What’s FREE Onboard Icon of the Seas

The world’s largest cruise ship, Icon of the Seas, offers so much to do for cruisers of all ages, but some things come with an extra charge. For those considering a cruise onboard this game-changer ship, the following activities, entertainment, and dining are all completely FREE onboard. 

The cruise cost is just part of the overall budget for many vacationers. Many cruisers forget to budget for “extras” such as drink packages, wifi, gratuities, shore excursions, onboard activities, and entertainment. These “extras” can add up quickly, especially for a family, but rest assured, if you are sailing onboard Icon of the Seas, there are so many included activities and entertainment options you don’t have to spend money onboard to have the time of your lives. 

Check out all of the onboard activities, entertainment, and dining options that are FREE onboard Icon of the Seas.

What Activities are Free?

Ocean Adventure - the kids' program onboard is complimentary and offers areas for all ages, tots to teens, and a place to hang out, participate in activities, and make new friends. 

FlowRider - the onboard surf simulator tests guests' agility and patience while trying to find the perfect wave. The best part is that this activity is free onboard Icon and all Royal Caribbean ships that offer it. 

Category 6 Waterpark - YES! All six waterslides located on Thrill Island are complimentary! Get up early and ride all day if you like. Don’t forget to try out Frightening Bolt, the largest drop waterslide at sea!

Adrenaline Peak - the rock climbing wall is included for guests six years and up to test their skills. There are several paths from easy to expert, and once at the top, it offers some great ocean views.

Lost Dunes - this 9-hole mini golf course features many obstacles and amazing ocean views. 

Pools - there are a total of seven pools onboard, and all are complimentary, even the adults-only pool and Swim & Tonic, the largest swim-up bar at sea. 

Splashaway Bay - this mini water park for younger travelers (toddlers to tweens) includes water cannons, fountains, and a splash pool. 

Sports Court - used for basketball, dodgeball, pickleball, and volleyball; there are many options in this area of the ship for kids and adults to enjoy, along with some of the best views at sea.

The Carousel - located in Surside, this beach-themed attraction is complimentary for kids of all ages.

Remember that some things, such as the Arcade and Crown’s Edge, are an additional charge, so you may want to budget a few extra dollars for activities.

What Entertainment is Free?

There are so many included entertainment options it’s hard to list them all, but some of our favorite options you shouldn’t miss are:

Absolute Zero - these ice skating shows are not to be missed! Performances from world-class figure skaters will entertain and amaze you. This is not your average Ice Capades show!

AquaDome - both shows in the AquaDome are free to attend and should be on your list of things to do. Reserve your seats as early as possible; the shows are popular and fill up quickly!

The Attic - if you like comedy shows, keep an eye out for dates and times for onboard comedians to perform. Some shows are family-friendly, and others are adult-only. Be sure to check before reserving seats, and when you find the perfect show, reserve your tickets in the app, as most shows fill up fast. 

Dueling Pianos - this lively area of the ship is filled with singing, laughter, and some of your favorite cocktails. 

Wizard of Oz - even if you aren’t a “show” person, check out this production show as it features a 16-piece orchestra playing live and the most elaborate sets at sea. 

Specialty Entertainment - these headliners are special acts brought on board to enhance the entertainment programming options. These acts vary by sailing so be sure to check the app or Cruise Compass onboard for the shows offered on your sailing.

There are also tons of other included onboard programming such as trivia, parades on the Royal Promenade, and many other venues offering a variety of entertainment. Be sure to check the app for times and locations around the ship.

What Dining is Free?

Dining is another important aspect of cruising, and Icon of the Seas gives families, couples, and solo travelers plenty of options to choose from, both included options and extra-charge venues. The following is just a sample of some of the complimentary dining options included in your cruise fare.

AquaDome Marketplace - adjoining the AquaDome water show area, this complimentary food court offers some tasty selections, including a creperie! 

Windjammer - a hallmark on all Royal Caribbean ships, the Windjammer is a casual eatery open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. The space is split in half, with each side a mirror image of the other, so you don’t have to worry about missing any tasty treats.

Park Cafe - located in Central Park, this location offers casual dining or grab-and-go options perfect for a quick bite.

Main Dining Room - enjoy an ever-changing dinner menu experience in the beautiful three-story main dining room. Choose from traditional early or late seating or the popular “my time” dining. While each night offers a different themed menu, there are classics available each night as well as a kids menu. 

Sorrento’s Pizza - Grab a slice (or two) of pizza at the quick-service Sorrento’s Pizza. This Royal Caribbean staple eatery is located in the Royal Promenade. 

Sprinkles Ice Cream - there are several soft-serve ice cream stations throughout the ship for a quick grab-and-go cone. These locations are complementary. If you want to take your dessert game up a few notches, Deserted is a full-service ice cream parlor, but their sweet treats come with an extra charge. 

The Pearl Cafe - serving up your favorite teas and coffees along with grab-n-go snacks, this is a great place to stop any time of day or night. The seating near The Pearl Cafe offers some amazing ocean views and super comfy seating to relax. For those needing to get some work done onboard, why not work with a view and some caffeinated beverages? 

For Suite guests, there are two additional included options, The Grove and Coastal Kitchen.

What Else is Free?

With so many included options, it is hard to list them all. The infographic below is a great guide for all included items onboard the Icon of the Seas. Also, once onboard, the Royal Caribbean app will provide you with a daily calendar of activities and events around the ship and call out if anything has an extra charge so there are no surprises. 

A little planning before your cruise to understand what’s included can save the budget later, so there are no surprises. With so many included options onboard Icon of the Seas, there is a tremendous value and overall savings compared to a land-based vacation and paying a la carte for entertainment and activities. While the upfront price tag for this ship is higher than all the other ships in the fleet, the unique neighborhood design and all the included activities, entertainment, and dining make it well worth the cost. 

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