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Taylor Haenny

5 Hidden Gems on Icon of the Seas

Updated: Jul 30

Royal Caribbean, Icon Class, Icon of the Seas
Icon of the Seas | Photo Credit: Royal Caribbean

Icon of the Seas is the largest cruise ship ever built, and has blown everything we know about cruising out of the water. Royal Caribbean debuted this extraordinary vessel in January of this year to an incredible reception, and much fanfare. With so many public spaces spanning 20 decks, there is never a moment where you will find yourself bored while on Icon.





But because there is so much to do and see on this colossal cruise ship, there are several hidden gems you might overlook while onboard. It isn't hard to still be discovering new venues and corners you never knew existed up until the last day of your cruise, especially on a ship of this magnitude. Here are a few places to stop and explore while on Icon that you might accidentally pass over otherwise:



Royal Caribbean, Icon Class, Icon of the Seas, AquaDome, The Overlook, The Overlook Pods
Overlook Pods | Photo Credit: Royal Caribbean

OVERLOOK PODS | The Overlook is the observation lounge space onboard. Locate in the AquaDome neighborhood in the crown of the ship, the Overlook is a dynamic space with an array of lounge seating that offers incredible views. While there, you may pass by the Overlook Pods without realizing that these private lounge spaces are actually complimentary, and first-come-first-serve! Each pod is positioned at varying heights, with some requiring stairs to access them, making it an even more private and peaceful experience. Inside the pods there are comfortable booth seats and tables. This is the perfect place to relax with friends and have a drink before dinner from the Rye & Bean bar, or simply enjoy the views of the ocean in a quiet setting.



Royal Caribbean, Icon Class, Icon of the Seas, Cloud 17, Cloud 17 Pool
Cloud 17 Pool | Photo Credit: Royal Caribbean

CLOUD 17 | Because of the asymmetrical design of the ship, Cloud 17 is a spot that can easily be missed, and probably won't be discovered by most passengers until 2 or 3 days in. Deck 17 is the last deck with public venues- the Sports Court, and Cloud 17. Because of this the foot traffic is very minimal, allowing this area of the ship to be a quieter place than other decks.


Cloud 17 is an adults-only section, and offers a large sundeck space with comfortable loungers facing the ocean for incredible views. The Cloud 17 pool is an infinity-edge style pool positioned at the very edge of the ship, making it hard to tell where the pool ends and the ocean begins. Just next door is the Lime & Coconut Bar, the perfect place for a delicious tropical drink with friends.



Royal Caribbean, Icon Class, Icon of the Seas, Surfside Family Neighborhood, Surfside Bites
Surfside Bites | Photo Credit: Royal Caribbean

SURFSIDE BITES | This quick, grab-and-go food venue is located in the Surfside Family Neighborhood, and while you might not think to stop there, it is well worth it. The mini churro bites are a hit, but you must try the popcorn chicken and fries. The popcorn chicken is the perfect midday savory snack that will have you going back time and time again, and the fries are seasoned to perfection, and are a much more elevated version of the fries in the Windjammer.



Royal Caribbean, Icon Class, Icon of the Seas, Vitality Spa, Vitality Cafe
Vitality Cafe | Photo Credit: Royal Caribbean

VITALITY CAFE | This is an easily-missed complimentary venue because of its location. This cafe is found inside the Vitality Spa, so most cruise passengers wouldn't even know it existed if they didn't have treatments booked. Here you can enjoy healthy and fresh options such as smoothies and juices, and this is a must-stop after the gym for a delicious protein shake. All cruise guests are welcome to stop by, regardless of if they have booked a treatment or not.



Royal Caribbean, Icon Class, Icon of the Seas, The Pearl, Royal Promenade, Pearl Cafe
Pearl Cafe | Photo Credit: Royal Caribbean

PEARL CAFE | While the Royal Promenade can be a bustling place, retreating to the Pearl Cafe will make you feel as though you are in an entirely different world. This beautiful venue is at the top of the Pearl stairway, and offers complimentary sandwiches, salads, coffee, and easy grab-and-go bites. But the reason to stop by is the lounge space itself. The two deck high floor-to-ceiling windows let in an incredible amount of natural light, and there is a variety of seating throughout including tables, booths, and extra-comfortable chairs where you can enjoy your morning coffee while watching the world sail by.



Booking Your Cruise

Now that you are ready to book your cruise on the incredible Icon of the Seas, reach out to the experts at Harr Travel. We know the spaces inside and out, and have an amazing relationship with Royal Caribbean. Our advisors will craft the cruise vacation of a lifetime for you, your friends, family, or group at an exceptional rate, and give you the Harr Travel signature service every step of the way.



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