Icon of the Seas Leaves Miami as the Largest Cruise Ship Ever

The largest cruise ship in the world embarked on its inaugural journey from Miami, Florida, raising concerns about its methane emissions.

Royal Caribbean Group possesses the Icon of the Seas, a colossal ship spanning 365m (1,197 ft) with 20 decks and the ability to house 7,600 passengers. This remarkable vessel is currently embarking on a tropical island-hopping journey lasting seven days. Concerns have been raised by environmentalists regarding the ship's usage of liquefied natural gas (LNG) as a power source, as they fear it may result in the emission of detrimental methane into the atmosphere.

Although LNG is a cleaner alternative to traditional marine fuels like fuel oil, there is a risk of gas leakage which could release methane into the atmosphere. Methane is a much stronger greenhouse gas than carbon dioxide. Bryan Comer, the Marine Programme director at the International Council on Clean Transportation (ICCT), expresses his concern, stating that this is a backwards move.

The ICCT recently published a report arguing that methane emissions from LNG-powered ships exceeded the assumptions made by current regulations. Reducing greenhouse gas emissions is crucial for combatting global warming, and Royal Caribbean is taking steps to address this issue. Their latest ship, the Icon of the Seas, exceeds the energy efficiency standards set by the International Maritime Organization for modern vessels by 24%.

In addition, the company has established a lofty objective of unveiling a vessel with zero emissions by the year 2035. To commemorate the ship's inauguration, Lionel Messi, the celebrated footballer from Argentina and player for Inter Miami, took part in a customary naming ritual. Holding a soccer ball, he gently positioned it on a purpose-built pedestal, symbolizing good fortune. This gesture prompted the smashing of a champagne bottle against the front of the ship.

The construction of the Icon of the Seas required a significant investment of $2 billion (£1.6 billion). The ship now offers an array of amenities, including seven swimming pools, six waterslides, and over 40 dining options, bars, and lounges.