A Star is Born: Royal Caribbean Names Star of the Seas in a Dazzling Port Canaveral Celebration

With a glittering nod to tradition and a vision for the future of family vacations, Royal Caribbean officially welcomed Star of the Seas into its world-class fleet during a spectacular naming ceremony in Port Canaveral (Orlando), Florida.

The ship, the second in Royal Caribbean’s groundbreaking Icon Class, was given its blessing by none other than research astronaut and payload specialist Kellie Gerardi, who serves as godmother of Star of the Seas. The moving ceremony, held in the ship’s iconic AquaTheater, brought together Royal Caribbean executives, loyal guests, crew, and partners to honour not only the new ship but also the thousands of people who worked to bring her to life.

“I’m honoured to celebrate Royal Caribbean’s new Star of the Seas in such a beautiful naming ceremony as godmother – a tradition that is close to my heart and a spirit that spans both sea and space,” said Kellie Gerardi.

The Ultimate Family Vacation: Bigger, Bolder, Brighter

Star of the Seas sets a new benchmark for what family vacations at sea can be. Across eight awe-inspiring neighbourhoods, guests can discover the best of every type of getaway imagined—whether it’s adrenaline, relaxation, or unforgettable dining:

• Category 6, the largest waterpark at sea
• Crown’s Edge, a thrilling challenge suspended 154 feet above the ocean
• Seven unique pools, including the first-of-its-kind suspended infinity pool
• Surfside neighbourhood, designed entirely for families with young children
• More than 40 dining and bar venues, from casual favourites to refined indulgences
• Next-level entertainment, featuring everything from high-tech aqua shows in the AquaTheater to Broadway and ice spectaculars

And for fans of iconic cultural touchstones, guests will be delighted to know that Star of the Seas introduces “Back to the Future: The Musical” to the high seas, alongside jaw-dropping shows across water, air, ice, and stage.

Beyond the Ship: Perfect Day Awaits

Every itinerary from Port Canaveral will feature calls to the brand’s award-winning private island, Perfect Day at CocoCay in The Bahamas, where a blend of white sand beaches, heart-pumping thrill rides, and serene retreats awaits. From there, guests can explore the wonders of the Eastern and Western Caribbean on 7-night adventures designed to delight all ages.

Looking to the Future

With Star of the Seas, Royal Caribbean is solidifying its position at the forefront of modern cruising—responsible, innovative, and designed for every kind of traveller. And this is only the beginning. Other game-changing destinations are on the horizon, including:

• Royal Beach Club Paradise Island (December 2025)
• Royal Beach Club Cozumel (2026)
• Perfect Day Mexico (Fall 2027)

As Jason Liberty, President and CEO of Royal Caribbean Group, summarised:

“With Star, we’re not just launching a ship, we’re advancing our mission to create the world’s best vacations responsibly for guests of all ages.”

Final Thoughts

Standing at the crossroads of tradition and innovation, Star of the Seas is more than just a ship—it’s a promise of family adventures, luxury escapes, and unforgettable moments at sea. With its naming ceremony now complete, Royal Caribbean has set the stage for countless new vacation stories to unfold.

If you’re ready to start your own unforgettable journey, explore sailings and itineraries aboard the brand-new Star of the Seas. The ocean, after all, has never shone so bright.