicasso)
“I get asked so much these days about our rules on this that I thought I had better mention it,”Heald said.“I am sorry but for safety reasons of the drone perhaps crashing into a guest or damaging the ship in some way we cannot allow people to be flying drones over the ship.”
The prohibited items policy does note that drones are permitted, but details how they must be kept onboard.
“Drone(s) are allowed, but must be held in the custody of the Chief Security Officer and must be checked out/in by the owner for PORT USE ONLY,”the policy reads.
Heald has further clarified that it is the guest’s responsibility to ensure they are in compliance with local laws about drone usage.
“You will be given the drone back in port but please check on the websites and the rules of the places you are cruising to so that you can make sure drone flying is allowed,”he said.
Drone Being Used (Photo Credit: Yesurathinam)
Because many cruise ports are government facilities that may also service official vessels, including military craft, many ports do not permit drone use at all.
Furthermore, many popular tourist areas prohibit drones for various reasons, such as to protect wildlife from disturbances in nature preserves, to safeguard visitors’ privacy at resorts, or simply to prevent any inadvertent mishaps.
Carnival Cruise Line is unlikely to assist any passengers who may find themselves in a difficult situation with local authorities because they violated a drone use policy.
What Would Happen If a Drone Went Overboard?
It should also be noted that should a drone malfunction or be misdirected and accidentally crash into the sea, international maritime laws about debris and refuse could apply. Such an incident would also be in violation of Carnival Cruise Line’s Ticket Contract, which all guests must abide by while on a Carnival cruise.
Section 9(i) of the contract reads:“Any willful or negligent act of discharging or releasing any unauthorized item overboard, without the express permission of the ship’s staff may result in a $500 charge, per violation, posted to Guest’s Sail & Sign account.”
Carnival Cruise Line Ship (Photo Credit: Amonarch)
Guests might also be liable for additional fees or fines if a drone went overboard.
“Guest shall also be responsible for any fines or penalties imposed on Carnival by any government, governmental agency or official, port or port official, or for expenses or losses caused or incurred for Guest’s violation of this policy,”the contract continues.
Additional consequences for violating the cruise line’s environmental policy – which covers items gone overboard – could include guests being disembarked at the next port of call and left on their own to return home.
Carnival Cruise Line would not cover such travel expenses or other charges, and no refund of any unused portion of the cruise fare would be provided. Guests might also be banned from sailing with Carnival Cruise Line in the future after such an incident.
If you’re already excitedly anticipating booking a cruise on Royal Caribbean’s new Icon of the Seas, aka the largest cruise ship in the world, you’re not alone. This ship has been making headlines for months now, as avid cruisers and avid travelers in general look forward to future sailings.
Icon of the Seas is set to offer a wealth of unique and new features. However, it’s not just the dining and entertainment that’s sure to turn heads. The Icon of the Seas suites and staterooms are just as impressive.
So, how do you choose the perfect Icon of the Seas cabin for your family or other traveling crew? Here’s everything you need to know before you book.
There are nearly 30 types of rooms you can choose from on Icon of the Seas, including both Icon of the Seas suites and staterooms, for 2,805 options in total, to fit more than 7,000 passengers at maximum capacity.
All the cabins have a smart design, with more storage compared to other Royal Caribbean cruise ships, USB ports and outlets, and a modern design. Guests can also take advantage of adjusting their cabin’s lighting and temperature with their phone, using the Royal Caribbean App, which is a first for the fleet.
Icon of the Seas Accommodations Guide
Icon of the Seas Staterooms
Staterooms alone can be broken down into just a few broad categories: 535 interior staterooms, 276 ocean view staterooms and 1,815 balcony staterooms. The balcony staterooms account for the majority of the ship’s accommodation options.
Most staterooms are suitable for at least two passengers, but some are better suited to families than others. Here’s what you need to know.
Standard Interior Cabins
At 156 square feet, these cabins are the smallest option and really only suitable for a max of two travelers. They give you everything you need in a cabin, and nothing you don’t, so don’t expect any frills or thrills here. It’s a basic — if high-end and brand-new — cabin, most suited to those who don’t plan on spending much time in their cabin during their cruise in the first place.
