Cruise tourism has a new star set to revolutionize the at-sea vacation experience. Royal Caribbean International’s newest flagship, the Star of the Seas, is currently docked at Port Canaveral, Florida, and ready for its inaugural sailing later this month.

Weighing 248,663 gross tons and with a capacity for more than 5,600 guests, the Star of the Seas shares the same dimensions as the Icon of the Seas—until now considered the world’s largest cruise ship. Both vessels, spanning 20 decks, reinforce the Miami-based company’s leadership in the mega-cruise segment.

The “Ultimate Family Vacation” at Sea

Royal Caribbean has branded this new ship as “the ultimate family vacation,” a clear bid to compete with Orlando’s world-famous theme parks. To deliver on that promise, the Star of the Seas offers a range of one-of-a-kind attractions:

• The largest waterpark at sea, featuring six waterslides.
• Seven pools and ten whirlpools, including the largest pool at sea and the world’s biggest swim-up bar.
• A surf simulator and an ice-skating rink.
• More than 40 bars, restaurants, and lounges, including 17 complimentary dining options such as the popular Sorrento’s pizzeria.

The ship also includes exclusive offerings such as Starbucks and a variety of specialty restaurants available at an additional cost.

Itineraries and Homeport

The ship’s maiden voyage will include a call at Perfect Day at CocoCay, Royal Caribbean’s private island in the Bahamas. Afterward, the Star of the Seas will homeport in Port Canaveral—at least through April 2027—sailing seven-night itineraries to both the Eastern and Western Caribbean.

A Debut in a Booming Market

The arrival of this mega-ship comes at a time of remarkable growth for the cruise industry. According to Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA), 2024 saw a record 35 million ocean cruise passengers worldwide, a 9% increase over 2023.

The Star of the Seas not only strengthens Royal Caribbean’s fleet but also ushers in a new era of family travel at sea, combining luxury, entertainment, and immersive experiences that rival the best attractions on land.