Set sail for an epic summer adventure on Icon of the Seas. Known as the world’s largest cruise ship coming to Texas for the first time next August.
About the Icon of the Seas
First launched in 2024 out of Miami, Icon of the Seas is the final boss of cruise ships. Priced at $2 billion, the 2,000-foot-long mega ship houses 20 decks packed with +40 dining and drinks establishments, 7 pools, a central park, and more. The 250,800-ton ship carries roughly 10,000 passengers and crew members per trip.
The vessel features the largest waterpark at sea, a suspended infinity pool, and a neighborhood layout that divides the ship into specialized zones like the family-focused Surfside and the adult-only Chill Island.
Key attractions at Icon of the Seas
Fittingly, the cruise ship houses the largest waterpark at sea. Based at Thrill Island, the Category 6 Waterpark features six record-breaking slides, including the Frightening Bolt – the tallest drop slide at sea – and the Crown’s Edge ropes course/skywalk hovering 154 feet above the ocean.
Thrill Island also features fan favorites like the FlowRider surf simulator, rock climbing wall, and mini-golf course.
Speaking of record-breaking marvels, the ship also hosts the Aquadome. Located at the front of the ship, the 3,000-square-meter structure features a 55-foot indoor waterfall and AquaTheater where patrons can witness high-diving acrobatic shows.
Its Chill Island neighborhood is designated purely for lounging. Spanning three decks, Chill Island is home to Royal Bay – the largest pool at sea – as well as Swim & Tonic – the largest swim-up bar at sea – as well as The Hideaway Pool & Bar – adults-only pool and first suspended infinity pool.
If you’re feeling a little tired of the sun, the cruise ships features the Absolute Zero ice rink. Billed as the company’s largest ice arena ever, the high-tech rink hosts dazzling ice performances.
For a quieter experience, Icon of the Seas features a triple-decker Central Park in the middle of the ship. The park isn’t artificial, rather features over 20,000 real plants and trees through which patrons can stroll along winding paths. The park also features area dining and drinking options.
Icon of the Seas Galveston trips:
The massive Icon of the Seas will depart from Texas for the first time August 2027, bringing its record-breaking attractions directly to the Port of Galveston. Travelers will select from six, seven, and eight-night Caribbean itineraries. The scheduled routes will stop at regional destinations, including Costa Maya, Roatan, Cozumel, and Perfect Day at CocoCay in the Bahamas.
Texas travelers can select from two different Caribbean itineraries on the Icon of the Seas from Galveston:
- 6 Night Western Caribbean: Stops include Cozumel, Roatan, and Puerto Costa Maya. Tickets start at $1,329 per person.
- 7 Night Western Caribbean: Over the course of a week, the cruise whisks passengers from Galveston to Roatan, Puerto Costa Maya, and Cozumel. Tickets start at $1,512 per person.
- 8 Night Western Caribbean: Features stops in Cozumel, Puerta Costa Maya, and Perfect Day at CocoCay. Trips start at $1,869.