Icon of the Seas Interior Cabin
– Room Size: 156 square feet – Balcony Size: NA – Occupancy: 2 – Decks: 3, 4, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 14 – Number of Cabins: 75
Interior Plus Rooms
These rooms measure in at 157 square feet and offer walk-in closets. They’re not as large as the Spacious Interior Cabins, but they’re still quite nice. They’re the perfect luxury option for a traveling couple or a single traveler, who either prefers interior cabins or who doesn’t want to splurge on a larger cabin.
Interior Plus Room
– Room Size: 157 square feet – Balcony Size: NA – Occupancy: 2 – Decks: 7, 8, 9, 10, 11 – Number of Cabins: 203
Spacious Interior Cabins
At 178 square feet, these cabins are pretty much exactly like the Standard Interior Cabins, but you get just a little extra space to spread out.
Spacious Interior Cabin
– Room Size: 178 square feet – Balcony Size: NA – Occupancy: 2–3 – Decks: 3, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 14 – Number of Cabins: 192
Surfside Family View Interior Cabins
These cabins replace the boardwalk view cabins that you may have seen on Oasis class Royal Caribbean ships. They measure in at 187 square feet, so they’re a little bigger than some of the other interior cabin options, but not quite as large as some of the ocean view and balcony cabins. These staterooms are located on the interior of Icon of the Seas, but offer a view of the surfside neighborhood.
Surfside Family View Interior Cabin
– Room Size: 187 square feet – Balcony Size: NA – Occupancy: 3–4 – Decks: 8 – Number of Cabins: 20
Central Park View Interior Cabins
These interior cabins offer views of the Central Park neighborhood. You get a little natural light and lots of people watching opportunities, but no ocean view.
Central Park View Interior Cabin
– Room Size: 187 square feet – Balcony Size: NA – Occupancy: 4 – Decks: 9 – Number of Cabins: 45
Panoramic Ocean View Cabins
Measuring in at 258 square feet, the panoramic ocean view rooms offer floor-to-ceiling views and ocean views. These cabins, while they don’t have a balcony, are actually larger than some of the balcony cabins, so you might find them worth your consideration if you prioritize interior space. You’ll hardly notice the balcony is gone, anyway, when you take a look at that gorgeous view right next to the plush bed.
Panoramic Ocean View Cabin
– Room Size: 258 square feet – Balcony Size: NA – Occupancy: 3 – Decks: 14 – Number of Cabins: 12
Standard Ocean View Cabins
These cabins are your basic ocean view stateroom. While they’re modern, luxurious and beautiful, just like every cabin on this ship, they still just have that standard, square window on the far side of the cabin wall, so keep that in mind if you’re wanting something new, fresh and different.
Standard Ocean View Cabin
– Room Size: 160–187 square feet – Balcony Size: NA – Occupancy: 2–4 – Decks: 3, 4, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11 – Number of Cabins: 264
Standard Ocean View Balcony Cabins
These cabins are available in both a standard, ocean-view balcony variant, as well as in a connected variant, in case you want to book a stay next to your fellow travelers, but don’t want to actually travel with them, inside the same cabin.
Want even more outdoor space than what the Standard Ocean View Balcony cabins on Icon of the Seas offer? Then you’ll want to book an Ocean View Large Balcony cabin, with up to 20 more square feet of outside living space.
While you won’t get a sea view with these balcony cabins, you will enjoy views of the ship’s Central Park neighborhood. People watch from your balcony and enjoy the fresh air that filters in from the neighborhood’s open-air design.
The Infinite Ocean View Balcony offers a unique twist on the standard balcony cabin that you might be accustomed to on most cruise ships. A new offering for the cruise line, the cabins offer a typical balcony, but it’s separated from the rest of the cabin via a glass wall that can be partially lowered, for more of an inside-outside living space.
