Star of the Seas Is on Her Way But What Is Happening Onboard?
Key Aspects:
Star of the Seas departed Cadiz, Spain on July 27 and is now making her way across the Atlantic Ocean.
Artwork installation, crew training, stunt practices, and more are all happening onboard without guests.
The ship’s first four cruises are showcase sailings ahead of her inaugural 7-night voyage on August 31.
Every “loyal to Royal” cruiser is eagerly awaiting the arrival of the second Icon-class ship, Star of the Seas. She left Cadiz, Spain on Sunday, July 27 and is now heading across the Atlantic Ocean to her new home at Port Canaveral.
The ship was officially delivered to Royal Caribbean on July 10, 2025 and departed the Meyer Werft shipyard in Turku, Finland one week later, on Thursday, July 17.
She then made her way to Cadiz to take on supplies and additional crew members, and is now out to sea for her first transatlantic crossing.
Despite the fact that the brand-new ship does not have guests aboard for this first trip across the pond, that doesn’t mean it isn’t as crazy busy as if she did have all 7,600 guest berths filled. But what is happening during these sailing days?
Royal Caribbean has shared a rare insight at what is going on aboard the brand new ship as she heads west for the first time.
“The trek will take nine days, where all the finishing touches will take place,” the cruise line explained. “The first guests on Star arrive in just 19 days. See you soon, Florida!”
The ongoing finishing touches include:
Hanging more than 10,300 pieces of artwork
Stress testing every venue while conducting training
Practicing stunts for the ice, air, and aqua shows
Test driving thrills on deck, such as the waterslides
These are all final flourishes that do not need specialized equipment from the shipyard. Hundreds of crew members are participating in the different tasks as Star of the Seas makes her way to the Sunshine State.
The exact time and date of Star of the Seas‘ arrival to Port Canaveral has not yet been confirmed. Poor weather, technical challenges, or port schedules can still impact exactly when the ship will be welcomed home.
The ship may also stop at CocoCay before arriving in Florida, just as Icon of the Seas did in January 2024. This is also where the new Chief Dog Officer, Sailor, may join the crew.
Current satellite tracking data shows Star of the Seas on course for Ponce, Puerto Rico, where she will take on more supplies.
Undoubtedly other crew training, emergency drills, and familiarization tasks are also underway so the new ship is truly ready to shine when she welcomes her first guests on Saturday, August 16, 2025.
First Cruises Aboard Star of the Seas
That sailing is a 4-night “showcase cruise” that will only visit Royal Caribbean’s private Bahamian island, Perfect Day at CocoCay.
With just one port of call, even on such a short cruise guests will still have plenty of time to experience what the immense new ship has to offer.
Read Also: Royal Caribbean Ships by Size – Largest to Smallest
Like her sister ship, Icon of the Seas, Star of the Seas is divided into distinct neighborhoods, each with its own individual flair. From the excitement of Thrill Island and its extensive waterpark to the relaxing vibes of Chill Island, there is something for everyone aboard.
Guests can also look forward to exclusive entertainment, including the highly anticipated production show of “Back to the Future.” Live music, the energetic AquaTheater shows, game shows, and more will keep guests entertained day and night.
The first four cruises for the new ship are all preview or showcase sailings. These are shorter 3- and 4-night voyages that have been added to her schedule because the ship was completed ahead of schedule.
Star of the Seas will remain homeported from Port Canaveral year-round at least through April 2027. She is offering 7-night Eastern Caribbean and Western Caribbean itineraries from August 31, 2025.
Depending on the departure date and exact itinerary, the new ship will visit such top destinations as Costa Maya, Cozumel, St. Thomas, St. Kitts, San Juan, Roatan, and more.
All itineraries will also visit Perfect Day at CocoCay, consistently rated as one of the top private island destinations and a favorite among cruise guests.
Star of the Seas Is on Her Way But What Is Happening Onboard?