At Control AV, we believe that extraordinary entertainment experiences begin with cutting-edge technology and unparalleled expertise. As a leader in the entertainment technology integration industry, we specialize in delivering innovative solutions that transform spaces and elevate experiences.
Discover the Control AV Difference
Transform your spaces and captivate your audience with Control AV. Whether you’re outfitting a luxury cruise ship, enhancing a live performance venue, or upgrading your existing systems, we have the expertise and technology to make your vision a reality.
Contact Us Today
Ready to elevate your entertainment experience? Reach out to us for a consultation and discover how Control AV can take your project to the next level.
Email: sales@controlavllc.com
Phone: +786-257-2702
Website: www.controlav.pro
MONDO-DR – ICON OF THE SEAS ON THE COVER Icon of the Seas
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Entering into the summer months, here at MONDO-DR we thought it was only right to publish a special, ‘sunny’ edition, alongside issue 34.5. This supplement covers the absolutely colossal Icon of the Seas cruise ship and all its glorious, technologically-advanced venues, crafted by the holiday-making professionals at Royal Caribbean International. The sophistication of the audiovisual systems and software on this vessel prove that at-sea leisure is the true height of luxury. The creation of this accessory issue has been particularly exciting for me, as this is the first MONDO-DR publication where I have taken on the role of lead Editor. It’s been a blast to put together, and I couldn’t be more thankful for the brilliant people and companies who I collaborated with in the creation of this edition, who were all more than happy to detail their contributions to this ‘Iconic’ build. Enjoy the supplement!
DAISY THOROGOOD ASSISTANT EDITOR
MAKING AN ICON
Royal Caribbean International presents ‘Icon of the Seas’
Icon of the Seas is more than just a cruise ship, it’s an exploration into the capabilities of at-sea entertainment, with the creative teams behind the vessel continuously making the seemingly impossible possible.
Icon of the Seas, more akin to a city than a ship, is the first edition of Royal Caribbean’s ‘Icon’ class, and at 248,663 gross tonnages, is the largest cruise ship in the world.
Whether a vacation means getting away as a family, couple, or friends, Icon’s allencompassing lineup features a variety of firsts and next-level favourites for everyone. There are over 40 cutting-edge entertainment venues, including the largest waterpark at sea, Broadway standard theatres, and plenty of sophisticated, stylish cuisine and cocktail options.
Icon of the Seas represents a significant leap in Royal Caribbean’s commitment to sustainability, as it is powered by liquefied natural gas (LNG), known to produce fewer emissions compared to traditional marine fuels. The green pledge was not the only considerate, thoughtful aspect of Icon’s creation though: perhaps most excitingly, all kit for this ship’s endless entertainment venues was subject to careful, attentive audio-visual installations and specifications by a hugely passionate team.
This ship was a huge collaborative success, coming to fruition thanks to Royal Caribbean’s ambition and determination, alongside the
company’s most trusted manufacturers, installers, engineers, and more. Leading the implementation of unrivalled entertainment systems throughout the vessel was Christopher Vlassopulos, Manager, Newbuilding Sound & Light, Royal Caribbean Group.
Vlassopulos stated: “We know what our guests want from leisure and entertainment. As usual with our ships, every technological aspect was thought through and high-quality. Audio for busy performances or background ambience, luminaries for colourful or minimalistic lighting, screens for broadcast or artistic purposes –everything was precisely specified down to the last wire.”
“One of the reasons Icon turned out so incredibly was the people involved,” continued Vlassopulos. “We designed and built this ship during COVID-19, which was a challenge, as the supply of labour and equipment was interrupted. Luckily, Royal Caribbean’s close, professional relationships with our manufacturers, engineers, and installers meant we were able to make miracles happen.”
Icon of the Seas is the biggest ship in the world, with even bigger audiovisual names inside. The tireless effort from all contributors involved makes it easy to understand why Royal Caribbean Group is a leader in the cruise industry; this maritime masterpiece is setting new standards for what guests can expect from at-sea entertainment.
www.royalcaribbean.com
“WE KNOW WHAT OUR GUESTS WANT FROM LEISURE AND ENTERTAINMENT. AS USUAL WITH OUR SHIPS, EVERY TECHNOLOGICAL ASPECT WAS THOUGHT THROUGH AND HIGH-QUALITY.”
Previous Page: Icon of the Seas, setting sail for the first of many incredible ventures.
Above: More than 1,200 members of crew and workers celebrating Icon’s addition to the Royal Caribbean family.
CONTROL AV
Left: Icon’s Pearl Cafe, one of many eateries on the ship providing floor-to-ceiling ocean views.
Control AV, designer and integrator of premier audiovisual systems, had a huge part to play in cementing Icon of the Seas as a pioneer in the leisure industry. The team’s thoughtful and ship-wide installations help offer passengers an unparalleled experience on the open seas. Featuring an impressive array of 68 distinct entertainment venues, from cozy piano bars to a majestic Broadway-style theatre, Icon of the Seas set a new standard for onboard leisure, which needed to be paired with an equally innovative system design.
Control AV, with offices spanning across the USA, Finland, Spain, and Colombia, united its teams of engineers from around the globe to deliver state-of-the-art audio, visual, and lighting systems, forming a strong group that tackled the large task of outfitting the sea’s largest ship.
Amir El Yordi, President and Douglas Ellis, CEO of Control AV, agreed: “Our team consists of highly experienced engineers with extensive backgrounds in the entertainment and cruise ship industry. We understood the specific needs of each space and applied our expertise to create unique entertainment venues across the vessel. Designing the largest ship we’ve ever worked on was a significant and proud achievement for us.”
“We were put forward to do a great amount of Icon design and integration by Royal Caribbean International while working in close collaboration with the Meyer Turku shipyard in Finland” continued Ellis.
This collaborative effort took nearly five years to transform the conceptual designs of Royal Caribbean and its designers into reality, blending art and technology to create an immersive and unforgettable experience for passengers.
