Hero of the Seas vs other Icon Class Ships: What’s Actually Different? 

With the launch of Hero of the Seas in 2027, Royal Caribbean is taking its already revolutionary Icon Class ships to a whole new level. 

But how does this brand-new ship compare to existing Icon Class favourites like Icon of the Seas, Legend of the Seas and Star of the Seas? 

If you’re trying to decide which ship to book, this detailed comparison breaks down what’s the same, what’s new and which one is right for you. 

Icon Class Recap: Why These Ships Are So Popular 

Before diving into the differences, it’s important to understand what makes Icon Class ships so unique. 

Across all ships in this class, you’ll find: 

• Massive neighbourhood-style layouts
• The largest waterparks at sea
• A huge focus on families and multi-generational travel
• A mix of thrill rides + chill spaces
• Elevated food and entertainment experiences 

Hero of the Seas builds on this foundation - but pushes it even further with more immersive, experience-led features. 

Pools & Water Experiences: Hero Goes Bigger 

Icon Class 

• Multiple pools across themed neighbourhoods
• Swim-up bars and infinity pools
• Family splash zones like Splashaway Bay 

Hero of the Seas 

• 9 pools (most ever on a cruise ship)
• Expanded adults-only areas
• New pool concepts like Coconut Cove
• Larger swim-up bar experiences 

Key Difference: 

Hero of the Seas offers more variety and more space, making it ideal if pool time is a big part of your cruise. 

Thrills & Attractions: More Intense on Hero 

Icon Class Ships 

• Category 6 waterpark (already the largest at sea)
• Flow Rider surf simulator
• Rock climbing, zip lines and sports courts 

Hero of the Seas 

• Enhanced Category 6 waterpark with new slide designs
• First-ever funnel raft slide at sea
• More family-friendly thrill options
• New attraction concepts designed to be more interactive 

Key Difference: 

Hero introduces brand-new ride technology and bigger thrills, making it the most adventurous ship in the fleet. 

Dining: The Biggest Upgrade on Hero 

Icon & Star of the Seas 

• Wide variety of restaurants
• AquaDome Market food hall
• High-quality speciality dining 

Hero of the Seas 

• 28 dining venues (record-breaking)
• New immersive concepts like:
• Royal Railway (train-themed dining experience)
• Orleans Parish Supper Club (live jazz + Cajun cuisine)
• Hands-on cooking classes for families 

Key Difference: 

Dining on Hero is more interactive, immersive and experience-driven - not just about eating. 

Family Features: Hero Takes It Further 

Icon Class Ships 

• Family neighbourhoods like Surfside
• Spacious family cabins
• Kids clubs and teen hangouts 

Hero of the Seas 

• Ultimate Family Treehouse (3-storey suite)
• New multi-level family townhouses
• More interactive family activities (like cooking classes) 

Key Difference: 

Hero is clearly designed to be the ultimate family cruise ship, with more unique accommodation and shared experiences. 

Cabins & Suites: More “Wow” Factor on Hero 

Icon Class Ships 

• Modern cabins with family-friendly layouts
• Infinite balconies and ocean views
• Luxury suites available 

Hero of the Seas 

• Next-level themed family suites
• Multi-storey accommodation options
• Unique layouts designed for groups 

Key Difference: 

Hero focuses heavily on experience-led accommodation, not just places to sleep. 

Atmosphere & Target Audience 

Choose Icon, Legend or Star of the Seas if: 

• You want the original Icon Class experience
• You prefer slightly less crowded, more balanced ships
• You’re cruising as a couple or mixed group 

Choose Hero of the Seas if: 

• You want the latest and most advanced ship
• You’re travelling with kids or teens
• You love new attractions and first-at-sea experiences
• You’re interested in immersive dining and entertainment 

Which Ship Should You Book? 

There’s no bad choice here - every Icon Class ship is designed to deliver an incredible holiday. 

But if you want: 

• The latest innovations
• More interactive dining and entertainment
• The newest attractions at sea 

Go for Hero of the Seas 

FAQs: Hero vs Icon Class Ships 

Q - Is Hero of the Seas bigger than Icon of the Seas? 

A - While both are part of the same class, Hero focuses more on expanded features rather than just size. 

Q - What’s completely new on Hero of the Seas? 

A - Funnel raft slide (first at sea) 

Royal Railway immersive dining 

Ultimate Family Treehouse suite 

Orleans Parish Supper Club 

Q - Is Hero of the Seas worth the upgrade? 

A - Yes - especially if you want new experiences and cutting-edge attractions. 

Final Verdict