Meyer Turku, the famous shipyard in Finland, has announced the largest ship in the world. Symbol of the Seawill begin its first sea trials.
When completed, Icon of the Seas will be the largest cruise ship ever built by gross tonnage. However, before departing with the guests, they will need to successfully complete the upcoming sea trials to ensure that all of the advanced equipment on board is working as expected.
First Sea Trials: Water Testing and Procedures
Symbol of the Sea they will rise above him first set of sea trials this week, starting Saturday, June 16, the Meyer Turku shipyard announced.
Sea trials are an important part of the ship’s construction, crucial to ensuring that every part and machine is working properly. Symbol of the Seawhich has many new, advanced systems, will test these during the first sea trials.
Meyer Turku shipyard in Finland is building Icon of the Seasthe same shipyard that builds Carnival Corporation’s Excel-class cruise ships, as well Oasis and Allure of the Sea at the STX Europe cruise terminal.
“Icon will leave the shipyard in Turku for the first time at the end of the week when Icon’s weekly tests begin.”
“We are also delighted to have celebrated another important milestone as Icon leaves the shipyard for the first time and continues its journey across the Turku Islands towards the sea. The sea trials will include testing Icon’s performance and features that cannot be tested while installed,” Meyer Turku shared it.
What Will Be Tested During Sea Trials?
The tests, which are expected to last a week, will include testing the Icon’s performance and features that cannot be evaluated after installation, such as speed and movement, safety features, acceleration, navigation, and navigation systems. Perhaps most important for visitors, the ship will also be pushed to its limits to test the noise and vibration of the surface.

Meyer Turku announced on his social media: “Sea trials are one of the most important aspects of a ship’s final journey. Sea trials are a way to test everything on the ship that cannot be tested when it is parked, and that every function on the ship is working as intended.”
“Sea trials are also used to ensure that noise and vibration are where they should be. Icon’s initial sea trials are necessary to ensure that all of the ship’s equipment such as steering gear, main engines and power stations, thrusters, and fin stabilizers are working as they should. “
Also Read: 10 Largest Ships In The World
These first tests represent a major part of the Icon project. As the ship is the first of its kind, it is expected that this will be one of several trials before the ship is deemed ready to sail.
After these initial sea trials, a Symbol of the Sea they will return to the Meyer Turku shipyard for additional clothing and changes according to the test results. It is expected to begin sailing in early 2024.
Meyer Turku thanked all those involved in the Icon project: “Thank you to everyone involved in the Icon project! Icon’s sailing is the result of the combined expertise of Meyer’s top professionals from various departments. We wish you a safe journey aboard Icon of the Seas and look forward to welcoming Icon back to the shipyard after his trials!
The World’s Largest Cruise Ship Ever
Symbol of the Sea she will be one of the most impressive ships ever built, and, at 250,800 tons, also the largest ship in the world by gross tonnage.
Powering the super-sized ship is a state-of-the-art Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG) engine and fuel cell technology, which represents a progressive and sustainable development.
The ship promises an unparalleled experience for tourists. With 20 decks, seven pools, and six record-breaking water slidesand Symbol of the Sea it can host up to 7,600 guests at its largest.
On top of Symbol of the Seavisitors can search eight different areas, each with different restaurants, bars, and experiences. While the ship will feature several new concepts, guest favorites such as Windjammer Cafe, Playmakers Sports Bar, Giovanni’s Italian Kitchen & Wine Bar, Izumi Hibachi & Sushi, and steaks at Chops Grille will all remain.
What’s Next for Symbol of the Sea?
After completing sea trials and final touches at Meyer Turku, Symbol of the Sea he will walk again first visit on January 27, 2024from its home port, PortMiami, Florida.
A seven-night Eastern Caribbean cruise includes visits to Basseterre, St. Kitts, St. Thomas in the US Virgin Islands, and a Perfect Day at Coco Cay.
After the first visit, Symbol of the Sea will travel a combination of 7-night cruises in the Eastern and Western Caribbean. Western Caribbean cruises will include visits to Costa Maya and Cozumel in Mexico, and Roatan, Honduras.
Eastern Caribbean cruises include trips to St. Maarten instead of St Kitts on select cruises. All tours include a call Have a great day at CocoCay.