The world of cruising is about to get even more exciting. In August 2025, Royal Caribbean will debut its newest Royal Caribbean Star of the Seas, bringing the innovative Icon Class experience to Port Canaveral for the first time. Think record-breaking slides, family-friendly neighborhoods, and unforgettable Caribbean itineraries, all on one of the biggest cruise ships in the world. Here’s your exclusive first look at what to expect.
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Explore sailings on Royal Caribbean’s Star of the Seas:
What is Star of the Seas? Meet Royal Caribbean’s next Icon-Class marvel
Royal Caribbean Star of the Seas is the second ship in Royal Caribbean’s ground-breaking Icon Class, following the massive success of Icon of the Seas. As a new Royal Caribbean ship Star of the Seas, it shares many headline-making features with its sister while adding fresh dining, entertainment, and design updates.
Expected to come in at around 250,800 gross tons and carry up to 7,600 passengers at full capacity, this LNG-powered giant prioritizes energy efficiency and sustainability without sacrificing the wow factor. Its August 2025 launch marks another big step in Royal Caribbean’s push to dominate the family vacation market, offering a floating alternative to land-based theme parks.
Where will Star of the Seas Sail? Homeport and 2025–2026 itineraries
If you're planning a Caribbean adventure, the Star of the Seas itinerary begins at Port Canaveral, Orlando’s cruise gateway, making it easy to combine a theme park vacation with a cruise. Regular Royal Caribbean Star of the Seas cruises will feature 7-night Eastern and Western Caribbean routes with stops at popular ports like St. Thomas, St. Maarten, Cozumel, and Roatán.
Every itinerary is expected to include a Perfect Day at CocoCay stop, Royal Caribbean’s private island known for its giant waterpark and overwater cabanas. Before settling into regular service, “Star Showcase” preview cruises are anticipated in August and September 2025 with short 3- or 4-night sailings that let travelers sample the new ship before its full Caribbean season begins.
Star of the Seas vs. Icon of the Seas: What’s new and what’s the same?
It’s common for travelers to compare Royal Caribbean Star of the Seas vs Icon and ask which ship is bigger, Icon or Star of the Seas to understand the differences between these sister ships. Technically, both are nearly identical in size and capacity, sharing the same class and cutting-edge LNG propulsion system. But Star of the Seas is designed to build on Icon’s momentum with a few notable updates.
One highlight is the new Lincoln Park Supper Club, a jazz-inspired dining experience replacing Icon’s Empire Supper Club. This venue will offer an intimate, upscale atmosphere with live music, craft cocktails, and multi-course tasting menus that feel like a true night out at sea. The AquaDome Market, the ship’s high-tech food hall under the sweeping glass dome, will feature refreshed menus with international flavors, chef-led stations, and more seating for families and groups. Expect expanded options from Asian street food to Mediterranean specialties, all served with panoramic ocean views.
Entertainment is also getting an upgrade, with new shows in the AquaTheater featuring even more ambitious high-diving stunts, aerial choreography, and custom multimedia backdrops that make every performance unique. Exclusive productions are being developed specifically for Star of the Seas to give it a distinct personality beyond Icon.
Beyond dining and entertainment, Star of the Seas will feature subtle design refinements and layout tweaks based on guest feedback from Icon, including more efficient cabin arrangements and improved flow through key neighborhoods. Royal Caribbean is also leaning into a distinct personality for Star, aiming for an Orlando-inspired, family theme-park-friendly energy that contrasts with Icon’s sleek Miami glam vibe. It’s all about offering a ship that feels tailor-made for Central Florida cruisers while keeping the bold Icon Class wow-factor intact.
Inside the Ship: 8 neighborhoods designed for every kind of cruiser
The Star of the Seas Royal Caribbean ship is part of the Icon Class, which answers the question what class ship is Star of the Seas. This unique ship delivers eight unique neighborhoods tailored to different tastes, making it easy for everyone to find their favorite spot on board.
