Icon of the Seas is the Best Family Vacation in the World – here's why
How will you spend your week onboard Icon of the Seas?
The Best Family Vacation in the World debuts in just six short months. Icon of the Seas will be home to a slew of firsts, including record-breaking waterslides, rides, and other family-friendly attractions. Never-before-seen dining options designed to be a treat for the senses.
And 7 pools level up every sun-soaked sea day. With eight sprawling neighborhoods, each with its own unique vibe — how will you spend your week onboard Icon of the Seas?
Dial up the daring
Adrenaline-amping adventures converge at Thrill Island. Brace yourself for the largest water park at sea, Category 6. Race to the summit of Adrenaline Peak and pair up for putts at Lost Dunes
Relax and kick back
The go-to spot for sun-seekers, Chill Island is an upper deck oasis built around the biggest pool deck ever to set sail - and rocks with the rhythm of live music and DJs at every turn.
Full-on family fun
The new Surfside neighborhood is all about families, with a Splashway BAy aquapark, 5 places to grab a bite, a retro arcade, block parties, and a beach-themed carousel.
Displays that dazzle
World-class performers take on superhuman stunts alongside a shapeshifting waterfall.
And 5 food stands serve up a smorgasbord of tasty options under the shimmering Aquadome.
“Thank you so much for being so patient with us. We had a great first cruise. Your advice was spot on especially with the dining package. ”
Icon of the Seas Vacation
Get outdoors - at sea
Go on a stroll through the lush open-air Central Park - where over 13,000 tropical plants and trees grow along the winding pathways and four living walls soar 5 decks high.
Icon of the Seas Vacation
Upgrade your stay
Discover the Suite Neighborhood, a retreat with indulgences exclusively for suite guests. Like a two-story sun deck, private pool and two exclusive restaurants just for you.
Icon of the Seas from Miami, Florida starting at $1,699 per person. Bookings are available now.
Have questions about planning your Orlando vacation? I have answers! Contact me now to get more out of your vacation.
Since 2010, Darren has been making Orlando vacations easy! As an Orlando resident, he is able to provide insider, expert advice on Walt Disney World, Universal Orlando, and Florida-based cruises.
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The World’s Biggest Weekend! Utopia of the Seas - Arrives in Orlando July 2024
3 and 4 night cruises on Utopia of the Seas, one of Royal Caribbean’s new mega ships.
Introducing Utopia of the Seas — the ship that's totally transforming weekends for good. I’m talking bigger flavors. Bolder play. And better chill days than you ever imagined.
No craving goes unsatisfied with over 40 ways to dine and drink.
New show-stopping spectaculars cue the applause like never before.
Earn bragging rights daily with seventeen adrenaline-pumping slides, and pool hop till you drop with countless ways to make a splash.
This is the World's Biggest Weekend — arriving in Orlando (Port Canaveral) 2024. Get a quote now >
Bigger Ways to Splash
Seven different pools take splash to the max onboard — and onshore at Perfect Day at CocoCay, including the Caribbean's largest freshwater pool.
Six different beaches put powdery sands and turquoise waters at your feet, and weekday worries miles away.
And daredevils earn bragging rights daily on 17 thrill-inducing slides!
Bigger Ways to Dine
Full flavor goes full throttle in just a few days at more than 20 unique dining venues onboard.
Swoon over soul food brunch staples like fried chicken and waffles.
Refuel with mouthwatering bites just steps from the pool. Indulge in wood-fired pizzas and rustic Italian favorites al fresco.
Or go all-in at Royal Caribbean’s most indulgent buffet ever.
And it's all aboard for culinary adventure at an immersive dining experience that takes the senses across the world.
Bigger Ways to Party
Weekends are for playing hard — and on the new Utopia of the Seas, there are no limits.
Step your bar crawl way up across 21 bottle-popping spots serving craft cocktails and libations.
Five live music venues pull out all the stops with chart-toppers night after night.
Jaw-droppingly spectacular shows blow your mind on stage, ice, air and water. And whatever your game is, bet on big-time thrills with slots, poker and blackjack at two action-packed casinos.
“Thank you so much for being so patient with us. We had a great first cruise. Your advice was spot on especially with the dining package. ”
Have questions about planning your Orlando vacation? I have answers! Contact me now to get more out of your vacation.
Since 2010, Darren has been making Orlando vacations easy! As an Orlando resident, he is able to provide insider, expert advice on Walt Disney World, Universal Orlando, and Florida-based cruises.
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Short Cruises from Port Canaveral on Utopia of the Seas
Utopia of the Seas will challenge the Disney Wish on 3 and 4 night Bahamian sailings from Orlando.
Royal Caribbean’s new ship, Utopia of the Seas will be among the largest cruise ships in the world, and we now know that it will call Orlando (Port Canaveral) home starting in July 2024. Reservations are available now ▸
This is literally big news.
Utopia is an Oasis Class ship, which will be able to accommodate 5,700 guests and will sail to Nassau and Perfect Day at CocoCay, Royal Caribbean’s private island in the Bahamas.
