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The World's Largest Cruise Ship Is Coming in January—Here's What It's Like Inside

By Jessica Puckett

The biggest thing to ever hit cruising is coming in January 2024, when Royal Caribbean’s Icon of the Seas —which will be the largest cruise ship in the world —will debut to passengers for the first time.

With capacity for nearly 10,000 passengers and crew, Icon of the Seas is billed as part all-inclusive resort, part theme park, and a massive destination unto itself . Clocking in at 250,380 gross tons and measuring nearly a quarter mile long (1,198 feet to be exact), the vast ship will sport a total of 20 decks, 18 of which will be accessible to guests.

The ship will be divided into eight different “neighborhoods,” each with their own distinct atmospheres, dining options, and activities. “ Icon of the Seas is truly what we call a white paper ship,” Anna Drescher, manager of architectural design, new building and innovation for Royal Caribbean group, said in a video statement . “The reason that we call it that is we start with a blank sheet of sketch paper, so it truly is starting fresh.”

In June 2023, the ship hit a major milestone when it completed its first sea trials outside the shipyard in Turku, Finland. Next up is the colossal new ship’s first voyage, slated to depart on January 27, 2024. It will sail roundtrip from Miami to the Caribbean islands of St. Kitts, St. Thomas, and the Bahamas.

The ship's typical seven-day itineraries include three at-sea days, so passengers have time to fully enjoy the endless choices of amenities on board. “We want guests to walk up to the ship and just have this moment of: I can’t believe that’s where I’m going ,” said Jennifer Goswami, the line’s senior manager of product development.

Here's a look at the enormous scale of the new ship and what to expect on board.

When it begins sailing, the Icon of the Seas will offer a total of 2,805 staterooms that can hold 5,610 passengers at double occupancy, or a maximum of 7,600 guests. Passengers can choose from a whopping 28 different room types, including Sunset Suites with wraparound balconies and Family Infinite Balcony staterooms with bunkbeds fit for a family of up to six.

The largest suite on board will be the three-story, 1,772-square-foot “Ultimate Family Townhouse,” which comes with its own movie theater, ping-pong table, karaoke, and a slide between floors. It can sleep up to eight people and costs approximately $75,000 per week.

Among the eight "neighborhoods," or sections of the ship with distinct ambiance, are Central Park, which offers greenery and sidewalk cafes, and The Hideaway, which aims for a European beach club aesthetic. There's also The Suite Neighborhood, Surfside, Thrill Island, Chill Island, The Royal Promenade, and the Aquadome.

The ship's 2,350 crew members will also get their own neighborhood, complete with amenities like a gaming room and hair salon.

Another superlative for Icon will be sporting the largest waterpark at sea. The park, called Category 6, features six different record-breaking waterslides, including the tallest onboard waterslide. There will also be a free-fall slide, plus a raft-style slide for four passengers to ride together.

Tom Vanderbilt

Alex Erdekian

Jessica Puckett

Shana Clarke

Seven pools and nine whirlpools will be located throughout the ship, including the first infinity pool on a cruise ship to be suspended in the air. The Royal Bay pool, located on the 15th deck, will break the record for largest pool at sea, holding an astounding 40,000 gallons of water.

Across the towering vessel, there'll be more than 20 food venues and 15 bars and nightlife experiences, including a sweeping three-level main dining room.

Among the options for grabbing a drink will be the line's first onboard swim-up bar, a walk-up Champagne bar, and a bar specializing in coffee cocktails like espresso martinis.

On the entertainment front, Royal Caribbean has hired 75 performers to titillate guests across three cavernous theaters. The Absolute Zero ice arena will feature shows with Olympic-level skaters, while the AquaTheater will combine the talents of divers, robots, and skateboarders.

In the Royal Theater, a 16-piece orchestra (the largest one at sea), will accompany shows like the Wizard of Oz.

In smaller venues throughout the ship, like the dueling piano bar, 50 live musicians and comedians will perform each night, making it possible for every type of passenger to find something that fits their style.

Cruise Ship Interior Cabins – Simple Photo Guide

If you are looking at taking a cruise you may be wondering what an interior cabin is and if you should book one. When cruise lines advertise cruise prices they almost always advertise the price for an interior cabin.