Thrill island & chill island – pools, slides, and party vibes
Thrill Island is the ship’s headline playground for adrenaline seekers, complete with the Category 6 Waterpark and the tallest drop slide at sea. Guests can test their nerve on Crown’s Edge, a ropes course hanging over the ocean, or relax in one of several infinity pools. Swim-up bars and DJ-led pool parties make this area a lively social hub.
Surfside – a paradise built for families
Designed with families in mind, family cruise Royal Caribbean fans will love Star of the Seas Surfside. This dedicated neighborhood includes splash zones for kids, the family-friendly Water’s Edge pool with ocean views, and Surfside Eatery with menus built to satisfy everyone from picky eaters to parents looking for easy dining. It’s the kind of thoughtful design that makes multi-generational trips smoother.
Aquadome & hideaway – nightlife, relaxation & ocean views
The AquaDome is home to spectacular shows with acrobats, divers, and special effects under a panoramic glass dome. For those seeking a quieter vibe, the Hideaway offers an adults-only infinity pool with Caribbean beats and laid-back cocktails, perfect for unwinding while the sea rolls by.
Central park, Royal Promenade & suite neighborhoods
For a calmer atmosphere, Central Park offers live plants, winding paths, and al fresco dining. The Royal Promenade remains the buzzing heart of the ship, with cafes, bars, and street performances. Meanwhile, the Suite Neighborhood offers luxury perks like exclusive restaurants, pools, and lounges for those looking to elevate their stay.
Royal Caribbean Star of the Seas dining: 40+ restaurants, lounges, and bars
Royal Caribbean Star of the Seas restaurants cover every possible craving. Star of the Seas boasts more than 40 venues ranging from quick bites to immersive specialty experiences.
The Lincoln Park Supper Club stands out with its jazz-inspired atmosphere and multi-course tasting menu. AquaDome Market’s food hall will be refreshed with new global options. Favorites like Sorrento’s Pizza, El Loco Fresh, and Surfside Eatery return, making it easy to grab family-friendly meals, casual tacos, or late-night slices. Specialty dining options such as Izumi, Chops Grille, and Giovanni’s will give foodies plenty to explore.
Entertainment preview: Broadway shows, dive acts & live music
The Star of the Seas entertainment lineup is designed to impress. The biggest headline is Back to the Future Royal Caribbean, Royal Caribbean’s first-ever staging of Back to the Future: The Musical, exclusive to Star.
Beyond that, you’ll find dazzling ice shows at the Absolute Zero rink, high-flying AquaTheater performances in the AquaDome, and live music venues like Lou’s Jazz and the Dueling Pianos bar. Street performances and themed events keep the Royal Promenade lively from morning to late at night.
Staterooms & suites: Family townhouses to balcony retreats
If you're looking for Royal Caribbean Star of the Seas rooms or Royal Caribbean Star of the Seas suites, this ship delivers more choices than ever with a wide range of categories designed to suit different needs and budgets.
A highlight is the Ultimate Family Townhouse, a three-story suite that sleeps up to eight guests comfortably. It includes an in-room slide, private cinema space, and a ground-level patio with direct access to the Surfside neighborhood, offering one of the most immersive family experiences at sea.
Surfside Family Suites are also designed with families in mind, featuring a dedicated kid’s sleeping area with bunk beds, a separate adult space, and large windows with ocean views. These suites are conveniently located close to Surfside’s splash zones and eateries, making them perfect for families who want easy access to kid-friendly amenities.
Infinite Balcony staterooms provide the flexibility of a floor-to-ceiling window that transforms into a fresh-air balcony at the push of a button, giving you open-air views without leaving your room. For solo travelers, dedicated Solo Staterooms offer private, efficient spaces at more affordable rates, making it easier than ever to cruise alone.
When choosing the right room, travelers should think about family-friendly features, private outdoor space, proximity to key neighborhoods like Surfside or Thrill Island, and overall budget. With so many categories, Star of the Seas is built to offer the perfect fit for every style of vacation.
