Star of the Seas Completes Sea Trials Ahead of Early Debut

Excitement is building in the cruising world as Star of the Seas, the second Icon-class ship, nears her debut. With her highly anticipated launch approaching, the latest addition to the Royal Caribbean fleet has just completed her sea trials in record time, bringing her one step closer to welcoming guests aboard.

A Seamless Performance at Sea

Constructed by Meyer Turku, Star of the Seas successfully conducted her sea trials from May 19 to May 27, 2025—one of the most critical milestones in her journey to completion.

During these open-water tests, the ship was assessed on navigation, propulsion, emergency manoeuvres, safety systems, and overall performance. The trials were completed ahead of schedule, confirming the vessel’s seamless operation.

“These were the best sea trials I have ever participated in. There was a strong sense of team spirit throughout,” said Jaakko Leinonen, Project Manager at Meyer Turku.

With all systems functioning within expected guidelines, the focus now shifts to final construction details before the ship is officially handed over to Royal Caribbean.

An Early Debut for Star of the Seas

Originally set to launch on 31 August 2025, Star of the Seas’ debut has been pushed forward to allow three showcase sailings before her official maiden voyage.

Guests will now be able to step aboard on 20 August for a three-night Perfect Day at CocoCay cruise, followed by two four-night showcase cruises featuring the private island destination.

The official inaugural voyage will take guests on a Western Caribbean itinerary, visiting:

• Perfect Day at CocoCay
• Costa Maya
• Roatan
• Cozumel

Star of the Seas will homeport from Port Canaveral year-round, offering alternating Western Caribbean and Eastern Caribbean sailings. Eastern itineraries will include stops in St. Thomas and St. Maarten, with select sailings calling on San Juan and St. Kitts.

A Growing Fleet of Icon-Class Ships

Star of the Seas joins Icon of the Seas as the latest Icon-class ship, and excitement is already mounting for the arrival of the third vessel in the series: Legend of the Seas.

Currently under construction at Meyer Turku, Legend of the Seas is scheduled to debut in 2026, with her first voyage planned as a seven-night Western Mediterranean cruise from Barcelona on 2 August.

Following her European season, she will transition to Port Everglades, ensuring that all three Icon-class ships will sail from Florida homeports:

• Icon of the Seas from Miami
• Star of the Seas from Port Canaveral
• Legend of the Seas from Fort Lauderdale

A Star-Studded Arrival Awaits

The countdown is officially on for Star of the Seas’ grand debut, with great anticipation surrounding her arrival in Port Canaveral.

As Royal Caribbean prepares to welcome its newest Icon-class vessel, guests can expect an unparalleled cruise experience, setting a new benchmark for adventure at sea.

For more information or to book a sailing, visit Royal Caribbean.