Icon of the Seas Archives

Royal Caribbean Locks In Future Fleet Plans with Decade-Long Meyer Turku Deal

September 23, 2025

Royal Caribbean Group has entered into a long‑term framework agreement with the Finnish shipyard Meyer Turku. This is the next step in securing its shipbuilding slots there for the next decade. As part of the deal, Royal Caribbean has confirmed an order for Icon 5, due for delivery in 2028 (pending financing), and added a new option to build Icon 7, in addition to the previously announced option for Icon 6.

What this means for the Icon Class & Royal Caribbean

Royal Caribbean’s relationship with Meyer Turku is deepening. The yard has built 25 ships for the company since the mid‑1990s, and this agreement ensures Icon‑Class ships continue to be part of that legacy.
To date, two Icon‑Class ships are in operation: Icon of the Seas (launched January 2024) and Star of the Seas (August 2025). The third, Legend of the Seas, is slated for Summer 2026, with Icon 4 to follow in 2027.
Icon 5 is confirmed under this new deal; the later ships (Icon 6 and 7) remain options, meaning they will become firm only if Royal Caribbean exercises those options and finalizes the contracts — including securing the necessary financing.

Quotes & Insights

Jason Liberty, President & CEO of Royal Caribbean Group, emphasized this move as part of the company’s ongoing effort to “reimagine the future of vacations,”. He called Icon Class a “first‑of‑its‑kind series” that helps set a course for innovation through 2036.
Casimir Lindholm, CEO of Meyer Turku, expressed pride in Finland’s maritime industry and reaffirmed how much the skilled workforces and ecosystem at Turku contribute to shipbuilding excellence. He stated that the agreement builds a “common plan” for the coming decade to advance ship design and environmental performance.

Broader Impacts — Economy, Environment & Shipping Innovation

The Turku yard and its network employ roughly 13,000 people. They contribute over 1 billion euros annually in added value to Finland’s economy.
Beyond the sheer size, Meyer Turku is well‐known for pioneering green and energy‑efficient technologies in shipbuilding. This is work that the Finnish government sees as central to international competitiveness. Prime Minister Petteri Orpo and Minister of Economic Affairs Sakari Puisto both hailed the agreement as beneficial for job creation and investment in Finland’s maritime sector.

What’s Next for Royal Caribbean

Icon 5 delivery in 2028 assuming financing is secured.
Options for Icon 6 and Icon 7 stand. The company will decide whether to move forward with them under firm contracts.
These new ships will help Royal Caribbean continue growing its “multi‑year pipeline” of ocean, river, and land‑based vacation offerings. This includes new destinations, enhanced experiences, and a stronger digital guest ecosystem.

Bottom Line: This long‑term deal cements Meyer Turku as a key partner for Royal Caribbean’s future fleet. It also provides clarity to upcoming Icon‑Class ships while reinforcing Royal Caribbean’s commitment to innovation and sustainability in cruising.

Stay tuned to thecrusingcompass.com for information, news, tips, and tricks on all things cruising and join in the conversation in The Cruising Compass Facebook group.

A Guide to Complimentary Dining Aboard Icon of the Seas

By Amy Krieger

August 13, 2025

Food lovers, rejoice! Icon of the Seas is more than just a cruise ship—it’s a floating paradise for anyone who loves good food. From hearty meals with the family to quick bites between adventures, the complimentary dining options on board cater to every palate. Here’s your go-to guide on where to satisfy your cravings while exploring this incredible ship.

Main Dining Room (Decks 3, 4 & 5)

The Main Dining Room is the heart of Icon of the Seas’ dining experience. Spread across three stunning levels, it serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner in an elegant setting. Whether you’re in the mood for a hearty breakfast to start your day or a three-course dinner to wind it down, the menu offers something for everyone, with options that change daily. Ideal for families and couples looking to enjoy a classic cruise dining experience.

