Royal Caribbean announces all-new ship with more restaurants and record number of pools

Sarra Gray
Tue, 31 Mar 2026 15:30:07 +0000

Royal Caribbean has unveiled Hero of the Seas, the fourth vessel in its Icon Class lineup, set to arrive in Miami in August 2027.

The cruise giant is billing this one as the ultimate family holiday experience, with more entertainment and dining options.

Crown & Anchor Society loyalty members can start booking tomorrow, with general availability opening Thursday.

The ship boasts nine pools – more than any other vessel at sea – giving families and adults alike plenty of spots to cool off. There's a brand-new Caribbean-themed pool called Coconut Cove, complete with in-water loungers and views of the Central Park neighbourhood's greenery.

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Adults can enjoy The Hideaway, which now features two pools, including the largest swim-up bar at sea, plus an in-water DJ booth for those party vibes.

For thrill-seekers, Category 6 waterpark remains the biggest on the ocean, but Hero adds two new family raft slides, including the first funnel raft slide ever seen at sea.

When it comes to food, Hero of the Seas delivers a record-breaking 28 dining venues – the most in the fleet.

The standout newcomer is Orleans Parish Supper Club, a multi-course experience featuring live jazz, craft cocktails and gourmet Cajun and Creole dishes inspired by New Orleans' French Quarter elegance.

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Royal Railway Hero Station promises the most immersive dining at sea, whisking guests away by train car through a clever mix of entertainment, food and technology.

Guests will also find hands-on cooking classes in the Surfside neighbourhood, where children and adults can learn kitchen skills together – from simple recipes for little ones to more advanced baking courses.

For families wanting to stay in style, the three-story Ultimate Family Treehouse is a dream come true. It features a rooftop terrace with a private whirlpool, a dedicated two-deck teen space, and two main bedrooms, each with its own bathroom and balcony.

Hero will sail seven-night Eastern and Western Caribbean itineraries from Miami, with every voyage stopping at Perfect Day at CocoCay in The Bahamas – Royal Caribbean's top-rated private destination.

Western Caribbean routes take in Roatan, Honduras, plus Cozumel and Costa Maya in Mexico, while Eastern Caribbean sailings visit St. Maarten and St. Thomas.

President and CEO, Royal Caribbean, Michael Bayley, said: “Icon Class truly set a new standard for family vacations, and Hero of the Seas takes that vision even further.

“With more water, more thrills and more choices for all ages, we’re continuing to build on what our guests love about Royal Caribbean and delivering the experiences families are looking for when vacationing together.”