Near complete Icon of the Seas will use LNG fuel to transport 5610 cruisers
Royal Caribbean’s record breaking Icon of the Seas is nearing completion in Finland, and will be the first in the fleet to use the more sustainable LNG fuel.
Royal Caribbean recently welcomed the first group of international media onboard the ship at Meyer shipyard in Turku, presenting a range of new features and sustainability measures on what is being described as ‘the ultimate family vacation’.
Tim Meyer, CEO, Meyer Turku told Travel Weekly that the process of creating a sustainable cruise liner is ongoing, but the journey is underway.
“The biggest challenge is we don’t yet know the technology that will bring us to the ultimate goal, and that is something we are developing and you have to look at different streams,” Meyer, said.
“Which fuel in the future is the right fuel? We have LNG here which at the moment is the right fuel, we can reduce emissions and it (Icon of the Seas) is also fit for purpose for other fuels which might be created.
“It’s a combination of different technologies but we also have to face the fact that we have to start today in order to get to where we want to be in the future.”
Liquified natural gas (LNG) is considered the cleanest burning fossil fuel available, resulting in virtually zero sulfur dioxides and particulates and a significant reduction in nitros oxides.
The Icon of the Seas is set to change the cruising industry, with 20 restaurants on board, as well as the largest swimming pool and water slides at sea and a range of immersive entertainment options and has already seen record breaking sales.
“When we opened Icon for sale, we had the biggest booking days and weeks in our 50-year history for the launch of a new product,” CEO, Royal Caribbean, Michael Bayley, said.
“It speaks to how the consumer relates to Royal Caribbean as a brand as well as the product.”
The Icon of the Seas is on track to be delivered in October this year, and will sail its first itineraries out of Miami in January of 2024.
Email the Travel Weekly team at traveldesk@travelweekly.com.au
finland Icon Of The Seas Michael Bayley royal caribbean Tim Meyer TurkuLatest News
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