Star of the Seas Makes Its Grand Entrance
The Star of the Seas, Royal Caribbean’s newest and largest cruise ship, has officially arrived in Port Canaveral, Florida, ahead of her highly anticipated Caribbean debut. The 248,663-gross-ton Icon Class vessel docked on August 9, 2025, marking her first-ever visit to her new homeport. Over the next few weeks, the ship will host a series of exclusive preview cruises, culminating in a star-studded naming ceremony led by legendary entertainer Diana Ross.
A Spectacular Arrival at Port Canaveral
Escorted by a water cannon tugboat, Star of the Seas sailed past Jetty Park before docking at the newly renovated Cruise Terminal 1. The ship, capable of carrying up to 7,600 guests at full capacity, is the sister ship to Icon of the Seas and was delivered ahead of schedule from the Meyer Turku shipyard in Finland on July 10, 2025.
Her transatlantic journey included a stop in Ponce, Puerto Rico, where the first media and influencer preview sailing departed on August 6. Sailing at reduced capacity, these early voyages allow guests to explore the ship’s entertainment, dining, and relaxation options without the bustle of a full sailing.
Preview Voyages Before the Public Debut
Royal Caribbean is rolling out several “showcase” cruises before the official launch. Travel advisors are currently on board for a special voyage running August 9–13, followed by another media sailing August 13–16.
On August 16, the ship will set sail on a celebratory 4-night cruise featuring the official naming ceremony. Diana Ross, the “Queen of Motown,” will serve as godmother, blessing the ship before she embarks on her inaugural season. That voyage will include a stop at Royal Caribbean’s award-winning private island, Perfect Day at CocoCay.
If you’ve never visited CocoCay, our full guide to Royal Caribbean’s private island covers everything from water slides to overwater cabanas.
Additional short sailings are scheduled for August 20, 23, and 27, all leading up to the first full week-long voyage on August 31 to the Western Caribbean.
Onboard Highlights: Entertainment, Dining, and Thrills
Star of the Seas was designed to deliver a vacation experience for every type of traveler. The ship is divided into eight neighborhoods, each offering its own atmosphere, from adrenaline-filled attractions to relaxing hideaways.
Highlights include:
- Category 6 Waterpark — the largest at sea, with six record-breaking slides.
- Seven pools — offering everything from high-energy activities to serene ocean views.
- Over 40 dining and drinking venues, including the Chicago-inspired Lincoln Park Supper Club for multi-course, elevated dining.
- Five signature shows across stage, ice, air, and water, including “Back to the Future: The Musical.”
Ship Specs and Itineraries
At 248,663 gross tons and nearly 1,200 feet in length, Star of the Seas is among the most advanced cruise ships ever built. She is powered by LNG (liquefied natural gas) and incorporates energy-saving technologies for a more sustainable voyage.
After her preview season, the ship will sail alternating Eastern and Western Caribbean itineraries. Eastern Caribbean sailings will visit destinations like St. Thomas and St. Maarten, while Western routes will feature Costa Maya and Cozumel in Mexico, Roatán in Honduras, and, of course, CocoCay.
For cruisers planning a family getaway, you may also want to check our guide to the Royal Caribbean FlowRider to see how you can add some surfing thrills to your Caribbean adventure.
Port Canaveral’s Sailabration
Port Canaveral is celebrating the ship’s arrival with a free “sailabration” on August 16, coinciding with the naming ceremony. Locals and visitors can head to Jetty Park starting at 3:30 p.m. for live music, food trucks, giveaways, and a perfect view of Star of the Seas sailing away on her first official cruise. Parking passes must be purchased in advance through the port’s website.
A New Era for Royal Caribbean
With her innovative design, diverse onboard experiences, and a schedule packed with Caribbean highlights, Star of the Seas is set to redefine family cruising. The combination of record-breaking features, world-class entertainment, and exclusive destinations makes her one of the most anticipated ships of 2025.
As the countdown to her first official voyage continues, one thing is certain — Star of the Seas is ready to shine.
