The world’s largest cruise ship has officially hit the waves, and it’s more than just a vessel—it’s a spectacle. Royal Caribbean’s brand-new Star of the Seas arrives with an astonishing 40 dining options and a lineup of record-breaking attractions that promise thrills for every type of traveler. From skywalks towering above the ocean to immersive entertainment that rivals land-based resorts, this mega-ship is designed to turn heads and raise expectations. And as it begins its first journeys, you’ll want to see for yourself what makes this floating metropolis unlike anything else at sea.
Star of the Seas sets sail after two years of construction
Royal Caribbean’s Star of the Seas was built by Meyer Turku shipyard in Finland, with construction milestones closely watched by the cruise industry. Steel-cutting began in February 2023, the keel was laid that December, and the massive vessel floated out in September 2024. Following successful sea trials, the ship was delivered in July 2025 and officially entered service a month later.
On August 20, a naming ceremony at Port Canaveral introduced astronaut Kellie Gerardi as the ship’s godmother, after singer Diana Ross withdrew due to unforeseen circumstances. Just days later, on August 31, the Star of the Seas embarked on its highly anticipated maiden voyage from Port Canaveral, Florida. The weeklong journey will take passengers across the eastern and western Caribbean, with stops in San Juan, St. Kitts, Cozumel, and Royal Caribbean’s private island in the Bahamas.
How Star of the Seas took the crown as the biggest cruise ship on Earth
Royal Caribbean’s Icon Class lineup introduced a new era of mega-cruise ships with its first two vessels: Icon of the Seas and Star of the Seas. Icon of the Seas set sail first in early 2024, instantly earning recognition as the world’s largest cruise ship. But just a year later, her sister ship, Star of the Seas, entered service and quietly edged her out for the crown.
The two ships share nearly identical designs, passenger capacities, and amenities, but their size tells a different story. Icon of the Seas stretches 364.75 meters, spans 20 decks, comes in at about 248,663 gross tons, and can carry 5,610 guests at double occupancy—or up to 7,600 when full—supported by a crew of roughly 2,350. Star of the Seas matches her in length at 364.8 meters and also rises 20 decks high, but surpasses her with an estimated 249,800 gross tons. That slight tonnage increase is enough to make Star of the Seas the official holder of the title: the biggest cruise ship on Earth.
Star of the Seas is a floating megacity with lavish features
Star of the Seas may look nearly identical to her sister ship, but a closer look at her specifications reveals what sets her apart.
Thrill Zones & Neighborhoods
Star of the Seas is designed as more than a ship—it’s a destination in itself. The vessel is divided into eight themed “neighborhoods,” each offering a distinct experience. Among the highlights is Thrill Island, home to Category 6, the largest waterpark at sea. It features six record-breaking slides, including the tallest slide ever built on a cruise ship and the first open free-fall drop slide at sea. For those who prefer their thrills with a view, the Crown’s Edge skywalk invites passengers to step 154 feet above the ocean on a daring obstacle course.
Pools, Surf & Recreation
Relaxation and recreation stretch across the decks with seven pools, each designed for a different mood. The adults-only Hideaway Pool is suspended eight stories high and comes complete with a DJ and daybeds, while families can enjoy Water’s Edge for sweeping ocean views or cool off at the kid-friendly Splashaway Bay. Adventure-seekers can ride the FlowRider® surf simulator, challenge friends at Lost Dunes mini-golf, scale a rock climbing wall, battle it out in laser tag, or play on the full-size sports court.
Dining & Entertainment Galore
As mentioned earlier, food lovers will find themselves spoiled for choice with over 40 dining venues. Options range from casual bites at Surfside Eatery and AquaDome Market to refined experiences at Lincoln Park Supper Club, Chops Grille, and Izumi Hibachi & Sushi. Entertainment is just as expansive: the AquaDome Theater delivers high-tech productions featuring a 55-foot shape-shifting waterfall, while the Absolute Zero ice arena hosts professional skating shows enhanced with immersive projections. Theatergoers can even catch Back to the Future: The Musical, complete with a flying DeLorean on stage. After dark, nightlife flourishes in intimate jazz lounges, dueling piano bars, and live band venues spread throughout the ship.
Accommodations to Impress
When it’s time to retreat, Star of the Seas offers accommodations to suit every style—from Surfside Family Suites and Icon Loft Suites to the ultra-luxurious Royal Loft Suite. The standout is the Ultimate Family Townhouse, a multi-story suite featuring slides, private hot tubs, and playful décor. Guests booking within the Royal Suite Class (Sea, Sky, and Star tiers) enjoy perks such as priority boarding, exclusive dining, and specialty beverages.
A Stop in Paradise
Every sailing includes a visit to Royal Caribbean’s private island, Perfect Day at CocoCay in the Bahamas. Known for record-breaking water slides like Daredevil’s Peak, white-sand beaches, and private cabanas, it offers passengers an exclusive tropical escape to complement their onboard adventure.
How much is the fare on Star of the Seas?
Fares for Star of the Seas begin at about $951 per person for a seven-night Caribbean cruise, with premium suites and exclusive experiences reaching over $6,000.
Despite the price, demand for cruise vacations is soaring, according to Stewart Chiron, founder of The Cruise Guy, who spoke to GMA.
“There are more people booked for cruises into the future than any same time in history,” Chiron told the outlet on Monday. “The demand is tremendous and people are going. The satisfaction rates are unbelievable and the future outlook with, especially with the new ships that are coming in, it’s gonna make it even more exciting,” he said.
Chiron also noted that, in some cases, cruise bookings have even surpassed hotel demand. This marks the third consecutive year of record cruise passenger volume, based on statistics from AAA.
What’s next for Royal Caribbean?
Building on the momentum of Star of the Seas and the record-breaking demand for cruises, Royal Caribbean is pushing forward with its Icon class expansion. Legend of the Seas is set to debut in 2026, followed by a fourth, yet-to-be-named ship in 2027, promising even more groundbreaking experiences at sea.
Sources: Royal Caribbean, Axios, CNN