Icon of
the Seas – Flowrider
The FlowRider
Double on Icon of the Seas is the 23rd FlowRider
in Royal Caribbean’s fleet. There are two
types of rides, boogie boarding and stand up surfing. Boogie boarding is fairly
easy and something that
nearly everyone can do. Stand up surfing
is more challenging and takes time to learn. If you want to learn,
group lessons ($139) or private
lessons ($599) are recommended. Here is the process. The first step is to
sign the waivers and watch the safety
videos. Next you have to demonstrate you can boogie
board. Finally,
you’re given two chances per day to
show you can stand up under control for a minute and you’re given
a wristband to mark you as advanced.
It’s good for the entire rest of your cruise. The two chances may
seem strict, but the staff is just
following mandatory safety rules. Hitting your head or the back wall can
really hurt if you fall wrong. Once
you’re cleared, each turn consists of 2/3 falls or 5-8 minutes. The lines
can get long on sea days and in the
afternoon. Best times are embarkation day and early
morning. Check
the Cruise Compass for which ride
types are offered and when. The Flowrider is located in the back of
Thrill Island, deck 16 aft.
Riders must be at least 6 years old,
with 12 and under being accompanied by an adult. They must
also be 52 inches (4’4”) to boogie
board and 58 inches (4’10”) for standup surfing. No footwear,
jewelry, watches, goggles or cameras
are allowed. Wetsuits are permissible as it helps with
temperature and wardrobe
malfunctions.