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Planning your cruise: Booking dates, pricing, and when to sail
Royal Caribbean Star of the Seas booking officially opened in December 2023, and early demand has been strong as travelers plan ahead for the ship’s debut. This interest reflects how quickly Icon of the Seas sailings sold out, showing that many want to secure their spot before prices rise.
Royal Caribbean Star of the Seas price varies based on itinerary, season, and stateroom type. For inaugural sailings in late 2025, prices often range from $650 to $2,500 per person for 7-night Caribbean itineraries. Pricing is expected to ease somewhat for 2026 sailings, especially outside of peak holiday periods.
To find better value, consider booking well in advance, looking at shoulder-season dates in early fall or late spring, or exploring less popular sailing weeks. Early planning can also help families secure adjoining rooms or specialty suites before they sell out.
What travelers are saying: Early buzz & industry first impressions
Initial Star of the Seas reviews and early buzz Royal Caribbean Star of the Seas coverage show plenty of excitement across cruise forums, blogs, and social media. Travelers are already praising Surfside for its kid-friendly design and dedicated family features, while thrill-seekers are eager to try the record-breaking Category 6 Waterpark and the daring Crown’s Edge ropes course.
There’s also growing interest in the exclusive entertainment onboard, especially Back to the Future: The Musical, which will be unique to Star of the Seas. Orlando’s homeport appeal makes it easy for travelers to pair a theme park vacation with a Caribbean cruise, adding even more value for families.
Royal Caribbean’s marketing has added a personal, family-friendly touch with its playful “Chief Dog Officers” story featuring the captain’s dogs, while appointing Diana Ross as godmother brings star power and tradition to the ship’s launch. Altogether, these early impressions paint a picture of a ship designed to deliver big thrills, thoughtful amenities, and memorable experiences for a wide range of guests.
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Is Star of the Seas right for you? A quick fit guide by traveler type
Star of the Seas is designed to appeal to many traveler styles. Social explorers will love Thrill Island’s slides, DJ parties, and nightlife-ready bars. Families will appreciate Surfside’s kid zones, dedicated dining, and interconnecting rooms that make planning easier.
Those looking for premium service can retreat to the Suite Neighborhood’s private pools and dining venues, while eco-conscious guests can feel better knowing LNG propulsion reduces emissions compared to traditional ships. Whether you're after adventure, convenience, or a little luxury, there’s a place for you on board.
FAQs About Royal Caribbean’s Star of the Seas
1. How big is Star of the Seas?
Star of the Seas is expected to measure about 250,800 gross tons, making it one of the world’s largest cruise ships and comparable in size to its sister ship, Icon of the Seas.
2. When does Star of the Seas launch?
Star of the Seas is scheduled to launch in August 2025, marking Royal Caribbean’s big Icon Class debut out of Port Canaveral that year.
3. Is Star of the Seas bigger than Icon?
When it comes to size, Star of the Seas and Icon of the Seas are the same class and roughly identical in dimensions and capacity, so neither is bigger than the other.
4. What makes Star different from other Royal ships?
What sets Star of the Seas apart from other Royal Caribbean ships is its Icon Class design, which includes new dining experiences like the Lincoln Park Supper Club, upgraded entertainment options, and a vibe tailored for the Orlando market.
5. What’s included in a Star of the Seas cruise?
A Star of the Seas cruise includes meals in the main dining rooms and Surfside Eatery, access to kids’ clubs, waterparks, pools, AquaDome shows, and most onboard entertainment, giving guests a wide range of included activities and dining.
Why Star of the Seas is one to watch in 2025
With cutting-edge neighborhoods, family-first design, and headline entertainment, Royal Caribbean Star of the Seas is set to become the go-to choice for Orlando-based Caribbean cruises. Whether you want record-breaking thrills, easy family planning, or a luxurious escape, this new Icon Class ship is worth keeping on your radar. Explore itineraries or sign up for pricing alerts to start planning your next great getaway.
Hop on board one of Royal Caribbean’s newest cruise ships and book with Cruisebound today.
