Meyer Turku lays the keel for Royal Caribbean's Icon of the SeasMeyer Turku lays the keel for Royal Caribbean's Icon of the Seas

A 3,000-ton crane lifted the massive steel block into the building dock and on top of freshly minted 'lucky' coins.

'Five years ago, we began dreaming of Icon of the Seas, and now the next phase of this iconic adventure is beginning,' Royal Caribbean International President and CEO Michael Bayley said. 'As this game-changing ship takes shape, the excitement from families and travelers alike, travel advisors and our partners continues to build.'

First and favorites to come

Bayley said Icon's firsts and favorites will be revealed later this year.

Officials on hand for the keel-laying included Royal Caribbean Group's Jason Liberty, president and CEO, and  Richard Fain, chairman, along with Meyer Group Managing Partner Bernard Meyer and Meyer Turku CEO Tim Meyer.

The ship, first of three in the class, is due to enter service in fall 2023.