When asking yourself about something to do near me in Miami Beach with a group of friends or family, consider
Icon of the Seas
Why Icon of the Seas is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Icon of the Seas, operated by Royal Caribbean International, is renowned as the world's largest and one of the most innovative cruise ships, offering an unparalleled experience for groups of friends seeking memorable adventures together. Launched in January 2024, this ship redefines cruising through its 'white paper cruise ship design' approach, built from the ground up to fulfill guest desires and improve upon previous ship concepts. The ship spans 20 decks and can accommodate up to 7,600 passengers at full capacity, making it perfect for large groups or families meeting and enjoying a vast variety of amenities. Highlights include eight uniquely themed neighborhoods, such as Surfside for families and the exclusive Hideaway beach club featuring the first suspended infinity pool at sea. For entertainment, Icon offers high-tech shows including the acclaimed “Wizard of Oz” and an ice skating rink called Absolute Zero. The ship boasts the largest waterpark on the ocean, Thrill Island, with six diverse water slides, a giant Aquadome glass dome performance venue, and the largest swim-up bar at sea, Swim & Tonic. Dining options are plentiful with many included restaurants providing excellent cuisine, though some specialty dining requires reservations. Navigability is enhanced by a thoughtfully designed neighborhood layout and a 670-meter perimeter jogging track allowing friends to explore and socialize comfortably. Whether guests are seeking relaxation, thrilling attractions, or immersive shows, Icon of the Seas’s combination of innovations and expansive facilities creates a uniquely vibrant environment perfect for reconnecting and celebrating with friends.
Here's what people think of Icon of the Seas
As of recent, Icon of the Seas holds a 4.9-star rating based on 134 reviews.
Reviewers overwhelmingly praise Icon of the Seas for its scale, innovative design, and exceptional guest experience. Many highlight the ship as their favorite in the Royal Caribbean fleet, pointing to smooth operations, friendly and efficient staff, and clean, modern facilities as key strengths. Positive reviews particularly focus on the quality of entertainment — the Wizard of Oz show and other performances receive high marks — as well as the diverse dining options and family-friendly neighborhoods. Travelers appreciate the variety of activities suitable for all ages, from water slides and ice skating to spacious accommodations designed for groups and families. On the downside, some guests note that the cruise fares are not all-inclusive, with extra charges for specialty dining, certain activities like ropes courses, and Wi-Fi, which can add up. Others mention that popular venues and shows require advance reservations, potentially limiting spontaneity. A few also criticize room sizes, especially balconies, as smaller than expected. Despite these drawbacks, most reviews conclude that the vessel offers an iconic and memorable adventure, well worth the cost and perfect for social groups aiming for a dynamic and engaging vacation at sea.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Wing Wing
Once of a lifetime cruising experience Icon of the Seas is a floating delight! Food wows with over 40 spots—savor zesty tacos at El Loco Fresh, fresh sushi at Izumi, or upscale steaks at Empire Supper Club. Entertainment sparkles with Broadway’s The Wizard of Oz, jaw-dropping AquaTheater dives, and a lovable golden retriever mascot. With lively bars and kid-friendly shows, it’s a tasty, fun-filled adventure for all!
David McKesson
New ship, currently largest in the world. We had a good time on the ship, The excursions were a drag though, Sain Marteen, and Saint Thomas were not fun at all. Tour guide took us to all the ghetto places. Coco Cay was decent not a lot to do but sit at the beach.