One of Control AV’s standout integrations was the introduction of the groundbreaking L-acoustics L-ISA system in the ship’s theatres, elevating the acoustic experience to unprecedented levels at sea. This cuttingedge technology provides guests with a level of immersion typically found only in top-tier land-based entertainment venues. “This is the first-ever L-ISA system to feature on a cruise ship,” enthused El Yordi.
Additionally, Control AV, in partnership with DAS Audio, strategically installed DAS Audio systems throughout all open decks, ensuring exceptional sound quality and coverage. Passengers aboard Icon of the Seas can relish crisp and clear audio whether they are lounging by the pool or strolling along the promenade, thereby enriching their overall onboard experience.
Control AV and Royal Caribbean alike refuse to settle for technology that is less than perfect. To keep their finger on the pulse of the market and best understand what equipment will fit a venue, Control AV attends an abundance of trade shows and is always in communication with manufacturers. This was especially important in the creation of Icon of the Seas; as the build understandably took years, the team had to be certain that the technology installed would be just as relevant and functional at the ship’s delivery. “We designed for the future,” affirmed Ellis.
“A challenge of the project was making sure each venue had its own atmosphere and vibe,” said El Yordi. “The ship is like a city, there are so many venues; as each space has an individual function, we wanted to curate a unique mood for each. This was achieved by considerate design. The power of audio-visual equipment in completely crafting a unique ambience for a venue should never be overlooked.”
Another obstacle that Control AV smoothly tackled was working around the sheer size of Icon: “When you’re physically on the ship, because it’s such a big space, you realize that not everything works exactly as it does on paper. Because it’s so huge, we had to adapt as we saw more and more of the vessel,” added El Yordi.
El Yordi explained how although incredible technology was key to the audio-visual success of Icon, it could not have been created without a passionate team: “We needed to make sure that everyone involved had the same attitude towards finishing this project to the highest standard imaginable. Some Control AV members had to be on the ship for over 10 months, so true dedication was needed.”
“This project signifies a pinnacle in maritime entertainment technology. We are thrilled to contribute to the success of Icon of the Seas, enhancing the onboard experience for passengers with our innovative audio-visual solutions,” concluded Ellis.
Control AV is already working on the second and third Icon class ships, with their incredible designs getting ready to set sail once again!
www.controlav.pro
“WE DESIGNED FOR THE FUTURE”
Left: The Overlook bar, the height of futuristic elegance. Below: Icon’s lush Central park, home to over 33,500 real plants.
ABSEN
Absen’s collaboration with Royal Caribbean International helps the ship shine brightly from deck to deck, with Icon now boasting impressive LED solutions that take the boat’s show-stopping entertainment to new, colourful levels.
Absen’s innovative Polaris LED display technology takes centre stage in Icon’s Royal Theater. The 15.5 m wide screen serves as a backdrop for the venue’s magical performances, such as its starring, iconic role in the first rendition of ‘The Wizard of Oz’ at sea. For these performances, Absen technology was granted a starring role, crafting sparkling yellow brick roads and glittering emerald cities that captivated entire audiences.
Additionally, six movable Polaris LED Legs on stage left and right enhance the theatrical experience, creating dynamic stage settings and bringing scenes to life in vivid detail. The combination of Absen technology with Royal Caribbean’s immersive, vibrant storytelling proves yet again that Icon is spearheading the contemporary entertainment movement.
Absen’s commitment to excellence extends to The Overlook, one of Icon’s most versatile spaces, offering panoramic, tranquil ocean views by day, and transforming into a hot spot at night. Absen’s Polaris and NX displays grant this venue life – literally – as they produce a captivating digital aquarium, packed with gorgeously realistic marine life! With such fantastical equipment abilities, Absen shatters audience preconceptions surrounding what is to be expected from visual entertainment.
“Our partnership with Royal Caribbean on Icon of the Seas demonstrates Absen’s dedication to delivering top-of-the-line LED display solutions that enhance entertainment and engagement,” said Juan Riveros, Regional Manager at Absen Inc. “Our Polaris and NX displays are designed to meet the standards of unique environments like cruise ships, ensuring exceptional brightness, clarity, and reliability for an unforgettable experience.”
www.absen.com
Below: Absen Polaris LED technology creates a sprawling field of poppies for Icon’s ‘Wizard of Oz.’
ALLEN & HEATH
Right: Empire Supper Club, Icon of the Seas’ sophisticated dining spot fitted with Allen & Heath Qu-Pac Mixers.
Further in alliance with Royal Caribbean International in constructing Icon of the Seas was Allen & Heath (A&H), who augmented the sonic experience on the record-breaking ship. The cooperation integrated A&H’s wide range of audio technology throughout Icon, ensuring that the high-quality ship was capable of high-quality sound.
A feat of Allen & Heath’s Icon involvement, the company’s cutting-edge dLive S5000 Mixer thoroughly demonstrated its excellence and flexibility after being installed throughout the ship. On Absolute Zero’s ice rink, this sophisticated audio apparatus provides a pristine sound that enhances elite figure skaters’ impressive performances, whilst helping keep the dance floor alive at the Music Hall.
Additionally, A&H Qu-Pac Mixers, chosen for their exceptional sound quality, are installed in stylish spots such as the Empire Supper Club, Schooner Bar, and Lobby Bar. These advanced audio systems elevate each venue, seamlessly combining the spaces’ classy atmosphere with vibrant music, guaranteeing an enchanting evening.
Allen & Heath’s SQ-5 Mixers form the core of numerous lively live Icon venues. Though many of these spaces attract different audiences and serve different functions, with clubs presenting everything from smooth jazz melodies to hilarious sketch shows, the SQ-5 Mixers serve each act’s needs suitably. Boleros, the Comedy Club, Dueling Pianos, and the Jazz Bar are just a few of Icon’s spaces benefitting from this solution.
