Star of the Seas: What You Need to Know About Royal Caribbean’s Newest Ship

In an exciting announcement, Royal Caribbean International has unveiled detailed plans for its latest addition to the Icon-class fleet, the Star of the Seas.

Scheduled to set sail in August 2025, this new cruise ship promises to be a game-changer in the world of family-friendly vacations at sea.

Building on the success of its predecessor, Icon of the Seas, which debuted in January 2024, the Star of the Seas will be slightly larger and packed with enhanced features that cater to both thrill-seekers and those looking for a more relaxing escape.

Weighing in at an impressive 250,800 gross tons, the Star of the Seas will be one of the largest cruise ships in the world, eclipsing its sister ship by a small margin.

Royal Caribbean is known for pushing the boundaries of innovation, and the Star of the Seas is no exception.

Michael Bayley, President and CEO of Royal Caribbean International, described the new ship as “the second bold act of this exciting, new era of vacations,” emphasizing that it would continue to put “the world’s best vacation on the map.”

A Fusion of New and Familiar Attractions

One of the most anticipated features of the Star of the Seas is the Lincoln Park Supper Club, a dining experience inspired by the glitz and glamour of 1930s Chicago.

This venue will offer more than just a meal, combining fine dining with live entertainment in a setting reminiscent of the Prohibition era.

This new addition is just one of many enhancements that guests can look forward to, as the Star of the Seas will also include fan favorites from the Icon of the Seas with a fresh twist.

Among these returning attractions is the Category 6 waterpark, which debuted on Icon of the Seas as the largest waterpark at sea. Onboard the Star of the Seas, this waterpark will feature six thrilling waterslides, including one that reaches an astounding 154 feet above sea level.

Additionally, the ship will house the second-ever suspended infinity pool at sea, located in the adults-only Hideaway Pool area. This unique pool allows guests to float mid-air, eight stories above the ocean, offering breathtaking views and a sense of serenity that is hard to match.

Reimagined Neighborhoods and Luxurious Accommodations

The Star of the Seas will accommodate 5,610 passengers, spread across eight distinct neighborhoods, each offering a unique experience. The Royal Promenade, a favorite from previous ships, has been reimagined with floor-to-ceiling views, creating an open and airy atmosphere.

This bustling area will also host a variety of bars, restaurants, and entertainment venues, ensuring there’s always something to do onboard.

Central Park, another iconic feature from Royal Caribbean’s Oasis-class ships, will make a return on the Star of the Seas. This neighborhood will be home to over 30,500 real plants, offering guests a serene, nature-filled environment right in the middle of the ocean.

The inclusion of live greenery onboard not only adds to the ship’s beauty but also provides a tranquil escape for guests looking to unwind.

For those seeking the ultimate in luxury, the Star of the Seas will offer an exclusive suite neighborhood, where the ship’s most luxurious cabins are located. In addition to top-tier accommodations, this area will include an extra sundeck reserved only for suite guests, providing a private oasis for relaxation.

Thrills and Chills: Neighborhood Highlights

The Star of the Seas will continue the tradition of themed neighborhoods, each designed to cater to different tastes and preferences.

Thrill Island, which debuted the world’s largest waterpark at sea on Icon of the Seas, returns with even more excitement.

This neighborhood will be a hotspot for adrenaline junkies, featuring six record-breaking waterslides and the FlowRider surf simulator, where guests can test their surfing skills.

For families with young children, Surfside is the place to be. This neighborhood is designed with young families in mind, offering age-appropriate activities such as Splashaway Bay and Baby Bay, where kids can safely splash around.

The Surfside Eatery and Lemon Post Bar will provide convenient dining options, ensuring that families can enjoy wholesome meals and snacks together.

Chill Island is geared toward adults looking for a more laid-back experience. Spanning three decks, this neighborhood will feature seven pools, each with its own vibe and atmosphere.

Highlights include live music from bands and DJs, a swim-up bar called Swim & Tonic, and Royal Bay, the largest pool at sea. Whether guests are looking to relax or party, Chill Island has something for everyone.

The Aquadome neighborhood will offer a versatile space that transforms from a tranquil daytime retreat into a vibrant nighttime venue. With wraparound ocean views, the Aquadome will be home to the AquaTheater, where guests can enjoy spectacular shows featuring high divers, aerialists, dancers, and even robots.

When hunger strikes, the AquaDome Market food hall will offer a variety of dining options, including the Rye & Bean Bar, Hooked, and The Overlook Bar, ensuring guests are never far from a delicious meal.

A New Homeport and Itinerary

Currently under construction in Turku, Finland, the Star of the Seas is expected to begin service in August 2025.

The ship’s maiden voyage is scheduled for August 31, 2025, and will be a 7-night Western Caribbean cruise departing from Port Canaveral, Florida.

The inaugural itinerary includes stops at Costa Maya and Cozumel in Mexico, Roatan in Honduras, and Perfect Day at CocoCay, Royal Caribbean’s private island in the Bahamas.

Following its maiden voyage, the Star of the Seas will continue to be based at Port Canaveral, offering a mix of weeklong Caribbean vacations and shorter 3 and 4-night weekend getaways to the Bahamas.

This marks a significant departure from the norm, as mega-cruise ships have traditionally been reserved for longer voyages.

The introduction of shorter itineraries on such a large vessel is a trend that Royal Caribbean began with Utopia of the Seas, and it has proven to be a popular choice for guests who want to experience all the amenities of a mega-ship without committing to a full week at sea.

Looking Ahead: Future Destinations

As if the Star of the Seas wasn’t already packed with enough to excite cruise enthusiasts, Royal Caribbean is also planning to introduce a new private island destination, a beach club on Cozumel, set to open in 2026.

While this new destination won’t be ready for the ship’s initial sailings, it is expected to be a future highlight for guests aboard the Star of the Seas.

Royal Caribbean’s commitment to innovation and guest experience is evident in every detail of the Star of the Seas.

As the cruise line continues to expand its Icon-class fleet, the Star of the Seas is set to redefine what it means to vacation at sea, offering something for everyone, from thrill-seekers to those looking for a relaxing escape.

With its combination of cutting-edge amenities, reimagined spaces, and a commitment to luxury, the Star of the Seas is poised to make waves in the cruise industry when it debuts in 2025.