Fourth Icon Class Ship Ordered by Royal Caribbean, Plus Options for More

Royal Caribbean Group (RCL) has entered into an agreement with Finnish shipbuilder Meyer Turku to build a fourth Icon Class ship, scheduled for delivery in 2027.

The world's largest cruise ship, "Icon of the Seas," sails on the ocean at sunset, with colorful lights and amenities visible on its decks.
(Photo courtesy of Royal Caribbean)

This deal also includes options for two additional ships, reinforcing the company’s commitment to expanding its cutting-edge fleet.

The Icon Class, which debuted with Icon of the Seas in January 2024, represents a new era in cruise experiences. It combines elements from beach retreats, resort escapes, and theme park adventures.

Following the launch of Icon of the Seas, the company plans to introduce its sister ship, Star of the Seas, in 2025, followed by another unnamed Icon Class ship in 2026.

“Building on the incredible momentum and market response to the launch of Icon of the Seas and the excitement for its sister ship, Star of the Seas, coming in 2025, we’re thrilled to join with Meyer Turku once again to expand our roster of Icon Class ships and continue our future growth plans,” said Jason Liberty, president and CEO of Royal Caribbean Group.

Royal Caribbean to Homeport Next Icon Ship in Central Florida

Expanding the Icon Class is a significant step for Royal Caribbean and a boost for Finland’s shipbuilding industry. The new order marks the 21st ship Meyer Turku has built for Royal Caribbean over their 28-year partnership.

In addition to the new Icon Class ships, Royal Caribbean’s new build pipeline remains robust, with seven new ships currently on order, including a seventh Oasis Class ship slated for delivery in 2028.

This year, the company has already introduced four new vessels across its brands:

A large cruise ship named "Utopia of the Seas" sails on the ocean near a coastline, possibly en route to Port Canaveral. The ship features multiple decks, numerous amenities, and a distinctive dome structure on the top front.
(Photo courtesy of Royal Caribbean International)
  • Icon of the Seas
  • Utopia of the Seas
  • Silver Ray for Silversea
  • Mein Schiff 7 for TUI Cruises
Michael Bayley, president and CEO of Royal Caribbean International, expressed excitement about the company’s future: “Icon of the Seas is unlike anything the world has seen before, and we’re just getting started. We are leading the vacation industry in developing new experiences for our guests to create lifelong memories, and we continue dreaming and evolving to deliver more ways to chill and thrill.”

The agreement with Meyer Turku is subject to customary conditions, including financing.

Icon of the Seas can accommodate 5,610 passengers at double occupancy or up to 7,600 passengers at maximum capacity.