Photo by Hadyn Cutler on Unsplash
The Largest Cruise Ship in the World Docks in Florida
January 11, 2024
A record-breaking massive cruise ship has docked in Miami. Royal Caribbean’s Icon of the Sea is the cruise line’s newest addition to its international fleet, and it arrived at PortMiami on Jan. 10.
The nearly 1,200-foot-long ship is preparing for its maiden voyage from PortMiami, setting sail later in the month. Icon of the Seas’ length is 1,198 feet/365 meters, and it has the capacity for 7,600 guests and 2,350 crew, with 2,805 staterooms in total.
The former world titleholder, Wonder of the Seas, the largest Oasis-class ship, is 1,188 feet/362 meters long, stretches 1,188 feet/362 meters, has the capacity for 7,084 passengers and 2,204 crew, and has 2,867 staterooms.
The massive Icon of the Sea was welcomed to PortMiami with banner planes and fireboat salutes, according to a press release from Royal Caribbean. Locals, fans of the cruise line, and employees celebrated its grand arrival, eager to witness the monumental vessel for themselves.
New: Miami welcomed an icon today! @RoyalCaribbean #IconoftheSeas arrived @PortMiami for the first time ahead of its Jan. 27 debut. On 7-night Caribbean vacations, the first-of-its-kind combination of every vacation has experiences for everyone. | More: https://t.co/FTDryXwfWX 🥳 pic.twitter.com/2RYSrOHoJ0
— Royal Caribbean Public Relations (@RoyalCaribPR) January 10, 2024
The ship has eight neighborhoods, six record-breaking waterslides at Category 6, and the Crown’s Edge experience at 154 feet above the ocean. It also has the first suspended infinity pool at sea.
There is also a stay-all-day neighborhood for families with young kids, more than 40 restaurants, bars, and lounges, and entertainment. It boasts an impressive 20 decks, seven pools, and nine whirlpools.
Also included is a FlowRider wave simulator, an ice arena, and a mini golf course. Another feature is the ship’s AquaDome neighborhood, an architectural marvel with a 55-foot-tall water curtain and 220° of ocean views.
According to Royal Caribbean’s blog, there will also be a dog living full time on the ship. Rover boarded the ship and docked in Ponce, Puerto Rico, before it began its final leg of the journey to Miami, Florida.
Recent News
Media Giants Depend on Sports As Content Shortages Rise
As Hollywood emerges from last year’s strikes, major media companies are turning to live sports to attract audiences and advertisers. This trend was evident during this year’s Upfront presentations, where media giants showcased their upcoming content and advertising opportunities.
New Trader Joe’s Opens in SF After 10 Years
San Francisco’s Hayes Valley neighborhood welcomed a highly anticipated new addition on May 17, 2024, with the grand opening of a Trader Joe’s at 555 Fulton St., on the corner of Laguna Street. This event marks the end of a decade-long wait for residents who have been eagerly looking forward to a new grocery store in their area.
China’s Property Market Boost: Stocks Surge, Copper Hits Highs
The Chinese government unveiled a comprehensive support package that has sent ripples through financial markets. This initiative includes a slew of measures aimed at stimulating housing demand and addressing the excess inventory burdening developers. The immediate impact was a significant rally in Chinese stocks and a surge in commodity prices, notably copper, which hit record highs.
Mercedes-Benz Workers in Alabama Reject Union
In a pivotal moment for autoworkers in the southern United States, employees at a Mercedes-Benz plant in Alabama have voted against joining the United Auto Workers (UAW) union. The outcome, with 56% of workers voting against unionization and 44% in favor, comes as a significant setback for the UAW’s efforts to expand its influence in the region.