I’ve stayed in interior, often called inside, cabins on a number of occasions and usually recommend them to first timer cruisers on a budget.

What Are Interior Cabins on a Cruise?

An interior cabin is a cabin that is located on the inside of a cruise ship. Interior cabins don’t have windows or any outside space. Interior cabins are also called ‘inside’ cabins and they are usually the cheapest cabin grade available on a cruise.

The main reason why cruisers book inside cabins is because of the cheap price but some people also book them because they enjoy the darkness that is gained by not having any windows.

Do Inside Cabins Have Windows?

Inside cabins do not have any windows. They are located in the middle of the ship and usually have other cabins between them and the ocean, it, therefore, isn’t possible to have a window. Some solo cabins will have windows into the corridor but this is rare.

Some cruise ships on Royal Caribbean do have what is called a virtual balcony. This is basically a screen that shows what is outside of the ship. This updates in real-time.

Other than the screen these cabins are usually identical to other inside cabins but are quite a bit more expensive.

Where Are Interior Cabins Located?

Inside cabins are usually located lower down on the ship. Cruise lines like to build their ships with as many balcony cabins as possible as this is the most popular cabin grade.

Inside cabins are usually located in spaces where it isn’t possible to have a balcony or outside cabin. Older ships used to have include more ocean view cabins than balconies but modern ships contain primarily balcony cabins.

Inside cabins are often located on the lowest decks of the ship.

Are Inside Cabins on Cruise Ships Below Water?

All passenger inside cabins are above the water level and are usually located on the same deck as ocean view or balcony cabins.

When walking around a cruise ship, you’ll usually find inside cabins on one side of the corridor and balcony or ocean view cabins on the other side.

Inside cabins usually go from the front to the end of the cruise ship.

The majority of the crew on cruise ships have inside cabins which are located lower down in the ship. The crew typically have low down cabins close to other crew areas such as the crew mess.

Why do Guests Book Interior Cabins?

There are a number of reasons why guests like to book inside cabins.

The first is that they are usually much cheaper than other grades of cabins booking an inside cabin compared to an ocean view, or a balcony can sometimes save you up to 40%. Personally, I would prefer to reinvest this into a drinks package or possibly even another cruise.

Some people do enjoy the darkness that you get by booking an inside cabin as inside cabins don’t have any windows.

They are completely pitch black at night and also during the day. It is a bit strange waking up and not knowing if it is 3:00 AM or 3:00 PM but if you can get used to that and inside cabin is a great option.

If you are cruising somewhere where the sun doesn’t set or rarely sets an inside cabin can be a great option in order to help you sleep.

I recently took a cruise into the arctic circle in pursuit of the ‘midnight sun’, the sun doesn’t set in the north of Norway in summer, AT ALL! It was an incredible place to visit but very surreal.

Less Time Spent in Your Cabin

When you book an inside cabin, you have the same access to all of the facilities onboard the cruise ship.

One benefit of booking an inside cabin is that it makes you spend less time in your cabin. You have paid for everything else on the ship and if you do spend a lot of time in your cabin, you can miss out on things that are happening around the cruise ship.

An interior cabin just becomes a place where you just shower and you sleep. The better cabin grade you have the more time you’ll end up spending there.

What is in an Interior Cabin?

The Interior cabins are very clean and functional and have everything that you need.

Inside an inside cabin, you usually find at least two beds. You’ll also find a closet draws desk and sometimes a chair.

The things that you’ll find in an inside cabin or very similar to an ocean view or balcony cabin, most cruise ships will be designed with the same type of furnishings so you’ll find the same items in all of the staterooms.

You’ll usually find the same artwork, the same chairs, the same bedding, regardless of which cabin you book.

A standard interior cabin on a cruise contains the following:

• Closet/Wardrobe
• Bathroom (Shower, Toilet, and Sink)
• Minibar/Fridge
• Multiple drawers

Some cruise lines do have solo inside cabins, but these are not as common as regular inside cabins. Not all cruise lines have solo cabins.

