Star of the Seas Becomes Most Anticipated New Cruise Ship for 2025
Royal Caribbean's Star of the Seas: The Most Anticipated Cruise Ship of 2025
Royal Caribbean’s upcoming cruise ship, Star of the Seas, has captured the attention of cruise enthusiasts worldwide. Recently, it was named the Most Anticipated New Cruise Ship of 2025 in the Cruise Hive Awards, receiving nearly 30% of the reader votes. This recognition is not surprising, especially considering that its predecessor, Icon of the Seas, was the most anticipated ship of 2024 and went on to win the title of Best Cruise Ship of that year. With its impressive features and amenities, Star of the Seas is set to make waves in the cruise industry when it debuts in late August 2025.
A Glimpse into the Ship’s Features and Amenities
Star of the Seas is currently under construction at the Meyer Turku shipyard in Finland. When it enters service, it will weigh 248,663 gross tons and accommodate 5,610 guests at double occupancy. This makes it one of the largest cruise ships in the world, alongside its sister ship, Icon of the Seas. Royal Caribbean will proudly operate both of these colossal vessels, solidifying its position as a leader in the cruise industry.
The ship will feature eight distinct neighborhoods, each designed to offer unique experiences. For instance, the AquaDome will serve as an entertainment and dining area, providing a vibrant atmosphere for guests. Chill Island will cater to those looking for relaxation, while Thrill Island will be the go-to spot for adventure seekers, complete with exciting rides. Families will appreciate Surfside, which is tailored for younger guests. Additionally, Star of the Seas will include beloved Royal Caribbean staples like the Royal Promenade and Central Park, ensuring that there is something for everyone on board.
Itineraries and Launch Updates
Star of the Seas will homeport at Port Canaveral, Florida, offering 7-night cruises to the Eastern and Western Caribbean. Most itineraries are expected to include a stop at Royal Caribbean’s private destination, Perfect Day at CocoCay, which was named the Best Cruise Line Private Island in the 2024 Cruise Hive Awards. This destination is known for its stunning beaches and a variety of activities, making it a highlight of any cruise.
Cruises aboard Star of the Seas went on sale in December 2023, with an initial launch date set for August 24, 2025. However, in February 2024, Royal Caribbean announced a delay in construction, pushing the launch back to August 31, 2025. Unfortunately, this delay has also resulted in the cancellation of the inaugural cruise scheduled for August 17, 2025. While no specific reasons for the delay were provided, the anticipation surrounding the ship remains high as fans eagerly await its debut.
Runners-Up in the Most Anticipated Category
While Star of the Seas took the top spot in the Most Anticipated New Cruise Ship category, several other ships also garnered significant attention. Norwegian Cruise Line’s Norwegian Aqua came in second, receiving 14.7% of the votes. This ship, which can accommodate 3,500 guests, is set to launch in April 2025 and will also be based at Port Canaveral.
In third place was Princess Cruises’ Star Princess, with 12.8% of the votes. This ship is under construction in Italy and is expected to launch from Barcelona on October 4, 2025. Other notable mentions include Celebrity Cruises’ Celebrity Xcel and MSC Cruises’ MSC World America, which received 11.6% and 10% of the votes, respectively.
The excitement surrounding Star of the Seas and its competitors highlights the growing interest in cruise travel. As the industry continues to evolve, these new ships promise to offer unforgettable experiences for travelers seeking adventure on the high seas.
