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Royal Caribbean fans love a good mystery. Long before a new ship is officially announced, eagle-eyed cruise enthusiasts often scour maritime databases looking for clues about what’s coming next… Now, a new name has appeared that’s generating plenty of discussion across the cruise community: Champion of the Seas.
The name has *allegedly* recently surfaced in the Equasis maritime database, listed as a vessel under construction with a gross tonnage of approximately 248,000 and a projected delivery date of 2028. Those figures place it firmly within the range of Royal Caribbean’s record-breaking Icon Class ships.
While Royal Caribbean has not officially announced the name of its fifth Icon Class vessel, many cruise fans believe Champion of the Seas could be Icon 5.
So, how likely is it?
Well… Most likely.
Equasis is an established maritime database used throughout the shipping industry. Cruise enthusiasts have previously spotted future Royal Caribbean ship names appearing in the database before the cruise line made formal announcements… AKA Hero of the Seas.
That’s why the appearance of Champion of the Seas has attracted so much attention.
Although ship names can change during development, seeing a name attached to a vessel matching the size and timeline of a future Icon Class ship is enough to get people talking.
Does the Name Fit the Icon Class?
Royal Caribbean’s recent naming strategy has centred around powerful, aspirational words:
- Icon of the Seas
- Star of the Seas
- Legend of the Seas
- Hero of the Seas
If Champion of the Seas becomes reality, it would continue that trend.
The word “Champion” evokes achievement, success and leadership. It feels bold, energetic and distinctly Royal Caribbean.
Not everyone is convinced, though.
What We Know About Icon 5 / Champion of the Seas
Very little has been officially revealed.
Royal Caribbean has confirmed additional Icon Class ships are in development, with the fifth vessel expected to arrive in 2028. Beyond that, the cruise line remains tight-lipped about future names, itineraries and onboard innovations.
If Champion of the Seas is indeed Icon 5, we are likely still a considerable distance away from an official announcement.
