This year, they have launched two of the biggest cruise ships the world has ever seen: Icon of the Seas and Utopia of the Seas.
While both ships promise unforgettable experiences, they cater to different types of travellers. Whether you're looking for a lively weekend getaway or a family-friendly adventure, understanding the unique features and offerings of these colossal vessels will help you decide which one is right for you.
Icon of the Seas: The Ultimate Family Vacation
Royal Caribbean introduced Icon of the Seas with the bold tagline "the ultimate family vacation." This ship, which holds the title of the world's largest cruise ship, offers weeklong itineraries from Miami.
Designed with families in mind, Icon of the Seas features a variety of amenities and activities that cater to all age groups, making it an ideal choice for multigenerational family trips.
Family-Friendly Neighborhoods
One of the standout features of Icon of the Seas is its innovative neighborhood concept. The ship boasts eight distinct neighborhoods, each offering a unique experience. Among these, Surfside stands out as the first neighborhood designed specifically for young families.
This area includes kid-friendly attractions such as a splash pool, playground, and family-focused dining options. The Surfside neighborhood is anchored by a full-size carousel, adding a touch of nostalgia and charm that appeals to both children and adults.
Endless Entertainment Options
Entertainment is at the heart of Icon of the Seas. The ship features a wide range of shows and performances, including Broadway-style productions, ice-skating shows, and live music.
Families can enjoy movie nights under the stars at the outdoor cinema, or take part in themed parties and parades. For those looking for a thrill, the ship offers an array of adrenaline-pumping activities, including a rock-climbing wall, zip line, and Flow Rider surf simulator.
Dining for Every Taste
Dining on Icon of the Seas is a culinary adventure. The ship offers a variety of dining venues, from casual eateries to fine dining restaurants. Families can enjoy meals at the Windjammer buffet, which serves a diverse selection of international dishes.
For a more upscale experience, the Chops Grille steakhouse offers premium cuts of meat and an extensive wine list. Additionally, the ship features specialty restaurants such as Izumi, which serves fresh sushi and Japanese cuisine, and Jamie's Italian, offering delicious Italian dishes created by celebrity chef Jamie Oliver.
Utopia of the Seas: The World's Biggest Weekend
Six months after the launch of Icon of the Seas, Royal Caribbean introduced Utopia of the Seas, the second-largest cruise ship in the world.
Targeted towards a slightly younger crowd, Utopia is designed for shorter three- and four-night cruises, making it perfect for a quick escape.
Dubbed "the world's biggest weekend," Utopia offers a party-packed itinerary that appeals to millennials and Gen Xers looking for a fun and vibrant getaway.
A Party Atmosphere
Utopia of the Seas embraces the weekend theme with a stacked schedule of parties and events. Guests can enjoy themed parties, dance the night away at the ship's nightclubs, or relax with a cocktail at one of the many bars and lounges.
The ship also features exclusive events that are unique to Utopia, ensuring that there's always something exciting happening on board.
Adult-Only Retreats
While Utopia is known for its lively atmosphere, it also offers areas for relaxation and tranquility. The ship features an adults-only Solarium, an area enclosed in glass and steel at the front of the ship.
This serene space includes loungers, whirlpools, and a bar, providing a perfect retreat for those looking to unwind.
The Solarium combines elements of both the Hideaway and the AquaDome from Icon of the Seas, offering a relaxing environment with stunning ocean views.
Dining and Nightlife
Utopia of the Seas offers a variety of dining options that cater to different tastes and preferences. Guests can enjoy casual bites at the Boardwalk, which features classic American fare such as hot dogs, burgers, and ice cream.
For a more sophisticated dining experience, the ship offers venues like the Chops Grille steakhouse and Izumi in the Park, a walk-up companion to the Japanese restaurant Izumi.
In addition to its dining options, Utopia boasts an array of bars and lounges, ensuring that there's always a place to enjoy a drink and socialize with fellow passengers.
Comparing Itineraries: Short vs. Long Cruises
One of the key differences between Icon of the Seas and Utopia of the Seas is the length of their itineraries. Icon offers weeklong cruises from Miami, while Utopia focuses on shorter three- and four-night sailings from Port Canaveral. Each itinerary length has its pros and cons, depending on what you're looking for in a cruise vacation.
Longer Itineraries: Icon of the Seas
The weeklong itineraries offered by Icon of the Seas provide ample time for passengers to fully explore the ship and its many amenities. With extra days on board, guests can take their time to experience everything from the various neighborhoods to the numerous dining and entertainment options. The longer duration also allows for more extensive shore excursions, giving passengers the opportunity to explore multiple ports of call and immerse themselves in the local culture.
Shorter Itineraries: Utopia of the Seas
On the other hand, Utopia of the Seas' shorter itineraries are perfect for those looking for a quick getaway without a long-term commitment. These three- and four-night cruises are ideal for first-time cruisers who want to get a taste of the Royal Caribbean experience. The shorter duration also makes it easier for busy travelers to fit a cruise into their schedule. Despite the limited time, Utopia packs a lot of activities and events into its itineraries, ensuring that guests make the most of their weekend escape.
Pricing: What to Expect
When it comes to pricing, both Icon of the Seas and Utopia of the Seas offer competitive rates, with some variations based on the length of the cruise and the time of booking.
Icon of the Seas Pricing
Cruises on Icon of the Seas tend to be more expensive due to their longer duration. Starting prices for cruises through the end of the year range from $1,382 to $1,402 per person, based on double occupancy.
However, the cost per day on Icon is similar to that of Utopia, making it a worthwhile investment for those looking for an extended vacation with a wide range of amenities and activities.
Utopia of the Seas Pricing
Utopia of the Seas offers a more affordable option for those looking for a shorter cruise. Prices for three- and four-night cruises through the end of the year start at $764 to $819 per person, based on double occupancy. This lower overall cost makes Utopia an attractive option for travelers on a budget or those seeking a quick and fun getaway.
Conclusion: Which Ship is Right for You?
Deciding between Icon of the Seas and Utopia of the Seas ultimately depends on your preferences and what you're looking for in a cruise vacation.
If you're planning a family trip with multiple generations, Icon of the Seas offers a comprehensive range of amenities and activities that cater to all age groups.
Its weeklong itineraries provide plenty of time to explore the ship and enjoy a variety of shore excursions.
On the other hand, if you're looking for a lively weekend escape with friends or a partner, Utopia of the Seas is the perfect choice. Its shorter itineraries, party-focused atmosphere, and adult-only retreats make it an ideal option for a fun and memorable getaway.
Both ships exemplify Royal Caribbean's commitment to innovation and excellence, ensuring that whichever vessel you choose, you'll be embarking on an unforgettable cruise experience.
Whether you're dancing the night away on Utopia or enjoying family time on Icon, these floating marvels offer something for everyone.
So, pack your bags and set sail on an adventure of a lifetime with Royal Caribbean's Icon of the Seas and Utopia of the Seas.