Star of the Seas First Sailing: Your Ultimate Guide to Royal Caribbean’s New Mega-Ship

Royal Caribbean’s Star of the Seas has just set sail on its first preview cruise, quickly becoming one of the most talked-about new ships at sea. As the sister ship to Icon of the Seas, Star brings exciting new twists while keeping the award-winning features that made Icon a hit. This guide will walk you through what to expect on Star of the Seas, how it compares to Icon, and the amazing things you can do onboard. Whether you’re a family planning your next vacation or a cruise enthusiast curious about the latest innovations, this overview has you covered.

Meet Star of the Seas: Royal Caribbean’s Latest Giant

Star of the Seas is one of the largest cruise ships in the world, matching Icon of the Seas in size and capacity. With over 5,600 guest capacity and 20 decks filled with restaurants, entertainment, and activities, this ship is designed as a floating resort for families and adventurers alike. Based in Port Canaveral, Florida, it offers convenient access to Orlando’s attractions and sails week-long Caribbean itineraries that include Royal Caribbean’s private island, Perfect Day at CocoCay. Its first official 7-night sailing is set for late August 2025, with bookings open well into 2027.

What’s New on Star of the Seas Compared to Icon?

While Star shares much with her sister Icon, she introduces fresh features to stand out:

• New Broadway Show: Instead of Icon’s Wizard of Oz, Star offers Back to the Future: The Musical, a lively, family-friendly production.

• Updated AquaDome Dining: Casual eateries like Pig Out BBQ and Mai Thai replace some of Icon’s original stalls, adding new flavours.

• Chicago-Themed Supper Club: The Lincoln Park Supper Club brings a glamorous jazz and dinner experience inspired by Chicago, unlike Icon’s New York vibe.

• Robotic Housekeepers: Meet “Bob” and “Betsy,” floor-cleaning robots that keep the ship spotless, Royal Caribbean’s first use of cleaning robots at sea.

• Artistic Kaleidoscopes: Throughout the ship are interactive kaleidoscope installations adding fun surprises for families.

• Surfside Tweaks: The family-focused Surfside neighborhood now better engages older kids, alongside toddlers, with updated play areas.

• Home Port Difference: Star sails from Port Canaveral, offering different itinerary options compared to Icon’s Miami base.

These upgrades keep the Star experience fresh while maintaining the best-loved features from Icon.

Fun and Thrills for Everyone

At the heart of Star of the Seas is the largest water park at sea with six thrilling slides, including high-speed drops and tube slides that are perfect for all ages. The FlowRider surf simulator and rock climbing walls add more action. Families will love the dedicated Surfside area featuring splash pools and play zones designed for toddlers up to tweens.

For a unique adrenaline rush, try the Crown’s Edge aerial ropes course that even swings you over open water. When it’s time to relax, the ship has seven pools and ten whirlpools, plus the adults-only Hideaway pool with the first suspended infinity pool at sea and a swim-up bar.

Entertainment That Dazzles

The new Back to the Future musical takes center stage in the Royal Theater. In the AquaDome, an indoor glass dome transforms at night for breathtaking diving and acrobatic shows. Don’t miss the Absolute Zero ice rink, the largest at sea, where you can skate or watch dazzling ice performances.

Evenings come alive on the Royal Promenade with live music, dance parties, and bars like the Dueling Pianos, English pub, and champagne lounge under the impressive Pearl art installation. The ship’s casino and nightclubs offer even more ways to enjoy the night.

Dining: A Feast for Every Taste

With over 40 dining and drinking venues, Star serves up everything from quick bites to gourmet meals. Highlights include:

• Lincoln Park Supper Club – jazz and fine dining with a Chicago twist

• Basecamp – casual open-air dining near the waterpark

• Desserted – a fun milkshake bar perfect for a sweet treat

• Classic favorites like Giovanni’s Italian Kitchen, Izumi Sushi, and Chops Grille steakhouse

• Family-friendly buffets at Windjammer Marketplace and Surfside Eatery

• Numerous themed bars offering cocktails, beer, wine, and non-alcoholic options throughout the ship

Whether you want a relaxed meal or a special night out, Star has it covered.

Ready to Book Your Star of the Seas Adventure?

If this sounds like the perfect family cruise or getaway, you’re just a few clicks away from making it happen. Head over to The Royal Cove’s Deals page to browse available Star of the Seas sailings. Choose your preferred date and fill out the contact form – the Royal Cove team will help you plan your cruise and secure your spot onboard this incredible new ship.

Don’t miss your chance to be among the first to experience Royal Caribbean’s newest masterpiece. Book now and prepare for the ultimate vacation at sea!