15 Mistakes to Avoid on Icon of the Seas (So You Have the Best Cruise Possible)

15 Mistakes to Avoid on Icon of the Seas (So You Have the Best Cruise Possible)

15 Mistakes to Avoid on Icon of the Seas (So You Have the Best Cruise Possible)

Icon of the Seas is one of the most incredible cruise ships ever built. With seven pools, eight neighborhoods, more than 40 dining and drinking venues, and countless activities, there's something to do around every corner.

But because the ship is so large, it's also easy to make mistakes that can cost you time, money, or even cause you to miss out on experiences you were really looking forward to.

After sailing on Icon of the Seas myself, here are the biggest mistakes I'd recommend avoiding.

1. Waiting Too Long to Book Shows

The entertainment on Icon of the Seas is phenomenal—and everyone wants to see it.

Popular productions, including the AquaTheater performances, ice skating show, and Broadway-style entertainment, can fill up quickly once reservations open.

Even if you don't know your exact schedule yet, reserve the shows you're interested in as soon as they're available. It's much easier to cancel a reservation later than hope for standby seating.

2. Spending Every Meal at the Windjammer

The Windjammer buffet is great, but many guests never realize how many complimentary dining options are available throughout the ship.

Don't miss places like:

  • AquaDome Market

  • Pearl CafĂ©

  • Park CafĂ©

  • Basecamp

  • Surfside Eatery

These locations often have shorter lines, different menu options, and a much more relaxed atmosphere.

3. Trying to Do Everything

This may be the biggest mistake of all.

Icon of the Seas is enormous. You simply won't experience everything in one cruise—and that's okay.

Instead of rushing from activity to activity, slow down and enjoy each neighborhood. Some of my favorite memories came from relaxing in Central Park or sitting by the ocean rather than checking another attraction off a list.

4. Not Exploring the Entire Ship on Day One

Many guests unpack and head straight to the pool.

Instead, spend an hour walking every neighborhood.

You'll quickly learn where everything is, discover restaurants you didn't know existed, and avoid feeling lost for the rest of the cruise.

5. Forgetting About the Included Food

It's easy to assume the specialty restaurants are where the best food is.

While those restaurants are excellent, many complimentary venues serve delicious meals that are included in your cruise fare.

Trying these hidden gems can save you money without sacrificing quality.

6. Waiting Until Sea Days to Ride the Water Slides

Category 6 Waterpark is one of the ship's biggest attractions.

Sea days usually have the longest lines.

If weather allows, consider riding the slides while the ship is in port. Many guests leave the ship for excursions, making wait times much shorter.

One thing to keep in mind: weather and wind can temporarily close the slides. During my sailing, several slides were closed for much of the week because of high winds, so it's worth taking advantage of them whenever they're open.

7. Underestimating How Much Walking You'll Do

This ship is massive.

It's not unusual to walk several miles each day without realizing it.

Bring comfortable walking shoes—not just sandals you'll wear to the pool.

Your feet will thank you by the end of the week.

8. Waiting Until the Last Minute to Book Excursions

Popular shore excursions often sell out before your cruise even begins.

If there's something you know you want to do, book it early instead of hoping space will still be available onboard.

9. Ignoring the Daily Cruise Planner

The Royal Caribbean app is your best friend during the cruise.

It tells you:

  • Show times

  • Activities

  • Live music

  • Trivia

  • Sales

  • Dining hours

  • Entertainment changes

Checking it every morning can help you discover events you might otherwise miss.

10. Overpacking

You'll probably wear fewer outfits than you think.

Pack clothes you can mix and match, comfortable shoes, swimsuits, and one or two nicer outfits if you plan to enjoy specialty dining or formal night.

Leave extra room in your suitcase for souvenirs.

11. Missing the Quiet Areas

Most guests spend their time around the pools and Royal Promenade.

Some of the best places on Icon are much quieter.

Take time to visit:

  • The Overlook

  • Central Park in the morning

  • Outdoor promenade decks

  • Lou's Jazz 'n Blues Club

  • Hidden seating areas throughout the AquaDome

These peaceful spaces became some of my favorite places onboard.

12. Not Budgeting for Extras

Your cruise fare includes plenty, but there are still optional expenses to consider, including:

  • Specialty dining

  • Alcohol

  • Specialty coffee

  • Spa treatments

  • Shore excursions

  • Internet

  • Arcade games

  • Shopping

Planning ahead helps avoid surprise charges at the end of your vacation.

13. Staying Only in One Neighborhood

Icon was designed around eight unique neighborhoods, each with its own personality.

If you spend your entire cruise around Chill Island or the Royal Promenade, you'll miss much of what makes this ship special.

Set aside time to explore them all—you'll almost certainly discover a favorite spot you weren't expecting.

14. Forgetting to Enjoy the Ocean

It sounds simple, but it's easy to get caught up in all the attractions.

Some of the best moments happen when you simply grab a chair, watch the waves, enjoy the sunset, or have a quiet cup of coffee overlooking the water.

Remember—you came on a cruise, not just a floating theme park.

15. Comparing Your Cruise to Someone Else's

You'll see countless videos online telling you the "perfect" way to experience Icon of the Seas.

The truth is, your perfect cruise might look completely different.

Whether you spend your days relaxing by the pool, riding every water slide, watching every show, or exploring every corner of the ship, there's no wrong way to enjoy your vacation.

Build the cruise that fits your family, your budget, and your travel style.

Final Thoughts

Icon of the Seas offers more experiences than almost any cruise ship in the world, but you don't have to do everything to have an amazing vacation.

Book the activities that matter most to you, explore beyond the obvious attractions, and leave time to simply enjoy being at sea. Avoiding these common mistakes can help you spend less time stressed and more time making unforgettable memories.

Whether it's your first Royal Caribbean cruise or you're already a loyal cruiser, Icon of the Seas truly lives up to the hype when you take the time to experience it your own way.

Planning an Icon of the Seas cruise? Be sure to check out my other Icon guides, including Hidden Gems on Icon of the Seas, Is Icon of the Seas Worth the Money?, and my honest review after sailing on the world's largest cruise ship.

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