To learn more about cruising solo, check out this post of my personal recommendations for solo cruisers:

Best Cruise Lines For Solo Cruisers (Tried & Tested, Pros & Cons!)

How Many Guests Fit in an Interior Cabin?

Many inside cabins hold up to four or possibly even five passengers. The standard set up of an interior cabin is either a double bed or twin bed.

Interior cabins will often have Pullman beds, which come down from the ceiling as shown in the video below.

Some interior cabins may also have sofa beds, but this is less common.

In the video below you’ll see that there is a door on the right hand side, this is to the next cabin and is locked unless requested to be opened by both cabins. If you are a large family consider booking two cabins with a door in-between that you can open.

I have shared an inside cabin with 3 other people before and it is okay. That said I wouldn’t recommend doing it for longer than a few days as you do end up getting in each other’s way. If you have children this is less of a problem.

Pullman beds can hold adults but they are not particularly comfortable if you are tall or like to roll around a lot when you sleep.

How do Inside Cabins Compare to Ocean View Cabins?

The square footage of an inside cabin is usually pretty similar to an ocean view or a balcony. Every inside cabin does have its own private bathroom. and they’re very well equipped despite their small size.

The below table compares inside and ocean view cabins from multiple cruise ships.

One of the perks of a balcony cabin is of course that you have extra private outside space but apart from that, the only real difference between an inside and an ocean view cabin is the window.

The windows in ocean view, cabins do not open and we have a full post on the differences between inside and ocean view cabins which you can check out below.

To Conclude:

Interior cabins are cabins located inside cruise ships that don’t have any windows. They are usually the cheapest cabin category to buy and almost all cruise ships have them.

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Carnival Fantasy Cruise Ship Interiors

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The Carnival Fantasy was built in 1990, but has been significantly refurbished several times since then and looks great. The interiors are a combination of fun, quirky, and comfortable.

Ocean View Cabin

Although the Carnival Fantasy has only 54 balcony cabins, the ocean view cabins are adequate in size and storage space, and the interior cabins are the same size and configuration. The cabin decor is plainer than some of the other Carnival ships . The only issue with the cabins was the darkness of the bathroom. Women will need to use the desk area for makeup application.

The bars and lounges are diverse and fun. Some have dance floors, and many bars feature live music. Several of the bars are found on the promenade deck, and the indoor seating along the promenade is a good place for people watching. The Universe Lounge is the large show lounge, and the two production shows we saw on our 5-day cruise were excellent.

The spa is lovely, and the fitness center is large and has great ocean views all the latest equipment.

Grand Atrium

The soaring Grand Atrium is the central hub of the Carnival Fantasy. The Grand Atrium might not be as "grand" as on newer ships, but for a first-time cruiser , it's awe-inspiring to see on a cruise ship. 

The Bar in the Grand Atrium is a great place to either watch people or let them watch you. And, the drinks are good, too!

Internet Center

In addition to Internet access at this computer center, the Carnival Fantasy also has WiFi available throughout the ship.

Art Gallery

This lovely art gallery is next to the Grand Atrium on the Carnival Fantasy.

Lego fans will love this model of the Carnival Fantasy! It's quite remarkable.

Elevator Lobby

The Carnival Fantasy is filled with artwork in most of the common areas, like this colorful piece in an elevator lobby.

Jubilee Dining Room

The Jubilee and Celebration dining rooms are the two main restaurants on the Carnival Fantasy. The cruise ship also has a buffet, deli, grill, and pizzeria. Two trendy casual eateries are outdoors—the Blue Iguana Cantina and Guy's Burger Joint. 

Dining Room

The Carnival Fantasy has two almost identical dining rooms on deck 8 that are divided by the galley. The table settings and presentation are very nice.

Pavilion Library

The Carnival Fantasy library is quiet and large but doesn't have as many books as some cruise ship libraries on smaller ships. The Carnival Fantasy is a "fun ship," so most of its activities are for groups, couples, or families. Those who love to read can find a quiet corner on the ship to "chill out" if they choose.

Cleopatra's Bar

Cleopatra's Bar is found on Atlantic Deck 8 next to the Pavilion Library on the Carnival Fantasy cruise ship.