These cabins are just like the Infinite Ocean View Balcony Cabins, but they’re a little larger so that they can accommodate families with ease. These cabins can sleep up to six, with plenty of space for families to live and play without feeling cramped. Think nicely separated sleeping arrangements and a split bathroom, with a shower and sink on one side and a sink and toilet on the other side. The cabin also features multiple televisions.
These family-oriented cabins are in the Surfside area of the ship, but they offer the traditional balcony layout that you might find elsewhere on Icon of the Seas.
In this cabin, you get that same Infinite balcony design, with the ability to enjoy indoor-outdoor space with just the push of a button. However, rather than enjoying the sea breeze, you’ll enjoy views of the Central Park neighborhood.
If you’re looking to upgrade your experience on Icon of the Seas, you’ll not be left wanting for options. The luxurious Icon of the Seas suites are sure to please even the most discerning traveler, and there are 179 suites for you to choose from. The ship even has the Suite Neighborhood that spans four decks and also features the new Grove Suite Sun Deck, a two-level Coastal Kitchen Mediterranean dining venue, and stunning views of the AquaDome.
Royal Caribbean has the Royal Suite Class, which is three different levels of benefits that suite guests can purchase. So, Icon of the Seas guests can enjoy the perks from Sea Class, Sky Class, or the highest Star Class. The Star Class level includes popular options such as Royal Genie, complimentary specialty restaurants, a deluxe beverage package, and more.
Junior Suites
These smaller suites offer ocean views, a wall of glass so you can look out over your balcony and the ocean, and room enough for four across the pull-out sofa and window-facing bed.
With these Icon of the Seas suites, you may get an ocean view, or you may get a view of the Surfside area of the ship, depending on the exact suite you book, so keep that in mind. Soaring ceilings and panoramic windows await, either way.
At 269 square feet, this Icon of the Seas suite sleeps four and features separate sleeping areas that are nicely divided for families’ privacy. The 53-square-foot balcony, as the suite’s name would suggest, overlooks the ship’s Surfside area. Do note that this Icon of the Seas suite isn’t quite outfitted for four adult travelers; two adults and two children will be more comfortable.
Sky Junior Suites are pretty much the same as a regular Junior Suite, but they get their name because they’re located on higher decks. There are also additional perks that come with this suite, such as access to the ship’s Suite neighborhood.
Larger balconies and ocean views from a comfy large double bed await in a Sunset Suite. Book a Sunset Corner Suite for even better views and a larger balcony that shows off views of the ship’s wake.
In the AquaDome, the Panoramic Suites offer floor-to-ceiling windows and furniture perfectly situated to allow you to take in the views. Unfortunately, these suites do not include balconies.
Panoramic Ocean View suite
– Room Size: 370–440 square feet – Balcony Size: NA – Occupancy: 4 – Decks: 16, 17 – Number of Cabins: 10
Infinite Grand Suites
Much like the Infinite Balcony stateroom options, the Infinite Grand Suites offer a convertible glass wall separating your living space from the balcony, so you can enjoy an indoor-outdoor living experience. The Infinite Grand Suite sleeps four. A split bathroom makes getting ready for bed, the pool or just a day at port easier for busy traveling groups of two or more.
Owner’s Suites are spacious, airy and relaxing, with a neutral and light blue color palette that draws the eye to the floor-to-ceiling glass doors that lead out to the balcony beyond the living space. Guests also enjoy a large bathroom with a double vanity.
Relatively small compared to some of the other Icon of the Seas suites, Grand Suites still provide plenty for small groups of travelers to love, with floor-to-ceiling views from the bed and a small living area.
You may be familiar with The Royal Loft, as it’s appeared on Royal Caribbean ships in the past. Still, that doesn’t take away from this suite’s luster. It offers loads of amenities and cool features, such as a wet bar, piano, hot tub on the balcony and more.
There are seven Icon Loft Suites on the ship. Set over two floors (well, technically one floor is a loft, not a full floor), these suites provide plenty of space and privacy, thanks to the two separate bedrooms and bathrooms. There’s a living room and even a dining area, and a shower that can fit two.