Erik M Hicks
I recently had the pleasure of sailing on the Royal Caribbean Icon of the Seas from May 3 to May 10, 2025, and I can confidently say it was one of the most phenomenal vacations of my life! With nearly 7,600 passengers on board, I was initially apprehensive about the size of the ship, and the experience far exceeded my expectations. While we had to cancel our stop at Labadee for safety reasons, the ports we did visit were delightful. St. Maarten's beautiful beaches and vibrant culture were a perfect backdrop for relaxation, while Ponce offered a rich history and charming architecture. The ship itself is massive, with an abundance of activities to keep everyone entertained. The Playmakers Sports Bar & Arcade was a highlight, offering a fun atmosphere to catch sports and enjoy arcade games. For dining, Chops Grille served fabulous steaks that were nothing short of spectacular. Izumi was another standout, delivering a phenomenal hibachi and sushi experience. For a quick bite, the Pearl Cafe was a great option, always stocked with grab-and-go items near the peril. The Windjammer Cafe's first-day seafood buffet was astronomical and set the tone for the culinary delights ahead. However, in my opinion, Hooked Seafood was the best restaurant on the ship. The fresh seafood, great wine selection, and attentive staff made for an unforgettable dining experience, especially with its convenient location next to the Aquadrome show. Basecamp is perfect for casual bites like burgers and hot dogs and is conveniently located near the slides and miniature golf. The Central Park area provided a serene escape, reminiscent of New York’s Central Park, and was a lovely place to unwind amidst the bustling ship atmosphere. Whether you want to ice skate, play laser tag, or engage in sports like basketball and pickleball, there's truly something for everyone. Many guests chose to stay on the ship during port days to fully enjoy the extensive amenities available. Everything is managed through the Sail Pass, which I found convenient. I recommend purchasing the Deluxe Drink Package and the VOOM Surf + Stream Package, especially if you're traveling with others. This way, you can add additional devices instead of opting for individual packages. While the WOW band (wristband) was handy for opening my room door, I found it a bit tricky when ordering drinks at the bars. The Sail Pass was much easier for drink orders. There’s a 15-drink limit per 24 hours with the Deluxe Drink Package, and I didn't find it strictly enforced, allowing for a bit more flexibility. There are two Starbucks locations on the ship—one on Deck 5 that charges you and one near the Pearl Cafe that’s complimentary with the Deluxe Drink Package. The Bolero Latin Bar was my favorite evening spot with its vibrant live bands and energetic dance floor on Deck 6. Swim & Tonic was a highlight, with the fantastic Raymond and Lawrence keeping the vacation vibes alive. Deck 6 offered numerous bars, including The Attic, Dueling Piano, and The Schooner Bar, while Deck 5 featured the 1400 Lobby Bar and Spotlight Karaoke. The Overlook AquaDome Bar on Deck 15 is not to be missed, with its stunning lounge and cocktail offerings. I enjoyed the espresso-themed cocktails at Rye & Bean, while El Loco Fresh & Cantina Fresca offered delicious margaritas, tacos, and burritos in the Chill Island area. The ship is so expansive that I honestly couldn't experience everything in just eight days and seven nights! The Deserted Milkshake Bar in Thrill Island was a delightful treat, and the Hideaway Bar with its infinity edge pool was the perfect adults-only retreat. Overall, I found the Royal Caribbean Oasis Class to be the ultimate way to cruise. I’m already planning my next trip aboard the Star of the Seas! This cruise was a phenomenal vacation for my family, and I highly recommend the Icon of the Seas for anyone looking to explore the Caribbean. Just plan ahead and prepare for an adventure with little time for rest—you won't want to miss a moment!
Diannah Kartsaklis
The largest vessel to ever be put into the Ocean. Best cruise 🚢 ever. The food was excellent. The Chef table is a must. oh and the entertaining was top notch. Comedy Show was so funny my stomach hurt so bad from laughing . 🤣
Myvacationday
We love Royal Caribbean Cruises. I have been on the Cruise 10 times and my husband has been on the Cruise 20 times. The ship is big, beautiful and clean. The rooms are clean and comfortable. The food is very good. The service is excellent. The shows are Fantastic and fun. We love the shows. There are many activities to choose from. Thank you to the housekeeping staff. His name is Ranjit. He did a great job. And a special thank you to the customer service staff. Our room was 12236 with a balcony. Ocean view. This room was very quiet.
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Why Icon of the Seas may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Icon of the Seas with your friends?\ Gathering with friends for a memorable adventure calls for a venue that combines excitement, comfort, and variety — Icon of the Seas delivers all this and more. As the world’s largest cruise ship, it promises an unparalleled group experience by offering incredible shared memories amid outstanding amenities and endless activities. Whether your group loves thrilling water slides, relaxing spa time, exquisite dining, or vibrant nightlife, Icon of the Seas caters to diverse interests, making sure no one is left out. The ship’s massive size and innovative design mean it can comfortably host large groups without feeling crowded, giving everyone ample space to connect and unwind together. From stunning ocean views to immersive entertainment under one roof, this floating city offers a unique backdrop that elevates any meetup into an extraordinary event. Friends can explore new neighborhoods onboard, share adventures in the largest waterpark at sea, or simply lounge around the expansive pools and bars. Icon of the Seas is more than a cruise ship; it’s a dynamic destination crafted for social connection and shared discovery, making it the perfect rally point for friends seeking a collective escape.
What kinds of activities are available on Icon of the Seas for groups?\ Icon of the Seas provides a staggering range of activities specially designed to appeal to groups seeking adventure, leisure, or cultural enrichment. One of its signature draws is Thrill Island, the largest waterpark at sea, featuring six varied water slides that promise adrenaline-pumping fun and laughter — perfect for groups who thrive on activity and excitement. For those preferring a more calming experience, the ship houses multiple pools including the stunning swim-up bar Swim & Tonic that allows friends to socialize while enjoying refreshing drinks in the water. The AquaDome is a spectacular centerpiece, a glass-domed venue offering diving performances and interactive experiences that can awe your entire group. Additionally, the Absolute Zero ice skating rink invites groups to glide together, offering a cool contrast to the tropical climate outside. With three theaters presenting distinct shows, from aquatic acrobatics to traditional stage performances, groups can enjoy diverse entertainment night after night. This combination of high-energy and relaxed options ensures every member of a meetup can find something engaging, making it easy to share moments both thrilling and serene.
