Royal Caribbean ships are making headlines once again as the cruise giant prepares to launch its highly anticipated Star of the Seas in August 2025. The vacation brand is set to deliver their fourth ship powered by LNG with Legend of the Seas, while Star of the Seas will have her inaugural sailing August 31, 2025 from Port Canaveral, Florida.
The second Icon Class cruise ship is nearly complete and ready for launch in summer 2025, setting sail from Port Canaveral as the newest addition to the Icon Class. This massive vessel weighs in at over 250,000 gross registered tons, continuing the tradition of Icon Class ships being among the largest in the world.
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Royal Caribbean Ships Fleet Expansion Continues
The cruise industry leader shows no signs of slowing down its ambitious expansion plans. The Florida-based line currently boasts 29 incredible vessels for cruisers of all ages, with five new ships added to the fleet since 2021.
Legend of the Seas represents the next bold step in this exciting era of vacations and the continuation of the Icon Class legacy, bringing revolutionary experiences to more families and adventurers across Europe, the Caribbean and beyond. This third Icon Class vessel is scheduled to debut in 2026.
Star of the Seas Preview Cruises Generate Buzz
Star of the Seas will set sail on a series of preview cruises before its official maiden voyage on August 31, 2025, with shorter sailings that only visit The Bahamas. These preview cruises were added after the inaugural announcement and have generated significant excitement among cruise enthusiasts.
Key Points Summary:
- Star of the Seas launches August 31, 2025 from Port Canaveral
- Second Icon Class ship weighing over 250,000 gross tons
- Preview cruises to The Bahamas planned before official maiden voyage
- Legend of the Seas (third Icon Class) debuts in 2026
- Royal Caribbean fleet now includes 29 vessels with five additions since 2021
Pricing and Booking Information
Base fares on Star of the Seas start at around $1,300 per guest for interior staterooms in September 2025, less than one month after Star makes her official debut. The pricing positions this mega-ship as an accessible option for families seeking premium cruise experiences.
Just like Icon, Star will offer 7-night cruises to the eastern and western Caribbean. This itinerary format has proven extremely popular with guests, offering the perfect balance of relaxation and adventure.
Industry Recognition and Future Outlook
Star of the Seas has been confirmed as the most anticipated cruise ship for 2025, with guests speculating it could become 2025’s best cruise ship following Icon of the Seas’ success as the Best Cruise Ship of 2024.
The cruise line’s commitment to innovation continues with advanced features and amenities that set new standards in the industry. Each new vessel incorporates cutting-edge technology, sustainable practices, and guest-focused design elements that enhance the overall cruise experience.
The deployment marks strategic planning for Royal Caribbean ships in various regions, with adjustments to European deployments and continued focus on Caribbean routes. This balanced approach ensures optimal positioning across key markets while maintaining operational efficiency.
As Royal Caribbean ships continue to push the boundaries of cruise ship design and guest experience, the industry watches closely to see how these innovations will shape the future of ocean travel. The success of these new vessels demonstrates the cruise line’s ability to adapt to changing guest preferences while maintaining its position as a leader in the competitive cruise market.
What aspects of these new Royal Caribbean ships excite you most? Share your thoughts and cruise experiences in the comments below as we continue to follow the latest developments in the cruise industry.