Royal Caribbean introduced the Ultimate Family Suite a while ago, and if you loved all the cool amenities it offered, you’ll love the Ultimate Family Townhouse even more. There’s so much to enjoy here, including the in-suite slide for the kids, karaoke, theater, two balconies (totaling 750 square feet) and easy access for your seven co-travelers to explore the surrounding Surfside area of the ship.
An iconic new era of cruising travel has arrived, as at approximately 7 a.m. on Wednesday, January 10, 2024, Royal Caribbean International’s Icon of the Seas sailed into PortMiami for the very first time.
Great fanfare accompanied the ship’s arrival to her homeport, as this day has been highly anticipated ever since the record-breaking vessel was first announced in 2016 and the first steel was cut for the ship in June 2021.
Icon of the Seas Has Arrived!
A moment that has been years in the making, Icon of the Seas arrived in PortMiami on Wednesday, January 10, 2024. As is customary when welcoming a new ship, the vessel was accompanied by multiple pilot boats, tugs, and the traditional escort of fire boats with water cannons blazing.
Even more fanfare was necessary to welcome such a massive, innovative ship, however, and planes soared above Icon of the Seas towing welcome banners.
On shore, crowds gathered at the official welcome party at the Perez Art Museum Miami to watch as the ship pulled into Biscayne Bay for the first time, some carrying signs to greet the ship and her 2,350 crew members.
Icon of the Seas in Miami, Florida
A local marching band and cheerleaders were on hand for the celebration, a festive occasion like the world has never seen.
Onboard, crew members lined the decks, waving streamers and clearly excited for the homeport arrival. Also enjoying the excitement was Rover, the “Chief Dog Officer” of the vessel, who was seen greeting crew members and posing for selfies and plenty of petting. Rover also got to enjoy a special birthday cake – could it be the canine’s birthday, or the birth of a new era in Royal Caribbean cruising?
The entire arrival was livestreamed on Royal Caribbean’s Facebook page and other social media, with fun hashtags and greetings like “Knock Knock Miami Your Icon Is Here” and “This Season’s It Girl Has Finally Arrived” showing enthusiasm for the occasion. Drones followed the ship’s arrival, providing unparalleled views of the ship and her crew.
“Miami’s skyline is getting even more iconic,”said Royal Caribbean.
A Journey Completed
The massive ship has been on the move for weeks, first leaving the Meyer Turku shipyard in Finland after her official delivery to the cruise line on November 27, 2023. The first major milestone of the voyage was passing underneath the Great Belt Bridge in Denmark, a technical feat only possible because of the ship’s retractable, telescoping funnels.
Royal Caribbean’s Icon of the Seas (Photo Copyright: Jarp2)
Icon of the Seas then spent several days in Cadiz, Spain for final outfitting before beginning her transatlantic crossing to Puerto Rico, where she took on new crew members and supplies, as well as underwent some final regulatory testing.
The ship then visited Perfect Day at CocoCay where the crew members were treated to a massive party at the new Hideaway Beach, the adults-only area of the island that will officially debut for guests when Icon of the Seas visits the private port of call.
Finally, the ship has moved to Miami, where she will now continue to take on supplies and prepare for her first guests on January 27, 2024.
Naming Ceremony Announced
The official naming ceremony for Icon of the Seas is the next step in officially welcoming the ship to the Royal Caribbean fleet. That event will take place on Tuesday, January 23, 2024, as the Icon of Icon – famous football star Lionel Messi – will christen the ship.
That event will also include traditional blessings for the ship and her safety, wishing smooth sailings for everyone aboard as she enters what is sure to be a long and phenomenal, even an iconic, service life.
Royal Caribbean has always pushed the boundaries of cruise ship design and technology. Still, with the introduction of Icon of the Seas, they have taken a giant leap into the future.
With the world’s largest cruise ship scheduled for her maiden voyage in January 2024, this marvel of modern engineering is not just a floating luxury resort. Icon of the Seas is an important showcase of using innovation and state-of-the-art technologies in building the blueprint of what is possible in ship design today.
