North Star Adventure on Royal Caribbean
North Star® - Soar to New Heights with Royal Caribbean’s Iconic Observation Capsule
Everything you Need to Know about North Star on Royal Caribbran
What is North Star? How to Book North Star®; How long is the ride on North Star? Is North Star Free? Which ships have North Star. These questions and more answered in this guide.
North Star® on Quantum of the Seas. Image: Royal Caribbean
If you choose a ship because of its attractions, get ready to elevate your next cruise experience—literally—with North Star®, Royal Caribbean’s award-winning observation capsule. This one-of-a-kind attraction lifts guests 300 feet above sea level, offering 360-degree panoramic views of the ship, sea, and surrounding landscapes. Whether you’re cruising past glaciers, tropical islands, or bustling ports, North Star® guarantees a breathtaking perspective you won’t forget.
When it comes to redefining the boundaries of cruising, Royal Caribbean consistently leads the way. Among its most innovative attractions is the North Star, an engineering marvel that allows passengers to soar above the ocean, providing an experience that’s as exhilarating as it is breathtaking. If you’re seeking a unique adventure while at sea, the North Star might just be your ticket to unforgettable views and memories.
Since it’s introduction in 2014 with the launch of Royal Caribbean’s first Quantum Class ship, Quantum of the Seas, North Star® has become part of the fleets most innovative and popular features, designed to redefine cruise experiences with cutting-edge technology and unique attractions.
What is North Star®?
North Star® observation capsule. Image: Royal Caribbean
North Star® is a glass-enclosed observation capsule mounted on a mechanical arm that extends out and up from the ship. It’s designed to offer cruisers a bird’s-eye view of the ocean and the destinations they’re visiting, providing an experience that’s both serene and awe-inspiring.
The Experience
Imagine standing in a glass pod as it gently ascends, revealing ever-expanding vistas. The North Star rotates and moves both side-to-side and up-and-down, giving guests an awe-inspiring perspective. Whether you’re gazing at pristine Caribbean seas, the icy landscapes of Alaska, or bustling harbours in Asia, the North Star adds a different perspective.
The experience is both serene and thrilling, as the smooth movement of the capsule contrasts with the adrenaline of being suspended high above the ship. The best part? The attraction is designed for all ages, making it a perfect activity for families, couples, or solo adventurers.
Which Ships Feature North Star®?
North Star® is exclusive to Quantum Class and Quantum Ultra Class ships, making it a signature feature of these innovative vessels. You can enjoy this attraction on:
Quantum of the Seas
Anthem of the Seas
Ovation of the Seas
Spectrum of the Seas
Odyssey of the Seas
Whatever your itinerary, North Star® adds an unforgettable touch to every destination.
North Star® Key Features
Lifts guests 300 feet above sea level.
Rotates to provide 360-degree views.
Suitable for all ages (wheelchair accessible).
The experience is perfect for capturing stunning photos, celebrating special moments, or simply marvelling at the beauty of the open sea.
Pricing and Availability
While North Star® offers complimentary sessions, some premium experiences come with a fee:
Complimentary Rides
Usually available on sea days or during select times.
Sessions are typically shorter and first-come, first-served.
Paid Experiences
Offered during special itineraries, such as glacier-viewing days in Alaska or scenic cruises through fjords.
Expect to pay between $35-45 per person, depending on the cruise itinerary and demand.
Paid vs Complimentary Sessions
Complimentary Rides: These rides are typically shorter and first-come, first-served. They’re a great option if you want to enjoy the experience without any added cost, but be sure to arrive early to secure a spot, especially during busy cruise days or scenic cruising.
Premium Extended Rides: For a longer, more exclusive experience, especially during scenic times like glacier viewing or sunset, you can opt for a paid session. The premium ride is usually longer (20 minutes) and provides a more personalised experience.
Booking Tip: For the best views, consider booking a premium session during special scenic cruising moments, like passing through fjords or glacier-viewing in Alaska. These times offer exceptional insta-worthy opportunities and an unforgettable experience.
Booking Your North Star® Ride
North Star on Royal Caribbean. Image: Royal Caribbean
Booking your North Star® experience is simple, but it’s important to plan ahead, especially for the premium rides during peak times or scenic parts of your cruise. Here’s how you can secure your spot:
Royal Caribbean App
The easiest and most convenient way to book your ride is through the Royal Caribbean app. You can view available time slots and reserve your spot for both complimentary and paid sessions.
