MIAMI — The new megaship Legend of the Seas, part of the groundbreaking Icon Class by Royal Caribbean International, has officially begun its sea trials in Finnish waters, marking a major milestone in the final phase of its construction ahead of its highly anticipated debut in July 2026.

The vessel departed from the Meyer Turku shipyard, where it was built, to undergo a series of technical tests expected to last approximately 10 days. During this period, more than 2,000 engineers, technicians, and specialists will conduct comprehensive evaluations of the ship’s performance under real sailing conditions.

These tests include assessing maneuverability in open waters, pushing the propulsion systems to their limits, and verifying safety and operational capabilities. The ship is expected to travel more than 4,000 kilometers before returning to the shipyard for final adjustments.

As the third vessel in the record-breaking Icon Class, Legend of the Seas is set to redefine the cruise vacation experience. It will feature eight distinct neighborhoods tailored to different travel styles, more than 40 dining and entertainment options, and a wide range of experiences designed for guests of all ages, reinforcing the brand’s focus on family vacations.

Following its inaugural summer season in Europe, the ship will reposition to Fort Lauderdale, offering Caribbean itineraries that include six-night Western Caribbean cruises and eight-night Southern Caribbean voyages. These sailings will feature stops at top destinations such as Perfect Day at CocoCay in the Bahamas.

The start of sea trials represents a crucial step in Royal Caribbean’s fleet expansion strategy, as the global cruise industry continues its strong recovery and growth.