The Icon of the Seas, the world‘s largest cruise ship operated by Royal Caribbean International, set sail from Miami on its maiden voyage last Saturday, January 27, sparking concerns among environmental groups over its operation based on liquefied natural gas (LNG), which while it is seen by many as a breakthrough in terms of reducing carbon emissions compared to traditional marine fuel, it presents concerns related to emissions of methane, a potent greenhouse gas.
Methane is a pollutant primarily due to its ability to trap heat in the atmosphere, making it a potent greenhouse gas. Although it has a shorter atmospheric life than carbon dioxide (CO2), methane is much more effective at trapping radiation, being approximately 25 times more powerful than CO2 over a 100-year period.
Methane, with a global warming impact 80 times greater than that of carbon dioxide over 20 years, has become the focus of global efforts to mitigate climate change. According to CNBC, estimates indicate that cruise ship engines have an average methane leak of 6.4%, while the International Maritime Organization (IMO) estimates are 3.5%.
According to the Reuters agency, Bryan Comer, director of the Marine Program at the International Council on Clean Transportation (ICCT), warned that “it is a step in the wrong direction” and added that it is estimated “that the use of LNG as a maritime fuel “It emits more than 120% more greenhouse gases during its life cycle than maritime diesel.”
In fact, the International Council on Clean Transportation had previously published a report in which it warned about methane emissions from ships powered by LNG, which are higher than what is assumed in current regulations, highlighting the rapid growth in using this fuel as a marine solution.
The Icon of the Seas’ operation on liquefied natural gas (LNG) has raised concerns among environmental groups about the impact of its emissions on the environment, particularly methane.
The Icon of the Seas is not only notable for its dimensions, which place it as a colossus of almost 365 meters long and weighing 250,800 tons, but also for its overwhelming offer of entertainment and amenities.
This large marine ship, which required an investment of 2 billion dollars for its construction, has a maximum capacity for 7,600 passengers and is not only notable for its magnitude – five times the size of the Titanic – but also for its extravagant features, including eight “neighborhoods,” seven pools, six water slides, a total of 20 decks, and the first infinity pool jutting out over the ocean.
Among the most notable attractions are Category 6, a 5,181 square meter water park spread over decks 16 and 17, Royal Bay, the largest swimming pool at sea, and Absolute Zero, the largest ice rink at sea. In addition, Icon of the Seas boasts of offering unprecedented shows such as the first maritime performance of “The Wizard of Oz.” Additionally, a golden retriever named “Rover” serves as the ship’s “Official Dog Master,” adding a homey touch to the high-seas journey.
Surfside, located on deck 7 and aimed at families with children under 6 years old, is one of the most anticipated elements of the cruise. This area houses a carousel with characters selected by children, such as a narwhal with rainbow teeth and a float-style flamingo. Additionally, it includes family dining options, a specialty restaurant called Pier 7, where children under 12 eat free, and water play areas adjacent to the Water’s Edge pool, allowing parents to relax while still keeping an eye on their children.
On the other hand, The Hideaway is an adults-only neighborhood that captures the essence of international beach clubs, with the first infinity pool suspended over the sea. The customers most interested in Icon of the Seas are families with young children, attracted by attractions such as water parks, surf simulators and various pools.
With more than 40 restaurants, bars and lounges, including 21 new options such as Izumi and Empire Supper Club, Icon of the Seas strives to offer a varied dining experience. Accommodation options range from indoor cabins to the Ultimate Family Townhouse, a three-story residence with a private theater and outdoor hot tub, demonstrating the wide range of options for different budgets and preferences.