Summing up the integration and looking forward to A&H’s bright future at sea, Jeff Hawley, Director of Marketing, Allen & Heath, said: “A&H’s audio mixers are acclaimed for their dependability and superior performance, making them the favoured choice for dynamic settings such as cruise ships. With an emphasis on seamless integration, these audio solutions enhance the ship’s aesthetics while offering vacationers unmatched sound quality and entertainment choices.”
www.allen-heath.com
Left and below: Allen & Heath’s state-of-theart dLive mixers.
CRYSTAL FOUNTAINS
With more than fifty years of experience in the commercial water feature industry, Crystal Fountains continues to focus on designing captivating, sustainable, and world-class water features. The designer and manufacturer was able to demonstrate the power its products have in entertaining after Crystal Fountains was commissioned to work on the Icon of the Seas project.
George Ayer, Director of Product Engineering, Crystal Fountains, elaborates on the company’s role during the designing of Icon of the Seas, illustrating the truly limitless creative potential of water features:
How did Crystal Fountains get involved with the Icon of the Seas project?
Ayer: We’ve been working with Royal Caribbean International for a long time, and we’ve been involved in lots of creative projects with them; Crystal Fountains equipment can be found in all of Royal Caribbean’s ‘Oasis Class’ ships, specifically the spectacular show venues, the AquaTheaters. We became involved with Icon of the Seas in late 2019, where we began designing vibrant water features for the AquaDome, and other areas on the vessel.
What Crystal Fountains equipment can be found on Icon?
The Rain Bar feature is particularly exciting! 18 m above the pool in the AquaDome, it is a rain curtain that controls the descent of droplets of water that dramatically fall from great heights into the pool below. It creates beautiful, magical, visuals that complement the vibrant performances within the theatre.
Another use of our products can be seen in Thrill Island, Icon’s huge water park. Spray Bars, units that are built to create multiple jet water displays, appear throughout the venue, entertaining the guests, especially the young children, who run through its shower.
How did you go about designing the systems for the AquaDome, as it is such a unique space?
The Rain Bar in the AquaDome, alike our equipment on the ship, is custom-made for Icon’s usage. We worked closely with Royal Caribbean, Architects Wilson Butler, and Shipbuilder Meyer Turku, to find bespoke solutions that are perfect matches for Icon’s one-of-a-kind venues. We’ve customised many products for many different projects we’ve been involved in; each installation has its own challenges and needs, and oftentimes creating the best results possible requires a unique solution. Crystal Fountains is the leader in our industry at creating one of a kind product solutions for iconic designs.
Below: The dazzling AquaDome, featuring Crystal
Furthermore, our WATERlab technology is a hugely powerful tool in our design process. Created in-house by Crystal Fountains, WATERlab is the industry’s first physics-based 3D water feature simulation, design, and programming suite. Giving users the ability to experiment with layouts, sizes, and types of water features ultimately reduces risk, lowers cost, and improves creative control for when venues decide to integrate our equipment.
WATERlab simulations got the Royal Caribbean team really excited about our feature pitch – they could quickly visualise what elements they wanted on the ship. Being able to demonstrate the artistic power of our products through the software is a major part of our sales and design processes. It’s so effective at clarifying and communicating the vision!
How does your team feel about the completed installation?
It looks amazing, as do all our works inside Royal Caribbean ships. It’s exciting to have our equipment installed in such dynamic spaces, particularly the AquaTheaters on the Oasis Class vessels and the AquaDome on Icon Class ships. The audience’s amazement makes all the hard work so satisfying; we love to hear the gasps of delight when rain cascades over flying acrobats in an aerial Pas de Deux performance, 10 meters in the air!
These theatre spaces have the very best in lighting, sound and special effects technology. Crystal’s LEDs and jet sequencing devices work seamlessly with all other show components – the water really is integral to the overall experience. We are so proud to be part of these incredible venues.
www.crystalfountains.com
Fountains’ installation.
Above: Swim & Tonic, a swim-up bar fitted with excellent audio solutions.
Right: Hooked Seafood, a popular Royal Caribbean venue with ambiencecultivating music.
DAS AUDIO
Audio technology aboard Icon of the Seas is integral to creating an immersive and luxurious experience; whether guests may be enjoying the interior of the ship and its classy eateries and bars, or sunbathing on the ship’s outside decks, DAS Audio knew that top-notch sound was integral to visitor satisfaction.
With weather-resistant systems expertly integrated by Control AV using DAS Audio technology, the ship was outfitted to deliver this necessary audio quality, granting superior sound across extensive outdoor and indoor areas.
The audio systems, particularly the DAS Audio WR Series installed outdoors, are engineered to withstand marine environments while providing crystal-clear sound. This ensures that even if it’s a stormy evening on deck, the audio condition remains pristine, enhancing the overall atmosphere and mood.
This is achieved as the WR series is crafted from birch plywood, enveloped in a protective fibreglass layer, and includes critical metallic components made from AISI 316 stainless steel for superior corrosion resistance. These systems also feature special low-carbon steel with protective coatings, and grilles treated with a cataphoresis process followed by powder coating, enhancing their durability against environmental elements.
The robust design of the WR Series speakers, of which there are over 400 installed, guarantees that performances and events held in outdoor venues are supported by sound systems that can handle the dynamic range of live music, theatrical performances, and other entertainment. This capability is vital for maintaining the entertainment quality Royal Caribbean is known for, particularly in challenging outdoor settings.
Displaying DAS Audio and Control AV’s dedication to creating bespoke solutions, more than 500 units of Quantum series speakers were integrated into visually sensitive areas where aesthetics are paramount, without compromising durability.
The Quantum series offers a robust build with its aluminium enclosure and IP-66 kit, designed to provide reliable performance in various outdoor settings without sacrificing aesthetic appeal.
Adding to Icon’s DAS Audio inventory, the bustling Royal Promenade features more than 100 units of Artec series systems, designed to deliver clear and distinct sound within the dynamic indoor environment.