Utopia will follow a similar itinerary as the Disney Wish with alternating 3-night weekend cruises followed by 4-night weekday cruises.
This makes it easy for those who need a short getaway or for travelers looking for a land and sea vacation with Walt Disney World and Universal Orlando.
Utopia of the Seas coming to Orlando in 2024
Utopia of the Seas - what I know so far.
Utopia will feature a variety of new and returning venues – some reimagined for the vessel – across eight neighborhoods.
She will have over 20 dining options, including a revamped version of the Izumi restaurant with twice as many teppanyaki tables and outdoor seating in the ship’s Central Park area.
Utopia of the Seas will call Orlando, Florida home
Izumi in the Park, a window where you can get sushi and sweet Japanese-inspired treats will be next door.
You’ll also find an expanded, two-story version of Giovanni’s Italian Kitchen & Wine Bar, and a new extension of the eatery, Gio’s Terrazza, located above the Boardwalk neighborhood.
Giovanni’s Italian Kitchen & Wine Bar
New Caribbean bar Pesky Parrot – located on the Royal Promenade – will serve fruity cocktails with rum, gin, and tequila, along with frozen drinks and other items.
There will also be an immersive dining experience that takes guests on an immersive “locomotive journey” with multiple courses and sophisticated technology elements.
Guests can choose from over 20 kinds of accommodations, including the new Solarium Suites, which feature sweeping views and access to the line’s Royal Suite Class experience.
There are also five pools, two casinos, a zip line, rock climbing walls and more.
“Thank you so much for being so patient with us. We had a great first cruise. Your advice was spot on especially with the dining package. ”
Have questions about planning your Orlando vacation? I have answers! Contact me now to get more out of your vacation.
Since 2010, Darren has been making Orlando vacations easy! As an Orlando resident, he is able to provide insider, expert advice on Walt Disney World, Universal Orlando, and Florida-based cruises.
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See what I’m up to in the theme parks.
Icon of the Seas Offers Unique Ways to Have Fun at Night
From the Overlook Pods to Casino Royale, you’ll have a night out like never before onboard Icon of the Seas
A night out on Icon of the Seas will be a totally unique experience. Turn up the volume on unforgettable with rockin' set lists. Make it a party for two with starlit sips set to the soundtrack of soulful classics. Or fuel your whole team’s competitive spirit with a rousing round of darts, brews over billiards, and retro arcade classics
Check out Exclusive Offers for Icon of the Seas here ▸
Icon of the Seas will be completed in early 2024
“Thank you so much for being so patient with us. We had a great first cruise. Your advice was spot on especially with the dining package. ”
Have questions about planning your Orlando vacation? I have answers! Contact me now to get more out of your vacation.
Darren is a Disney-focused travel agent with Magical Vacations Travel and has over 13 years of experience. Readers of the Unofficial Guide to Walt Disney World rate him as a Best of the Best Disney Travel Agent. Darren is also an Orlando-based travel writer with topics ranging from theme parks to cruise lines.
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Royal Caribbean Summer Sailing Bonus Offer and Kids Sail Free
Kids Sail Free plus Summer Sailing Bonus available now for a limited time.
This is more than a vacation. It’s a routine-breaking, memory-making adventure that surpasses everything you thought was possible in just one getaway.
As your cruise travel agent, I’ll help you unlock uncharted thrills, unparalleled thrills — and unbelievable savings like Kids Sail Free and the Summer Sailing Bonus.
When you book right now, this is what you’ll score:
CRUISE FARE SAVINGS:
30% off every guest who sails!
KIDS SAIL FREE*
Book the whole family, because little cruisers sail free!
SUMMER SAILING BONUS:
Rake in additional dollars off when you sail between May 24 – September 1, 2023:
$50 off on sailings 5 nights or less
$100 off on sailings 6 nights or longer
Hurry, offer valid February 1 – 28, 2023
Have questions about planning your Orlando vacation? I have answers! Contact me now to get more out of your vacation.
Darren is a Disney-focused travel agent with Magical Vacations Travel and has over 13 years of experience. Readers of the Unofficial Guide to Walt Disney World rate him as a Best of the Best Disney Travel Agent. Darren is also an Orlando-based travel writer with topics ranging from theme parks to cruise lines.
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See what I’m up to in the theme parks.
Utopia of the Seas - The World's largest Cruise Ship Coming in 2024
Utopia of the Seas will be the largest cruise ship in the world.
Royal Caribbean announced that work has officially started on the next Oasis Class cruise ship, Utopia of the Seas. While we don’t know much about it just yet, Royal Caribbean shared that it will be the largest cruise ship in the world and the first Oasis Class cruise ship to be powered by liquified natural gas.
I’m a big fan of the Oasis Class cruise ships, having just sailed on Symphony of the Seas, I can tell you there’s no experience like it. You can see photos from my adventure on my social media channels:
facebook.com/orlandoparksguy
Instagram.com/orlandoparksguy (@orlandoparksguy)
Check out my photo tour of Symphony of the Seas here
In January 2022 Wonder of the Seas, currently the largest cruise ship in the world has officially joined Royal Caribbean’s fleet.