Via Marina Promenade

The Carnival Fantasy Via Marina promenade is a long passageway that links several lounges and the casino.

The promenade has several beautiful sitting areas where passengers can enjoy a drink from one of the nearby bars or just some interesting conversation with friends.

Electricity Disco

The Electricity Disco and Dance Club are on the promenade deck 9 of the Carnival Fantasy.

Club 21 Casino

Like most large cruise ships, the casino on the Carnival Fantasy is a favorite place for those who love gaming. The casino is only open when the ship is at sea.

21st Century Bar

The 21st Century Bar is just outside the casino on the Carnival Fantasy.

Cruise travelers who enjoy specialty coffees, drinks, and snacks will enjoy the Bistro Cafe on the Carnival Fantasy.

Majestic Bar

The seating in the Majestic Bar on the Carnival Fantasy is appropriate—it's majestic and comfortable.

The Forum is found aft on deck 9 of the Carnival Fantasy cruise ship. This lounge is used for entertainment and meetings.

Universe Lounge

 The Universe Lounge is the main show lounge on the Carnival Fantasy cruise ship.

Fitness Center

Like other Carnival cruise ships , the Carnival Fantasy has an excellent fitness center and spa, with all of the latest equipment. Personal trainers will help you get into shape if you need guidance.

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Inside Look: Odyssey of the Seas Revealed

It’s about the adventure on royal caribbean’s newest ship. here’s what’s in store come..

Odyssey of the Seas is packed with showstopping entertainment and immersive activities.

Credit: Royal Caribbean

Royal Caribbean is setting the stage for the boldest adventure to sail both sides of the Atlantic with the new Odyssey of the Seas . The first Quantum Ultra Class ship to sail in North America will be the latest iteration of the groundbreaking, high-tech Quantum Class —which unveiled cruise industry firsts like the Bionic Bar and the North Star , a glass observation capsule that takes guests more than 300 feet above the ocean for 360-degree views. No one in the family will want to miss the thrills in store, combining the best of Quantum Class with bigger and bolder experiences, only found on Odyssey .

Odyssey will up the ante on vacations with a whole new look to match an action-packed top deck—including the largest indoor activity center at sea —game-changing entertainment and dining inspired by flavors from around the world. Now, imagine all that set against the backdrop of the Caribbean when the ship debuts in North America.

Read on for some of the coolest features and experiences on board Odyssey , so you can get ready to book the vacation your family and friends will talk about for years to come.

From bumper cars to the FlowRider surf simulator, you have plenty of adventures to choose from on Odyssey.

We guarantee you’ve never experienced this much action in one place: Catch a wave on the guest-favorite FlowRider surf simulator; take flight with Ripcord by iFly , a skydiving experience that gives the rush of free falling; or scale the 40-foot-tall rock wall for an epic view of the ocean. You’ll also have a bird’s-eye view of the idyllic destinations you’ll visit, from George Town, Grand Cayman to our private island destination, Perfect Day at CocoCay , thanks to the North Star—which happens to be in the Guinness Book of World Records for “Highest Viewing Deck on a Cruise Ship!”

At SeaPlex, you’ll find a full-sized sports court, trapeze school, VR games upstairs and the only bumper cars at sea.

Next-Level SeaPlex

One of Odyssey ’s most exciting features is the largest indoor activity space at sea—and this one’s on a whole other level: SeaPlex is where the whole crew can have a blast. Adrenaline junkies can feed their need for speed while dodging and dashing their way across a full-sized sports court in the only bumper cars at sea, soar from the trapeze and play interactive VR games. The space will also double as a glow-in-the-dark laser tag arena, pitting Yetis and Snowshifters against each other as they battle for survival and control of the mythical ice city in Clash for the Crystal City .

Want to catch some on-screen action and root for the home team? Head upstairs to SeaPlex’s second floor for a front-row seat at the ultimate Playmakers Sports Bar & Arcade . The elevated views give you the chance to catch the competition below while tuning in to the big games on TV or playing arcade game classics, trivia, tournaments and pool. For a snack between adventures, refuel with buffalo wings, sliders and the signature Playmakers Burger, along with ice-cold brews.

