A Star is Born – Royal Caribbean Welcomes Star of the Seas to the Fleet
Welcome to the Fleet Star of the Seas
A new era of family cruising has officially begun as Royal Caribbean proudly welcomes Star of the Seas, the second groundbreaking vessel in the revolutionary Icon Class. Fresh from the Meyer Turku shipyard in Finland, this colossal new ship was delivered in a star-studded ceremony ahead of its highly anticipated debut this August in Port Canaveral (Orlando), Florida.
With over 1,250 crew and shipbuilders in attendance, the handover marked not just the culmination of nearly two years of cutting-edge construction, but the beginning of what Royal Caribbean describes as a “next-generation vacation experience”. From the installation of the awe-inspiring glass-and-steel AquaDome to the creation of the largest waterpark at sea, Star of the Seas is set to redefine holidays at sea.
The Countdown to the Ultimate Family Holiday
Royal Caribbean Group President and CEO Jason Liberty summed up the excitement:
“Star and the Icon Class are a symbol of what’s possible when innovation, imagination and our relentless focus on delivering exceptional experiences come together.”
Following final touches in Cadiz, Spain, Star of the Seas will sail 7-night Eastern and Western Caribbean itineraries, including stops at the ever-popular Perfect Day at CocoCay in The Bahamas.
A Ship Packed with Record-Breaking Features
Royal Caribbean’s Star of the Seas Highlights
Star of the Seas promises to deliver unrivalled experiences for families, thrill-seekers, foodies and sun-chasers alike across eight unique neighbourhoods, including:
Thrill Island - Home to Category 6, the biggest waterpark at sea, complete with six record-setting slides, including a freefall slide and racing mats. The sky-high Crown’s Edge adventure is a part skywalk, part thrill ride that dangles 154 feet above the ocean.
Chill Island - A three-deck sun-soaked oasis featuring Royal Bay, the largest pool at sea, and the laid-back vibes of the Swim & Tonic swim-up bar.
Surfside - Designed especially for young families, Surfside features kids’ splash zones, adult relaxation pools, and all-ages dining at Surfside Eatery and Pier 7.
AquaDome - A show-stopping space by night with high divers, aerialists and robotic theatrics at the AquaTheater. By day, enjoy wraparound sea views and bites from Hooked Seafood, Rye & Bean coffee bar, and more.
The Hideaway - An adults-only escape perched 135 feet above the ocean, complete with suspended infinity pool, whirlpools and a DJ-fuelled vibe.
Other highlights include the reimagined Royal Promenade, home to The Pearl, the world’s largest kinetic art sculpture, and the lush open-air Central Park with more than 30,500 live plants. Guests will also discover new dining venues like the 1930s Chicago-style Lincoln Park Supper Club and pick-up windows for sushi and fizz.
Sustainability at Sea
Star of the Seas is the third Royal Caribbean ship to be powered by liquefied natural gas (LNG), reinforcing the brand’s commitment to sustainability. The ship also features shore power connectivity and a waste heat recovery system, supporting Royal Caribbean Group’s ambition to deliver a net-zero cruise ship by 2035.
Looking ahead, the fleet will expand again in 2026 with Legend of the Seas, the third Icon Class ship.
What’s Next for Royal Caribbean?
Beyond the launch of Star, Royal Caribbean is growing its shoreside experiences too.
Royal Beach Club Paradise Island opens in The Bahamas in December 2025
Royal Beach Club Cozumel follows in 2026
Launch of Legend of the Seas, the third Icon Class ship.
Perfect Day Mexico is set for autumn 2027
An exclusive destination on the South Pacific island of Lelepa opens in 2027
Final Word
With more than 40 bars, restaurants and venues, cutting-edge innovation, and experiences for every type of traveller, Star of the Seas looks set to dazzle. Whether you’re travelling with toddlers or teens, mates or a soulmate, this ship is raising the bar for holidays at sea.
Ready to book your place onboard?
Head over to Royal Caribbean’s website to plan your next adventure.