The Ultimate Family Vacation Pools On Icon Of The Seas

Here's an insider's guide to the many pools Icon of the Seas® will offer.

By Amanda Mesa | Published on Septemeber 12, 2023

For me, the ultimate family vacation involves plenty of time spent poolside. There's just something about soaking up the warm sunshine in between refreshing dips in the pool — piña colada in hand — while I reminisce with my friends and family. Days like these never fail to put me right into vacation mode. So you can imagine my joy when I discovered that Royal Caribbean's first-ever Icon-class cruise ship, Icon of the Seas®, will boast a pool for every day of the week spread out across five decks — plus plenty of bubbling whirlpools, in-water seating and the largest swim-up bar at sea. With so many pools to scope out onboard, coming up with a game plan for every sea day is crucial. Here's an insider's guide to the many pools Icon of the Seas® will offer, including the largest pool at sea, the first suspended infinity pool at sea... and more!

1. Royal Bay℠

Hands down, the ship's most talked-about pool will be Royal Bay℠. This sprawling oasis will hold the title of the largest pool at sea — offering hours of fun in the sun for the entire extended family. Filled with over 40,000 gallons of water, the pool has been designed with in-water loungers to accommodate plenty of chill-seekers, plus two elevated whirlpools that yield prime views of all the action below. Located in the ship's Chill Island℠ neighborhood on Deck 15, Royal Bay℠ will be open to guests of all ages every day from 9 a.m. until 10 p.m.

2. The Cove℠Pool

If you're anything like me, you'll probably want to know there's a quiet, low-key retreat onboard for when you're craving a little more peace and quiet than the buzzing atmosphere Royal Bay℠ promises. Say "hello" to The Cove℠, a lagoon-like pool with an infinity edge that will offer dazzling ocean views. The vibe here will be laid back, with domed daybeds perfect for napping and relaxing, and all your favorite vacation libations just steps away at The Lime and Coconut®, which is home to four bars, including Royal Caribbean's first-ever frozen drink bar. Like Royal Bay℠, The Cove℠ will be located on Deck 15 and open from 9 a.m. until 10 p.m.

3. Swim & Tonic℠

Speaking of delicious sips, I'm stoked about the ship's Swim & Tonic℠, which will be the largest swim-up bar at sea and the first in the fleet. Guests will be able to gather around the partially submerged bar or on one of the pool's many in-water loungers while enjoying ice-cold drinks. There will be a hot tub, too — a great spot to unwind and let the jets lull you into a state of relaxation. You'll find Swim & Tonic℠ open from 9 a.m. until late on Deck 16 in the Chill Island℠ neighborhood.

4. Water's Edge Pool

Traveling with little ones during your ultimate family vacation? You're going to love Water's Edge, an infinity pool in the ship's family-oriented Surfside neighborhood. It'll be conveniently located on Deck 7 adjacent to the kid-friendly Splashaway Bay℠ and Baby Bay, so parents can keep an eye on their kids. One of the things I'm most looking forward to about Water's Edge Pool is its stunning views. Plus, there will be plenty of in-water loungers and a few tranquil islands dotting the pool where you can stretch out and soak up the sights.

5. The Hideaway

In my opinion, one of the most amazing poolside hangouts onboard Icon of the Seas® will be The Hideaway. Inspired by the beach clubs of Mykonos and Mallorca, The Hideaway will keep the vibes going strong, thanks to a resident DJ well-versed in the coolest tropi-chic beats. The pulsing heart of this oasis will be its pool — the first suspended infinity pool at sea. Hovering eight stories high, it's sure to deliver over-the-top pool days — literally. There will be two hot tubs, too. Want to enjoy some sun in between dips? Guests will be able to unwind on chaise loungers and full-size daybeds across the multi-level, terraced lounge area while enjoying some seriously jaw-dropping views. And make sure you stop by the expansive wraparound Hideaway Bar for your favorite cocktails and mocktails. The Hideaway will be located on Deck 15 and will be open from 9 a.m. until 10 p.m.

6. Cloud 17℠

On the uppermost deck of Icon of the Seas®, you'll find Cloud 17℠ — an open-air, retreat overlooking the ocean. This space promises to a blissful, Zen-like atmosphere. This secluded pool and cantilevered whirlpool are at the top of my list of Golden Hour hangouts once I take my first Icon of the Seas® sailing. You'll also find live Caribbean music, and tasty drinks from The Lime & Coconut®️ bar will be mere steps away. Located on Deck 17, Cloud 17℠ will be open from 8 a.m. until 7 p.m.

7. The Grove Suite Sun Deck

If you're thinking about taking your pool vacation to the next level, consider booking a Sky-class suite or a Star-class suite onboard Icon of the Seas®: as a special perk, these suite guests get access to a private slice of paradise, The Grove Suite Sun Deck. Located on Decks 18 and 19, this exclusive VIP experience will be home to a private pool and whirlpool, along with Instagram-worthy swinging day beds, perfect for a selfie. And, when you're craving a bite to eat, you can head to The Grove, which will serve up Mediterranean small plates al fresco.

If your ultimate family vacation is filled with sun-soaked days spent in swimsuits and flip-flops, you may just find that nothing compares to the impressive suite of pools on Icon of the Seas®. Learn more about all the incredible pools and attractions the first Icon-class ship will offer, or find the perfect itinerary for your best pool vacation.