Published on
September 9, 2025
Meyer Turku, Finland, is making waves in the global shipbuilding scene, thanks to the Meyer Turku shipyard and its astonishing Icon-class vessels for Royal Caribbean International. These megaships, set to be the largest and most tech-smart cruise vessels ever, are putting Finland front and center in the worldwide cruise and tourism spotlight.
The Icon quest kicked off with the Icon of the Seas, quickly followed by its twin, Star of the Seas. Now the Legend of the Seas is already making its way to the floating finish line, with a fourth ship slated for a flashy debut in 2027. Each new launch is a booster shot for Finnish cruise tourism, proving Turku’s maritime brains and brawn are second to none.
A New Era for Global Travel and Tourism
Royal Caribbean’s Icon-class ships are designed to transform the cruise experience, offering travelers unmatched capacity, modern design, and innovative onboard features. With thousands of guests able to sail on each ship, they are expected to carry millions of passengers across the globe during their lifetimes, expanding opportunities for tourism at every port of call.
For Finland, the construction of these ships links the country’s industrial expertise with the expanding global demand for cruise vacations. As cruising continues to grow in popularity worldwide, Finland’s role as a key shipbuilding nation places it firmly on the map for travelers, industry stakeholders, and international tourism networks.
Royal Caribbean and Finland’s Partnership
Royal Caribbean International, one of the world’s leading cruise operators, selected Meyer Turku as the builder of the Icon-class due to the shipyard’s advanced capabilities and longstanding expertise. This collaboration reflects both the scale of Finland’s maritime industry and the cruise line’s commitment to innovation and sustainability.
The partnership also brings wider recognition to Finland’s contribution to global tourism. Every Icon-class ship that departs Turku represents years of skilled work, thousands of jobs supported, and a powerful symbol of Finnish craftsmanship sailing on the world’s oceans.
Sustainable Cruising for a New Generation
One of the most significant achievements of the Icon-class is its focus on sustainability. The ships are among the first in the world of their size to be powered by liquefied natural gas (LNG), helping reduce emissions compared to traditional fuels. They are also equipped with cutting-edge systems, including energy recovery technologies and the ability to connect to shore power when docked.
These features reflect both Royal Caribbean’s sustainability goals and Finland’s reputation for developing greener technologies in maritime industries. The result is a class of cruise ships that not only impress with their size and luxury but also with their commitment to environmental responsibility — an important factor for today’s travelers.
Tourism Benefits Across Finland
While the ships will sail worldwide, their construction in Turku provides lasting benefits to Finland. The shipyard attracts international expertise, business partnerships, and visitors connected with the cruise industry. The country also gains global visibility through the association with Royal Caribbean’s flagship projects, which are covered widely in international media and travel markets.
This visibility supports Finland’s broader tourism appeal. With international interest already rising in destinations such as Helsinki, Lapland, and the Åland Islands, Finland’s role in building the world’s largest cruise ships adds another reason for travelers to connect the country with modern tourism and innovation.
Finland’s Future in Global Cruising
While work wraps up on the next Icon-class ships, Turku will keep shining on the world stage in the cruise business. Every new vessel that glides out from these Finnish yards does not simply add strength to Royal Caribbean’s armada; it cements the country’s role as a trailblazer in the travel revolution.
To vacationers everywhere, the takeaway is straightforward: the cruise of tomorrow—larger, cleaner, and packed with thrills—originates right here in Finland. Royal Caribbean’s Icon-class ships will wave farewell from Turku, broadcasting Finland’s hospitality across the seven seas.
Image Credit: Royal Caribbean
