Royal Caribbean’s Star of the Seas is shaping up to be one of the most anticipated cruise ships of the decade. As the second vessel in the Icon Class, it brings together high-energy thrills, relaxing escapes, imaginative dining, and fresh itinerary options that fit perfectly into today’s style of cruise vacation. Whether you’re planning your first sailing or you’re a seasoned traveler building your next cruise booking, this guide will help you understand exactly what makes Star of the Seas worth experiencing.
This article explores the ship’s standout features, the neighborhoods you’ll want to explore, the dining you can’t miss, cabin categories for every type of traveler, entertainment across the ship, and how to get the most from your time at each cruise port. Written for travelers who want an easy-to-read but detailed overview, this guide keeps things smooth, friendly, and practical.
Why Star of the Seas Is Catching Every Traveler’s Attention
Royal Caribbean’s Icon Class introduced a new era of mega-ships designed for travelers who want everything in one place: better entertainment, more pool space, larger accommodations, and shore excursion planning that fits seamlessly with ship days. Star of the Seas is expected to take that foundation and refine it even further.
The ship appeals to travelers who enjoy:
- A resort-like experience with endless things to do
- A cruise port lineup full of sun, culture, and beaches
- New-generation cabins with smart design
- Innovative restaurants and specialty dining
- Aboard activities suitable for both relaxation and adventure
- Smooth scheduling for shore excursion days
And most importantly—Star of the Seas balances high-energy fun with quiet spaces where you can escape from the crowds without leaving the ship.
A First Look at the Neighborhood Layout
Like Icon of the Seas, Star of the Seas follows the neighborhood concept, which divides the ship into themed zones. This makes navigation easier for first-time cruisers and adds variety for returning travelers.
Here’s what you can expect:
1. Surfside — For Families, Sun, and Easy Snacks
Surfside is designed around family-friendly energy. It’s playful without being overwhelming, and it features splash areas, slides, casual dining, and easy access to the pool deck. For travelers with children, this is one of the top reasons they choose an Icon-Class ship.
2. Chill Island — The Relaxation Deck
Chill Island is where you’ll find pools, the Freshwater Pool Bar, and places to unwind. It’s ideal for travelers who love the pool experience but don’t want the louder energy from the waterpark zone.
3. Thrill Island — Royal Caribbean’s New Adventure Hub
This zone draws adventure lovers with features such as:
- Category-6 Waterpark
- The Crown’s Edge attraction
- Adrenaline-focused activities for adults and teens
- Incredible ocean views during every activity
It’s built for travelers who want a little rush during their cruise vacation.
4. The Hideaway — Pool Vibes With a View
The Hideaway features one of the best infinity pools at sea, set 135 feet above the ocean. Think music, cocktails, and a sunny ambiance that feels like a boutique beach club.
5. Central Park — Quiet Paths and Natural Beauty
This open-air neighborhood adds greenery, restaurants, cafes, and nighttime strolling. It’s an oasis for guests who enjoy slower moments between activities and shore excursions.
6. Royal Promenade — Entertainment and Nightlife
Expect larger venues, more live music, energy that lasts from morning to midnight, and easy access to restaurants and lounges. It’s the social heart of the ship.
Dining on Star of the Seas: A Fresh Take on Cruise Ship Cuisine
Star of the Seas expands on the dining options introduced on Icon, blending classic favorites with new concepts. Expect more outdoor seating, more casual dining, and improved specialty options.
Dining Highlights Likely on Star of the Seas
- AquaDome Market – A multi-station food hall with creative flavors and quick service.
- Surfside Eatery – Designed to make family dining simple and fun.
- Izumi – Always a hit for sushi lovers.
- Chops Grille – Royal Caribbean’s signature steakhouse.
- The Dining Room – A multi-level venue with attentive service and rotating menus.
- The Pearl Café – A beautiful spot for snacks, coffee, and ocean views.
A well-balanced mix of quick-service venues and finer dining means you’ll never feel rushed between onboard activities or a packed day in a cruise port.
Cabins on Star of the Seas: What Category Fits Your Style?
Star of the Seas includes cabin categories designed for every traveler—from budget-friendly interior rooms to expansive suites. Because cabin design is such a big part of choosing a cruise ship, here’s a breakdown to help guide your next cruise booking.
