Royal Caribbean Group has locked in its shipbuilding future with a major new framework agreement that secures construction slots at Finland’s Meyer Turku shipyard through 2036, including confirmation of a fifth Icon Class vessel.
Icon 5 Confirmed for 2028 Delivery
The agreement confirms an order for Icon 5, scheduled for delivery in 2028 subject to financing approval. The deal also includes options for Icon 6 and Icon 7, giving Royal Caribbean unprecedented access to Meyer Turku’s shipbuilding capacity for the next decade.
This extends the successful Icon Class series that began with Icon of the Seas in January 2024, followed by Star of the Seas launch last August. Legend of the Seas will enter service in summer 2026, with Icon 4 following in 2027.
Decade-Long Partnership Continues
“As we continue to reimagine the future of vacations, we are excited to continue collaborating with Meyer Turku to grow the Icon Class,” said Jason Liberty, president and CEO of Royal Caribbean Group. He emphasized that the partnership positions the company “to usher in a new era of innovation that will disrupt the vacation sector through 2036.”
Meyer Turku CEO Casimir Lindholm highlighted the significance for the Finnish maritime industry. “I am extremely proud of the recognition that these orders bring to the skilled personnel at Meyer Turku and to the Finnish maritime industry expertise,” he said.
Massive Economic Impact
The shipyard has built 25 vessels for Royal Caribbean Group since the mid-1990s and represents one of Finland’s key industrial hubs. Each cruise ship order engages approximately 13,000 professionals and generates over 1 billion euros in added value annually for the Finnish economy.
Finnish Prime Minister Petteri Orpo called the agreement “excellent news for Finland,” noting its significant positive impact on jobs and the country’s maritime ecosystem.
Future Options Remain Flexible
While Icon 5 represents a firm order, the construction of Icon 6 and Icon 7 remains subject to Royal Caribbean exercising purchase options and securing financing arrangements. This gives the cruise line flexibility while securing valuable shipyard capacity.
The agreement is part of Royal Caribbean Group’s expansion, which includes nine new ships and seven land-based destinations by 2028, as well as integrated digital offerings across ocean, river, and land-based travel segments.
