Royal Caribbean Welcomes Sailor, the New Chief Dog Officer for Star of the Seas
Royal Caribbean’s Star of the Seas is making waves even before it sets sail, thanks to a new member joining its crew: Sailor, the ship’s official Chief Dog Officer.
Announced on February 14, 2025, by Michael Bayley, President and CEO of Royal Caribbean, Sailor is a golden retriever puppy born to join the team on the highly anticipated Icon-class ship.
Sailor is not Royal Caribbean’s first canine ambassador—she follows in the paw prints of Rover, the Chief Dog Officer aboard the Icon of the Seas.
While Star of the Seas has been keeping details about Sailor’s arrival under wraps until now, her breed and role are now clear: the golden retriever is set to bring joy and companionship to the ship’s crew and guests, just like her predecessor.
Training for a Life at Sea
Sailor’s journey to becoming a shipboard mascot isn’t as simple as fetching sticks. She will undergo an intensive training program, which includes time spent with her mom, then a few months with a trainer, followed by visits with Bayley himself for some much-needed hugs.
After bonding with her sister, Rover, on Icon of the Seas, Sailor will be ready for her official duties on Star of the Seas.
Both Sailor and Rover come from Eagleridge Goldens, a well-regarded golden retriever breeder in Polk City, Florida. The breed’s intelligence, friendly nature, and adaptability make them perfect for life at sea, where they’ll interact with passengers and crew in various capacities.
A Busy Year Ahead
Sailor’s official role on the ship will see her boarding early to get acquainted with Star of the Seas before its debut.
The ship is scheduled for two pre-inaugural showcase cruises in late August 2025, followed by its official debut on August 31, 2025. These early voyages will give Sailor the chance to explore her new home before welcoming guests.
Once Star of the Seas is in service, it will be based year-round in Port Canaveral, Florida, with 7-night Eastern and Western Caribbean itineraries, including stops at Royal Caribbean’s private island, Perfect Day at CocoCay, and destinations like Cozumel, Roatan, and St. Thomas.
With a capacity of 7,600 passengers and 2,350 crew members, Star of the Seas will be a bustling environment. Sailor’s early introduction to the ship’s layout and daily operations will help her adjust to life at sea, ensuring she’s fully prepared to greet guests and spread happiness from day one.
A Ship to Remember
While the ship is still under construction at the Meyer Turku shipyard in Finland, Star of the Seas is quickly shaping up to be one of the most exciting cruise launches of 2025.
With its state-of-the-art design, luxurious amenities, and now, Sailor the golden retriever as part of the crew, the new Icon-class ship promises to be an unforgettable experience.
Whether it’s meeting Sailor, exploring the ship’s cutting-edge features, or sailing to idyllic Caribbean destinations, Star of the Seas is poised to offer guests a one-of-a-kind cruising experience. And for now, Sailor’s paw-some debut might just be the highlight of the year!