The next of the revolutionary Oasis Class, the world’s newest wonder offers new and returning adventures for all ages. Wonder of the Seas is sailing from Fort Lauderdale, Florida. It will then go to the Mediterranean in May.
Have questions about cruising? You’re in luck, I’m a Royal Caribbean Travel Agent! Contact me today to get started.
Darren is a Disney-focused travel agent with Magical Vacations Travel and has over 13 years of experience. Readers of the Unofficial Guide to Walt Disney World rate him as a Best of the Best Disney Travel Agent. Darren is also an Orlando-based travel writer with topics ranging from theme parks to cruise lines.
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Snapshot of Royal Caribbean's Testing Requirments
Royal Caribbean is making it easier for families to cruise together. Here’s the updated list of healthy saiding protocols
There’s been a change to Royal Caribbean’s Pre-Cruise and Embark testing requirements for unvaccinated guests age 2 - 11 for sailings departing on or after December 17, 2021.
RCCL will now accept a negative PCR test result to satisfy the Pre-Cruise testing requirement for this age group.
Additionally, instead of taking a PCR test at embarkation, unvaccinated guests age 2 - 11 will receive a complimentary antigen test.
This change will allow for a smoother start to your young cruisers sailing and embarkation. These protocols are subject to change.
What’s the difference between a PCR test and an antigen test?
The antigen test is used to quickly determine if you are at risk of spreading the virus. Rapid antigen tests are often used at places of work and for travel. Results are ready in 15 minutes.
PCR tests are considered the most accurate and can detect the virus even in those not experiencing symptoms. Results can take a bit longer. If taking a PCR test at home, be sure to follow the directions carefully.
Snapshot of Royal Caribbean’s Testing Requirements.
All guests 12 and older must be fully vaccinated at least 14 days before sailing. Guests under the age of 12, who are considered fully vaccinated, should follow the guidance for vaccinated guests below. Children with one dose of a vaccine do not count as fully vaccinated for the purpose of sailing. Click here to learn more.
Testing
Pre-Cruise: All guests 2 years and older must present a negative COVID-19 test result.
Vaccinated guests ages 12 and over: PCR or antigen test must be taken no more than 2 days prior to sailing.
UPDATED! Unvaccinated children ages 2 to 11: PCR test must be taken no more than 3 days prior to sailing — but not on boarding day. Antigen tests are not accepted for unvaccinated guests.
No testing required for guests under age 2.
Pre-cruise testing costs and scheduling are the guest's responsibility.
UPDATED! Embarkation Day: Unvaccinated guests ages 2 to 11 will take a complimentary antigen test for COVID-19 during check-in. Registration details will be sent via email in advance.
Onboard: For sailings that are 5 nights or longer, unvaccinated guests ages 2 to 11 will take a complimentary antigen test prior to debark. Sailings longer than 10 nights may have additional onboard testing requirements. Registration details will be provided onboard.
Need help with planning your cruise? Have more questions about cruising in 2022? Contact me today! I can help.
Darren is a Disney-focused travel agent with Magical Vacations Travel and has over 12 years of experience. Readers of the Unofficial Guide to Walt Disney World rate him as a Best of the Best Disney Travel Agent. Darren is also an Orlando-based travel writer with topics ranging from theme parks to cruise lines.
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Offer Alert: Royal Caribbean Cruise Line 2022 Sailings
Good deals come to those who can't wait! Book your 2022 Royal Caribbean cruise now and save! Just in! Royal Caribbean is set to launch a new offer on November 2 that will bring big savings and perks to those looking to vacation in 2022.
As with most cruises, booking early means bigger savings. The best way to save on a cruise is to book when fares are first released and as far in advance as possible.
But with this offer, you are not only booking well in advance, but there are three money saving offers you can combine on your cruise booking.
There are plenty of cruises leaving Orlando Florida and Miami in 2022. I recommend one that stops at Perfect Day at Coco Cay - Royal Caribbean’s private island in the Bahamas.
Royal Caribbean Cruise Line 2022 Cruise Deals
GOOD DEALS COME TO THOSE WHO CAN’T WAIT
THE BIG 30
Every guest enjoys 30% on select 2021 and 2022 sailings.
INSTANT SAVINGS
Up to $150 off when your clients sail in 2022.
ONBOARD CREDIT
Get and on board credit from Darren at Magical Vacations Travel.
In addition to saving money, Royal Caribbean has extended its Cruise with Confidence program. This program allows you more flexibility with the cancellation policy.
CRUISE WITH CONFIDENCE
Cancel up to 48 hours before sailing for a Future Cruise Credit.
BEST PRICE GUARANTEE
Spot a better price on a booked cruise up to 48 hours before you sail? I’ll have Royal Caribbean will match it.
Darren is a Disney-focused travel agent with Magical Vacations Travel and has over 12 years of experience. Readers of the Unofficial Guide to Walt Disney World rate him as a Best of the Best Disney Travel Agent. Darren is also an Orlando-based travel writer with topics ranging from theme parks to cruise lines.
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Disney Genie+ is going away. Here’s a new, simple way to skip the lines at Disney World.