Meyer Turku launches Royal Caribbean’s Hero of the Seas

The Meyer Turku shipyard in Finland has successfully floated out the Hero of the Seas, the fourth vessel in Royal Caribbean International’s Icon-class series. The launch required over 90 million gallons of water and was marked by traditional cannon fire.

As an Icon-class ship, the Hero of the Seas is designed to be among the largest cruise ships in the world. The vessel features a parabolic bow for increased stability and a propulsion system utilizing six dual-fuel engines capable of running on LNG, alongside fuel cells for lower-emission electricity and freshwater generation.

The ship is expected to accommodate 5,600 guests across more than 2,800 cabins. Onboard amenities include a six-slide waterpark, five pools, an ice skating rink, and various dining and entertainment venues divided into eight distinct guest neighbourhoods. The ship is scheduled to debut in August 2027, sailing from Miami on seven-night itineraries through the Eastern and Western Caribbean.