Royal Caribbean Group confirmed that it has placed orders with Finland‑based Meyer Turku for a sixth and seventh Icon‑class cruise ship, with deliveries scheduled for 2029 and 2030. The orders are part of a long‑term framework agreement that secures the Group’s shipbuilding capacity through 2036. The new vessels follow the 2024 delivery of Icon of the Seas, the 2025 launch of Star of the Seas, and the 2026 debut of Legend of the Seas.
The commitment represents a significant capital outlay and underscores the Group’s focus on its most profitable segment. By adding two additional Icon‑class ships, Royal Caribbean aims to support its 2026 capacity‑growth guidance of 6.7% and maintain pricing power in a competitive Caribbean market. The Icon‑class platform is designed to drive higher passenger yields and onboard spend through innovative amenities and technology.
The long‑standing partnership with Meyer Turku spans more than three decades and has seen the shipyard build 25 vessels for the Group. The firm’s CEO, Casimir Lindholm, said, "The order of sixth and seventh Icon Class vessels is a significant recognition of Meyer Turku and the Finnish maritime industry's talent and expertise. This milestone represents an important step forward in our partnership with Royal Caribbean Group to develop the shipbuilding sector over the next decade and beyond." Royal Caribbean’s Chairman and CEO, Jason Liberty, added, "The Icon Class reflects our bold creativity and engineering excellence that continues to define what a vacation can be. Through our long‑standing partnership with Meyer Turku, the Finnish government, and the strong Finnish maritime cluster, we are reimagining the industry for decades to come while also delivering meaningful economic impact for Finland."
The orders are part of a broader pipeline that includes the Icon 5, slated for delivery in 2028, the Hero of the Seas expected in 2027, and the Legend of the Seas already scheduled for July 2026. The sequence of new vessels positions Royal Caribbean to meet future demand and capitalize on the growing preference for premium cruise experiences.
The expansion of the Icon‑class fleet strengthens the Group’s market share, supports its Perfecta program aimed at a 20% earnings CAGR through 2027, and provides a platform for further digital and experiential innovations that drive higher margins and shareholder value. The long‑term framework agreement also gives the Group visibility into shipbuilding capacity, reducing uncertainty in a capital‑intensive industry.
The content on EveryTicker is for informational purposes only and should not be construed as financial or investment advice. We are not financial advisors. Consult with a qualified professional before making any investment decisions. Any actions you take based on information from this site are solely at your own risk.