Postcards Spring 2024 CA | Page 13

IN THE KNOW

MAKING WAVES WITH ROYAL CARIBBEAN

The latest on Royal Caribbean ’ s megaships Icon of the Seas and Utopia of the Seas
NEWS IN BRIEF
EXPLORA II coin Explora II has kept up the tradition of blessing a journey ( in the hope of good fortune ) by placing a commemorative coin inside the ship — a lucky charm for maritime labourers in olden days .
Princess Cruises ’ Sun Princess to set sail in 2024 Sun Princess will set out to the Mediterranean in spring and summer , followed by the Caribbean in fall — boasting technological additions like wearable devices with a room service function and a pool that transforms into a stage .
Viking launches Viking Vela Viking Cruises ’ latest ship , Viking Vela , is set to sail in December 2024 . With capacity for 998 guests , it will be the largest of all Viking ’ s ships .
image : Royal Caribbean International . words : sj armstrong

Launched in January 2024 , Icon of the Seas is the biggest cruise ship ever to set sail — its maiden voyage being a round-trip from Miami to the Caribbean .

Akin to a city on sea , the gargantuan vessel can accommodate almost 10,000 passengers and crew , and boasts a huge array of activities including a full-scale water park , 20 decks with seven pools and many dining and evening entertainment
options . The ship has been divided into eight ‘ neighbourhoods ’, each with its own character and dining choices .
Utopia of the Seas is also set to arrive in summer 2024 — with impressive facilities including 21 dining options , five pools and 23 bars , to name a few . It will offer travellers shorter itineraries including three-night weekend voyages and four-night weekday trips out of Port Canaveral in Florida .
Above : Icon of the Seas
completing a sea trial in
Turku , Finland
spring 2024 • 11