Meyer Turku has made significant advancements in the construction of Royal Caribbean International’s fourth Icon Class cruise ship, known as Hero of the Seas. The installation of the initial passenger cabins was completed on January 9, 2026. This milestone signifies a shift from structural work to the integration of interior elements within the vessel.
Construction Method and Efficiency
The cabins for Hero of the Seas are specially produced as fully prefabricated modular units at the Piikkiö Works facility. These units are then transported to the Turku yard where they are installed on the ship. This technique is designed to streamline the construction schedule and simplify the installation process, thereby minimizing the need for extensive interior work once the vessel’s basic structure is complete.
Timeline and Key Events
- September 8, 2025: The ship was laid down in the drydock at Meyer Turku.
- January 9, 2026: The first passenger cabins were installed.
- Summer 2026: The ship is expected to float out of the dry dock.
- 2027 Q2: Delivery to Royal Caribbean is planned.
The construction of Hero of the Seas is progressing steadily with the completion of the hull block assembly phase. This process involves joining multiple sections to create the ship’s primary framework. The hull construction will continue for several more months before the vessel is moved for outfitting.
Overview of Icon Class Ships
Hero of the Seas represents one of the largest cruise ships globally, part of Royal Caribbean’s Icon Class series. This class includes other notable ships such as Icon of the Seas, Star of the Seas, and Legend of the Seas. Their massive sizes and advanced features set new standards in the cruise industry.
As the construction continues, the focus will be on systems installation and final commissioning work after the vessel emerges from dry dock. This innovative ship promises to enhance the cruising experience for travelers around the world.
