Icon of the Seas, world's largest cruise ship, docks in Puerto Rico

The much-anticipated arrival of the world's largest cruise ship, Icon of the Seas, took place in the Caribbean on January 2, setting the stage for its grand debut later this month.

Docking in Ponce, Puerto Rico, the colossal vessel gave locals and visitors a glimpse of its magnificence, drawing comparisons to a size five times larger than the Titanic, reported New York Post.

Departing from the Spanish port of Algeciras on December 23, the brand-new Icon of the Seas embarked on a nine-day voyage across the Atlantic Ocean, arriving in Puerto Rico for final adjustments and assessments before its inaugural journey.

Michael Bayley, the CEO and President of Royal Caribbean International, shared the ship's arrival excitement, stating, "Oh look who just arrived early this morning into the port in Ponce, Puerto Rico! ICON! The next few days lots of regulatory inspections, loading and offloading equipment, yard workers going home, and more crew arriving along with a very special crew member. Preparations going well for the arrival into Miami on Jan 9th where we will host the ICON arrival party."

Scheduled for its first commercial voyage on January 27, the cruise will commence from Miami, offering a seven-night experience sailing through the eastern or western Caribbean, encompassing ports of call such as the Bahamas, Mexico, Honduras, St. Maarten, and St. Thomas, according to USA Today.

Describing it as the ultimate family vacation, Michael Bayley emphasised the extensive efforts and innovation poured into creating this extraordinary ship, calling it "mind-blowing."

According to CNN, Royal Caribbean International's 'Icon of the Seas' spans 365 metres in length, weighing an estimated 250,800 tonnes. With a capacity to accommodate about 5,610 passengers and 2,350 crew members, the ship was constructed at a cost of $2 billion.

The luxurious vessel boasts 20 decks, housing a food hall and six pools, including the world's largest waterpark at sea, referred to as Category 6. Royal Caribbean promotes it as an adrenaline-pumping experience and an unparalleled relaxation spot, inviting guests to partake in various entertainment and dining options.

In addition to the vast waterpark, the cruise offers resort-like amenities, a beach retreat, a theme park, and an extensive range of dining and entertainment choices, ensuring an all-encompassing experience for travellers seeking both adventure and leisure.

Among its attractions are family-friendly aqua parks, a swim-up bar, exclusive dining venues, arcades, live performances, and various recreational facilities, promising a diverse and captivating experience for all aboard.