Technology Powering The Cruise Experience
At an impressive length of 1198 feet, or 365 meters, and at 250,800 gross tons, Icon of the Seas is the largest cruise ship ever constructed. In fact, the vessel approaches some of the largest ships ever constructed.
This colossal structure has 20 decks, 2,805 staterooms, and can accommodate up to 5,610 guests along with a 2,350-member international crew.
Built at the Meyer Turku shipyard in Finland, the construction of Royal Caribbean’s Icon of the Seas involved a substantial workforce, with about 2,600 people working on the ship every day since June 2021, when the first steel was cut.
Watch a video below of Royal Caribbean’s Icon of the Seas from its first steel being cut all the way to its delivery:
But it’s not just the size that makes Icon of the Seas a game-changer; it’s the technology behind it. One of the most significant improvements over older vessels is the ship’s propulsion system. The six dual-fuel engines are all powered by Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG), and can also run on traditional fuels if needed.
LNG is a cleaner-burning fuel, significantly reducing emissions compared to traditional marine fuels. However, several companies are now using LNG, and the fuel itself is widely established these days. It’s the use of fuel cells that truly marks a step forward.
Approximately 10% of the ship’s hotel operations, including air conditioning and elevators, will be powered by one kilowatt of fuel cells while the ship is docked. Fuel cells generate energy through a chemical process that combines hydrogen and oxygen, with water being the only byproduct, thereby offering a low-carbon solution. If successful, subsequent ships are expected to have enhanced fuel cell capabilities.
Credit: Royal Caribbean
Icon of the Seas is also shore-power-ready and uses AI-based technology to enhance the vessel’s sailing routes to maximize efficiency. She employs an air lubrication system that reduces drag and has a cleaning robot that removes slime and growths on the hull to ensure Icon can operate at maximum efficiency at all times.
Innovative Design and Guest Experience
Every aspect of Icon of the Seas is designed with the guest experience in mind. The ship features eight unique neighborhoods, including AquaDome, Central Park, Chill Island, Royal Promenade, Surfside, and more.
She also has the first-of-its-kind suspended infinity pool, the largest pool at sea, six waterslides, including the tallest at sea, and the first open freefall slide.
Royal Caribbean’s Icon of the Seas During Sea Trials
These aquatic attractions, alongside nine whirlpools, ensure that guests have a variety of water-based activities to choose from. However, it also creates a problem for Royal. The amount of wastewater that is produced from the huge variety of water features, as well as the bars, restaurants, and the nearly 8000 people onboard is vast.
Icon of the Seas‘ wastewater treatment plant is capable of treating each drop of water above regulatory standards, ensuring that water after treatment is in pristine condition. On top of that, more than 93% of the water used onboard is produced by the vessel using a reverse osmosis and desalination plant.
Sustainability at the Forefront
Royal Caribbean’s focus on sustainability is evident in the ship’s energy-efficient technologies and waste management systems.
The inclusion of Microwave-Assisted Pyrolysis (MAP) and Micro Auto Gasification (MAG) systems is a revolutionary step in waste management. These systems convert waste generated onboard, including food waste, into gas, which can be used as an energy source while producing biochar as a byproduct, a soil nutrient.
Royal Caribbean’s Icon of the Seas
A key outcome of this is that 90% of the waste produced on the ship never reaches landfills. Interestingly, when compared to the waste guests would typically generate at home, the amount produced while they are on board is significantly less.
Icon of the Seas is not just the world’s biggest cruise ship. She represents a significant leap in cruise ship technology, focusing on sustainability, safety, and environmental responsibility, and has become a symbol of the future of cruising.
The giant ship’s first regular guest sailing, an inaugural cruise, will depart Miami, Florida, on January 27, 2024. The first official voyage will be a seven-night Caribbean itinerary, including a call to Royal Caribbean’s private island Perfect Day at CocoCay in the Bahamas. The vessel will sail year-round on seven-night Eastern and Western Caribbean itineraries.
