Royal Caribbean International has marked a major milestone with its newest cruise ship, Legend of the Seas, which touched water for the first time on August 29, 2025, at the Meyer Turku shipyard in Finland. The float-out signals that the vessel is moving from assembly to the outfitting and testing phase before welcoming its first passengers.
As the third Icon Class ship, following Icon of the Seas and Star of the Seas, the Legend of the Seas is designed to be one of the world’s largest cruise ships. Measuring 1,196 feet long and 159 feet wide, the ship will accommodate up to 5,600 guests across 2,800 cabins. A standout feature is its parabolic bow, which improves stability and ensures smoother sailing in rough waters.
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A Sustainable Leap Forward
Legend of the Seas is also a step forward in sustainable cruising. It will be powered by six dual-fuel engines capable of running on liquefied natural gas (LNG), dramatically reducing emissions compared to traditional fuels. Supplementary systems, including fuel cells for low-emission electricity and freshwater production, reinforce Royal Caribbean’s commitment to reaching net-zero emissions by 2035. For passengers, this means a cleaner, greener cruise without sacrificing luxury or comfort.
Where It Will Sail
The ship is scheduled to debut in summer 2026 with Mediterranean itineraries from Barcelona and Civitavecchia (Rome), featuring stops in Naples, Florence/Pisa, Palma de Mallorca, and Marseille. In November 2026, after a transatlantic voyage, it will begin year-round Caribbean cruises out of Fort Lauderdale, offering travelers a mix of cultural exploration and tropical escapes.
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Shaping the Future of Cruising
Legend of the Seas reflects Royal Caribbean’s push to expand the Icon Class, with a fourth vessel already in progress and options for two more. The class blends cutting-edge design, sustainability, and world-class entertainment, setting a new benchmark for the cruise industry.
For Royal Caribbean, the launch is more than a new ship — it’s a statement of innovation and environmental responsibility that positions the company as a leader in the future of cruising.
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