Why is Icon of the Seas ideal for hosting a group meetup?\ Icon of the Seas stands out as an ideal venue for group meetups due to its blend of expansive space, varied entertainment options, and high-quality service. The ship’s enormous size—with 20 decks and up to 7,600 passenger capacity—means you can bring a large group and still enjoy privacy and comfort due to the thoughtfully designed neighborhoods onboard. These neighborhoods create themed environments that range from lively and festive to quiet and secluded, enabling groups to customize their social experience. The variety of dining venues also caters to groups, offering everything from casual eateries to elegant restaurants serving diverse cuisines, ensuring meal times become a shared culinary adventure. Its crew-to-guest ratio of roughly 1 to 2.4 guarantees attentive service, making group logistics like reservations and activities seamless. Moreover, the ship’s design incorporates numerous social spaces such as lounges, bars, jogging tracks, and beach clubs—including the first suspended infinity pool at sea—which promote spontaneous gatherings as well as planned celebrations. Altogether, the combination of space, amenities, and service makes Icon of the Seas more than a cruise — it’s a perfect floating venue for friends or family seeking quality time together.
What unique features make Icon of the Seas stand out from other cruise ships?\ Icon of the Seas redefines cruise innovation with several groundbreaking features that make it unparalleled as a group meetup location. The ship’s use of liquefied natural gas (LNG) engines places it at the forefront of greener cruise technology, appealing to environmentally conscious travelers. Architecturally, its massive glass-enclosed AquaDome is a unique venue for aquatic performances and innovative dining events that can dazzle any group. Another standout is The Pearl, a striking dynamic art installation on the Royal Promenade that serves as a central gathering spot and visual masterpiece. The ship boasts the tallest waterfall and tallest water slide at sea, impressive attractions that elevate the onboard waterpark experience beyond any other vessel. The Hideaway beach club provides a serene retreat with the first-ever suspended infinity pool on a cruise ship, perfect for groups wanting a tranquil but sophisticated space. Icon of the Seas also features an extensive jogging track circling the ship, making physical activity a social event without feeling crowded. These unique elements position the ship not just as a means to travel but as a destination packed with marvels to explore together.
How diverse are the dining and nightlife options on Icon of the Seas for a group?\ Dining and nightlife on Icon of the Seas are designed to satisfy a broad spectrum of tastes and social styles, making it easy for groups to find shared favorites or explore new flavors together. The ship’s many restaurants offer a variety of global cuisines, from upscale Italian dining at Giovanni’s Cuisine to vibrant Latin flavors at Boleros lounge. Groups can enjoy everything from casual buffet spreads to elegant multi-course meals, making dining a key social event throughout the voyage. Bars like The Lime and Coconut and the Schooner Bar provide lively atmospheres for group cocktails, live music, or dancing, with areas designed for both energetic fun and intimate conversations. The onboard casinos and lounges add entertainment options suited for different group moods, whether seeking excitement or relaxation. With 24-hour options and multiple venues open simultaneously, groups have the flexibility to mix and match dining and nightlife experiences, ensuring every evening can be spent discovering something fresh or revisiting a favorite spot. This versatility makes Icon of the Seas a culinary and social playground for any gathering.
What accommodations and accommodations-related amenities support a group stay on Icon of the Seas?\ Icon of the Seas offers a vast selection of cabins and suites designed to accommodate groups comfortably and stylishly. With 2,805 cabins spread across 12 occupied decks, there are configurations ranging from interior rooms to spacious suites with balconies—some specially designed for families and groups traveling together. Group members can stay close together while enjoying privacy and personal space within the ship’s thoughtful layout. Amenities like group check-in services and concierge support streamline logistics and ensure everyone’s needs are anticipated and met. Many suites come with special perks such as priority boarding, dedicated lounge access, and exclusive dining options, elevating the group’s overall experience. Cabins are equipped with modern technology and luxurious features designed to provide restful downtime after full days of activities. Moreover, common areas and neighborhood designs foster social interaction between groups and other guests, enhancing the sense of community onboard. This combination of accommodation options and guest services makes Icon of the Seas adept at hosting both intimate friend groups and larger family reunions.
