Royal Caribbean has officially taken delivery of Star of the Seas, the second ship in its Icon Class, following nearly two years of construction at the Meyer Turku shipyard in Finland.
Over 1,250 crew members, Royal Caribbean executives, and shipyard partners marked the milestone at a handover ceremony in the ship’s AquaTheater. The vessel will now head to Cadiz, Spain, for final preparations before its maiden voyage from Port Canaveral (Orlando), Florida, this August.
Jason Liberty, president and CEO, Royal Caribbean Group, said: “The delivery of Star of the Seas marks another bold step forward in Royal Caribbean Group’s journey to reimagine the future of vacations.”
The new ship will operate 7-night Eastern and Western Caribbean itineraries, including calls at Royal Caribbean’s private island, Perfect Day at CocoCay.
Highlights on board include:
Thrill Island, home to Category 6 – the largest waterpark at sea;
Chill Island, with four pools including the largest pool at sea;
Surfside, a family zone with water play areas and casual dining;
AquaDome, featuring ocean views, a food hall, and shows with divers and aerialists;
The Hideaway, an adults-only area with a suspended infinity pool.
Star of the Seas is Royal Caribbean’s third ship powered by liquefied natural gas and is equipped with environmental technologies including shore power connectivity and waste heat recovery systems.
Michael Bayley, president and CEO, Royal Caribbean, added: “It’s a true team effort with so many talented individuals coming together to make the new Icon Class vacation a reality.”