You can book your ride as soon as you board the ship, or if you prefer, you can check for available slots each day throughout your cruise.
Onboard Reservations
If you prefer to book in person, visit the North Star® desk located near the observation area. Here, crew members will help you secure a time slot for your ride.
You can also check the Cruise Compass (the daily activity guide) for information on available times and any special promotions or events tied to the North Star®.
Safety Measures for North Star®
North Star on Royal Caribbean’s Odyssey of the Seas. Image: Royal Caribbean
Royal Caribbean places a high priority on safety for all of its onboard attractions, including North Star®. Here’s what you can expect when it comes to safety during your ride:
Pre-Ride Safety Briefing
Before your North Star® ride, you’ll receive a brief safety briefing from the crew. This includes instructions on how to safely enter and exit the observation capsule and information about the ride itself. The team ensures all guests are comfortable and understand the safety protocols before the ride begins.
Accessibility
North Star® is designed to be accessible to everyone, including guests with limited mobility. The capsule can accommodate wheelchairs and scooters, and the crew will assist with boarding and deboarding. If you have mobility needs, be sure to notify the staff ahead of time so they can assist you as needed.
Height and Weight Requirements
While North Star® is suitable for guests of all ages, it’s important to note there are height and weight guidelines for safety. The capsule can hold up to 14 passengers at once, and while there aren’t strict height limits, guests should be able to sit comfortably in the seat during the ride.
Weight Limit: The maximum combined weight for all passengers in the capsule is generally around 600 lbs (270 kg). If you’re unsure, the crew will assist in determining whether your group meets the weight requirements.
Ride Operations
Mechanical Arm: North Star® is operated using a mechanical arm that gently lifts and rotates the capsule in a controlled motion. The arm extends out above the ship, and the capsule stays securely attached to the arm during the entire ride.
Weather Considerations: North Star® typically operates in most weather conditions, but safety protocols are in place to ensure that it does not operate during extreme weather such as high winds or storms. The crew will always prioritise your safety, so if the weather conditions are unfavourable, the ride may be rescheduled or temporarily closed.
Guidelines for a Safe Ride
Stay Seated: During the ride, guests are required to stay seated and remain buckled in.
Secure Personal Items: It’s advised to secure all loose items such as bags, hats, and cameras to prevent them from falling during the ride.
Health Considerations: If you’re prone to motion sickness, you may want to avoid the ride, as the capsule rotates and ascends. However, many guests find it to be a smooth experience, and it offers no extreme motion.
North Star Operating Hours
North Star® operates throughout the day, with sessions typically timed to coincide with the most scenic parts of your cruise. Check the Cruise Compass or Royal Caribbean app for the most accurate schedule during your trip.
Insider Tips for the Best Experience
Book Early: Complimentary sessions fill up quickly, especially on scenic itineraries. Reservations for the North Star can fill up quickly, especially on sea days. Book your spot as soon as possible through the Royal Caribbean app.
Go Premium: For the most iconic views (think glaciers or sunsets), splurge on a paid session.
Time Your Ride: Check your itinerary and try to ride during sunrise, sunset, or scenic cruising.
Check the weather - whilst the North Star operates in most conditions, extreme weather may impact availability. Keep an eye on the forecast during your trip.
Capture the Moment: Don’t forget your camera or phone—North Star® is a photographer’s dream!
Guest Reviews: What Cruisers Are Saying About North Star®
North Star from Pool Deck on Odyssey of the Seas. Image: Royal Caribbean
North Star® continues to receive glowing reviews from guests who rave about its breathtaking views, peaceful atmosphere, and unforgettable experience. Here’s a look at what guests are saying:
Positive Feedback
“A Once-in-a-Lifetime Experience”: Many guests describe their North Star® ride as one of the highlights of their cruise. The serene, 360-degree views of the ocean and destinations, especially during scenic cruising, make it feel like a bucket-list experience.
“Incredible Views!”: Cruisers often praise the panoramic vistas they experience while riding the North Star®. Whether soaring above glaciers in Alaska or enjoying the vastness of the ocean, the stunning, unobstructed views are a major draw.
“Perfect for Families and Special Occasions”: Families and couples love the peaceful and accessible nature of North Star®. It’s a great way to create lasting memories without the intensity of other thrill-seeking attractions. Special milestones like anniversaries or proposals are often celebrated with a North Star® ride.
