Royal Caribbean International is again revolutionizing family vacations with the upcoming launch of their second Icon Class ship, Star of the Seas. The highly anticipated vessel, first announced in February 2023, promises excitement for families by offering unparalleled vacation experiences in some of the world’s most popular travel destinations.
Set to debut in August 2025, Star of the Seas will feature many attractions introduced by its sister ship, Icon of the Seas. Cruisers can look forward to attractions like the Crown’s Edge, a unique blend of skywalk, ropes course, and thrill ride, along with seven pools catering to every mood and vibe. Whether it’s relaxing at the adults-only retreat, Cloud 17, or enjoying the stunning infinity pool suspended 135 feet above the ocean at The Hideaway, there’s something for everyone.
What sets Star of the Seas apart are the innovative twists on these fan favorites. The new Lincoln Park Supper Club, inspired by 1930s Chicago, offers a dining experience that pairs multiple courses with live entertainment, making it a perfect evening for parents. At the same time, kids explore other adventures on deck. The ship also boasts six waterslides at the Category 6 waterpark and a dedicated Surfside neighborhood designed for young families, ensuring that every age group finds joy in their own way.
Royal Caribbean’s president and CEO, Michael Bayley, describes Star of the Seas as a game-changer in family vacations, offering a unique blend of beach retreats, resort escapes, and theme park adventures all in one package. Families departing from Miami or Port Canaveral (Orlando) will have the chance to experience this groundbreaking ship and create memories that will last a lifetime.
The ship’s design features eight neighborhoods, each offering a different experience, from restaurants and bars to live entertainment. Thrill Island is a must-visit for families seeking adventure, with its record-breaking waterslides and the thrilling Crown’s Edge. For those looking to unwind, Chill Island offers four pools, including the largest pool at sea, where live bands and DJs create a vibrant atmosphere.
For young families, Surfside is the ideal neighborhood, featuring splash zones for kids, a family-friendly eatery, and the Water’s Edge pool for grown-ups to relax nearby. The AquaDome, perched atop the ship, transforms from a serene daytime retreat to a lively evening hotspot, complete with high-diving shows, aerial performances, and a variety of dining options.
Adults will find solace at The Hideaway, an exclusive, adults-only area with a suspended infinity pool, DJ, and a dedicated bar, all providing breathtaking ocean views. Meanwhile, the Royal Promenade and Central Park areas continue to captivate guests with their vibrant ambiance, featuring everything from fine dining to live jazz performances and the world’s largest kinetic art sculpture, the Pearl.
As Star of the Seas joins the fleet, it will be based in Port Canaveral (Orlando), alongside the newly introduced Utopia of the Seas. Families will have their pick of vacation options, whether they want a weeklong Caribbean adventure or a quick weekend escape to The Bahamas. Having both ships at the same port also opens up the doors to doing a back-to-back cruise where you can experience both!
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