Royal Caribbean offers super-speed tour of Star of the Seas as new flagship debuts in US

Royal Caribbean International’s newest Icon Class cruise ship, Star of the Seas, has arrived at Port Canaveral ahead of its inaugural season of Caribbean cruises, marking its debut in North America.

The 5,600-passenger vessel is the second in the Icon Class, following Icon of the Seas, and is the largest cruise ship ever built, surpassing 250,000 gross tons and accommodating more than 7,000 passengers at full capacity.

The ship is positioned as the company’s new flagship for the North American market. 

To coincide with the ship’s arrival, Royal Caribbean has released a condensed “hyper-speed tour” showcasing the vessel’s key features, from its themed neighbourhoods and entertainment venues to its dining and leisure offerings.

Star of the Seas introduces several new amenities for the line, alongside features carried over from Icon of the Seas. 

Among its attractions are Category 6, billed as the largest waterpark at sea, seven pools including a suspended infinity pool, and the Crown’s Edge ropes-and-zipline experience set more than 150 feet above the ocean. 

Families will find a dedicated neighbourhood in Surfside, designed for young children, while entertainment options include productions across theatre, ice, water and air. A highlight of the programme is Back to the Future: The Musical, adapted from the stage production in London’s West End.

Dining has also been expanded, with more than 40 venues across the ship. New additions include the Lincoln Park Supper Club, a multi-course experience inspired by Chicago’s dining scene.

From September, Star of the Seas will begin offering 7-night itineraries from Port Canaveral to the Eastern and Western Caribbean. 

Every sailing will include a call at Perfect Day at CocoCay, Royal Caribbean’s private island in the Bahamas. Other ports on rotation include Cozumel, St. Thomas, and St. Maarten, depending on the itinerary.

The ship’s deployment strengthens Port Canaveral’s role as a major hub for the Caribbean cruise market. Royal Caribbean has further expansion plans across the region, with new private destinations set to open in the Bahamas and Mexico over the next three years.

With Star of the Seas now in Florida, Royal Caribbean enters the next phase of its Icon Class rollout, which has been described by the line as its most ambitious fleet development to date.