What destinations can Icon of the Seas take your group to, and why do these matter?\ Icon of the Seas is mainly focused on Caribbean itineraries, taking groups to picturesque and culturally rich destinations such as Taino Bay in Puerto Plata, Dominican Republic. These tropical ports offer a perfect blend of natural beauty, adventure, and cultural experiences that complement the onboard activities. Stopping at vibrant Caribbean locations ensures your group gets a well-rounded vacation, combining days of exploration onshore with luxurious shipboard relaxation. These destinations often feature beaches, historic sites, snorkeling, and shopping opportunities that appeal to a variety of interests within a group. Being able to disembark together and explore unique ports broadens the scope of shared memories and group bonding. The Caribbean’s generally warm climate and scenic views also enhance the overall cruise experience, making the trip both immersive and refreshingly enjoyable. This balance of dynamic itineraries and premium onboard amenities makes Icon of the Seas especially attractive for group travelers keen on blending sea and shore experiences.
How does the onboard entertainment on Icon of the Seas enhance group enjoyment?\ Entertainment aboard Icon of the Seas is multi-faceted, carefully curated to appeal across age groups and interests, making it an excellent backdrop for socializing and shared experiences. The ship features three theaters, each offering different types of performances: an indoor AquaTheater with stunning diving shows, a traditional stage theater with musical productions, and an ice skating rink hosting vibrant ice shows. These varied venues provide groups opportunities to bond over awe-inspiring performances or participate in themed events and parties. Smaller entertainment venues and lounges offer live music, comedy, and dance clubs that keep the energy alive late into the night. For families, dedicated children’s and teens’ spaces provide supervised activities, ensuring that parents can relax knowing kids are engaged and safe. Interactive spaces such as the Royal Promenade, with dynamic art and events, also foster spontaneous social moments. The breadth and quality of entertainment options allow groups to mix relaxation and excitement seamlessly, creating a rich tapestry of shared experiences.
Why is the service quality and crew-to-guest ratio important for groups on Icon of the Seas?\ A high level of service is crucial when traveling with a group, and Icon of the Seas excels with its robust crew-to-guest ratio of approximately 1:2.4. This means personalized attention and efficient service, which simplifies managing bookings, dining arrangements, and group activities. For groups, smooth coordination is essential to ensure everyone enjoys the cruise without logistical hassles. The attentive staff onboard can handle special requests, organize group excursions, and cater to dietary or accessibility needs, elevating the overall experience. Friendly, professional crew members enhance the social atmosphere by creating a welcoming environment and anticipating guest needs, fostering a stress-free, enjoyable vacation. This level of service reliability is especially crucial for large gatherings where diverse preferences and schedules must be accommodated simultaneously. Thus, Icon of the Seas’ staffing ensures that groups feel cared for and supported from embarkation through disembarkation.
How accessible and user-friendly is Icon of the Seas for diverse groups?\ Icon of the Seas is designed with inclusivity and accessibility in mind, making it user-friendly for groups with varied needs and preferences. The ship offers multiple accessible cabins and public areas equipped with ramps, elevators, and specialized bathroom facilities to accommodate guests with mobility challenges. The layout of neighborhoods and venues ensures ease of navigation, even for those who may require mobility aids. Additionally, dining venues and entertainment spaces cater to dietary restrictions and sensory sensitivities, enabling inclusive experiences for everyone. Communication aids and multilingual staff provide support for non-English speakers, enhancing comfort during the voyage. Safety protocols and health services onboard are robust and discreet, giving peace of mind to groups traveling with elderly members or young children. This dedication to accessibility maximizes the cruise’s appeal as a group destination, ensuring that everyone—from active thrill-seekers to those needing accommodations—can participate fully and enjoy the trip together.
What makes the customer reviews and reputation of Icon of the Seas noteworthy for group organizers?\ With an outstanding rating of 4.9 out of 5 based on 134 reviews, Icon of the Seas has earned a reputation for excellence that reassures group organizers considering it as a meetup destination. Reviewers consistently praise the ship’s innovation, cleanliness, variety of activities, and attentive service, all key factors in a smooth group experience. Guests highlight the unique blend of entertainment and relaxation options, noting how easy it is to find something for everyone in a group, from families to friends. Many reviews mention the seamless handling of large groups by the crew and the quality of the accommodations, reinforcing the cruise’s suitability for gatherings. Positive feedback on dining, nightlife, and shore excursions further underscores its appeal. This overwhelmingly positive reputation provides confidence to anyone planning a group trip that their expectations will be met or exceeded aboard Icon of the Seas.
Icon of the Seas stands as a premier choice for hosting unforgettable group meetups, offering an unmatched combination of scale, innovation, and hospitality that few other venues can rival. With its diverse activities, exquisite dining, and world-class entertainment, it orchestrates a perfectly balanced environment where friends and family can create lasting memories while exploring the seas together.