In July 2025, Royal Caribbean reached a defining moment with the official delivery of Star of the Seas, marking the arrival of the new Icon Class vacation and setting a fresh benchmark for family travel. After nearly two years of construction at Meyer Turku shipyard in Finland, the ship is now poised to launch a new era in Caribbean cruising when she debuts from Port Canaveral in August 2025. This vessel is not just another addition to the fleet; it represents a culmination of innovation, vision, and collaborative expertise.
A Milestone in Shipbuilding
The handover was celebrated in grand style within the ship’s AquaTheater, bringing together more than 1,250 crew members, partners, engineers, and designers. Their collective effort, from the first steel cut to the final delivery, was acknowledged as a triumph of creativity and technical achievement. This new Icon Class vacation stands as a symbol of Royal Caribbean’s drive to transform the future of leisure travel.
Unrivaled Experiences for Every Guest
Star of the Seas has been meticulously crafted to provide an unmatched vacation experience for all types of travelers. With eight distinct neighborhoods, guests are offered a rich array of activities, entertainment, and dining—each neighborhood a destination in its own right. The ship’s “Thrill Island” delivers high-adrenaline fun with the largest waterpark at sea, featuring six record-breaking waterslides, the sky-high Crown’s Edge adventure, and classic attractions like the FlowRider surf simulator and a rock-climbing wall. This is just one example of how the new Icon Class vacation concept raises the stakes for excitement at sea.
Those seeking relaxation will gravitate toward “Chill Island,” spread across three decks and home to four inviting pools, including Royal Bay—the largest pool on any cruise ship. Guests can soak in the lively atmosphere created by poolside bands and DJs while sipping tropical cocktails at the Swim & Tonic swim-up bar or The Lime & Coconut.
Families with children will appreciate “Surfside,” a dedicated neighborhood where the youngest cruisers can splash at Splashaway Bay and Baby Bay, while adults unwind nearby at Water’s Edge. Dining options in Surfside, like Surfside Eatery and Pier 7, ensure everyone finds something to enjoy. These features help distinguish the new Icon Class vacation as the ultimate destination for multigenerational travelers.
Next-Level Dining, Entertainment, and Design
Innovation continues throughout Star of the Seas, most notably in the breathtaking AquaDome. With sweeping ocean views, this space transforms from a peaceful daytime retreat into a vibrant nighttime venue with spectacular shows featuring high divers, aerialists, and cutting-edge robotics. Culinary variety is everywhere, from the AquaDome Market food hall to specialty spots like Hooked Seafood and Rye & Bean bar.
Adult guests will discover a serene escape in “The Hideaway,” 135 feet above the ocean, with a suspended infinity pool, DJ, and sweeping terrace views. Meanwhile, returning favorites have been elevated for the new Icon Class vacation—such as the Royal Promenade, Central Park lush with more than 30,000 real plants, and the glamorous Lincoln Park Supper Club.
Environmental Progress and Future Destinations
Beyond entertainment and comfort, Star of the Seas is Royal Caribbean’s third ship powered by liquefied natural gas, embodying the company’s commitment to sustainability. With systems like waste heat recovery and shore power connectivity, this new Icon Class vacation supports Royal Caribbean’s pursuit of a net-zero cruise ship by 2035. The innovation will continue with the launch of Legend of the Seas, the third Icon Class vessel, scheduled for 2026.
The introduction of Star of the Seas also aligns with Royal Caribbean’s ambitious plans for new destinations, such as the Royal Beach Club Paradise Island debuting in December 2025, and future escapes in Cozumel, Mexico, and the South Pacific.
The Dawn of a New Icon Class Vacation
Star of the Seas embodies everything Royal Caribbean envisions for the future of cruising: boundless thrills, sophisticated relaxation, and meaningful connection for every generation. As this new Icon Class vacation prepares for its maiden season in the Caribbean, it is poised to redefine expectations and deliver extraordinary adventures for families and travelers worldwide.