On Location: Sister, but not a twin – Star of the Seas shines with unique vibe, dazzling shows

STORY BY SANDRA SIROIS

We could feel the excitement the moment we stepped aboard the Star of the Seas, Royal Caribbean’s newest jewel in the Icon Class.

While her sister ship, Icon of the Seas, has already captivated global attention with record-breaking size and attractions, Star of the Seas, built in Finland, is forging her own identity: shining brightest in the realm of entertainment.

From August 13-16, an industry preview of the ship – which can host up to 7,500 guests (10,000 with crew included) – showcased breathtaking shows, luxurious accommodations, exclusive events, and a stop at a spectacular Bahamian island.

A duel of Icons

When comparing Star of the Seas to Icon of the Seas, the similarities are clear: innovative design, eight themed neighbourhoods, and endless activities for all ages.

“There are many small changes that we made on Star of the Seas,” said Michael Bayley, president and CEO of Royal Caribbean, at a press conference that was held on board.

“We corrected the little things; every ship continues to evolve in terms of efficiency. The dining concept is also part of the changes. We changed specialty dining concepts, and there’s a lot of changes in colours, vibe and furnishings. We have an entirely different art decor. We put a lot of energy into art and creating an environment that people enjoy.”

On board, there are more than 40 dining options: from Mexican dishes, American classics, French crêpes, Thai curries to Italian favourites, sushi, healthy bowls, quick bites, fine dining and ice cream treats.

But the standout difference—and Star of the Seas’ pride—is its entertainment.

The artistic team created exclusive, original shows blending theatrical innovation with immersive storytelling.

Highlights include the Back to the Future musical, merging Hollywood nostalgia with Broadway talent, transporting audiences into Marty McFly’s cinematic world with 80s hits, dazzling choreography, and time-machine special effects that make you forget you’re at sea.

In a more nautical vein, Torque takes over the AquaTheater on Deck 15 with high-intensity stunts, aerial acrobatics, and synchronized dives, where water effects, lighting, and live action merge into a breathtaking aquatic performance.

For Quebec-based travel agent Maryse Valcourt, president of Les Voyages MV, “The Icons and Oasis class ships of Royal Caribbean are my favourites. You just say wow when you explore them.”

For her, the main difference between Icon and Star lies in the shows. And while the ships cater to families, “Even couples without kids would be very interested,” she said.

“There are many adult-only sections, and the shows are truly incredible.”

Beyond its entertainment, Star of the Seas offers accommodations from ocean-view cabins to lavish suites.

The crown jewel is the two-story Royal Loft Suite, featuring floor-to-ceiling windows, a 700 sq. ft. balcony, indoor and outdoor dining areas, a jacuzzi, and personalized service: transforming the cruise into a floating penthouse.

Select cabins also have beds facing the balcony view, so guests wake up to uninterrupted ocean and sky views.

A Perfect Day at CocoCay

Every Star of the Seas itinerary includes a stop at Perfect Day at CocoCay, Royal Caribbean’s private island in the Bahamas.

This 140-acre paradise was designed with a simple concept: listen to guests and build exactly what they envision.

“We ask our clients: if you had a perfect day in the Caribbean, what would it be? We spoke to thousands of customers, and then we built it,” said Bayley.

For thrill-seekers, CocoCay features Thrill Waterpark with North America’s tallest waterslide, a wave pool, and multiple family-friendly splash zones.

Up, Up and Away offers panoramic views from a helium balloon floating 450 feet above the island. Guests seeking relaxation can head to Coco Beach Club with its infinity pool, private overwater cabanas, and elevated dining.

The island is also home to South Beach for beach activities, Harbour Beach for calm swimming, and Oasis Lagoon – complete with a swim-up bar.

Families love that parents can sip cocktails on the sand while kids enjoy supervised play areas and water attractions: a “win-win” that Bayley says was central to the island’s design.

With its turquoise waters, white-sand beaches, and a perfect balance of adrenaline and tranquility, CocoCay consistently ranks as a guest favourite and a key selling point for travel advisors promoting Star of the Seas sailings.

Networking at sea

The trip also fostered valuable industry exchanges. On August 15, The Attic Comedy Club hosted a Q&A with Bayley, where he introduced Sailor, the ship’s golden retriever and “Chief Dog Officer.”

“Her job is to bring joy to guests and crew. The crew love her. She’s the family dog of the ship,” added Sean Treacy, senior VP of hotel operations.

Travel Leaders Network brought 322 travel advisors from North America, including 24 Canadian agencies.

Christine James, vice-president for Canada, noted: “Everybody I spoke to was pretty impressed by the cruise ship. The service is incredible. When you think about a ship this large, and you have such amazing service, it’s very impressive.”

The following day, the Royal Theatre hosted “Legacy & Leadership,” a fireside chat with Royal Caribbean Group's Chairman Richard Fain and President and CEO Jason Liberty.

For Fain, the ship’s success isn’t about one attraction: “The secret of the success is that everything works together. It feels natural, like you want to be there. It takes the hardest work in the world to look like you are not working,” he said.

After three nights at sea, Star of the Seas returned to Port Canaveral, Florida.

For journalists, travel advisors, and other industry professionals from around the world, it was a great opportunity to gain a first-hand look at what this new ship and Royal Caribbean’s latest approach to cruising has to offer.

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