On Monday, January 19, 2026, the Meyer Turku shipyard in Finland held the ceremonial steel-cutting ceremony marking the start of construction for Royal Caribbean International’s fifth Icon-class ship which is scheduled for delivery in the summer of 2028. Executives of Royal Caribbean Group, Meyer Turku and the classification society were on hand for the ceremony.
“Icon 5 is further proof of Meyer Turku’s unique ability to design and build cruise ships of the future. Together with our partner Royal Caribbean and the entire maritime industry network, we learn from every Icon ship and are able to build vessels more efficiently and with even higher quality as the series progresses,” said Meyer Turku CEO Casimir Lindholm.
Royal Caribbean’s Icon-class cruise ships are the world’s largest. Weighing in around 250,000 gross tons, there are two Icon-class ships currently in service–Icon of the Seas and Star of the Seas. Legend of the Seas will debut in Europe before repositioning to Florida later this year, and a still unnamed fourth ship is under construction to debut in 2027. Meyer Turku holds options for the sixth and seventh Icon-class vessels.
The Icon-class ships feature eight neighborhoods with unique themes and attractions, multiple pools and whirlpools, as well as 6 record-breaking waterslides. The classic Royal Promenade is located at the center of the ship, and Central Park is a favorite venue that was reimagined for the Icon-class ships. The ships feature more than 20 bars and lounges, live music, a walkup champagne bar, a huge casino, and so much more.
More details about Icon 5, such as her name and homeport, will be shared later.