Though the result is flawless, installation did not come without its challenges. Due to the vast scale of the ship and the extensive
number of systems to be specified, time management was crucial. The project team implemented a strict schedule with precise milestones and regular progress reviews. This approach ensured that each phase of the audio installation was completed on time, despite the project’s complexity.
Additionally, integrating audio systems without compromising the ship’s luxurious and detailed aesthetics was a key challenge that DAS Audio and Control AV easily conquered with their trained expertise. The design team worked closely with the interior decorators to ensure that speakers and hardware were either hidden or blended seamlessly with the surroundings. Custom enclosures and finishes that matched the interior themes were used wherever visible installations were necessary.
Managing the integration of 68 different entertainment systems, each with its unique requirements, was highly complex. The use of a centralised control system, like Q-SYS, allowed for streamlined management and operation of these systems.
This platform allowed the teams to coordinate audio across different venues efficiently, making sure that system adjustments and controls could be handled centrally, overall simplifying operations.
Amir El Yordi, Founder and CEO of Control AV, stated: “We’ve partnered with DAS Audio on numerous cruise projects, leveraging their WR and Quantum series systems. Reliability made them the obvious choice for the Icon of the Seas. Working with a trusted provider like DAS Audio ensures that we can meet the unique challenges of marine installations with confidence.”
Each DAS Audio system was designed to adhere to the highest standards of maritime safety and durability. Control AV, with its extensive experience in maritime projects, was instrumental in the expert installation and integration of these advanced, weatherised sound systems.
Javier Navarro, CEO and Chief of Engineering of DAS Audio, concluding on the successful project, said: “Partnering with companies like Control AV has been instrumental in refining products like our WR series. These collaborations help us push the limits of what’s possible with weatherised solutions. We aim not just to combat the elements but to create systems that endure over time, ensuring our products are as reliable as they are innovative.”
www.dasaudio.com
HARMAN PROFESSIONAL SOLUTIONS
In a partnership rooted in a long, reliable business relationship, HARMAN Professional Solutions provided entertainment-enhancing systems for Royal Caribbean, choosing products that pair perfectly with the animated atmosphere of Icon of the Seas.
The iconic ship demanded equally iconic lighting, which HARMAN provided in abundance; Morten Gjotz, Sales Director, Global Cruise, Marine and Theme Parks, HARMAN Professional, examines the company’s integral role in the installation:
How was HARMAN approached to join the Icon installer team?
Gjotz: As we have been close partners with Royal Caribbean International for more than 20 years we were involved from the very early beginning, nearly 4 years before Icon of the Seas was completed. Royal Caribbean knows us and knows the powerful, trustworthy nature of all products under the HARMAN name.
Our Martin Professional products have formed bespoke, trustworthy solutions for many diverse venues throughout Icon of the Seas. This project really showed the flexibility of our fixtures, and their potential to improve any kind of space!
How closely did HARMAN work alongside the installers during project Icon?
Given many years of targeted focus, investment, and experience towards serving the global cruise market with premium audio, video, and lighting solutions, we are always seriously commited to overseeing the many phases of a ship build.
From the ideas and testing phase to Icon’s actual installation and completion, we engaged onsite. Furthermore, once the ship was in service, we remained in close communication with the vessel’s team and integrators – aligning with our company morals, we made sure that the cruise liner and all partners were well supported and looked after.
Where is the most exciting use of HARMAN products on Icon of the Seas?
On Icon, each venue is truly unique and fascinating – it’s hard to highlight just one!
An interesting use of Martin products can be found in Icon’s AquaDome, a multi-purpose, vibrant venue, where 23 MAC Ultra Performance and 22 MAC Ultra Wash, both with a sleek white finish, deliver powerful illumination to the huge space. These fixtures are extremely bright and can be used to choreograph creative lighting thanks to Martin’s Animotion effect. This works by controlling the intensity of light elements within the LED engine to create unique, moving 3D patterns.
Additionally, Icon’s Music Hall is packed with Martin brilliance. 40 MAC Aura PXL treat the hall to gorgeous colours, helped by the fixture’s RGBW system. The MAC Aura PXL also operates silently; Martin ensures that the world-class musicians performing in the hall will never be disturbed by noise pollution.
It’s also exciting to have our products in the largest theatre at sea, Icon’s Main Theater. A large amount of Martin’s ELP series can be found here, particularly 125 ELP CL units.
How does HARMAN feel about the result of the installation?
We are extremely pleased with the result, and we are so happy that the ship is being incredibly received by all its guests – it is basically sold out for the rest of 2024!
The pleasure of working on such a high-calibre project with Royal Caribbean and all its partners is such a reward for me and everyone at HARMAN. In fact, our HARMAN Professional leadership team recently received a miniature Icon ship each, which they have all proudly displayed in the office. Finally, I want to highlight how much I enjoy working with Royal Caribbean; their continued dedication to caring partnerships, superior performance, genuine longevity, and attention to detail makes them wonderful to collaborate with.
www.harman.com www.martin.com
Left Page: Martin Professional fixtures impress throughout Icon’s entertainment venues.
Left: One of the ship’s leisure spaces treated with expert HARMAN products.
L-ACOUSTICS
Icon’s truly brilliant sound that can be heard throughout the ship is thanks to Royal Caribbean International’s strong collaborations with top manufacturers and installers. Among these relations was L-Acoustics, diving into the project when the boat needed 400-plus of its premium loudspeakers, all of which were expertly integrated by L-Acoustics Certified Provider, Control AV.
To properly entertain its 5,610 guests, 18 of the ship’s many distinct venues feature L-Acoustics. Among these is the multifaceted Royal Theater. Equipped with L-ISA Hyperreal Immersive technology from L-Acoustics, the theatre is sonically reinforced by 52 Kiva II enclosures in a seven-array system bolstered by six SB18i subs. Two A10 enclosures, 52 coaxial X8, and 20 5XT are also deployed throughout the venue as delays, surrounds, and fills.
