Thank you to Malina Saval and Pasadena Magazine for this 2-page print article about my cruise on Royal Caribbean’s Icon of the Seas!
Travel journalist Lisa Niver navigates the adventures aboard Royal Caribbean’s Icon of the Seas.
Embarking on my journey in Miami, Florida aboard Royal Caribbean’s the Icon of the Seas was not just an adventure, it was a homecoming. Having previously worked on staff at Royal Caribbean on the Rhapsody of the Seas, boarding Icon of the Seas felt like returning to a familiar embrace; albeit grander.
With eight distinct neighborhoods, there is something for everyone, from relaxing in any number of Chill Island’s seven pools and nine whirlpools, to strolling the shops at the two-story Royal Promenade, to exploring Thrill Island’s Category 6 water park with heart-pounding thrills including six water slides. Daredevils like myself can walk the plank at Crown’s Edge dangling 154-feet above the sea, scramble up the Adrenaline Peak rock-climbing wall, surf the flow rider or putt-putt on the Lost Dunes mini-golf course.
Evening entertainment includes singing along with dueling pianos or spotlight karaoke, performances of traditional Broadway shows in the Royal Theater, watching graceful figure skaters at Absolute Zero and spellbinding Olympic high divers in the Aqua Theater.
Central Park, a lush, peaceful oasis with over 30,000 plants, is in the heart of the ship. Some of the interior balcony rooms overlook the vibrant tapestry of greenery that spans five decks.
Central Park also has plenty of dining options, including the Bubbles bar, a walk-up champagne bar, and the Izumi sushi and hibachi restaurant.
Whether you’re grandparents seeking adventure, parents looking to relax, or children eager to explore, the ship caters to everyone, with plenty of activities, and over 40 dining locations. Be sure to include on your list my favorite: the specialty milkshake bar, Desserted.
I was also impressed by the attention to detail and innovation with the ship’s design. At Swim & Tonic, a swim-up bar, you can enjoy your favorite cocktails without ever leaving the refreshing embrace of the pool. And if you’re seeking the ultimate relaxation, the adults-only Hideaway area boasts the first suspended infinity pool at sea. It has breathtaking views and a sense of serenity unlike any other I’ve experienced.
Every cruise aboard the Icon of the Seas includes a stop at the Royal Caribbean private island Coco Cay in the Bahamas. With its pristine beaches and crystal-clear waters, there is a host of excursions and activities, including Tailspin water slides at Thrill Waterpark, lounging in a hammock beneath swaying palm trees at Oasis Lagoon, snorkeling among colorful coral reefs, or enjoying the bar and music at the new adults-only area, Hideaway Beach.
Back onboard, the Surfside neighborhood caters directly to families with young children, with specialty restaurants including The Lemon Post, which provides cocktails for adults and mocktails for kids. There’s also a bright carousel and a child-friendly slide.
When it comes to accommodations, the ship has 28 options for all tastes and budgets. It offers everything from cozy cabins to luxurious suites. I loved the Ultimate Family Townhouse, a three-story suite that includes a multi-level indoor slide, a wrap-around balcony with a private whirlpool, a white picket fence, and enough space for eight people to sleep. As you ascend the staircase, each stair makes a different musical sound.
The most extraordinary aspect of the Icon of the Seas, however, is its sheer size. The largest cruise ship at sea, it’s larger than an aircraft carrier. It’s also 24% more energy efficient than the required standards and the first Royal Caribbean ship powered by liquefied natural gas. In addition, the ship produces more than 93% of its fresh water onboard.
Yet, despite its size, Icon of the Seas’ many lounges are full of cozy corners to listen to music, dine, and relax. You can find your favorite spot to watch the waves and hang out with friends, old and new.
Reflecting on my time aboard the Icon of the Seas, I am grateful for the opportunity to revisit my roots in the cruise industry and witness how far it has come. More than a voyage, my experience was a celebration of innovation and excellence. I carry with me the memories of a lifetime spent at sea and the promise of future adventures.
Thank you to Pasadena Magazine for sharing on Twitter, Instagram and Facebook
on my Twitter about the article and on Facebook
See all of my videos from my cruise: CLICK HERE
In the May/June 2024 print issue of Pasadena Magazine, I had a second print article about PESTO–click here to read that one too!
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