Royal Caribbean International’s Ultimate World Cruise is adjusting sailing routes and dates for the coveted visit to Antarctica due to rough weather across the Drake Passage in the next few days.
Guests onboard have been notified that the upcoming portion of the itinerary has been reversed in order to have the smoothest, safest cruising.
Itinerary Change for Ultimate World Cruise
Guests currently onboard Serenade of the Seas for the “Ultimate South America and Antarctica” portion of the famed Ultimate World Cruise have been notified of an itinerary change in the coming days as the ship heads for Antarctica.
“As announced by our Captain, we have decided to reverse the Antarctic part of our itinerary due to the weather conditions in the Drake Passage,”the notification read.
This will ensure the ship can still manage the scenic cruising in Antarctica as well as scheduled time ashore as permitted, while minimizing the effects of poor weather.
Instead of heading to Port Stanley in the Falkland Islands after a stop in Puerto Madryn, Argentina, the ship’s itinerary now has Serenade of the Seas crossing the Drake Passage early and enjoying time in Antarctica – Gerlache Strait, Paradise Bay, Schollart Channel, and Dalhan Bay through the rest of this week and weekend, arriving in Port Stanley on Monday, January 15, 2024.
The call to Port Stanley was originally scheduled on Thursday, January 11, ahead of the Antarctica portion of the voyage. The time in port, however, has not changed, and will still be from 8 a.m. to 7 p.m., just on a different day.
This itinerary change will also allow Serenade of the Seas to take a more sheltered route if necessary, skirting around the worst weather for a more comfortable voyage.
Royal Caribbean’s Serenade of the Seas (Photo Credit: StudioPortoSabbia)
The Drake Passage – the body of water separating Cape Horn, South America from Antarctica – can be some of the most hazardous ocean water on the planet, with strong currents, fierce winds, and heavy swells.
At the time when Serenade of the Seas was scheduled to be leaving Port Stanley and crossing the Passage, winds are forecast to reach approximately 30-32 knots (35-37 miles per hour / 55-59 kilometers per hour) along her planned route. Now, the ship will remain in a calmer region.
More Itinerary Changes Likely
The type of change now made for Serenade of the Seas is not uncommon. Cruise lines regularly change itineraries to avoid potentially dangerous weather, from simple squall lines to hurricanes.
These changes may take the form of shortened or cancelled ports of call, substitutions of alternate destinations, reversals of itinerary routes, swapping port days with days at sea, or even completely changing sailing regions – such as sailing to Canada instead of the Bahamas due to a storm system – if necessary.
Serenade of the Seas is just one month into her 274-night Ultimate World Cruise, having left Miami, Florida on December 10, 2023.
While the ship’s full itinerary and route has been carefully planned not only to visit amazing destinations – more than 150 ports of call in 65 countries on all seven continents – the schedule has undoubtedly been planned with regional weather patterns in mind as well.
Royal Caribbean’s Serenade of the Seas (Photo Credit: Lisa Bronitt / Shutterstock)
Storms and severe weather can happen anywhere at any time, however, and it is likely that Serenade of the Seas will see various itinerary changes throughout the epic voyage. Hopefully, ports of call will be able to preserved, even if they must be rearranged.
Ultimately, the first priority of the ship is the safety and well-being of all guests and crew aboard, even if changes are necessary to ensure that safety.
The 90,090-gross-ton, Radiance-class Serenade of the Seas can welcome 2,490 guests aboard, and is also home to approximately 900 international crew members.
Not all guests aboard are staying for the entire 274-night Ultimate World Cruise – travelers could opt for different sections and segments as preferred – but for however long anyone is sailing on the ship, their experience will certainly be a safe and sensational one.
Royal Caribbean International’s Icon of the Seas – now just over two weeks from her inaugural sailing – is full of innovative firsts, but the most unique first onboard isn’t architecture, engineering, dining, entertainment, or a special venue.
Just arrived to the ship is the very first dog at sea: Rover, a permanent resident aboard Icon of the Seas and an official crew member.
