Utopia of the Seas vs. Icon of the Seas: Comparing Two Impressive Royal Caribbean Ships
In 2024, Royal Caribbean will be introducing two fresh vessels - the Icon of the Seas and the Utopia of the Seas. These magnificent ships showcase distinct and remarkable characteristics that set them apart. The Icon belongs to the novel Icon class series, making it the first of its kind, while the Utopia will be the final addition to the Oasis class series.
In 2024, Royal Caribbean will be introducing two fresh vessels - the Icon of the Seas and the Utopia of the Seas. These magnificent ships showcase distinct and remarkable characteristics that set them apart. The Icon belongs to the novel Icon class series, making it the first of its kind, while the Utopia will be the final addition to the Oasis class series.
Ship Features
The Icon of the Seas has many features, so passengers are in for a treat as they explore the diverse amenities on the ship. With eight unique neighborhoods, ranging from lively nightlife and casinos to heart-pumping activities such as rope courses, waterslides, and rock climbing walls in the Thrill Zone, and a relaxing atmosphere in the Chill Zone, which features the largest pool at sea and a swim-up bar, there is certainly something for everyone. On the other hand, details on the Utopia of the Seas are yet to be fully revealed, but it is expected to have eight neighborhoods just like its counterpart. However, it has been announced that Utopia of the Seas will offer an unparalleled dining experience with its innovative "dining car" virtual concept, which marks a first-of-its-kind initiative.
Size
Upon its release, the Utopia of the Seas is set to become the third largest ship in the world, boasting an enormous length of 1888 ft. The ship will feature a staggering 2,800 cabins which have the capacity to host up to 7,000 guests. With a weight of 230,000 gross tons, the Utopia of the Seas is truly a mammoth vessel. However, the Icon of the Seas is set to outdo even this impressive feat, becoming the largest ship in the world upon its debut. Its massive size, nearly ten feet longer than the Utopia, will enable it to accommodate up to 7,600 guests at full capacity. This colossal ship will weigh in at over 250,000 gross tons.
Itinerary
The Icon of the Seas is gearing up for its first voyage, scheduled for January 27, 2024, and Miami will function as its homeport until at least April 2025. Even though Royal Caribbean is yet to reveal the ship's route beyond April 2025, visitors can relish a seven-day cruise to the Eastern or Western Caribbean, which includes stops at Royal Caribbean's private island- Coco Cay. Travelers have three itinerary choices with Icon of the Seas until April 2025. Meanwhile, the details about Utopia of the Seas itineraries are scarce, with only limited information released so far. However, what we do know is that Utopia's maiden voyage will leave from Miami in June 2024 and last for 3-4 days. As per the available details, we can speculate that this trip will be a journey to the Caribbean.
Environmental Consciousness
The two ships are set to be the forerunners of environmental awareness, utilizing liquified natural gas (LNG) as their primary fuel source - widely renowned as the cleanest form of fossil fuel available. Boasting the capacity to reduce carbon emissions by almost 30%, eliminate sulfur emissions by nearly 100%, and curtail nitrogen oxide emissions by roughly 85%, these ships will showcase the eco-friendliness of Royal Caribbean's technology. In addition, Utopia of the Seas and Icon will incorporate the same eco-friendly attributes found on other Royal Caribbean vessels, which include an ability to connect with shore power and leverage waste heat recovery applications.