Icon vs Star of the Seas: Which Royal Caribbean Ship Should You Choose?
Icon of the Seas changed what people expect from a cruise. Star of the Seas takes everything great about it and makes it even better. You’ll find more dining, smarter tech, and spaces that work even better for families. Both are amazing ships, but if you want the newest features, Star might be the better pick.
Icon vs Star of the Seas: Which Royal Caribbean Ship Should You Choose?
Royal Caribbean’s new Icon Class has completely transformed what we expect from a modern cruise. With Icon of the Seas already sailing and Star of the Seas set to debut soon, many travellers are asking the same question. What is the difference between these two ships, and which one should I choose?
In this guide, we will walk through everything that sets them apart, from onboard experiences and family features to dining, entertainment, and technology.
Size and Design
Both ships are enormous, each with 20 decks and room for over 7,000 guests. Star of the Seas is expected to be slightly larger by gross tonnage, but this will not be noticeable to most guests. In terms of layout and flow, the two ships are almost identical.
Where they differ is in the small details and thoughtful improvements introduced on Star based on feedback from Icon.
Neighbourhoods and Guest Experience
The Icon Class introduces eight distinct neighbourhoods. Each area is designed to create a unique atmosphere, giving you the freedom to explore, relax, and enjoy at your own pace.
Both ships include:
Chill Island for poolside lounging
Thrill Island with high-speed water slides and adventure activities
AquaDome for live shows and ocean views
Surfside for young families
The Hideaway for adults looking for calm and quiet
Royal Promenade, Central Park, and the Suite Neighbourhood
On Star of the Seas, Surfside has been adapted to better suit children up to the age of ten. The Royal Promenade has also been enhanced with improved lighting around The Pearl, making it more visually striking.
Dining and New Culinary Concepts
Dining is a major highlight on both ships. Icon of the Seas offers over 40 venues ranging from fine dining to casual eats. Star of the Seas raises the bar even further, launching with more than 68 dining options.
Some of the new additions on Star include:
Pier 7, a relaxed family brunch spot
Lincoln Park Supper Club, inspired by Chicago’s jazz era
AquaDome Market, a new food hall concept with a variety of quick-service options
You will still find Royal Caribbean favourites such as Windjammer, Chops Grille, and Sorrento’s Pizza on both ships.
Entertainment and Activities
Royal Caribbean is known for world-class entertainment, and both ships deliver.
Shared features include:
Absolute Zero, the largest ice arena at sea
The AquaDome with stunning aquatic shows
Surfside Carousel and interactive family zones
Crown’s Edge, a thrilling walk and zipline experience over the ocean
Star of the Seas is expected to debut a brand new AquaDome show and introduce updates to thrill attractions based on guest feedback from Icon.
Technology and Guest Experience
Technology is a key difference between the two ships.
Icon of the Seas introduced upgrades like faster Wi-Fi, an improved app, and smoother boarding. Star of the Seas builds on that with features like facial recognition for stateroom entry, more streamlined service experiences, and upgraded smart tech throughout the ship.
These changes make day-to-day cruising more convenient and efficient.
Itineraries and Departure Ports
Icon of the Seas departs from PortMiami and sails seven-night Caribbean itineraries, including stops at Royal Caribbean’s private island, Perfect Day at CocoCay.
Star of the Seas will depart from Port Canaveral and begin with shorter four-night showcase cruises before shifting to regular seven-night Caribbean routes.
Both offer similar destinations, so your choice may come down to which port is more convenient.
Families and Young Travellers
Both ships are perfect for families, but Star of the Seas takes things a step further.
Surfside has been expanded for older children, and family dining has been given more focus. The Ultimate Family Townhouse is available on both ships, offering a three-level suite with a cinema room and a built-in slide.
If you are travelling with children up to age ten, Star may be the better choice.
What About the Oasis Class?
While the Icon Class is Royal Caribbean’s newest and most advanced, the Oasis Class is still a strong option for many travellers.
Ships like Wonder of the Seas and Harmony of the Seas are slightly smaller, but still packed with features. They include Central Park, the Boardwalk, multiple entertainment venues, and a wide range of dining options.
They may not have newer areas like the AquaDome or Surfside, but they offer excellent value and a proven experience that many guests continue to love.
Final Thoughts
Icon of the Seas is the ship that redefined cruising. It set a new standard for what is possible at sea. Star of the Seas takes that foundation and refines it, offering more dining, improved family zones, and advanced onboard technology.
If you want the most cutting-edge cruise experience, Star of the Seas is the way to go. If you want to sail the ship that changed the game and is already available, Icon of the Seas is ready and waiting.
And if you are open to more choices, do not overlook the Oasis Class. It may not be the newest, but it continues to deliver one of the best cruise experiences at sea.