Royal Caribbean’s New Mega Ship Floats for the First Time

Royal Caribbean celebrated a major ship construction milestone today when its next new mega ship, Hero of the Seas, floated for the first time.

The float-out for the fourth Icon class ship at the Meyer Turku shipyard in Turku, Finland, keeps the ship on schedule for its August 2027 debut.

More than 90 million gallons of water filled the dry dock overnight as Hero of the Seas moved out of dry dock and into the outfitting pier.

Hero of the Seas is the next evolution of the revolutionary Icon Class lineup, combining Royal Caribbean signature favorites with new experiences designed for guests of all ages.

The cruise ship will be divided into eight neighborhoods, and the vessel will have nine swimming pools and 28 dining spots. Dining will include the brand-new Orleans Parrish Supper Club, and accommodations will range from inside cabins to the three-deck Ultimate Family Treehouse.

The cruise ship will have thrills for all ages that include Crown’s Edge, part skywalk, part zip line experience 154 feet above the ocean.

The ship will offer ways to kick back at the new Coconut Cove pool and adults-only The Hideaway. The vessel will also have an unmatched lineup of dining, bars, and entertainment; families of all kinds can make lifelong memories together while they cruise on the newest mega ship in the world.

Casimir Lindholm, CEO of Meyer Turku, gave the following statement about the float-out:

“Hero of the Seas is another important milestone in the long-standing partnership between Meyer Turku and Royal Caribbean. Building consecutive Icon Class ships has enabled continuous development of our expertise, production processes and energy-efficient shipbuilding solutions together with our partners and thousands of shipbuilding professionals involved in the project. We are proud to see Hero of the Seas move one step closer to delivery.”

Hero of the Seas will sail seven-night cruises to the Eastern and Western Caribbean from PortMiami, the Cruise Capital of the World. Every sailing on the ship will visit the cruise line’s award-winning private island, Perfect Day CocoCay in The Bahamas.

Hero of the Seas will be the 31st ship in Royal Caribbean’s fleet when the vessel enters service in August 2027.