Star of the Seas: World’s largest cruise ship begins maiden voyage from Florida
Eight themed neighbourhoods create a floating city for families and travellers
DUBAI – Royal Caribbean’s Star of the Seas has officially set sail from Florida, marking its maiden voyage as the world’s largest cruise ship alongside its sister vessel Icon of the Seas.
The ship, which weighs 250,800 tonnes and stretches 1,196 feet, is designed to deliver a new era of family cruising, blending luxury, adventure, and entertainment on an unprecedented scale.
The inaugural seven-night journey takes passengers through the Western Caribbean with stops in Cozumel and Costa Maya in Mexico, as well as Roatan in Honduras. From its home port in Port Canaveral, the vessel will operate alternating Eastern and Western Caribbean itineraries, including visits to Royal Caribbean’s private island, Perfect Day at CocoCay.
On board, more than 5,600 guests at double occupancy – and over 7,000 at full capacity – are being looked after by a crew of 2,350. Spread across 20 decks, the Star of the Seas combines engineering innovation with world-class amenities, creating what Royal Caribbean calls “the boldest family vacation ever.”
What makes it unique?
Like Icon of the Seas, the new vessel is divided into eight themed neighbourhoods. Families can immerse themselves in Surfside, an area built for younger children, while Central Park offers fine dining, live music, and lush greenery. The AquaDome, a 25-metre-high and 50-metre-wide glass dome, serves as a hub for water-based performances and aerial acrobatics.
Entertainment on board includes a specially adapted version of Back to the Future: The Musical, staged with dazzling special effects that bring the DeLorean to life inside the Royal Theater. Audiences can also enjoy Torque in the AquaTheater, a high-energy mix of dance, diving, and aerial stunts, as well as Sol, an ice show tracing the journey of the sun across the United States. A parade titled Ocean Odyssey takes guests under the sea in a theatrical spectacle centred on the mythical King Atlantis.
Beyond performance venues, thrill-seekers will find the Category 6 waterpark, featuring six waterslides, and the Crown’s Edge aerial adventure course that dangles 154 feet above the ocean. Other favourites include a surf simulator, laser tag, and a suspended infinity pool at The Hideaway, an adults-only area.
Who christened the ship?
The naming ceremony in Port Canaveral was led by Kellie Gerardi, research astronaut and payload specialist, who was chosen as the ship’s godmother. During the celebration, Gerardi dedicated the vessel to its crew and future guests, highlighting the spirit of exploration and family bonding at the heart of its design.
Royal Caribbean executives, including president and CEO Jason Liberty, described the launch as a major step forward in redefining modern family vacations. “With Star, we’re not just launching a ship, we’re advancing our mission to create the world’s best vacations responsibly for guests of all ages,” he said.
Michael Bayley, president and CEO of Royal Caribbean International, added that the vessel offers “everything families want in a vacation, with more adventure and more ways to make unforgettable memories together.”
What else is coming?
The Star of the Seas is not the only giant to join global fleets this year. Disney Cruise Line’s Adventure, measuring 208,000 tonnes and accommodating 6,000 guests, will debut in December from Singapore as the company’s largest vessel and first permanently based in Asia. Its features include a rollercoaster at sea, seven themed zones, and a Marvel-inspired studio.
Meanwhile, MSC Cruises’ World America will launch from Miami in 2025, spanning 22 decks with 19 restaurants, 20 bars, and unique attractions such as over-water swings. At 205,700 tonnes, it is slightly smaller than Royal Caribbean’s new icons but designed to strengthen MSC’s foothold in the Caribbean market.
As for Royal Caribbean, the company plans to extend its experiences with the opening of Royal Beach Club Paradise Island in The Bahamas in December 2025, Royal Beach Club Cozumel in 2026, and Perfect Day Mexico in 2027.
Star of the Seas: cruise fares
For those stepping aboard Star of the Seas, cruise fares currently begin at $1,046 per person based on double occupancy, covering accommodation, meals, entertainment, and select drinks.
With more than 40 restaurants and lounges, record-setting attractions, and a dazzling lineup of shows, the ship is already setting a new standard for life at sea.