Sorrento’s (Deck 5 – Royal Promenade)

Who doesn’t love pizza? Located on the Royal Promenade, Sorrento’s serves fresh, hot slices of pizza until 3 a.m. every night. It’s the perfect spot for a late-night snack or a quick bite between activities. Families with kids (or hungry adults) will especially appreciate the no-frills deliciousness of this spot.

Pearl Café (Deck 6)

Hungry at 2 a.m.? No problem. Open 24/7, Pearl Café is a one-stop spot for warm pressed sandwiches, grab-and-go snacks, and delicious desserts. Its convenient location behind the Pearl makes it a great choice for travelers on the move or anyone craving a midnight treat.

Surfside Eatery (Deck 7 – Surfside Neighborhood)

For those traveling with kids (or just feeling young at heart), Surfside Eatery delivers a buffet of kid-friendly favorites that adults will love too. Open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, it’s perfect for families looking to relax while enjoying an easy, tasty meal.

Surfside Bites (Deck 7 – Surfside Neighborhood)

If you’re in a hurry, Surfside Bites has you covered. This grab-and-go spot offers snacks like hot dogs, fries, and more. Quick, satisfying, and ideal when you’re juggling pool time or other activities with little ones.

Sprinkles Soft Serve (Decks 7 and 15)

Soft serve anytime, anywhere. Sprinkles has two convenient locations—one in Surfside and another in the Pool Neighborhood on Deck 15. With chocolate, vanilla, and twist cones, it’s a fun stop for kids and adults alike.

Park Café (Deck 8 – Central Park)

Hidden in the lush greenery of Central Park, Park Café is a charming escape offering light options for breakfast, lunch, and early dinner. From fresh salads to sandwiches, its variety makes it a perfect choice for a relaxing meal with gorgeous surroundings.

Vitality Café (Deck 6 – Spa & Fitness Area)

If you’re all about health and wellness, stop by the Vitality Café. While specialty drinks come at an additional cost, the café offers complimentary granola bars and other small bites to keep you energized without overindulging.

Aquadome Market (Deck 15 – Aquadome)

Step inside the stunning Aquadome and explore a food hall-style dining experience with five unique stalls to choose from:

Crème De La Crepe serves mouthwatering sweet crepes made to order.
GNGR offers bold and delicious Asian-inspired dishes.
Mac’s features a variety of decadent mac & cheese creations.
Feta provides Mediterranean fare like hummus, wraps, and fresh veggies.
Toast & Garden has sandwiches, salads, and fresh, healthy options.

This diverse lineup ensures there’s something for everyone.

El Loco Fresh (Deck 15 – Pool Deck)

Your go-to spot for quick and tasty Mexican cuisine! El Loco Fresh serves dishes like tacos, burritos, and quesadillas, complete with a self-serve toppings station to customize your creation. It’s fast, flavorful, and fantastic after a swim.

Windjammer (Deck 15 – Pool Deck)

No cruise dining guide is complete without mentioning Windjammer. This all-day buffet serves up a rotating menu of breakfast, lunch, and dinner options. Highlights include a made-to-order pasta, omelet, or ramen bar, a vibrant salad station, and a variety of international dishes. For families, Windjammer offers the ultimate convenience and variety.

Basecamp (Deck 16)

Basecamp is now fully complimentary, making it a fan favorite! Relax in its spacious seating area and enjoy quick-serve comfort foods like Smash burgers, pretzel bites, and crispy chicken fingers. It’s the ideal spot to fuel up before heading out for adventure.

Room Service- Continental Breakfast

While there is a small charge for general room service, if you are just doing the continental breakfast (cereal, pastries, coffee, fruit, and more), it is complimentary. You can easily order by calling or leaving the filled out menu hanger on your door the night before. We love doing this on sea days and enjoying a relaxed breakfast on our balcony. We do recommend tipping the attendant who brings your food.

Savor Every Bite

From traditional sit-down meals to quick snacks and ice cream on the go, dining aboard Icon of the Seas is an experience in itself. Whether you’re traveling as a family or enjoying some “me time,” there’s something delicious waiting for you around every corner.