World's largest cruise ship to set sail in 2024

With cruise bookings seeing a resurgence after the Covid-19 pandemic caused luxury liners to mothball, a Finnish shipyard is putting the final touches on what will be the world's largest cruise ship.

Royal Caribbean's luxurious new vessel, Icon of the Seas, is nearing completion at the Turku shipyard on Finland's south-western coast, its maiden voyage scheduled for January 2024.

"This ship is, as far as we are aware, the biggest cruise ship in the world," said Mr Tim Meyer, CEO of shipbuilder Meyer Turku tasked with the construction.

While some have labelled the colossal structure a "monstrosity", citing its vast climate footprint, others are in awe of the sophisticated engineering integrated into this floating holiday destination and flocking to buy tickets.

Resembling a village more than a ship, the mammoth vessel boasts colourful water parks, more than 20 decks and can carry nearly 10,000 people.

A distinct feature of the new ship, which went into construction in 2021 and entered sea trials in June, is a gigantic glass dome that covers part of its front section.

The pandemic dealt a heavy blow to the industry, raising questions about whether it would ever recover. But cruise companies are now seeing customers return.

The Cruise Lines International Association has predicted that passenger volume will surpass prepandemic levels with 31.5 million passengers in 2023.

"After the restrictions are gone, and the situation has eased up, we are seeing the market coming back very strong," Mr Meyer said.