Canine Crew Member on Icon of the Seas
Rover, the “Chief Dog Officer” of Icon of the Seas, has officially boarded the ship to begin her high seas service. The pup, which appears to be a golden retriever, is described as the “family dog” of the vessel and a crew member, but her actual duties have not been detailed.
The dog is always accompanied by Allison, a crew member from Australia, and will be exploring the ship, greeting guests, and undoubtedly performing other duties.
“As a crew member on Icon, Rover’s job is to bring joy and happiness to her fellow crew and guests onboard,”Rover’s social media account has stated.“From daily walks to hanging out on the bridge with the captain, Rover has already made herself at home.”
The dog boarded the ship while the vessel was docked in Puerto Rico recently, taking on supplies, undergoing inspections, and completing detail work ahead of her maiden voyage on January 27, 2024. Icon of the Seas is scheduled to arrive at her homeport in Miami, Florida on Wednesday, January 10, with a grand welcome party planned as the ship arrives.
What Will Rover Do Onboard?
Rover’s actual duties onboard have not been detailed, other than bringing joy and happiness to everyone on Icon of the Seas.
It is possible she is a service dog for Allison, and in no way is it necessary for Royal Caribbean International to detail the medical conditions that necessitate a service animal. Service dogs often perform a variety of functions and can be used for conditions such as diabetes, seizure disorders, allergen detection, heart arrhythmias and other heart conditions, and other health concerns.
While the videos shared of Rover do not show her wearing a “service dog” vest or other gear, this is also not required for service dogs.
Rover may also be a trained working canine to sniff out illegal drugs or other items and alert security to prohibited items. Carnival Cruise Line, for example, uses dogs onboard some vessels for exactly that purpose.
It is also possible that Rover will serve as a mascot onboard, generating social media interest and a popular fanbase. This would be similar to Bug Naked, the hairless cat onboard Celebrity Beyond. Bug Naked is Captain Kate McCue’s personal pet, and has special clearance to be permitted onboard.
Another duty Rover may perform is improving the mental health and happiness of crew members, many of whom have left their own pets behind as they serve months-long contracts at sea. Dogs are often used as therapy animals to help individuals struggling with depression, anxiety, or other mental health issues.
Guest Reaction
Guest reaction has been mixed to Rover’s life at sea onboard Icon of the Seas. While many guests are eager to meet the canine and excited about the new crew member, others feel a dog onboard is inappropriate and could cause problems for travelers who may be allergic.
It must be noted, however, that Rover has full clearance from the cruise line, and is undoubtedly fully health-tested and cleared for international travel. As the dog may also be a service animal, having her onboard is certainly in accordance with the cruise line’s service animal policies.
Rover Dog on Icon of the Seas (Photo Credit: godwin_fernandes2000)
“Royal Caribbean International welcomes service dogs on all ships. Please note we do not accept pets,”the cruise line’s policy reads.
Even if Rover is not a service animal, cruise lines can make their own decisions and exceptions about policies as necessary, as in the case of Bug Naked.
Will Pets Be Permitted on Cruises?
Some travelers are eager to know whether Rover’s home on Icon of the Seas may indicate a change in policy that would welcome pets onboard.
This is highly unlikely, as it would be impossible for Royal Caribbean, or any cruise line, to adequately determine if guests’ pets were in proper health, trained, and socialized to be safe onboard around crowds and in very unfamiliar situations.
Royal Caribbean’s Icon of the Seas (Photo Credit: Jouni Niskakoski)
Cruise ships are also not equipped to welcome a large number of animals, though relief areas and other facilities can be arranged for service animals.
Furthermore, every port of call will have different restrictions on animals debarking a ship, including vaccination and veterinary health certificate requirements, plus possible inspections and quarantine periods.
For example, the cat that was recently smuggled aboard Ovation of the Seas had to be extensively quarantined in New Zealand and would have been euthanized if he had not been subsequently deported back to the US and adopted by a Royal Caribbean team member.
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