Soak up the sun from a relaxing in-pool lounger on Odyssey.

Upgraded Downtime

Soak up the sun—and the island vibes—on the pool deck. With two resort-style pools and four whirlpools, plenty of fun for kids and where adults can unwind, there’s something for all ages. The youngest of travelers can get soaked at Splashaway Bay , an aqua park that boasts waterslides, fountains, water cannons and more, while adults can head to the Solarium , a relaxing retreat with swimming pools, whirlpools, a full-service bar, daybeds and hidden nooks. There are a variety of ways to enjoy this hot spot: Grab a casita, hammock or in-pool lounger and enjoy a beach read (and a cocktail!) by day, or enjoy entertainment under the stars by night.

Pro tip: Be sure to try a cocktail from The Lime & Coconut , snack on Mexican street fare from El Loco Fresh and catch the live music, too .

By day, Two70 offers expansive ocean views thanks to a 270-degree, floor-to-ceiling wall of windows. At night, the venue transforms into a multimedia theater that showcases entertainment with high-tech video projection, Roboscreens and aerialist performers.

Teched-Out Entertainment

As the sun sets, the curtain rises on new, unrivaled entertainment. Leading the way is Two70 , where guests are treated to mesmerizing shows that not only feature some of the most talented singers, dancers and aerialists but also immersive technology and unparalleled special effects. Two—or technically seven—of the most striking features in this space are the signature Vistarama, which transforms the 270-degree panoramic windows into a seamless projection surface for spectacular digital imagery, and six agile Roboscreens that create scenes as they gracefully soar, twist and dance.

Pro tip: Two70 also houses a gourmet café that’s open during the day. Be sure to grab a bite and take in the gorgeous, sunlit views of the ocean!

That’s not the only entertainment in store: Snag front-row seats at the Royal Theater , where you can take in full-scale original productions and renowned Broadway shows. The dance floor is also calling at Music Hall , a guest-favorite and signature Royal Caribbean venue with a roster of incredible cover bands and an always-revolving setlist of hit after hit. Sip a cocktail at one of two bars, jam out songs you know and love, enjoy the tunes from the lounge seating or head to the pool tables.

Guests can enjoy the “Sunday supper” experience at Giovanni’s Italian Kitchen & Wine Bar, serving classic Italian dishes with a contemporary flair.

Credit: ROYAL CARIBBEAN

International Flavors

When it’s time to eat, get ready to be wowed. Odyssey will introduce Teppanyaki —the first time this venue will make its debut in North America—serving authentic Far East cuisine in the traditional Japanese hibachi style. The menu comes together as expert chefs cook fresh seafood and top-grade steaks at the table.

Italian enthusiasts will love  Giovanni’s Italian Kitchen & Wine Bar , which will serve up classics with a contemporary flair—from hand-tossed pizzas to a mouthwatering station of cured meats and specialty cheeses—as well as an impressive selection of wines and limoncellos.

Pro tip: Don’t forget to check out some of our most popular restaurants and dishes, including Izumi’s sushi and sashimi, hand-cut steaks at Chops Grille , an epicurean experience at Chef’s Table and Wonderland’s chocolate dessert ball (it melts before your eyes with caramel sauce!).

The next iteration of our award-winning Adventure Ocean kids program provides children of all ages with immersive, hands-on experiences. Hangout, pictured above, gives kids ages 6 to 10 the space to let loose and lounge with gaming consoles, foosball and more.

Fun for All Ages

Even the tiniest of travelers will be encouraged to play outside the lines at the new Adventure Ocean , our award-winning kids program. Children and their families can choose their own immersive adventures and discover whimsical rooms with climbable creations at Play Place; hands-on art, science and tech fun at Workshop; friendly competition in physical, interactive games at Arena; and make new friends over gaming consoles or while just sitting back in Hangout. The area will also feature a dedicated AO Babies for babies and tots, plus, experiential activities at the multipurpose AO Junior area specially designed for 3- to 5-year-olds.

