Star of the Seas, Royal Caribbean’s next Icon-class mega-ship, is so ready to welcome guests that she’s launching even earlier than expected – again!
Fresh off her sea trials with top marks (where she soared through in record time), the cruise line has now announced a fourth showcase cruise ahead of the ship’s official maiden voyage.
The new 4-night sailing will depart Port Canaveral, Florida on 16th August 2025, calling at the line’s private Bahamian destination, Perfect Day at CocoCay, on 17th August.
“We simply can’t wait to debut the world’s best family vacation,” Royal Caribbean said in an announcement, adding that this special sailing marks the official kick-off of the inaugural season.
During the port call, Star of the Seas will share CocoCay with her soon-to-be predecessor, Utopia of the Seas.
With both ships at Royal Caribbean’s signature destination, it will be an especially exciting day for cruise fans and an impressive double-ship photo opportunity.
The rest of the itinerary will feature two full sea days, giving guests time to explore the vast array of entertainment, attractions, and dining across the seven unique neighbourhoods on board.
Of course, with the sheer number of things to do onboard the ship, two days will likely only be enough for guests to scratch the surface.
More Sailings Added, Maiden Voyage Still to Come
This new sailing is the latest of four showcase cruises to be slotted in before the ship’s long-awaited 7-night Western Caribbean inaugural sailing on 31th August 2025.
Passengers originally booked on the 20th August sailing – previously the earliest – are now being offered the chance to move their reservation forward and become part of this even earlier debut.
The showcase cruises were made possible thanks to the record-speed completion of sea trials, which confirmed that Star of the Seas is not only seaworthy but ahead of schedule in terms of operational readiness.
Showcase Cruises: A First Look With Some Caveats
While showcase cruises offer early access and exclusive commemorative gifts, guests should note that not every element may be fully operational just yet.
Some entertainment programming, specialty venues, or staffing levels could still be in a ramp-up phase.
That said, the excitement of being one of the first guests aboard a brand new Icon-class ship will more than make up for any minor hiccups.
It’s worth remembering that Star of the Seas had originally been scheduled to launch on 17th August 2025.
That date was cancelled last year due to anticipated construction delays – but with rapid progress, Royal Caribbean has since re-added multiple early cruises.
Star of the Seas will be the second ship in Royal Caribbean’s Icon class, following Icon of the Seas, which debuted to global fanfare.
She will be one of the largest and most advanced ships in the world, with cutting-edge entertainment, waterparks, family zones, and a dedicated suite neighbourhood.
Following her preview sailings, Star will settle into year-round 7-night Eastern and Western Caribbean itineraries out of Port Canaveral, calling at ports like Cozumel, Costa Maya, Roatán, and St. Thomas, as well as CocoCay.
In 2026 a third Icon-class ship will launch, named Legend of the Seas. Her sailings – including an inaugural season in the Mediterranean – are already on sale.
For those eager to get on board, time is of the essence – early sailings, especially these special showcase ones, tend to sell out quickly.
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Jenni Fielding is the founder of Cruise Mummy. She has worked in the cruise industry since 2015 and has taken over 30 cruises. Now, she helps over 1 million people per month to plan their perfect cruise holidays.
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