Absolute Zero ice arena had an A Series system expertly specified to work alongside the dazzling performances staged on the rink. Comprising 18 L-Acoustics A15i Wide, four A15i Focus, four A10i Wide, six X12 speakers, and 12 KS21i subs, the solution couldn’t sound better!
Perhaps the most visually stunning entertainment venue on Icon is the AquaTheater. The theatre’s aqua action straddles the line between live-action cinematography and theatrical display, featuring unique stunts from extraordinarily talented divers. Such performances are heard loud and clear via a combination of six L-Acoustics A15i Focus, 10 X12, 16 X8, and 19 ultra-compact X4i enclosures, plus four KS21i and SB18 IIi subs.
The entertainment continues with venues along the lively Royal Promenade – which, itself, features 17 A10i Wide, 16 Syva Sub, four self-powered 108P, and two X8 – including Spotlight Karaoke, Dueling Pianos, the Latin-themed Boleros, and The Attic comedy club.
Even the ship’s crew get to enjoy their own L-Acoustics system, with X8 speakers and SB15m subs installed in the crew bar and disco.
Above: The ship sets sail. Below: Icon’s marvellous Royal Theater.
From theatres, to clubs, to restaurants, L-Acoustics PA systems are found in nearly every kind of gathering space on Icon, assuring that vacationers will have an excellent audio experience ship-wide.
The sound systems were installed aboard Icon by Control AV, as were the other video and lighting systems, which took place in Turku, Finland, and Cadiz, Spain. It was, says the integrator, a collaborative effort that took nearly five years to bring the conceptual designs of Royal Caribbean and its designers to life, “merging art and science to create an immersive and unforgettable experience for passengers.”
Control AV’s commentary on the massive project calls attention to what L-Acoustics products and technology bring to the ship. “A standout innovation is the introduction of the groundbreaking L-Acoustics L-ISA system in the ship’s Royal Theater, elevating the acoustic experience to unprecedented levels at sea,” said Control AV President, Amir El Yordi. “This cutting-edge technology provides guests
with a level of immersion typically found only in top-tier land-based entertainment venues. This project signifies a pinnacle in maritime entertainment technology. We are thrilled to contribute to the success of Icon of the Seas, enhancing the experience for guests with our innovative AV solutions,” he continued.
L-Acoustics Global Director of Business Development, Scott Wakelin, added: “Considering Icon of the Seas’ multiplicity of venues, the challenges of designing, supplying, and integrating all of the audio systems for a project of this scale were arguably more involved than deploying sound for a huge multi-stage, multi-day music festival.”
“That being said, it was our pleasure and honour to partner with both Control AV and Royal Caribbean on this massively rewarding installation. Those who have been fortunate enough to have spent their leisure time on Icon will certainly say that it offers the best of everything, including sound,” he revealed.
www.l-acoustics.com
Above: Icon’s Lobby Bar, fitted with expert audio-visual systems.
LISTEN TECHNOLOGIES
Pledging that every Icon of the Seas customer will be able to experience vast amounts of on-demand, quality entertainment, Royal Caribbean International authorised the integration of Listen Technologies’ audio over WiFi assistive listening system. The implementation of assistive listening solutions does fall in line with Royal Caribbean’s intentions to provide accessibility on all their ships, whilst also being an extremely helpful tool for all passengers to access clear audio.
Kasey Kaumans, Listen Technologies Regional Sales Manager, elaborates, giving fresh insights into the many ways assistive hearing technology can be utilised in entertainment, and the exciting possibilities that would emerge if all venues had such accessible features:
ListenWIFI
Create better experiences when your audio is accessible to everyone.
Provide a Choice
Passengers can choose how they access audio: their smartphone or venue-provided receiver.
Easy to Use
Simply turn on the device, select the channel, and adjust the volume.
Virtually No Latency
No lip-sync issues! Low latency means the audio does not lag.
Seamless Experiences
New beacons provide location-based audio for an automated and seamless experience.
Bluetooth® Enabled
Connect to the audio using wireless headphones, earbuds, or hearing aids.
T-Coil Friendly
ListenWIFI is compatible with t-coil-enabled hearing aids and cochlear implants.
Visit our www.listentech.com/listenwifi
“WHETHER YOU HAVE A HEARING IMPAIRMENT, WANT TO LISTEN TO ICON’S JAZZ BANDS, OR EVEN WANT TO STREAM A GUIDED TOUR OF THE DECK TO YOUR HEADPHONES, LISTENWIFI CAN HELP. EVERYONE DESERVES GREAT AUDIO, NO MATTER WHERE THEY ARE.”
Can you explain how Listen Technologies’ solutions work on Icon?
What led to Listen Technologies getting involved in project Icon?
Previous page & Above: Icon’s Lagoon Pool and Cantina Fresca; alike all other venues on the ship, ListenWIFI’s streaming services can be used here.
Kaumans: The ship benefits from ListenWIFI, the next generation of Listen EVERYWHERE, our audio over Wi-Fi assistive listening solution that lets users stream venue audio to their personal smart devices. So, on Icon, neither the ship nor the guests need additional equipment to use our product!
The Royal Theater and AquaTheater in Icon are fitted with Listen’s audio over Wi-Fi solution, so if a guest wants to better hear the incredible vocals from one of the ship’s theatres, they can easily tune in by using the free ListenWIFI app.
Even cooler, passengers with Bluetooth-enabled hearing aids or cochlear implants can stream the audio directly from their smartphones to their hearing devices! Icon of the Seas informs guests about the assistive listening capabilities of the cruise, and the entertainment venues are all dotted with ListenWIFI QR codes that can be scanned to download the app. The power of the QR code strikes again!
Were there any issues with installing this technology across the entirety of an enormous ship?
We knew we were entering into a big project with integrating ListenWIFI into Icon, because the technology works by providing audio to anyone connected to the ship’s Wi-Fi network. Because of the size of the Icon, the amount of people using its network is akin to a city! Our technology is powerful, and we have ensured the software runs smoothly, even with many guests connected.
