By Amanda Mesa | Published on August 8, 2023
When it comes to planning my family’s yearly getaway, I like to keep things as simple and stress-free as possible. An easy way to do that is to book a cruise — it eliminates the hassle of coordinating logistics, having to unpack multiple times, planning out activities for the different ages and preferences in my party and worrying about there being enough food options to please the picky eaters in my group. What’s more, there are so many free activities, experiences and dining options included in the price of cruise fare that it often ends up being the most cost-effective vacation for my siblings, parents and grandparents.
So, when I find out about a new cruise ship that promises to offer even more cruise attractions for kids, onboard restaurants and record-breaking features sure to wow even the most seasoned travelers, I start doing my homework immediately. I’m talking about Icon of the Seas, the newest ship by Royal Caribbean and the largest in the world. It offers a staggering number of cool activities and experiences designed to facilitate family bonding — like the largest waterpark at sea, a neighborhood filled with attractions and eats curated just for families, more than 20 crave-worthy restaurants, an always-buzzing karaoke spot and daily programming geared toward kids, grandparents and every age in between.
And the fun doesn't stop there. This ship also offers reimagined versions of classic Royal Caribbean favorites like the award-winning Adventure Ocean®️ childcare program, a cool teen hangout called Social 020, a FlowRider®️* surf simulator and new and improved rock-climbing zone called Adrenaline PeakSM. Whether you’re in the mood for a putt-putt contest on the mini-golf green or a relaxing, sun-soaked day by one of the ship’s seven — yes, seven — incredible pools, it seems like there will never a dull moment onboard. Keep reading to learn more about some of the many family-friendly experiences that await onboard the world’s largest ship yet.
Part of planning a fun vacation for the whole family is ensuring you have accommodations that are comfortable for everyone in your group. This is another area where Icon of the Seas really shines. It’s the first cruise ship I’ve seen that has so many stateroom categories designed specifically for families — including balcony staterooms with bunk rooms and views of either the ocean or one of the ship’s bustling neighborhoods, as well as family-friendly suites with split bathrooms and easy access to the Surfside neighborhood (where you’ll find most of the ship’s cruise attractions for kids).
Of course, nothing compares to the Ultimate Family Townhouse, a sprawling three-level hideaway that’s totally worth the splurge. The first of its kind, this impressive suite — if you can call it that — dazzles with hidden nooks little ones will love, a cinema room complete with a working popcorn machine, a slide that plunges into the living room, a wraparound terrace and a private patio just steps from all the fun Surfside has to offer. What’s more, families that book this onboard wonderland enjoy Royal Suite Class Star status, unlocking all kinds of exclusive perks like a personal Royal Genie and priority access across the ship.
Whether you’re traveling with little ones, teens or adult siblings and relatives, you’re in for an unforgettable family cruise onboard Icon of the Seas. Find an itinerary that sparks your wanderlust here, and get ready for a family escape unlike any other.