World’s Largest Cruise Ship Completes Transatlantic Crossing

The world’s largest cruise ship has made its transatlantic crossing ahead of its much-vaunted debut later this month. The 250,800 gross ton vessel just arrived in Ponce, Puerto Rico, ahead of its maiden voyage later this month.

Icon still has finishing touches before it is ready to sail commercially. The ship is spending the next four days in Ponce to continue various technical tests and regulatory inspections. It will also complete crew training and final preparations.

Maiden voyage later this month

Icon of the Seas will depart for Miami on January 6 ahead of the inaugural cruise on January 27. Before them, there will be an ICON arrival party at PortMiami and a couple of short preview cruises.

 “Seven years ago, we had an ambitious idea to create the first vacation truly made for every type of family and adventurer,” said CEO Michael Bayley, “In this final stretch, we’ll bring it all to life for the biggest debut in our history.”

Lionel Messi will name the Ship

Instead of godparents, the ship will have an “Official Icon of the Seas.” Lionel Messi, the Miami-based soccer legend, will preside over the naming ceremony on January 23.

The inaugural cruise is a seven-night Eastern Caribbean cruise to Perfect Day at CocoCay, St. Thomas, and St. Kitts & Nevis. The ship will then offer rotating eastern and western Caribbean sailings.

The 20-deck ship houses seven pools, 20 restaurants, the AquaDome, and six waterslides. Accommodating over 7,000 guests, the vessel is divided into eight different “neighborhoods,” with each having its unique atmosphere.

There are 28 different stateroom categories, including Sunset Suites and family Infinite Balcony staterooms, which can cater to up to six guests.

Featured photo via via Cruceros Puerto Rico