Channel 4 has commissioned a documentary on the maiden voyage of the world’s largest cruise ship, the Icon of the Seas. The 60-minute programme will be produced by Welsh production company Afanti Media and will offer viewers an exclusive look at the massive vessel and its first sailing.
Standing at 20 decks high, nearly 1,200 feet long, and with a volume of 250,000 gross tons, the Icon is a true engineering marvel. On board, passengers will find the largest water park at sea, seven swimming pools, a towering waterfall, a thrill ride high above the water, and over 40 bars and restaurants. The ship has a capacity of 7,600 guests and is operated by Royal Caribbean International.
The documentary will follow families as they embark on their holiday aboard the Icon, with a large crew working behind the scenes to ensure a smooth journey. The programme was commissioned by Jasper Hone, Channel 4’s Commissioning Executive for Lifestyle, and will be produced by Cardiff-based Afanti Media, known for their large-scale productions.
Emyr Afan, CEO of Afanti Media, shared the company’s excitement about the project: “It was one of those rare opportunities when we could say to the Channel: if you don’t commission this you’ll miss the boat… We consider it an honour to tell the story of this world-first, following two years of development and access negotiations.”
The film is expected to air on Channel 4 this summer and will also have an additional version for international broadcasters distributed by Bossanova. Funding for the production comes from Creative Wales, international distributor Bossanova Media, and the BFI’s UK Global Screen Fund.
