Cruise operator Royal Caribbean has unveiled new details about its newest mega ship, Star of the Seas. Although the vessel will resemble the already released Icon of the Seas, some tweaks have been made in order to make the ship even more enjoyable for vacation seekers.
After releasing Icon of the Seas on 27 January 2024 and the smaller Oasis class vessel Utopia of the Seas on 24 July, Royal Caribbean is now preparing for the launch of its newest family member. The new mega ship is set to set sail on 31 August 2025 and will host seven-day Caribbean cruises from Port Canaveral in Florida.
“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 Royal Caribbean International president and chief executive Michael Bayley.
As the second Icon class vessel launched by Royal Caribbean, the Star of the Seas will mostly be very similar to Icon of the Seas. The amenities on board include six waterslides, seven pools and over 40 places to eat and drink spread over the 20-deck ship, with a 1930s Chicago-inspired Lincoln Park Supper Club replacing the Icon’s Empire Supper Club. Eight so-called neighbourhoods will host just as many different ambiances, with five of them being specific to the Icon and the Star.
At Thrill Island, travellers can expect thrills of all kinds with Category 6, the first waterpark at sea when introduced on Icon, and its six record-breaking waterslides, the FlowRider surf simulator and more. Chill Island consists of a three-deck ‘slice of paradise’ home to four pools, including swim-up bar, live bands and places for drinks and quick, casual food just steps away. Surfside was designed for young families, with everything from ways to splash. AquaDome is a tranquil oasis by day and a vibrant hot spot at night. Finally, Hideaway is hidden 41 metres above the ocean and offers an adults-only spot combining all the good vibes of beach club scenes around the world with a suspended infinity pool.
“Between Miami and Port Canaveral, 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”, Bayley continued.
