Royal Caribbean has confirmed the future of its Icon-Class ships, announcing on September 23, 2026, that it has ordered Icon 5 for delivery in 2028 and signed a deal to continue working with Finland’s Meyer Turku shipyard for another ten years.
Every Icon Class ship is being built at Meyer Turku, which has delivered 25 ships to Royal Caribbean since the mid-1990s.
“As we continue to reimagine the future of vacations, we are excited to continue collaborating with Meyer Turku to grow the Icon Class – a first-of-its-kind series that delivers exceptional vacation experiences – and position us to usher in a new era of innovation that will disrupt the vacation sector through 2036,” said Jason Liberty, president and CEO of Royal Caribbean Group.
In addition to placing the order for Icon 5, Royal Caribbean also secured an option for a seventh Icon ship, adding to its existing option for Icon 6.
The Icon-Class is Royal Caribbean’s newest and biggest series of vessels, each carrying over 5,600 guests and offering themed neighbourhoods, cutting-edge technology, and large-scale entertainment.
The first ship, Icon of the Seas, launched in January 2024 at 248,663 gross tons, and was promoted as the world’s largest cruise ship. Star of the Seas, at the same size, followed in August 2025, with Legend of the Seas due to enter service in summer 2026, and Hero of the Seas (name pending) expected the following year.
The potential Icon 6 and Icon 7 orders are dependent on financing, but overall, Royal Caribbean has outlined plans for nine new ships and seven land-based destinations by 2028.
So far, Icon 5 is currently nameless! But usually they follow in the same footsteps as their sisters. So it’ll be mythic, aspirational, and similar to: Icon, Star, Legend, and Hero.
In all honesty, my number one guess would be Titan of the Seas!
Given that cruises are usually announced 12 to 18 months in advance, I would guess maybe mid-2026?
You can usually find me on a cruise ship, somewhere in Europe, or sneaking a beach day. I share beautiful photos, travel tips, and the occasional ‘why did I book this?’ moment.
I have t-shirts, enamel pins, and digital downloads!!
