By Cruise Booking Team
Updated on: November 29, 2024
The world of luxury cruising is constantly evolving. However, two Royal Caribbean ships, the Icon of the Seas and the Wonder of the Seas, stand out the most despite the ever-changing scenario. These two cruises are floating cities of the future that exhibit the best in floating technologies and are full of amazing features and experiences. But which cruise would be the better of the two for you? In this blog, we will compare the Icon of the Seas vs Wonder of the Seas so that you can make an informed decision and choose a cruise that meets your taste.
Icon of the Seas vs Wonder of the Seas: A Royal Showdown
Photo Courtesy: Royal Caribbean International
1. Design and architecture
- Icon of the Seas: Royal Caribbean's Icon of the Seas marked the beginning of a new class of cruise ships, the Icon Class, with innovative features. This ship is futuristic looking with even more of an emphasis on the sustainable nature of the ship. Among the most striking facilities is the AquaDome, which is an indoor aqua-theater that also allows the guests to enjoy the scenic ocean view. The idea of the ship’s structure is underlined by the energy-saving approach, and the vessel employs state-of-the-art technologies in this regard.
- Wonder of the Seas: It is the fifth vessel belonging to the Oasis Class, which constitutes the further development of designs already used. Similar to the Oasis Class neighborhood concept, this ship has seven zones that separate the ship into areas like Central Park and the Boardwalk. The design of this ship is familiar yet advanced, which allows the guests to feel at home.
2. Technological advancements
- Icon of the Seas: The latest technologies are used in the construction of Royal Caribbean’s Icon of the Seas. It has the latest Smart Ship technology on board, such as facial recognition for entry, and an application-based system to control room facilities; even the internet connection is high-speed across the ship. Additionally, the ship has systems that are energy-conserving, for instance, the fuel cell technology is intended to minimize the ship’s emissions.
- Wonder of the Seas: While comparing Wonder of the Seas vs Icon of the Seas, it is necessary to know that the design of Wonder of the Seas incorporates a lot of new advancements of the existing facilities and services, but it remains loyal to the principal innovations of the Oasis Class. The ship has innovations in terms of navigation, safety, and entertainment; however, it does not challenge other ships like the Icon of the Seas in terms of technological applicability and environmental friendliness.
3. Entertainment and amenities
- Icon of the Seas: Icon of the Seas incorporates a lot of unique and advanced entertainment facilities in its design. The AquaDome is the first-of-its-kind venue in the world and provides great water shows and aerial acrobatics. It also offers new entertainment areas, like multi-functional spaces that alter based on the day/night cycle. The restaurants and cafes are unique and emphasize aspects such as sustainability and international flair.
- Wonder of the Seas: In terms of entertainment, Wonder of the Seas keeps up with tradition and sometimes even exceeds expectations, providing Broadway-style shows, an ice-skating ring, and an AquaTheater. That said, it has fewer bold designs compared to the Icon of the Seas. There are numerous specialty restaurants that cater to everyone’s diverse tastes.
4. Accommodations
- Icon of the Seas: When comparing Icon vs Wonder of the Seas, accommodation is another important factor to consider that helps you differentiate between the two. The staterooms on the Icon of the Seas are stylish and equipped with all modern comforts. The staterooms have incorporated smart room technology, so guests may control the lighting, temperature, and entertainment of the room with an app. It has new accommodation types, among which there are new family-oriented suites with interconnected rooms.
- Wonder of the Seas: The ship provides various amenities in the staterooms as well as in the luxury suites making the Wonder of the Seas luxurious as well as comfortable. It consists of facilities such as the Ultimate Family Suite, which is a two-story high suite with a slide and a game room. It does not apply as many smart solutions as Icon of the Seas, but it guarantees comfort and elegance.
5. Sustainability efforts
- Icon of the Seas: When comparing Icon vs Wonder of the Seas, another key difference is the sustainability of the ship. Icon of the Seas provides utmost importance to sustainability and employs innovative waste disposal systems, energy-efficient, large engines as well as fuel cell systems. In this aspect, Royal Caribbean has targeted the Icon of the Seas to champion environmentalism in cruises and create an example for the cruising industry.
- Wonder of the Seas: The Wonder of the Seas also pays a great deal of attention to sustainability; however, it does so following the concept defined by the Oasis Class. The ship has energy conservation methods and waste-minimizing processes in place, but the vessel does not employ the same amount of eco-friendly advancements as present on the Icon of the Seas.
6. Passenger experience
- Icon of the Seas: While comparing Wonder vs. Icon of the Seas, the experience of the guests of the cruise can also help us differentiate. The passenger experience on the Icon of the Seas is shaped by the contemporary traveler’s needs and desires. The ship makes the guest cruise experience more individualized through technology by giving an option for guests to choose what they would like from the cruise. Entertainment and dining facilities are unique and modern, designed to ensure that people with various interests are entertained.
- Wonder of the Seas: Wonder of the Seas keeps the characteristics of the Oasis Class while incorporating additions which makes it a preferred choice for many guests who are already familiar. The offered facilities appeal to everyone, including families, couples, and individuals, as there are a variety of opportunities and services for them to choose from.
Conclusion
Royal Caribbean's contemporary cruise ships Icon of the Seas and Wonder of the Seas, both have their advantages and amenities. When comparing Icon of the Seas vs Wonder of the Seas, it is noted that further development of cruise ships is reflected in the design and innovations of Icon of the Seas, while Wonder of the Seas, on the other hand, copies the Oasis Class format, therefore offering an already established formula with a contemporary mix. To get the best deals and book your next cruise, visit CruiseBooking.com. No matter what you go for, the state-of-the-art modern design or traditional elegant cruising you look for, Royal Caribbean has a ship that caters to your needs.
