Meyer Turku launches Legend of the Seas — a new milestone in building the world’s largest cruise ships
Finnish shipyard Meyer Turku continues its work on the world’s largest cruise ships. On August 29, the yard launched the third Icon Class vessel, named Legend of the Seas. Following the ceremony, the 248,663 GT liner was moved to the outfitting quay.
The milestone came just seven weeks after the delivery of the second ship in the series — Star of the Seas, which has already begun commercial sailings from Port Canaveral, Florida.
Technical specifications of Legend of the Seas
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Length: 364 m (1,196 ft)
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Capacity: 6,700 passengers + 2,350 crew
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Accommodation: more than 2,800 staterooms and suites
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Sustainability: powered by LNG, fitted with waste heat recovery systems and shore power connectivity
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Onboard features: scenic pools, waterslides, the glass-enclosed Aqua Dome entertainment complex, multiple restaurants and performance venues
Entry into service
Upon completion, the liner will join Royal Caribbean International in summer 2026. It will debut in the Mediterranean before repositioning to the Caribbean.
Icon Class expansion
Meyer Turku is already moving forward with the fourth Icon Class ship, ordered in 2024 and scheduled for delivery in 2027. Royal Caribbean also holds options for a fifth and sixth ship in the series.
The global cruise industry continues to expand its fleet of mega-liners over 200,000 GT, with multiple projects underway:
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a new Oasis Class vessel for Royal Caribbean (236,473 GT, Chantiers de l’Atlantique),
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four World Class ships for MSC Cruises (215,000 GT, France),
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Disney Adventure (206,500 GT), currently undergoing sea trials,
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three Ace Project vessels for Carnival (230,000 GT, Fincantieri, deliveries from 2029),
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four vessels for Norwegian Cruise Line (227,000 GT, Fincantieri, deliveries from 2030).
“Legend of the Seas continues the line of innovative Icon Class ships, showcasing the unique expertise of Finland’s shipbuilding industry,” said Casimir Lindholm, CEO of Meyer Turku.