Royal Caribbean welcomes Star of the Seas as world’s largest cruise ship
- Royal Caribbean took delivery of its new cruise ship, Star of the Seas, after nearly two years of construction.
- The ship will undergo final preparations in Cadiz, Spain before its debut in Port Canaveral, Florida in August 2025.
- This vessel is now recognized as one of the largest cruise ships in the world, boasting unique attractions and dining options.
In Finland, Royal Caribbean officially welcomed its newest ship, Star of the Seas, into its fleet after nearly two years of meticulous construction. The ship was built at the Meyer Turku shipyard, where construction began in February 2023 and concluded with sea trials completed by May 2025. A significant ceremony was held to honor the extensive team of engineers, designers, and architects responsible for bringing the ship to life, particularly highlighting the installation of impressive features like the 327-ton AquaDome and six spectacular waterslides. After its delivery, the Star of the Seas is scheduled to sail from Turku to Cadiz, Spain. Royal Caribbean will perform additional finishing touches on the vessel in anticipation of a grand debut at Port Canaveral, Florida, later in August 2025. The ceremonial christening will be performed by Diana Ross, who has accepted the role of the ship's godmother. With a gross tonnage of 248,633, Star of the Seas is now recognized as joint-largest cruise ship globally, alongside its sister ship, Icon of the Seas. The cruise ship is expected to feature many remarkable attractions, including an ice rink, a rock climbing wall, and a surfside neighborhood that promises to enhance the vacation experiences of families and adventure seekers alike. Moreover, the Star of the Seas will introduce unique elements, such as three foodstands offering diverse culinary options from Smoky Pulled Pork to Southeast Asian dishes like Pad Thai and South American classics like empanadas. Michael Bayley, the president and CEO of Royal Caribbean, expressed great pride in the vessel's delivery, emphasizing the collaborative effort of a talented team dedicated to revolutionizing family vacations and adventure experiences. The company looks forward to showcasing this significant achievement in August with a star-studded celebration, marking an exciting new chapter in luxury cruising.