Karina Giorgenello (Special Envoy for ABC MUNDIAL). - When Alberto Muñoz, Vice President of Royal Caribbean for Latin America, announced a few months ago that the Icon of the Seas would change the way we all enjoy a cruise, expectations soared considerably. Now, in the midst of a journey through the Caribbean, after exploring Royal's private island Perfect Day CocoCay, I can confirm that the statement has become an exciting reality.

The journey began with the magnificent baptism ceremony led by Messi, the football icon, and Royal Caribbean International CEO Michael Bayley, alongside Royal Caribbean Group CEO Jason Liberty. This spectacular event, filled with music and acrobatic skills, marked the start of a historic journey that set sail from Miami.

Upon boarding the cruise, we encountered "The Pearl," a kinetic artwork that became the social epicenter of the ship. This structure, recognized as the world's largest, merges art and technology with its 3,000 kinetic mosaics, impressively capturing the essence of the ocean.

The Icon of the Seas is a floating marvel with 20 decks, 8 neighborhoods, over 40 dining and entertainment options. Additionally, it features 7 pools, 9 hot tubs, and 6 unprecedented slides.

Entertainments like Crown's Edge, part of the Thrill Island concept on Icon, offer an exhilarating experience. After fastening their seatbelts, passengers venture onto a walkway for a "fear-inducing challenge that is, in part, a skywalk and a total test of courage."

Other highlights include the expansive Royal Bay pool, the largest at sea, located on Chill Island, and the FlowRider surf simulator, an unmissable supervised experience with rushing waters to balance on a board.

The Hideaway pool, floating eight stories high, is a unique marvel at sea. With disappearing edges and its own resident DJ, it's the best place to enjoy a beach club atmosphere all day.

Even though our journey is just a few days, there is much left to see, and some estimate that weeks would be needed to explore all the dining options and cocktail bars.

The Icon of the Seas becomes the star and centerpiece of the vacation, beyond the ports of call. Soon, I will share more details about this unique offshore experience. Get ready for a journey that goes beyond the waters it sails!