Royal Caribbean has announced the first details of its new cruise ship, the Star of the Seas. The cruise line’s second iconic ship will debut in August 2025 and offer new experiences and amenities for guests.
The Star of the Seas is designed to offer a complete vacation experience, combining elements of beach retreats, resort escapes, and theme park adventures across eight unique neighborhoods. With its state-of-the-art facilities, diverse dining options, and a wide range of activities, passengers eagerly await news about the new mega cruise ship.
New Details Unveiled for Star of the Seas
The Star of the Seas is under construction at the Meyer Turku shipyard in Turku, Finland. Construction began in early 2023 and is planned to be completed in mid-2025, in time for the ship’s maiden voyage in August 2025.
Star of the Seas is the second ship in Royal Caribbean’s Icon Class, following the successful launch of the world’s largest cruise ship, Icon of the Seas. These massive cruise ships represent a new era of cruising, combining cutting-edge technology with family-friendly amenities. The Icon Class is designed to offer passengers a unique and immersive vacation experience focusing on innovation, sustainability, and guest satisfaction.
“Star of the Seas is the second bold act of this exciting, new era of vacations first introduced with Icon of the Seas, and it’s putting the world’s best vacation on the map at yet another top travel destination,” said Michael Bayley, president and CEO, Royal Caribbean International. “Between Miami and Port Canaveral (Orlando), more adventurers than ever can set their sights on the only vacation that combines the best of all vacations – from the beach retreat to the resort escape and the theme park adventure – with experiences that have and will continue to make headlines and memories for years to come.”
Icon of the Seas introduced several groundbreaking features, including the AquaDome, Central Park, and various dining and entertainment options. These innovations set a new standard for the cruise industry, offering passengers various activities and amenities to enjoy.
New Dining Experiences
With over 40 dining and beverage options, the Star of the Seas offers various cuisines and dining experiences, from casual eateries to fine dining restaurants. The diverse culinary offerings ensure that every meal is a delightful experience, with something to satisfy every palate.
One of the standout dining experiences on the Star of the Seas is the Lincoln Park Supper Club. Inspired by 1930s Chicago, this venue offers a unique blend of fine dining and live entertainment. Guests can enjoy a delicious meal while being serenaded by talented musicians, creating a truly memorable dining experience.
The Lincoln Park Supper Club menu features a variety of gourmet dishes prepared with the finest ingredients and presented with artistic flair. From succulent steaks to fresh seafood, there is something to satisfy every palate. The elegant ambiance and attentive service make this restaurant a must-visit for food enthusiasts.
Central Park, a popular neighborhood on Royal Caribbean ships, will feature a variety of dining options, including specialty restaurants, cafes, and bars. With 30,500 live plants, it provides a serene and picturesque setting. Guests can enjoy al fresco dining surrounded by lush greenery, creating a tranquil and relaxing atmosphere.
The dining options in Central Park cater to a wide range of tastes and preferences. Whether you’re in the mood for a casual meal or a fine dining experience, you’ll find plenty of choices to suit your needs. The diverse culinary offerings ensure that every meal is a delightful experience.
Neighborhoods on Board
Star of the Seas comprises eight unique neighborhoods for guests to explore.
- Thrill Island is designed for adventure seekers, offering a range of exciting activities such as zip-lining, rock climbing, and water slides. This neighborhood is perfect for those who crave adrenaline-pumping experiences and want to push their limits.
- Chill Island is the perfect place to unwind, with tranquil pools, luxurious cabanas, and prime ocean views.
- Surfside is a family-friendly neighborhood with activities and amenities for all ages, including a splash park, mini-golf, and family dining options. This area is designed to provide fun and entertainment for the whole family, ensuring everyone has a great time.
- The Auqadome is home to the market and AquaTheatre. The AquaDome Market is a food hall offering a variety of international cuisines and casual dining options. It’s a great place to grab a quick bite while enjoying stunning ocean views. The market features a diverse selection of food stalls, with unique culinary experiences. The AquaTheater will host spectacular shows featuring high divers, aerialists, robots, and dancers. It’s a must-see attraction on the Star of the Seas.
- The Hideaway offers a secluded retreat for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of the ship. With private cabanas and a tranquil pool, it’s the perfect place to relax. This neighborhood is designed to provide a peaceful and serene environment, allowing guests to unwind and recharge away from the hustle and bustle of a busy cruise ship.
- The Royal Promenade is the ship’s central hub, featuring shops, cafes, bars, and entertainment venues. It’s a lively and vibrant area where passengers can socialize and enjoy various activities. The Promenade is designed to be the ship’s heart, offering many amenities and attractions.
- Central Park is a lush, green oasis cutting through the ship’s middle. The park features beautiful gardens, walking paths, and outdoor dining options. It’s a peaceful and scenic area to relax and enjoy nature. The gardens in Central Park will host more than 30,500 live plants that are meticulously maintained and feature walking paths and dining areas.
- The Suite Neighborhood offers luxurious accommodations and exclusive amenities for suite guests. Accommodations include a private pool, lounge, and exclusive dining options. This neighborhood is designed to provide a premium and exclusive experience, ensuring that suite guests enjoy the highest level of comfort and service.
Recreational Activities
The Star of the Seas will feature six waterslides and seven swimming pools, providing endless fun and relaxation for passengers of all ages. The waterslides offer a thrilling experience, with twists, turns, and drops that will get your adrenaline pumping.
In addition to the AquaTheater, the ship will offer various entertainment options, including live music, theater performances, and themed parties. The entertainment options are designed to provide a wide range of activities and experiences, ensuring that there is always something to see and do.
The live music performances feature a variety of genres, from classical to contemporary, ensuring that there is something for everyone to enjoy. The theater performances offer a unique and immersive experience, with talented actors and stunning sets. The themed parties provide a fun and exciting atmosphere, allowing guests to let loose and have a great time.
Maiden Voyage Details
The Star of the Seas will embark on its maiden voyage from Port Canaveral, Florida, on August 31, 2025.
The inaugural seven-night cruise will take passengers to some of the most beautiful destinations in the Caribbean. Each port of call offers unique attractions and activities, ensuring that there is something for everyone to enjoy.
- Cozumel: Cozumel, Mexico, is known for its stunning beaches, clear waters, and vibrant coral reefs. It’s a perfect destination for snorkeling, diving, and exploring Mayan ruins.
- Costa Maya: Costa Maya offers a unique blend of cultural heritage and natural beauty. Visitors can explore ancient Mayan ruins, relax on pristine beaches, and enjoy local cuisine.
- Roatan: Roatan, Honduras, is a tropical paradise with lush landscapes, diverse marine life, and exciting adventure activities such as zip-lining and snorkeling.
- Perfect Day at CocoCay: Perfect Day at CocoCay is Royal Caribbean’s exclusive private island in the Bahamas. It features thrilling water slides, serene beaches, and a variety of dining options, making it a highlight of the cruise.
