Royal Caribbean Announces Third Icon-Class Ship, Legend of the Seas

Royal Caribbean International has unveiled the name of its third Icon-class cruise ship, Legend of the Seas, along with details about its inaugural sailings.

The highly anticipated vessel is set to debut in August 2026, offering Mediterranean itineraries before making its way to the Caribbean for year-round cruises from Florida.

Legend of the Seas To Debut in Europe

The Icon-Class ship from Royal Caribbean gracefully sails on a calm ocean under a blue sky with scattered clouds. It boasts multiple decks adorned with colorful attractions, including a water park and outdoor amenities, as it cruises forward on the open sea.
Legend of the Seas Rendering (Photo courtesy of Royal Caribbean)

Currently under construction in Turku, Finland, Legend of the Seas will initially sail in August 2026 with 7-night Western Mediterranean cruises departing from Barcelona. These itineraries will take passengers to some of Europe’s most sought-after destinations, including France, Italy, and Spain, providing opportunities to explore historic landmarks, picturesque landscapes, and coastal attractions.

Following its summer in Europe, Legend of the Seas will reposition to Fort Lauderdale, Florida, in November 2026, where it will begin offering year-round Caribbean sailings.

Passengers will have the option of 6-night Western Caribbean and 8-night Southern Caribbean cruises, with all itineraries featuring a stop at Royal Caribbean’s private island, Perfect Day at CocoCay.

A New Era of Icon-Class Cruising

Four Icon-Class ships sail side by side on a calm ocean under a clear blue sky. Each Royal Caribbean ship features multiple decks with various structures and decorations, as they move forward leaving trails in the water.
(Photo courtesy of Royal Caribbean)

Michael Bayley, president and CEO of Royal Caribbean International, expressed enthusiasm for the continued expansion of the Icon class. “Legend of the Seas is the next bold step in this exciting era of vacations and the continuation of the Icon Class legacy, and we look forward to bringing the revolutionary lineup of experiences to more families and adventurers across Europe, the Caribbean, and beyond,” said Bayley.

The new ship follows in the footsteps of Icon of the Seas, which debuted in early 2024, and Star of the Seas, set to launch in August 2025.

Like its predecessors, Legend of the Seas will feature the Icon Class’ signature neighborhoods, entertainment, and attractions, including the popular Crown’s Edge skywalk and ropes course, the Category 6 waterpark, and a variety of pools, including the adults-only Hideaway with its suspended infinity pool.

Sustainability and Innovation

A Royal Caribbean cruise ship with a visible emblem graces the sea, boasting multiple decks, outdoor seating areas, and a rock climbing wall. The sky is clear as this majestic vessel docks or sails smoothly through serene waters.
(Photo via Royal Caribbean)

Legend of the Seas will also incorporate Royal Caribbean’s latest sustainability initiatives. The ship will be the company’s fourth vessel powered by liquefied natural gas (LNG) and will feature waste heat recovery systems, shore power connections, and other environmentally friendly technologies. These advancements align with Royal Caribbean Group’s goal of launching a net-zero cruise ship by 2035.

Booking Information

An aerial view of a cruise ship in the ocean on its Inaugural Sailing.
(Photo courtesy of Royal Caribbean)

Legend of the Seas’ inaugural itineraries will soon be available for booking on Royal Caribbean’s website. Crown & Anchor Society loyalty members will receive priority access starting February 20, ahead of general bookings.

As Royal Caribbean continues to expand its fleet with larger and more advanced vessels, Star of the Seas promises to bring a new level of innovation and excitement to the cruise industry.