Royal Caribbean International has officially pulled back the curtain on its next generation of maritime marvels, announcing the Star of the Seas. This behemoth of the waves is poised to seize the title of world's largest cruise ship from its fleetmate, the Icon of the Seas, upon its anticipated debut in the summer of 2025.
The announcement has sent ripples of excitement through the travel industry, promising a holiday experience that is quite literally bigger and bolder than anything that has come before it.
What We Know About The New Giant
While full specifications and mind-boggling details are being kept under wraps for now, the cruise line has confirmed the ship is currently under construction at the Meyer Turku shipyard in Finland. It will follow the groundbreaking 'Icon-Class' design, a paradigm shift in ship architecture that redefines a sea vacation.
The Star of the Seas will feature the line's innovative eight neighbourhood concepts, each offering a uniquely curated atmosphere and a host of activities, dining options, and entertainment. From thrilling water parks and adrenaline-pumping slides to serene adult-only retreats and immersive family-friendly zones, the ship is designed to cater to every conceivable passenger desire.
Surpassing The Icon
The current title holder, Icon of the Seas, is a true titan herself, measuring an astonishing 1,198 feet long and weighing 250,800 gross tons. She can host a small city of 7,600 guests per sailing alongside 2,350 crew members.
The Star of the Seas is projected to exceed these monumental figures, setting a new benchmark for scale, innovation, and entertainment at sea. This continuous one-upmanship ensures that each new ship offers a fresh and unprecedented experience for travellers.
Setting Sail From The Sunshine State
Come August 2025, the Star of the Seas will begin her inaugural season, sailing from Port Canaveral in Florida. She will offer sought-after 7-night Eastern and Western Caribbean itineraries. Each voyage will include a stop at Royal Caribbean's exclusive private island paradise, Perfect Day at CocoCay in the Bahamas, renowned for its thrilling waterpark and pristine beaches.
Michael Bayley, President and CEO of Royal Caribbean International, stated: "The brand-new Star of the Seas will be the next bold answer to the record-breaking guest reception of Icon of the Seas... The showstopping innovations and experiences are sure to make this one of the best family vacations in the world."
With the official reveal of the ship's specific features and its exact size expected later in the year, the anticipation among cruise enthusiasts and families alike is already reaching a fever pitch. The race to build the ultimate vacation destination continues, and the crown is about to be passed once again.