Royal Caribbean had already decided to integrate some of our Listen Technologies products into Icon, and after hearing about ListenWIFI, they were keen to get the technology installed across the ship.
Royal Caribbean’s goal is high-quality entertainment for all, so accessibility tools to ensure everybody can enjoy the ship was a priority. ListenWIFI is an excellent solution for this, as it grants guests control over audio, allowing them to turn up the volume on their personal device, turn on audio description, and more.
However, the Icon team soon realised ListenWIFI’s vast potential; we demonstrated how the ability to broadcast audio from the luxury of one’s smartphone meant that ListenWIFI would be useful for all guests, not just passengers with a hearing impairment.
So, how can ListenWIFI enhance visitor experience beyond use as a traditional accessibility tool?
All guests can use ListenWIFI to hear clearly despite background noise, distance, or even language. Our technology makes for a more immersive entertainment experience ship-wide, because whether you have a hearing impairment, want to listen to Icon’s jazz bands, or even want to stream a guided tour of the deck to your headphones, ListenWIFI can help. Everyone deserves great audio, no matter where they are.
Royal Caribbean plans to install Listen Technologies’ audio over Wi-Fi assistive listening solution across its fleet of ships – the team sees its power! www.listentech.com
GREGORY CHOSSON
CEO AUDIOVISTA / FOUNDER MARCH ON MARS
To me it‘s all about creating a reliable and technically safe work environment for my customers as well as my teams.
Artist Intercom allows me to provide intuitive workflows and to onboard new team members swiftly.“
ARTIST INTERCOM
Professional and reliable live communications.
Seamless integration of Riedel‘s SmartPanel and Bolero wireless intercom.
Easily scaling from 16 to 1024 ports with flexible licensing.
MAINLINE MARKETING
How did Mainline Marketing get involved in the Icon of the Seas project?
Muntean: I’ve had a great working relationship with Christopher Vlassopulos, Manager, Newbuilding Sound & Light, Royal Caribbean Group, for around five years. We’ve worked with Royal Caribbean International before, too, so they know our input is dependable. When I bring Christopher a new product, he trusts me, and is willing to take a look at it. The brands we represent and helped integrate into Icon of the Seas are Listen Technologies, Absen, Allen & Heath, DAS Audio, Draper, and Shure.
Can you describe what Mainline did to assist with Icon’s creation?
Our role as the factory manufacturer’s representative for our territory, Florida, is to support clients with services such as consulting, designing, marketing, training, pre-sales support, post-sale support, and more. It’s a job that certainly requires diligence and passion for a great result!
To illustrate an example of our role; A few years ago Royal Caribbean wanted to upgrade their wireless systems across their fleet, they could have worked with any manufacturer. Our job was to present the best product solutions possible from Shure and show the value in working with the global brand. Our firm was also able to offer additional value which included product demonstrations for proof of concept, design assistance, and frequency coordination. Mainline also provides ongoing post-sale support to troubleshoot, fix, or replace the products when needed and are able to assist wherever the ship may be. We also provide ongoing training for the crew.
Can you offer some examples of how Mainline Marketing influenced the design of Icon of the Seas?
We introduced Listen Technologies’ ListenWIFI to Royal Caribbean. Once Christopher Vlassopulos experienced the product and decided he wanted to incorporate it into Icon of the Seas, we worked with other Royal Caribbean stakeholders, including the information technology department, to prove the product could work on board without interfering with networks and provide a better guest experience. We were instrumental in managing this project, making sure a successful deployment and test went ahead on board another ship, Wonder of the Seas. Our in-house engineers at Mainline went on board a number of times to install ListenWIFI system, for system testing, and train to the technical team, guaranteeing that the best result was possible. After the successful test, it was approved to be installed on Icon. Since its integration on Icon, Royal Caribbean loved ListenWIFI so much, they’ve placed it on some of their other ships!
Additionally, about six years ago, we introduced the new line of digital
products from Allen & Heath to Royal Caribbean’s Vlassopulos. Over time, he became keener to work with A&H as their family of digital mixers grew. Allen and Heath’s mixers all have a similar and userfriendly workflow, they are highly regarded for their robust build quality and versatility for any size production, leading him to implement the brand’s products into Icon of the Seas.
How does Mainline Marketing stay up to date with the audio-visual trends, to make sure it is providing the best support and advice for the brands it represents?
Of course, we have to be experts in the brands and products we represent, so it begins with training, most of which we get from the manufacturers, or from our trade organisation, AVIXA. Also, we deeply care about remaining close to our integrators and end users. We invest a good amount of revenue into events and other business development activities to get closer to stakeholders and decisionmakers. Furthermore, we conduct round table events to understand what the users want in products. We learn quite a bit about the market needs from activities like this.
We also stay heavily involved in industry organisations. A great example of that is the ICSEPA (International Cruise Ship Entertainment Professionals Association). Mainline Marketing, along with its manufacturers, are all members of this organisation, and provide monetary donations, marketing materials, and training for networking events, increasing awareness and knowledge for professionals within the cruise ship industry.
The head of ICSEPA is Amir El Yordi, President of Icon installer, Control AV. Furthermore, Christopher Vlassopulos is a founding, integral member of the organisation. So, this group creates a space that really motivates passionate discussion about the latest and greatest strides in cruise technology.
Is there anything else you’d like to note about Mainline Marketing?
We truly care about all the manufacturers we represent and the integrators and end-users we work with. We are passionate about AV and strive to bring value to all those we work with every day! Our role is to be experts for the companies we represent, acting as their team on the ground to get their products seen – when we represent Shure for a project, we ARE Shure. The impact of the manufacturer’s representative is key, as we have illustrated in our role in Icon of the Seas’ design. Most importantly, we are so excited to be part of another incredible Royal Caribbean ship.
www.mainlinemarketing.com
Right: The Mainline Marketing team.
