Royal Caribbean International officially unveiled Star of the Seas today at a christening ceremony in Miami, introducing the world's largest cruise ship at 250,800 gross tons and a capacity of 7,600 passengers. The vessel surpasses its sister ship Icon of the Seas, which held the record since its debut in 2024, and features eight distinct neighborhoods spanning 20 decks.
New additions exclusive to Star of the Seas include the Sky Plunge, a glass-floored observation deck extending 150 feet over the ocean, and the Ember Steakhouse by celebrity chef Jose Andres. The ship retains popular Icon-class features including the Surfside family neighborhood, the Thrill Island water park with six waterslides, and the Central Park open-air garden with over 20,000 living plants.
Maiden voyage bookings for Star of the Seas, which will homeport in Miami and sail seven-night Eastern and Western Caribbean itineraries, sold out within 48 hours of opening. Interior stateroom rates start at $1,200 per person for a seven-night cruise, while the Ultimate Family Suite at the top of the ship commands $35,000 per week. Royal Caribbean CEO Jason Liberty said the demand reflects an insatiable appetite for cruise travel that shows no signs of slowing down.
