From David Volz
PortMiami, a major cruise port, welcomed Royal Caribbean Group’s Icon of the Seas, the largest cruise ship in the world. Icon of the Seas will be homeported year-round from PortMiami. Among the ship’s unique features are 40 ways to dine and drink, 28 ways of accommodation, 20 decks, nine whirlpools, eight neighborhoods, seven pools, and six waterslides.
“Miami-Dade County is thrilled by the arrival of Icon of the Seas, which will attract cruise passengers from around the world and positively impact our economy,” said Miami-Dade County Mayor Daniella Levine Cava. “Not only are we celebrating the delivery of the largest cruise ship in the world, but the most sustainable ship in Royal Caribbean’s fleet to date.”
Icon of the Seas is Royal Caribbean’s first Icon Class ship and first ship with fuel cell technology and powered by liquefied natural gas (LNG). The dual-fuel engines will work alongside a lineup of energy efficiency initiatives and industry-leading environmental programs on board, like the first waste-to-energy plant at sea and shore power connection.
“The Port’s success is a direct result of its strong partnerships,” said Hydi Webb, PortMiami Director and CEO. “I want to thank the entire Royal Caribbean team for their support and for choosing PortMiami as the Icon of the Seas’ home.”
Upon completion in 2024, shore power capability will be available at five PortMiami cruise terminals. Shore power allows a cruise ship to turn off their primary engines while docked, resulting in reduced air emissions.
PortMiami welcomed 7,299,294 passengers and set a new record-breaking year in cruise activity for Fiscal Year 2023. The Port experienced a 6.97% increase in cruise passenger totals compared to its previous record of 6,823,816 passengers in Fiscal Year 2019, prior to the pandemic.