Crafting a large, high-quality entertainment venue demonstrably requires many different brands with products executing many different functions. With the top audio-visual companies being scattered across the globe, to ensure successful collaboration, Icon of the Seas needed the involvement of manufacturer representatives. The ship’s team worked closely with Mainline Marketing, inspired by the firm’s track record of being a reliable partner in the Florida territory. Clinton Muntean, President of Mainline Marketing, revealed their side of the story, including how Mainline came to represent multiple excellent brands integrated within Icon of the Seas, and why a trusted brand partner should never be overlooked in venue design:
ROBE
Three of Icon’s greatest entertainment venues – Royal Theater, a Broadwaycalibre performance space, Absolute Zero, a premium ice-skating arena, and the AquaTheater, a water-show venue combining aerialists, high divers, and more, all have Robe moving lights at the heart of their installed lighting rigs.
Furthermore, approximately 250 other Robe and Anolis LED fixtures are installed throughout the ship, complementing the luxurious atmosphere of each venue with the manufacturer’s quintessential sophistication. The various Robe fixtures dotted throughout Icon include iFORTE, FORTE FS and iFORTE FS, ESPRITE, PAINTE, Tetra2, and iSpiider moving lights, plus multiple RoboSpot remote follow spot systems throughout the different venues.
Entertainment lighting for Icon’s various, unique zones was specified by Christopher Vlassopulos, Manager, Newbuilding Sound & Light, Royal Caribbean Group, working closely with Ben Couling, Lighting Consultant and maritime specialist from Tristwell Designs, Nick Mugnani from Skylight Services, and installer Control AV.
Coordinating the exciting project was Robe’s Global Maritime Manager, Tony Perez, who worked closely with Robe’s Finnish distributor, Lighthouse Entertainment, playing a key part in bringing the maritime feat to fruition.
Seating more than 1,200 guests, the proscenium arch Royal Theater is currently staging two spectacular productions, The Wizard of Oz and SHOWBAND!
Chosen as key fixtures, 24 ESPRITE PCs and 28 ESPRITE Profiles were primarily flown in the theatre’s overhead rig, with some deployed along the high sides of the stage. Two FORTE FS FollowSpots with motion cameras running on two RoboSpot controllers are positioned on the lighting bridges, with the FORTE FS luminaires fixed on the most downstage catwalk. There are also 32 PAINTES in the space, integrated for their small size and powerful output, positioned front of house.
The perfect match of colours granted by Robe’s LED lights was a big bonus for Production Lighting Designers Rui Rita and Matt Taylor who shaped the looks, drama, and narrative of the colourful and lively shows.
Hosting Olympic-sized feats and constantly stunning with its innovations, Absolute
Zero is both the largest ice arena at sea and the first to feature an oval-shaped rink that provides excellent sightlines, wherever guests may be seated. Installed in the record-breaking venue are four FORTE FS FollowSpots running in pairs on two RoboSpot systems, highlighting soloists as they expertly whizz around.
The AquaTheater hosts a high energy waterbased extravaganza, including thrilling dive shows from platforms up to 17 m high, synchronised swimming, fountain displays, and even robots! The dive towers are lit with 12 white iSpiiders, rigged both underneath the structures and the inner side of the stage. Adding to the dazzling effect, up-lighting the towers are 12 white Anolis Calumma L MC fixtures, picked for their durability and quality of light.
These three venues are not the only incredible spaces within Icon that feature Robe systems; opposite Absolute Zero is The Royal Promenade, a zone with over 15 restaurants, bars, and lounges. Each area of the promenade offers differing cuisines and atmospheres, complemented by expert audio-visual decisions that truly assist in making each venue in Icon appear independent and individual.
Nine white ESPRITES and two RoboSpot systems with four white Motion Cameras are rigged to pick up various entertainment functions staged around the Royal Promenade’s variety of spaces, with the ESPRITES chosen due to their undeniable intensity and multipurpose-appropriate features.
Additionally given the Robe-treatment was Icon’s Music Hall, a vibrant two-story venue, serving as a bar, club, and lounge. It showcases an impressive array of tribute bands, covering a wide range of genres from smooth jazz to heavy rock.
When Icon needed a dynamic fixture to secure Music Hall’s animated atmosphere, Robe’s TetraX became a clear option. The fixture creates artistic, signature effects; arguably perfect for the dramatic character of Icon. With 24 units integrated, TetraX is one of the space’s principal features due to its continuous pan rotation, flower effects, and powerful output. Four LEDBeam 150s in the same venue are strategically positioned to hit the mirror ball, adding to the already vivacious scene.
Throughout Icon’s Thrill Island and Chill Island – where guests can choose between
four pools, nine whirlpools, and six record-breaking water slides, are over 60 Anolis Calumma M MC RGBW fixtures, chiefly used as accent lights to accentuate the structures and water features. The Calummas were supplied with Robe’s special Harsh Environment coating to withstand the salt, humidity, sea spray, and UV conditions, ensuring visitors can enjoy the facilities for years to come.
Robe’s Tony Perez enjoyed collaborating with the cruise line’s creative team immensely: “Icon of the Seas was a once-in-a-lifetime endeavor, and the involvement of Robe and Anolis on this iconic vacation speaks volumes about the reputation of both brands,” he stated. Perez revealed that inventive lighting solutions including Robe’s TRANSFERABLE ENGINE (TE) technology, remote RoboSpot systems, and fully weatherized IP65rated products all made his job easier, concluding: “Close communication with the factory in the Czech Republic ensured the delivery of top-notch lighting products for this impressive project. This achievement was a massive team effort from Robe’s side, with key contributors from Robe North America like Lorienn Cochenour, Peter Moore, Tony Morin, Tal Janowitz, and the late Craig Burross, alongside International Sales Director, Ingo Dombrowski.”
www.robe.cz
and previous: Icon
Who we are
ICSEPA (International Cruise Ship Entertainment Professional Association) is the only international association that represents all things connected to entertainment and associated with cruise ships. ICSEPA began as a way for Industry Professionals to communicate during this time the industry was growing at such a rapid pace there was little time for detailed research.
