Footballer Lionel Messi to name Royal Caribbean’s new ship Icon of the Seas

Royal Caribbean has revealed an exciting new partnership as famous footballer Lionel Messi is unveiled as the “official icon” of new cruise ship Icon of the Seas.

Who is Lionel Messi?

Acknowledged as one of the greatest athletes of all time, Messi’s involvement in this milestone event underscores the significance of this groundbreaking vessel.

The Argentine footballer’s remarkable career boasts numerous records, including an unprecedented eight Ballon d’Or awards and the title of TIME’s 2023 Athlete of the Year. His arrival at an exclusive naming celebration in Miami signifies a momentous occasion for both the cruise line and the world of football.

“I’m thrilled and honoured to join the Royal Caribbean family to celebrate the arrival of the game-changing Icon of the Seas,” said Lionel Messi, 36, Royal Caribbean International’s Icon of Icon.

“Icon is beyond anything else that’s out there for family vacations, with incredible never-before-seen features, all designed for making memories together.”

When will Lionel Messi be on Icon of the Seas?

As per maritime tradition, Lionel Messi will partake in the iconic naming celebration in January 2024, bestowing blessings upon the new ship and its crew, ensuring millions of families a lifetime of cherished memories.

Messi’s role follows the recent announcement of Royal Caribbean’s partnership with Inter Miami CF, where the cruise line serves as the Club’s Main Partner and Official Vacation Partner.

This collaboration, fuelled by shared values of leadership and delivering unforgettable moments, will further evolve with the arrival of Icon.

Michael Bayley, president and CEO of Royal Caribbean International, commented: “Icon of the Seas is the culmination of more than 50 years of delivering memorable vacations, and it’s set to live up to its name in more ways than one when it changes the vacation industry in January 2024.”

“It’s that ability to make such a widespread impact and change the status quo that the Icon of Icon must personify, and Lionel Messi has proven to be the perfect example of that for years in the world of sports and most recently in introducing a new era of excitement and passion for fútbol in Miami and the U.S.”

What’s onboard Icon of the Seas?

Icon of the Seas is a testament to innovation, featuring six record-breaking waterslides, seven pools, and a designated neighbourhood tailored for young families.

Boasting over 40 dining and entertainment options, the ship ensures that every type of family and adventurer can create lasting memories without compromise.

Icon of the Seas offers an unparalleled vacation experience across eight neighbourhoods, each a unique destination in itself, teeming with diverse experiences, entertainment, dining and more.

The itinerary promises sun-soaked adventures throughout the Eastern or Western Caribbean from Miami, featuring picturesque locales like St. Maarten, Mexico’s Costa Maya and Cozumel, St. Thomas, and Royal Caribbean’s acclaimed private island, Perfect Day at CocoCay in The Bahamas.

The island’s newest addition, Hideaway Beach, set to debut in January 2024, will offer adults an exclusive retreat with private beaches, pools, dining, entertainment and more.