Thursday, December 14, 2023
A momentous kickoff is on the horizon, signifying the dawn of a new era in vacationing as Royal Caribbean International introduces its groundbreaking cruise ship, the Icon of the Seas, set to debut in January 2024. This monumental occasion will be graced by the presence of sports legend Lionel Messi, who has been officially designated as the Icon of the Icon of the Seas. As the figurehead for this innovative fusion of vacation experiences, Messi, the most celebrated football player in history, will preside over an exclusive naming celebration in Miami, heralding the arrival of the ship.
Widely acclaimed as the greatest of all time, Messi has consistently shattered records throughout his illustrious career, including eight Ballon d’Or awards and the title of TIME’s 2023 Athlete of the Year for his role in revolutionizing football in the United States through his partnership with Royal Caribbean’s affiliate, Inter Miami CF. The Icon itself has also made waves, as its much-anticipated unveiling in October 2022 led to the single largest booking day and the highest volume booking week in the cruise line’s 53-year history. This solidified the notion that vacationers are seeking a comprehensive getaway that encompasses the best aspects of various vacation types, from tranquil beach retreats to luxurious resort escapes and thrilling theme park adventures.
Icon boasts a staggering array of amenities, including six record-breaking waterslides, seven pools, and a dedicated neighborhood tailored for families with young children. With over 40 dining, drinking, and entertainment options, Icon ensures that every type of family and adventurer can create lasting memories together, without any compromises.
Lionel Messi expressed his excitement about joining the Royal Caribbean family to celebrate the arrival of the game-changing Icon of the Seas, emphasizing its unparalleled features designed for making unforgettable memories.
Messi’s new role follows the recent announcement of the unprecedented partnership between Royal Caribbean and Inter Miami CF, where the cruise line serves as the Club’s Main Partner and Official Vacation Partner. Aligned in leadership, passion, and the mission to provide unforgettable moments to fans and vacationers, Royal Caribbean and Inter Miami CF will continue to commemorate the arrival of Icon with future phases of their partnership, with more details forthcoming.
Michael Bayley, the President and CEO of Royal Caribbean International, hailed Icon of the Seas as the culmination of over 50 years of delivering memorable vacations, highlighting its potential to transform the vacation industry when it launches in January 2024. Bayley noted that Lionel Messi personifies the ability to make a widespread impact and challenge the status quo, both in the world of sports and, most recently, in ushering in a new era of excitement and passion for football in Miami and the U.S.
In keeping with maritime tradition, Messi will participate in the iconic naming celebration for Icon in January 2024 in Miami, where he will bestow blessings upon the new ship, its crew, and the countless families destined to create lifelong memories aboard.
Icon’s allure extends beyond the ship itself, as it offers an all-encompassing lineup of first-rate experiences and attractions across eight distinct neighborhoods. Each neighborhood serves as a destination in its own right, replete with a diverse range of activities, live entertainment, restaurants, bars, and more.
Completing the perfect vacation experience are the sun-soaked destinations that Icon’s voyagers can explore year-round. The ship’s 7-night Eastern or Western Caribbean itineraries departing from Miami include visits to picturesque locales like Philipsburg, St. Maarten; Costa Maya and Cozumel, Mexico; and Charlotte Amalie, St. Thomas. Additionally, guests can savor an unparalleled day of excitement and relaxation at Royal Caribbean’s award-winning private island, Perfect Day at CocoCay in The Bahamas. To add to the perfection, January 2024 will see the unveiling of Hideaway Beach, the private island’s first adults-only oasis, featuring a private beach, pools, dining options, exclusive cabanas, live music, and more.
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