A Guide to the Swimming Pools on Icon of the Seas

For most, the ultimate family vacation involves plenty of time spent poolside. Even I can attest, 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 Icon of the Seas®, a Royal Caribbean cruise ship that boasts a pool for every day of the week. They’re 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 on board, 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 offers, including the largest and first suspended infinity pools at sea ... and more!

Key Takeaways

● Pools on cruise ships can be the most amazing place on board to spend countless hours relaxing, swimming, tanning or splashing with friends, family or fellow adult cruisers.

● Icon of the Seas features seven unique vacation pools across five decks, including family-friendly, adults-only and suite-exclusive options. Even better, Royal Caribbean pool hours are very generous!

● Royal Bay℠ is the largest pool at sea, with over 40,000 gallons of water, shaded areas, in-water loungers and whirlpools with overwater views.

● The Hideaway boasts the world’s first suspended infinity pool at sea, delivering 180-degree ocean views and a beach-club vibe with a live DJ.

● Retreat to Cloud 17℠ or The Cove℠ Pool, both offering fun atmospheres with ocean-facing views and access to The Lime and Coconut®.

● Families love Water’s Edge Pool in Surfside℠, located aft with views, in-water loungers and easy access to kid-friendly aqua parks Splashaway Bay℠ and Baby Bay.

● Visit your dream destination by cruising on Icon of the Seas.

● Please note: Pool hours are often subject to change depending on sailing, events or operational needs.

1. Royal Bay

Hands down, the ship's most talked-about pool is Royal Bay. This sprawling oasis holds 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 opens to guests of all ages every day from 9 a.m. until 10 p.m.

In addition to its size, Royal Bay features several shaded areas, ensuring plenty of comfortable spaces to escape the sun. The elevated whirlpools don’t just overlook the pool deck; they deliver dazzling overwater views, making this pool a true showstopper.

2. The Cove Pool

If you're anything like me, you'll probably want to know there's a quiet, low-key retreat on board 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 offers dazzling ocean views. The vibe here is laid back, with domed daybeds perfect for napping and relaxing. All your favorite vacation libations are just steps away at The Lime and Coconut, which is home to four bars, including a frozen drink bar. Like Royal Bay, The Cove is located on Deck 15 and opens from 9 a.m. until 10 p.m.

The Cove Pool also serves as a fun retreat. Situated portside on Deck 15 and directly facing the ocean, it’s designed for ultimate serenity. Read a book, nap or simply enjoy the uninterrupted sea views; this pool is the perfect chance for a chill moment between other family activities.

3. Swim & Tonic

Speaking of delicious sips, I'm stoked about the ship's Swim & Tonic℠, the largest swim-up bar at sea and the first in the fleet. Guests can gather around the partially submerged bar or on one of the pool's many in-water loungers while enjoying ice-cold drinks. You can enjoy the 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.

Of course, Swim & Tonic isn’t just a swim-up bar; it’s a dedicated pool scene. That means whirlpools, shaded areas and a mix of in-water and deckside loungers. Drinks here go beyond tropical cocktails, with everything from ice-cold brews to wines and an extensive range of vacation libations. Best of all, Swim & Tonic is an adults-only pool, making it the perfect spot to enjoy a lively and grown-up vibe while sipping or swimming the day away.

4. Water's Edge Pool

If you plan to travel with little ones during your next ultimate family vacation, you'll love Water's Edge, an Icon of the Seas infinity pool in the ship's family-oriented Surfside neighborhood. It's conveniently located on Deck 7, adjacent to the best kid-friendly zones, namely Splashaway Bay and Baby Bay. Parents can easily keep an eye on their kids.

One of the standout features of Water's Edge Pool is its stunning views. Plus, there are plenty of in-water loungers and a few tranquil islands dotting the pool where you can stretch out and soak up the sights.

Water’s Edge is positioned at the aft of the ship, giving families spectacular ocean views while enjoying their pool time. Its location next to Splashaway Bay and Baby Bay isn’t just convenient; these interactive aqua parks are specifically designed for pint-sized cruisers, making the whole area a hub of family fun.

5. The Hideaway

In my opinion, one of the most amazing poolside hangouts on board Icon of the Seas is The Hideaway. Inspired by the beach clubs of Mykonos and Mallorca, The Hideaway keeps the vibes going strong, thanks to a resident DJ well-versed in the coolest tropi-chic beats.

The pulsing heart of this oasis is its pool, the first suspended infinity pool at sea. Hovering between 70 and 90 feet, it's sure to deliver over-the-top pool days — literally. There are two hot tubs, too. When guests want to enjoy some sun in between dips, they can unwind on chaise loungers and full-size daybeds across the multi-level, terraced lounge area while enjoying some seriously jaw-dropping 180-degree ocean views.

Make sure you stop by the expansive wraparound Hideaway Bar for your favorite cocktails and mocktails. The Hideaway is located on Deck 15 and opens 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 a blissful, Zen-like atmosphere. This secluded pool and cantilevered whirlpool remain at the top of my list of Golden Hour hangouts for Icon of the Seas sailings.

You'll also find live Caribbean music, and tasty drinks from The Lime and Coconut bar are mere steps away. Located on Deck 17, Cloud 17 opens from 8 a.m. until 7 p.m.

Cloud 17 is another amazing escape, offering a secluded and tranquil environment for guests who want a pool day. Guests here often enjoy private access to The Lime and Coconut, making it even easier to grab a drink or snack between dips.

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 on board 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 is home to a private pool and whirlpool, along with Instagram-worthy swinging day beds, perfect for a selfie. When you're craving a bite to eat, head to The Grove, which serves up Mediterranean small plates al fresco.

In addition to The Grove, suite guests also have access to the Suite Neighborhood, which offers top-tier amenities, including Coastal Kitchen, known for its Mediterranean-inspired cuisine. Together, these venues elevate the suite pool experience into one of pure luxury and exclusivity.

What Not To Miss on Icon of the Seas: Other Water Attractions

Beyond the headline pools and bars, Icon of the Seas offers hot tubs designed for every kind of traveler. You’ll find secluded whirlpools perfect for a peaceful soak, as well as larger options overlooking the ship’s neighborhoods where you can take in sweeping ocean views.

When you’re looking to relax after a day of adventure or simply enjoy the bubbling jets with a cocktail in hand, the hot tubs on board add a touch of luxury to your cruise experience. They’re the perfect spots to recharge, unwind and make the most of downtime at sea.

Dip, Dive and Drift on Icon of the Seas

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. This luxury cruise ship is an entire world of water thrills. The Category 6 Water Park features many firsts at sea, including an open free-fall slide and family raft slides.

You’ll also find the AquaDome℠, home to a shapeshifting waterfall that tumbles into a dive pool, and Absolute Zero℠, the largest Royal Caribbean ice arena. Together, these attractions promise unforgettable adventures for every cruiser.

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