Arrival of the Colossal Cruise Ship
The colossal Icon Of The Seas, the world’s largest cruise ship, has docked in Puerto Rico, captivating locals and tourists alike with its immense size.
This 1,198-foot, 20-deck pleasure cruiser, valued at $2 billion, is a grandeur compared to the ill-fated Titanic, towering over Ponce on the southern coast of the Caribbean island.
Extravagance and Features
Boasting extraordinary amenities, including a food hall, six swimming pools, and the most expansive water park at sea, the ship stands as a pinnacle of luxury and entertainment.
Ready to receive its first paying passengers, this marvel of engineering will commence its maiden voyage from Miami, Florida, on January 27, offering a seven-night Caribbean itinerary, including a stop at the ‘Perfect Day at CocoCay’ – Royal Caribbean’s private island in the Bahamas.
Luxury at a Premium Price
Priced at £1,200 for a seven-night cruise, nearly all staterooms have been booked, leaving the remaining few with tags ranging from £4,000 to £6,000. The Ultimate Family Townhouse suite, a palatial accommodation across three decks, catering to eight guests, features unique amenities, including a slide that descends into the living room floor, with a jaw-dropping price of $85,000 for a week-long stay.
Crafting the Marvel
Years in the making, the ship’s construction involved meticulous planning, with prototypes of the eight main areas, referred to as ‘neighbourhoods,’ built to scale in Miami.
The majority of staterooms were constructed elsewhere and then seamlessly integrated into the ship’s structure. The monumental Aquadome, a 365-tonne structure with a 55-foot waterfall and seating for 1,300, underwent a remarkable 24-hour lift to be placed on the ship.
Design Challenges and Innovation
The ship’s design and construction, while not aimed to create the largest vessel globally, pushed boundaries.
Jay Schneider, Royal Caribbean’s chief product innovation officer, emphasized the innovative processes and challenges faced, highlighting the ship’s groundbreaking features and engineering marvels.
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