Social180, an exclusive venue for teens, lets them relax and make friends over movies, music and games, plus a dedicated patio that’s the largest in our fleet.

Teens ages 13 to 17 years old will have hip, cool spaces of their own, too, with the introduction of Social180—located just outside SeaPlex, right in the heart of it all. They’ll be free to take on the competition at SeaPlex or chill with the latest gaming consoles, music and movies in their own lounge or out on the private patio.

Odyssey will be the first Quantum Ultra Class ship to visit Willemstad, Curacao and Oranjestad, Aruba when the ship begins sailing from South Florida.

Seasonal Adventure

In the Caribbean, guests will have as much to do on shore as they will on board Odyssey : Top shore excursions will include snorkeling through the tropical reefs of  Cozumel, Mexico  and digging in to the local cuisine of  Oranjestad, Aruba . (Fun fact: Along with Willemstad, Curacao, Oranjestad is a brand-new destination for Quantum Ultra Class ships). In 2022, when Odyssey heads to Rome, Italy, don’t miss your chance to marvel at the beauty and history of the idyllic isles of the Mediterannean, including Rhodes, Santorini and Mykonos, Greece and Limassol, Cyprus.

Your greatest adventure awaits on Odyssey of the Seas . Book your once-in-a-lifetime experience on Royal Caribbean’s newest ship here .

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I sailed on Royal Caribbean's Icon of the Seas. These were my 8 favorite amenities on the world's largest cruise ship.

• Royal Caribbean invited me to spend three complimentary nights on its new Icon of the Seas  in January.
• My eight favorite amenities included the waterpark and jazz bar.
• I've yet to see most of the amenities on my list on other cruise ships.

There's a reason Royal Caribbean's new mega-cruise ship is only operating seven-night sailings .

The 1,196-foot-long, 20-deck Icon of the Seas is packed with bars, restaurants, and things to do. Any shorter of an itinerary, and you might not have time to experience all it has to offer.

If you're a frequent cruiser — especially with Royal Caribbean — amenities like the mini-golf course and water playground may not seem exciting.

But of all the activities the new world's largest cruise ship has to offer, my eight favorites are, for the most part, ones I've yet to see on another vessel.

Take a look at what made the cut.

1. The six-slide waterpark

It wouldn't be a roundup of Icon of the Seas' best amenities without a mention of its waterpark.

Plenty of family-friendly cruise ships have waterslides, but few have six — or even one that requires a multi-person raft.

However, if you don't like the feeling of your stomach dropping, I'd advise skipping the 46-foot-tall drop slide.

2. The adult-only suspended infinity pool

The 7,600-guest Icon of the Seas has seven pools and nine hot tubs. As a kid-fearing adult, I loved the grown-ups-only suspended infinity pool.

I spent my time there perched at one of its in-water loungers, contently splashing my legs around the water, wondering if I actually hated cruises.

While I would've preferred a quieter atmosphere (the DJ did not, in fact, play smooth jazz), the pool's views, day beds, and lack of screaming children were hard to beat.

3. The Crown’s Edge thrill 'ride'

There's no need to grab coffee before harnessing up for the part-zipling, part-agility Crown's Edge course. You'll be jolted awake when the floor drops from beneath your feet, leaving you dangling 154 feet above the ocean before the zipline kicks in.

Unfortunately, it comes with two costs: $49 and a spike of anxiety.

4. The 'Wizard of Oz' and 'Aqua Action!' shows

If you hate cruise shows, Icon of the Seas could make you change your mind.

The ship's riff on Broadway-approved "Wizard of Oz" — 16-piece live orchestra and flying bed included — delighted me, a hater of most musicals.

For something less traditional, the semi-circle AquaDome theater hosts a compelling multi-disciplinary swim, dive, and aerial show reminiscent of Cirque du Soleil.

It's the first show-at-sea I've seen with a waterfall and nine-foot-tall robotic arms, and so far, it's one of my favorites.

5. The live jazz bar

Ya like jazz? So do I.

Icon of the Seas has plenty of live music venues — including rowdy karaoke and dueling pianos bars, if that counts. But if you're a jazz fan or looking for a peaceful nightcap, none of these options will top the live music at Lou's Jazz 'n Blues.

