Friday, July 11, 2025
Royal Caribbean International took delivery of its second Icon-class vessel, Star of the Seas, as the cruise line continues to expand its offerings. During the delivery ceremony, which was performed at the Meyer Turku shipyard, Turku, Finland, the event was attended by more than 1,250 crew members and partners of the cruise industry. The event marked the transfer of ownership of the vessel to Royal Caribbean, and the vessel is now scheduled to set sail on its first voyage.
The launch of Star of the Seas follows the revolutionary introduction of her sister ship, Icon of the Seas, which rocked the cruise industry in 2023. Star of the Seas represents a new standard of luxury, adventure, and groundbreaking features that are all set to rechart the cruising course. As the biggest and technologically superior cruise ship ever to be built, the Star of the Seas has set new benchmarks for size, sustainability, and onboard experiences.
A Historic Handover and the Future Journey
After the handover ceremony, the vessel will embark upon a cruise trip from Turku to Cadiz, Spain, wherein Royal Caribbean will add the finishing touches before the first trip. From here, the Star of the Seas will traverse the Atlantic Ocean and reach Port Canaveral, Florida, to begin its first Caribbean cruise season.
The sahip delivery marks the conclusion of years of planning, designing, engineering, and construction. Handing over the ship was done with great anticipation, as the guests are promised a peerless experience by the Star of the Seas. It was a landmark event for the folks at Meyer Turku as well, as they have been working day and night to design and build the gorgeous ship.
Innovative Neighborhoods and On-Board Attractions
As an Icon-class ship, the Star of the Seas features among the ship’s most spectacular and cutting-edge offerings Royal Caribbean has ever released. The ship itself is a work of art, with 40 restaurants, bars, and entertainment venues distributed over a space of eight themed districts, all designed to provide a different atmosphere and experience for the passengers. From adrenaline-pumping water activities to relaxing escapes, these districts have a little bit for everyone.
Thrill Island: A neighborhood designed for the adventurers at heart, Thrill Island features the Category 6 waterpark, which boasts six exhilarating waterslides. Whether guests are looking for high-speed thrills or fun for the whole family, this area has something for everyone. The waterpark is complemented by attractions like the Crown’s Edge skywalk, which lets guests walk out over the side of the ship with panoramic views of the ocean, and the iconic FlowRider surf simulator. Additionally, there’s a mini-golf course, perfect for families to enjoy during their downtime.
Chill Island: For pampering and relaxation, the Chill Island is the destination for you. Covering three decks, the space has the largest pool onboard, the Royal Bay, as well as several whirlpools where guests can unwind. With the Swim & Tonic swim-up bar, guests can enjoy their favorite tipple while staying refreshed in the water, and the space becomes the ultimate adults’ space to relax and unwind while enjoying the spectacular views of the sea.
Surfside: Experience a wide array of activities, all of which are suitable for all ages, in the family-oriented neighborhood of Surfside. Aimed at young families, the neighborhood features kids’ splash areas, restaurants such as the Surfside Eatery, as well as the quirky, cooling Lemon Post bar. With a mission for a laid-back, beach lifestyle, the neighborhood provides the ultimate family area to share quality family moments.
The Hideaway: Arguably the crown jewel of the Star of the Seas, the Hideaway is an upper-level, suspended neighborhood with an infinity-edge pool offering spectacular ocean views, as well as whirlpools to relax in. As designed, it’s intended to offer guests a semblance of exclusivity and serenity, and as such, a wonderful adults-only escape from the fray of the ship’s principal areas.
AquaDome: Hubscape’s centerpiece, the AquaDome is a multi-purpose space with breathtaking panoramic views of the ocean. Also home to the highest-at-sea waterfall, the space features a variety of shows, consisting of first-class acrobats and underwater shows. The area has been specifically designed to offer spectacular natural majesty as well as spectacular entertainment.
Central Park: A chic, outdoor garden, Central Park has lush landscaping and a diverse array of restaurants and entertainment facilities. Travelers are free to stroll through the magical district and enjoy anything from casual cafes to higher-scale restaurants, all while relishing the beauty of the outdoors.
Royal Promenade: Being the heart and soul of the ship, the Royal Promenade shall provide guests with everything, from luxurious shopping to distinct fine dining. It is a lively and interactive space where guests shall have the ability to enjoy lively entertainment as well as easy walks through the ship’s busiest area.
Suite Neighborhood: For the ultra-luxury stay-seeking guests, the Star of the Seas has an elite suite neighborhood, which comprises lavish suites and personalized services for the wealthy guests.