“Soothing and Calming”: For many guests, North Star® offers a much-needed moment of tranquility. The slow ascent and panoramic views allow for reflection and a calming escape from the busy activities onboard.
Constructive Criticism
“Limited Availability”: Some guests express frustration over limited availability, especially during peak times or on scenic itineraries. Many recommend booking early to secure a spot or opting for paid experiences for more flexibility.
“Short Ride Duration”: A common piece of feedback is that the ride duration, typically about 15–20 minutes, can feel too short for such an incredible experience. Some guests wish they could stay longer to take in the views and capture more photos.
“Premium Sessions Are Worth the Price”: While the complimentary rides are appreciated, guests who opted for the premium sessions during scenic parts of the cruise (like glacier viewing) mention that it’s well worth the extra cost for a more extended and exclusive experience.
What Makes North Star® Unique?
While Royal Caribbean ships offer plenty of thrills, such as FlowRider® and Ultimate Abyss, North Star® stands out for its peaceful, scenic nature. It’s not about adrenaline—it’s about awe. Whether you’re celebrating a milestone or simply soaking in the beauty of your surroundings, North Star® creates unforgettable moments for every cruiser.
How Does North Star® Compare to Other Royal Caribbean Attractions?
Royal Caribbean is famous for its cutting-edge attractions, and North Star® is among its most unique offerings. Here’s how it compares to other iconic activities onboard:
North Star® vs. RipCord® by iFLY®
Experience Type: North Star® focuses on scenic views and relaxation, while RipCord® by iFLY® delivers an adrenaline-pumping skydive simulation.
Accessibility: North Star® is family-friendly and accessible for all ages, including wheelchair users. RipCord® has age, height, and weight restrictions.
Cost: Both feature complimentary and paid sessions, but North Star® generally has lower price points.
North Star® vs. FlowRider® Surf Simulator
Thrill Level: FlowRider® caters to thrill-seekers learning to surf, while North Star® offers a calm and serene experience.
Audience: FlowRider® appeals to adventure-loving guests, while North Star® is perfect for families, couples, and those seeking scenic views.
Photo Opportunities: While FlowRider® is fun to watch and photograph, North Star® guarantees postcard-worthy shots of the ship and surroundings.
North Star® vs. The Ultimate Abyss®
Adrenaline Factor: The Ultimate Abyss® is a heart-pounding 10-story dry slide on Oasis Class ships. In contrast, North Star® is a tranquil observation experience.
Availability: The Ultimate Abyss® is exclusive to Oasis Class, while North Star® is only on Quantum and Quantum Ultra Class ships.
While both are unique, they cater to entirely different moods.
Will North Star be Available on my Saling?
Royal Caribbean’s Ovation of the Seas in Sydney Featuring North Star. Image: Royal Caribbean
As of January 2025, the North Star remains a signature attraction on Royal Caribbean’s Quantum Class ships, including Quantum of the Seas, Anthem of the Seas, and Ovation of the Seas. This innovative observation capsule elevates guests over 300 feet above sea level, offering unparalleled 360-degree views of the surrounding seascape and destinations.
However, it’s important to note that the availability of the North Star can vary depending on the ship and its current operational status. For instance, on Quantum of the Seas, the North Star has been intermittently out of service due to maintenance issues. Reports from December 2023 indicated that the attraction was not operational at that time.
Guests interested in experiencing the North Star are advised to check the latest updates and availability through Royal Caribbean’s official channels or the Cruise Planner prior to their voyage. This ensures the most accurate and up-to-date information regarding the status of onboard attractions.
For those looking to enhance their experience, Royal Caribbean offers the North Star® Extended Experience, providing guests with additional time to enjoy the breathtaking views.
In summary, while the North Star continues to be a highlight on several Royal Caribbean ships, its availability may be subject to change due to maintenance or operational considerations. Prospective passengers should verify its status closer to their sailing date to ensure they can partake in this unique experience.
Is North Star® Worth It?
Overall, North Star® receives high praise for its unique ability to provide unmatched scenic views and an unforgettable experience that suits all ages and cruising styles. Whether you’re capturing stunning photos, celebrating a special occasion, or simply looking to unwind with a bird’s-eye view of your surroundings, North Star® is widely considered a must-try attraction for those sailing on Quantum Class ships.
So, next time you find yourself aboard a Royal Caribbean ship, don’t miss the chance to reach for the stars — or at least the North Star. It’s an experience that will leave you feeling on top of the world, quite literally.