Company Overview
Formed by and for professionals supplying specialized services and custom products to the Cruise Industry, our goals are to address issues relevant to members, and positively influence the development of successful entertainment environment onboard.
Mission
Our goal is to establish and promote professional industry standards, conduct educational seminars and discussions, provide valuable membership benefits, facilitate networking between member companies, and positively influence the development of successful entertainment environment onboard.
Above
of the Seas’ ‘The Wizard of Oz’, performed in the Royal Theater, lit with Robe systems.
TENNAGELS
Joining the team curating Icon of the Seas was tennagels Medientechnik, a supplier and installer entrusted with the task of specifying and installing cutting-edge lighting, sound, and video technology for one of the ship’s most prestigious venues: the AquaDome.
The dome is a large, impressive area that houses multiple spaces promoting the highest levels of entertainment and relaxation. Guests can sip on bespoke cocktails and listen to live music, all improved by mood-enhancing audio-visual technology.
Royal Caribbean International knew that the AquaTheater, an aquatic performance space within the dome, had to be spectacular. A truly one-of-a-kind venue hosting thrilling dives and dramatic performances, the theatre needed powerful AV systems to complement its excellence.
For projection, Panasonic was brought in. Chosen for its ultra-detailed, vibrant projection capability, 12 PT-RZ34K were installed, with a special coating of PCBs to withstand the chlorinated humidity, ensuring the Panasonic products can continue to entertain on Icon for seasons to come.
Regarding audio, an expert mix of L-Acoustics, QSC, Shure, and Sennheiser products combine to make a smart solution that produces stunning soundscapes for the water shows.
Martin Professional and Robe luminaries form the elegant lighting system, specified as Royal Caribbean and tennagels needed cutting-edge technology that would be robust and innovative enough to function smoothly and remain relevant for many years.
tennagels supplied all the materials to the construction company and client Merima Oy, integrating them in direct cooperation with their on-site team. Handily, both tennagels and Merima Oy had extensive experience with new builds and ship prototypes, resulting in a cooperative, solution-oriented performance on-site that was essential for achieving the common goal.
Leif Witte, tennagels Executive Management, revealed: “A success factor in addition to the great technology was the turnkey concept for the AquaTheater under the management of Merima Oy, which made it possible to hand over the whole venue design of the AquaDome to the customer two months ahead of schedule.”
Witte concluded: “For tennagels, it was a great honour and an even greater challenge to plan and install such a challenging venue in such a short time. Our special thanks for the trust placed in us go to our clients Merima Oy, Meyer Turku and Royal Caribbean.”
“The cooperation and mutual support of the tennagels team and our experienced partners has reached its climax in a unique, incredibly successful result.”
www.tennagels.com
Above and left: The Royal Caribbean team alongside Meyer Turku, tennagels’ commended cooperators in this project.
TV TOOLS
Outfitting the ship with state-of-the-art media technology solutions, Icon of the Seas’ whole broadcast system is designed, built, and powered by TV Tools, including the beating heart of the vessel, its broadcast centre.
TV Tools Business Director for Shipbuilding, Tuomas Niemelä, began: “Since 1997, TV Tools has served as the exclusive supplier of broadcast systems for Royal Caribbean International, with Icon of the Seas marking our 18th full broadcast new build.”
“As a turnkey supplier, we oversee every aspect of the process, from system consultation to final handover and ongoing support. Our in-house staff handles design, installation, configuration, commissioning, training, and support,” he added.
At the core of all of Icon’s broadcast and entertainment systems, a Riedel MediorNet network handles all TV-format video and non-Dante audio routing/ conversion. Additionally, Riedel’s ARTIST-1024 intercom matrix is included in the system.
A shared, ship-wide Aruba network carries all needed traffic, intercom, Dante audio, and more. TV Tools designed this shared system to make exchanging signals and communication flexible and easy.
TV Tools’ successful design was forged from meticulous consulting and planning, beginning in May 2018 with TV Tools’ initial pre-installations of media technology.
Thanks to the dedicated shipbuilding team, along with invaluable support from other TV Tools groups, this nearly six-year-long project culminated in a huge success that earned highly positive feedback from Royal Caribbean.
Even though the project has been completed, and the ship has started to sail the seas, the massive equipment and systems are constantly monitored and supported by TV Tools to ensure its longevity and functionality. Currently, TV Tools is preparing to work their magic on the second of Royal Caribbean’s Icon class ships, Star of the Seas.
www.tvtools.fi
Above and below: TV Tools was able to integrate broadcast systems throughout the whole ship, greatly increasing entertainment value.
ILLUMINATE YOUR IMAGINATION
SUBMERSIBLE LED LIGHTING, CRAFTED TO ACHIEVE OPTIMAL AESTHETIC AND TECHNICAL GOALS THAT COMPLEMENT OVERALL SPATIAL DESIGN.
Designers often face the challenge of finding a lighting solution that delivers both high-quality colour rendering and a variety of colour options. Utilizing our experience of over 55 years in the commercial water feature industry, we manufacture all our LED lights in-house at our facility in Toronto, Canada, that cater to the preferences and requirements of Lighting Designers, Show Designers, Landscape Architects, & Aquatic Designers alike. We aim to give creative freedom to clients who design with our lights, whether through Pantone colour-matching, producing a desired aesthetic, matching architectural lighting, recreating a specific hue or conceptualizing a show by harmonizing water and light.
Our fixtures are IP68 rated (rated for full submersion) and made with 316 stainless steel, enhancing its corrosion resistance properties.
All our fixtures are standard DMX/RDM controlled. We can also create captivating light shows through our in-house software, WATERlabTM, which can be remotely operated.
Our lights are robustly designed and tested, to live in harsh environments and perform in various temperatures.
Our skilled team of Designers, Engineers, and on-site commissioning and startup technicians ensure that your desired lighting goals are achieved.
