Royal Caribbean’s Legend of the Seas Starts Sea Trials Ahead of July 2026 Mediterranean Launch
Introduction
The third ship in Royal Caribbean’s Icon class, Legend of the Seas, has started sea trials in Turku, Finland, as part of its pre-launch testing phase. The ship is scheduled for delivery in July 2026 and will be the first Icon class ship to operate from the Mediterranean.
Main Body
Over 2,000 engineers and specialists are conducting thorough testing of the ship’s systems, including engine performance and how it moves in open water, during a planned voyage of about 2,400 nautical miles. After the sea trials, the ship will return to the Meyer Turku shipyard for final construction. At 250,800 gross tonnes and a capacity of 5,610 guests, Legend of the Seas is the same size as its predecessors, Icon of the Seas and Star of the Seas. The ship will offer departures from Barcelona and Rome. It will keep popular features from earlier Icon-class ships, such as six waterslides, more than 20 bars and lounges, the Royal Promenade with floor-to-ceiling ocean views, and the open-air Central Park. New additions only available on Legend include a Broadway production of Charlie and the Chocolate Factory, a Royal Railway-themed immersive dining experience that simulates travel along the ancient Silk Routes, performances by former America’s Got Talent contestants, and new AquaTheater and ice skating shows. Furthermore, dining options will be expanded with Japanese street food, traditional American cuisine, Italian dishes, and a Hollywood-inspired supper club concept. Following its first European summer season, the ship will move to Fort Lauderdale, Florida, for Caribbean trips, including visits to the private island Perfect Day at CocoCay.
Conclusion
Legend of the Seas is progressing through sea trials, with its launch set for July 2026. The ship is the third unit in the Icon class and the first to be based in the Mediterranean, with a later move to the Caribbean.