Everything You Need To Know About Star of the Seas

If you thought cruise holidays couldn’t get any more thrilling, Royal Caribbean’s Star of the Seas is here to change your mind.

Launching in August 2025, this brand-new vessel is set to become one of the world’s largest cruise ships, joining her sister, Icon of the Seas, as part of the revolutionary Icon Class. Designed for families, couples, and thrill-seekers alike, Star of the Seas promises a cruise experience like no other.

In this article, we explore everything you need to know about this incredible ship, from onboard experiences to cabin options, dining highlights, and sample itineraries.

The Next Generation of Cruise Ships

With space for over 7,000 guests and a gross tonnage of over 248,000, Star of the Seas boasts a size and scale never seen before at sea. Built in Turku, Finland, and due to set sail from Port Canaveral (Orlando) in late August 2025, this ship will deliver the perfect blend of innovation, luxury, and fun.

Royal Caribbean has pulled out all the stops to make Star of the Seas the ultimate holiday destination. Every inch of the ship is designed with both adventure and relaxation in mind, featuring eight distinct neighbourhoods, a record-breaking water park, and immersive entertainment venues that rival anything on land.

Thrills and Entertainment That Defy Gravity

At the heart of Star of the Seas is Thrill Island, home to Category 6, the largest waterpark at sea. This adrenaline-packed zone includes six towering waterslides, including Pressure Drop, the first open free-fall slide at sea, and Frightening Bolt, the tallest slide of its kind on any cruise ship. Whether you're racing down mat slides or spinning through raft rides, you’ll be soaked in fun from start to finish.

Above the ocean, adventure-seekers can tackle the Crown’s Edge, a skywalk-meets-zipline attraction that dangles you 154 feet above the waves, not for the faint-hearted. There’s also the ever-popular FlowRider surf simulator, a rock-climbing wall, and the largest ever suspended pool at sea, The Hideaway, offering an infinity-edge design and party vibes with panoramic views.

Evenings onboard Star of the Seas are a show in themselves. The ship’s AquaDome is a stunning glass-enclosed entertainment venue featuring a 55-foot waterfall, cutting-edge tech effects, and high-diving acrobatics. There’s also Absolute Zero, an indoor ice arena where professional skaters deliver dazzling performances, plus jazz lounges, karaoke bars, and immersive dining shows.

Designed With Everyone in Mind

Setting Star of the Seas apart from traditional cruise ships is its clever layout that caters to all ages and interests. For families, the Surfside neighbourhood is a dream come true, with splash parks for little ones, arcade zones for teens, and easy access to restaurants and bars for parents. There’s even a carousel, beach-themed play areas, and interactive games to keep kids entertained from sunrise to sundown.

For couples and adults, serene escapes await. The Hideaway Pool offers a laid-back atmosphere with DJs and cocktails, while adults-only venues like the Cloud 17 sun deck and Vitality Spa provide space for indulgence and relaxation.

Accommodation onboard is equally versatile. You’ll find everything from cosy interior cabins to infinite balcony rooms, offering seamless ocean views. For those who want to cruise in true style, the Ultimate Family Townhouse is a multi-level suite complete with its own slide, cinema space, and private patio. Meanwhile, Star Class Suites offer private concierges, priority access, and lavish amenities that redefine cruising.

World-Class Dining Options

With more than 20 dining venues, Star of the Seas ensures your taste buds go on an adventure of their own. Included options range from casual bites at Windjammer buffet to delicious slices at Sorrento’s Pizza and family-friendly eats at Surfside Eatery.

Foodies can elevate their cruise experience with a range of speciality restaurants. Try fresh sushi and izakaya-style plates at Izumi, sizzling steaks at Chops Grille, or enjoy live jazz and fine dining at the Lincoln Center Stage Supper Club, a 1930s-inspired venue that brings together gastronomy and glamour. The new AquaDome Market offers a food-hall style atmosphere with global street food and scenic sea views.

Exciting Destinations & Itineraries

Star of the Seas will sail primarily from Port Canaveral, Florida, making her an ideal choice for UK travellers combining a Florida holiday with a cruise.

Each sailing includes a visit to Perfect Day at CocoCay, Royal Caribbean’s award-winning private island in the Bahamas. Here, you can experience the tallest waterslide in North America, relax on powder-soft beaches, or sip cocktails in the adults-only Hideaway Beach Club.

Sample Itineraries:

• 3-Night Bahamas Cruise (Departs 20th August 2025): Sailing from Port Canaveral, enjoy a day at sea, and spend a full day at CocoCay before returning. A short but perfect introduction to the ship.

• 7-Night Western Caribbean Cruise (Maiden Voyage, departs 31st August 2025): Visit CocoCay, Costa Maya, Roatán, and Cozumel, with plenty of sea days to explore everything the ship has to offer.

• 7-Night Eastern Caribbean Cruise (Departs 7th September 2025): Ports include CocoCay, St. Thomas, and St. Maarten- a mix of tropical beauty, historic charm, and shopping heaven.

Why Book Star of the Seas?

With next-generation thrills, award-winning entertainment, family-friendly design, and itineraries that combine Caribbean paradise with innovation at sea, Star of the Seas is poised to become the hottest ship of 2025.

Whether you're a seasoned cruiser or new to life at sea, this ship delivers something truly extraordinary. From toddlers to grandparents, solo adventurers to honeymooners, Star of the Seas offers a holiday everyone will remember.