A week in the Caribbean on board a brand-new cruise ship – which just happens to be one of the biggest in the world? Yes, please.
Royal Caribbean’s Star of the Seas offers exclusive restaurants for discerning palates, paddling paradises for children, a spectacular stage, water, and ice shows, and stops at exotic islands. It’s the second vessel in Royal Caribbean’s Icon Class and is the same size as its sister ship, Icon of the Seas. Weighing in at 250,000 tons, the ship boasts 20 decks, 2,805 cabins, seven outdoor pools, 10 whirlpools, and the largest water park at sea. Royal Caribbean reportedly invested $2 billion to bring Star of the Seas to life.
From the moment guests arrive at Port Canaveral, Florida – the ship’s home port – they are met with smiles and infectious enthusiasm from the crew. A pre-launch sailing included a stop at the company’s private island, Perfect Day at CocoCay, featuring the Caribbean’s tallest water slides, cabanas, a zip line, the Up, Up and Away helium balloon ride, and dozens of dining options. All itineraries from Port Canaveral include this destination.
When it comes to food, Star of the Seas offers more than 40 ways to dine and drink. Passengers can enjoy Royal Caribbean’s signature Windjammer buffet, the elegant main dining room, a charming Aquadome food market, Japanese, Mexican, seafood, and steakhouse venues – some included in the base fare and others available for an additional fee. New to the Icon Class is the Lincoln Park Supper Club, a golden-age Chicago-style dining venue that pairs fine cuisine with cocktails and live jazz performances.
Behind the scenes, Royal Caribbean has committed to reducing food waste by as much as 50% by the end of the year. Innovations include transforming broccoli stems into crispy panko-coated chips, redirecting excess catering to feed crew members, and converting plate waste into fuel for the ship.
Among the standout features for guests is the 1400 Bar, a tribute to Royal Caribbean’s 50-plus-year history. The menu reads like a storybook, taking guests from the line’s early days with Song of Norway through to the launch of the Icon Class. The signature 1400 Cocktail – tequila, pearl shimmer syrup, and lemon sour topped with a vaped citric bubble – is a fan favorite, delighting onlookers when the bubble bursts with a puff of citrus smoke.
Alcoholic pools and a vibrant nightlife
Other highlights include the Swim and Tonic pool bar, where guests sip cocktails in waist-deep water to the sounds of reggae and calypso tunes, and the roaming Stowaway Piano Player, who can be found performing everywhere from stair landings to elevators with covers of Elton John and Billy Joel. Nightlife is equally lively, with music and entertainment across multiple decks running well past midnight, including the rowdy Dueling Pianos Bar and adults-only comedy shows.
“We welcome all types of guests,” Royal Caribbean International CEO Michael Bayley said when asked if the ship is aimed at a particular demographic. “The Icon Class ships are a next-level experience designed for the whole family. Every day is a different set of experiences, and Star of the Seas is the next step.”
The ship’s entertainment offerings rival Broadway, with productions like Back to the Future: The Musical featuring first-rate singing, dancing, and dazzling technical effects. Torque, a motor-racing-themed high-diving show, and Sol, a breathtaking ice performance, round out the lineup, leaving audiences gasping and applauding throughout.
Staterooms are thoughtfully appointed with firm, comfortable beds, plush pillows, ample storage space, and strong, easily adjustable showers. Attentive cabin stewards cater to every request.
Service is a hallmark of the experience, with crew members wearing “Ask Me” badges, eager to assist. Whether you need a recommendation for a glass of Kim Crawford Sauvignon Blanc or directions to the nearest baby-changing station, someone is always ready to help.
Across the ship, dedicated team members like Tony, the comedy club host, Elisha, who oversees the escape rooms, and Fabio, the ever-smiling waiter, ensure every guest feels special.
Star of the Seas is a ship designed to deliver what Royal Caribbean calls “thrills and chills” – whether you want to party late into the night, keep the kids entertained, enjoy a quiet sunset, or stay active with sports, fitness, and surfing on the Flowrider. And despite its massive size, the ship rarely feels crowded.
Mark and David host The Jerusalem Post Podcast – Travel Edition. They were guests of Royal Caribbean International (royalcaribbean.com).