Setting Sail from Miami: The World's Largest Cruise Ship, an Icon of the Seas

The world's largest cruise ship, Icon of the Seas, is preparing for its first voyage from Miami, Florida. The ship, owned by Royal Caribbean Group, stretches 365m long and has 20 decks, accommodating a maximum of 7,600 passengers. It is embarking on a seven-day journey through the tropics, stopping at various islands. However, environmentalists are raising concerns about the vessel's methane emissions. The ship is powered by liquefied natural gas (LNG), which burns cleaner than traditional marine fuels but still poses a leakage risk. Methane, a potent greenhouse gas, traps significantly more heat than carbon dioxide in the atmosphere. Bryan Comer from the International Council on Clean Transportation (ICCT) criticized the ship, stating that LNG as a marine fuel emits over 120% more greenhouse gas emissions than marine gas oil. The ICCT recently published a report revealing that methane emissions from LNG-fueled ships surpassed current regulations' estimations. Despite these concerns, a Royal Caribbean spokesperson claims that Icon of the Seas exceeds the energy efficiency requirements set by the International Maritime Organization. The company aims to introduce a net-zero ship by 2035. Adding to the ship's grandeur, Argentine footballer Lionel Messi participated in its naming ceremony, triggering the traditional bottle-breaking event. Icon of the Seas cost $2 billion to construct and offers a wide range of amenities such as swimming pools, water slides, and numerous dining options.