6. The customizable Mediterranean-style wrap at the five-stall food hall

The mega-ship's food hall wasn't nearly as diverse or exciting as the one on Norwegian Prima .

But compared to the rest of my mediocre meals on Icon of the Seas — including dinner at a specialty restaurant — my complimentary pork pita wrap from the food hall's Mediterranean-inspired stall was admittedly pretty decent.

The Cava -like meal was balanced, succulent, and filling. Ending it with a strawberry nutella crepe from one of the vendors didn't hurt either.

7. The Pearl Café with sweeping ocean views

Everyone takes a picture inside the Pearl . But few people know that the best part about the glittering structure isn't what's inside it — it's what's behind it: the Pearl Café.

Admittedly, the food wasn't standout.

But it's 2024. In this era, we don't dine for food. We dine for vibes . And the Pearl Café was definitely "serving" (even with its mediocre sandwiches).

At first glance, I had snubbed the dining and lounge area as a rip-off of a generic airport coffee shop. But during my three days on Icon, I returned to the centrally located space more often than expected. It turns out it's a great place to get some work done.

8. The lounging pods that tower above passerbys

Speaking of vibes, if you're looking for a secluded place to drink (as in, not the swim-up pool bar), few will top the Overlook Pods, perched just behind the AquaDome.

If you want to feel like you're drinking in a nest atop a tree, bring your coffee-infused cocktail from nearby Rye and Bean to one of the elevated pods. .

Just don't drink too much. What goes up must come down. And to get down from the pods, you'll have to take the stairs.

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Tour Two Fairy-Tale Suites Aboard the New Disney Wish Cruise Ship

This castle at sea boasts the most enchanting luxury spaces including a secret tower penthouse inside the ship’s funnel. Keep scrolling for a peek into the most posh rooms you’d never guess are on a cruise ship.

A High-End Fairy Tale Cruise

You may not think of a cruise ship as a designer showcase home, but Disney Cruise Line is trying to change that by creating a castle-at-sea that harkens back to the golden age of ocean travel in the 1900s. Disney Wish , the brand-new ship and fifth addition to DCL’s fleet, is an architectural marvel dripping in opulence and inspired by the theme "enchantment." Gone is the standard boat atrium and instead there’s a grand hall that mimics a soaring gothic cathedral. But what’s most impressive is how the design team created such high-end spaces amid strict structural limitations and safety regulations of materials, especially the ship’s signature suites: four royal suites and one tower penthouse hidden inside the ship’s front funnel.

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Body of Passenger Found After Going Overboard on Elvis Cruise

Andrea Santillan

• May 6, 2024

Authorities recovered the body of a man who went overboard from a P&O cruise ship on Monday morning. He reportedly went missing ten nautical miles from Sydney Heads, around 11 miles from the nearest shore.

The P&O-owned cruise ship, Pacific Adventure, was about to end a 3-day Elvis-themed cruise when it alerted Australian authorities about a man overboard incident at around 4 in the morning. 

Instead of heading to the Sydney port as planned, the vessel stayed in the area and participated in search and rescue efforts. The Australian Maritime Safety Authority’s Joint Rescue Coordination Centre headed the operation. A rescue helicopter and nearby vessels searched the waters while infrared technology was used to detect heat signatures from the water. 

According to police, rough conditions complicated their operations. Rescue teams faced swells up to 5 meters high and winds traveling up to 60 kilometers an hour.

On board the Pacific Adventure, passengers were given a brief update over the PA system. The 2001-built ship carried around 2,600 guests who had signed up for a 3-day Tribute to the King cruise in honor of the late Elvis Presley. It left Australia on May 3 and sailed to Moreton Island, Queensland.

After a voyage filled with themed parties, trivia games, and karaoke, it was supposed to return to its Sydney home port on May 6 at 6 a.m.

After the vessel’s late arrival in Sydney, Pacific Adventure’s next itinerary was delayed by a few hours from Monday afternoon to Monday evening.

In April 2023, another ship that sailed from Australia faced a man overboard incident . Despite a comprehensive search, the passenger was never found.

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