Interior and Inside View Cabins
These offer excellent value for travelers who spend most of their time exploring the ship or going ashore. They’re comfortable, modern, and ideal for budget-conscious cruisers.
Ocean View Rooms
For cruisers who want natural light without stretching the budget too far, these cabins provide sweeping views of the ocean or ports you’ll visit.
Balcony Staterooms
Balconies are one of the most popular choices—especially if your itinerary features multiple scenic ports. They offer privacy, morning coffee views, and space to relax after a day exploring.
Thematic Rooms Like Surfside Family Suites
If you’re sailing with kids or bringing a larger group, Surfside suites help families stay organized and close to the family-friendly neighborhood.
Suite Class Options
Oasis Class and Icon Class suites are some of the most well-regarded in the industry. Star of the Seas will continue this trend with multi-room spaces, premium dining access, exclusive lounges, and private sun decks.
Entertainment and Activities Across the Ship
What sets Star of the Seas apart from many cruise ships is the extent of its entertainment. These aren’t small-scale shows. They’re full theatrical productions, elaborate water performances, live music across multiple venues, and late-night events that give you options long after dinner ends.
Expect these types of entertainment onboard:
- AquaDome water shows
- Ice-skating performances
- Broadway-inspired theater productions
- Live music in lounges and bars
- DJs and nightlife across multiple venues
- Pop-up entertainment in the Royal Promenade
And, of course, Thrill Island’s attractions will remain one of the biggest draws onboard.
Ports of Call: Making the Most of Your Shore Excursion Days
Your itinerary plays a big role in how you experience Star of the Seas. Whether you’re headed to the Caribbean, Mexico, or Royal Caribbean’s private destinations, your shore excursion options will have a huge impact on your overall cruise vacation.
Tips for Choosing the Right Shore Excursion
- Choose active excursions early in the trip when your energy is highest.
- Leave one day unplanned to enjoy the ship without crowds.
- Book snorkeling or beach days on private islands—they tend to be smoother, more organized, and less rushed.
- Double-check travel times if your cruise port is a long distance from major tourist sites.
Popular excursions include:
- Catamaran sailing
- Snorkeling tours
- Scenic island drives
- Wildlife encounters
- Cultural village visits
- Beach club days
- Adventure parks
Because of the ship’s size, it’s smart to plan your excursions early so you don’t miss out.
A Quick Checklist: 10 Things You Shouldn’t Miss on Star of the Seas
This list helps both first-time and repeat travelers get the full experience.
- The Hideaway Pool for panoramic views.
- A Surfside breakfast before a family-friendly day.
- A late afternoon walk through Central Park.
- One specialty dining night, especially Chops or Izumi.
- A show in the AquaDome, booked early for the best seats.
- A themed party on the Royal Promenade.
- A sunset drink on Chill Island.
- Thrill Island attractions early in the morning for shorter lines.
- A quiet morning on your balcony if you book a balcony stateroom.
- A beach day excursion to make the most of your cruise port visit.
Who Will Love Star of the Seas the Most?
This ship truly works for a wide range of travelers:
- Adventure lovers seeking slides, thrills, and nonstop activities.
- Couples wanting romantic corners such as Central Park or The Hideaway.
- Families needing spacious areas and easy meal options.
- Solo travelers who enjoy varied entertainment and social zones.
- Cruise veterans looking for something exciting and new.
- First-time cruisers who want a ship that’s simple to explore and full of choices.
Star of the Seas is the type of cruise ship where you can design each day exactly the way you want it.
Why Star of the Seas Is Worth Adding to Your Cruise Booking List
If you enjoy a cruise vacation with variety, smart design, and incredible entertainment, Star of the Seas is built for you. It delivers the scale of a resort with the fun of a theme park and the relaxation of a tropical getaway—all without sacrificing service or comfort.
The ship is poised to become one of the most popular cruise options in the world, and planning early will give you the best choice of cabins, dining times, and shore excursions.
Its combination of modern spaces, new onboard experiences, and access to the Caribbean’s top cruise ports makes it a standout choice for 2025 and beyond.