In a monumental move that signals continued confidence in the future of cruising, Royal Caribbean Group has confirmed the order of a fifth Icon-class ship, scheduled for delivery in the summer of 2028. This announcement comes as the cruise giant doubles down on its commitment to sustainable maritime innovation.
The Next Generation of Cruise Travel
The new vessel will join its groundbreaking siblings - Icon of the Seas, Star of the Seas, and two yet-unnamed sisters - in what industry experts are calling the most ambitious shipbuilding programme in modern cruising history. Each ship represents a leap forward in environmental technology and passenger experience.
Sustainability at the Helm
What sets these vessels apart is their revolutionary approach to eco-friendly cruising. The Icon-class ships will be among the first to incorporate multiple clean energy solutions, including:
- Advanced liquefied natural gas (LNG) propulsion systems
- Shore power connectivity to eliminate emissions in port
- Waste heat recovery systems
- Advanced water treatment facilities
This comprehensive environmental strategy positions Royal Caribbean at the forefront of sustainable maritime travel, addressing growing consumer demand for greener vacation options.
Record-Breaking Scale and Innovation
While specific details about the fifth ship's amenities remain under wraps, it's expected to follow the trend-setting pattern of Icon of the Seas, which currently holds the title of world's largest cruise ship. The vessel will likely feature the signature neighbourhood concept, combining private retreats with spectacular shared spaces.
The order demonstrates Royal Caribbean's bullish outlook on the cruise market's recovery and future growth. Jason Liberty, President and CEO of Royal Caribbean Group, emphasised that these ships are "key to our strategic vision" and will "drive innovation in the cruise industry while delivering exceptional vacation experiences."
Economic Impact and Shipyard Partnership
The construction will continue Royal Caribbean's longstanding partnership with Meyer Turku shipyard in Finland, supporting thousands of skilled jobs and contributing significantly to the European maritime economy. This fifth order represents one of the largest single investments in the cruise industry since the pandemic.
As the cruise industry continues its robust recovery, Royal Caribbean's massive investment in the Icon-class programme signals not just confidence in market demand, but a fundamental reimagining of what sustainable, large-scale cruising can achieve. The summer 2028 delivery date sets the stage for what promises to be another game-changing addition to the world's seas.
