Royal Caribbean has done it again. With the arrival of Star of the Seas, the cruise line has launched the newest and now largest cruise ship in the world. This Icon-class vessel is packed with record-breaking features, endless dining options, and unforgettable entertainment — and best of all, it now sails regularly from Port Canaveral, just an hour from Orlando.
If you’re planning a Caribbean cruise in 2025 or beyond, here’s everything you need to know about the Star of the Seas, its highlights, and its sailing schedule.
Meet Star of the Seas
Royal Caribbean’s Star of the Seas takes the title of the world’s largest cruise ship, surpassing its sister ship Icon of the Seas. This floating city at sea is designed to deliver more variety, more entertainment, and more space than ever before.
Some fast facts:
- Ship Class: Icon Class
- Dining Options: Over 40 restaurants, cafes, and bars
- Entertainment Venues: Theaters, live music stages, comedy clubs, and immersive shows
- Neighborhoods Onboard: Multiple themed areas for families, couples, and adults-only escapes
- Thrills & Aquatics: The “Category 6” waterpark, record-setting waterslides, kids’ aquapark, and pool decks to suit every mood
- Relaxation & Luxury: A full-service spa, luxury lounges, and exclusive adult-only spaces like Hideaway Beach
This ship has something for everyone, whether you’re traveling with kids who want all the thrills, or you’re looking for luxury relaxation on the open sea.
Highlights Onboard
One of the most exciting features is the Category 6 waterpark, the largest ever built at sea. Families can spend hours here enjoying slides and splash zones. For foodies, Star of the Seas offers more than 40 dining choices, from casual eats to fine dining experiences.
Entertainment lovers will appreciate Broadway-caliber productions, live music, and comedy shows each evening. The ship also features expansive open-air neighborhoods, quiet lounges, and plenty of places to unwind between adventures.
Royal Caribbean has also made Star of the Seas a great ship for multigenerational travel. Kids can enjoy specially designed play areas, while parents and grandparents relax in more serene zones. Everyone comes together for big experiences like poolside movies, family dining, and shore excursions.
Sailing Schedule from Port Canaveral
The Star of the Seas homeports in Port Canaveral, Florida, one of the busiest and most convenient cruise ports in the world. For Central Florida travelers and those flying into Orlando, this makes starting your cruise simple and stress-free.
Here are some of the itineraries currently available:
- 7-Night Western Caribbean & Perfect Day
- Port Canaveral → Perfect Day at CocoCay (Bahamas) → Costa Maya (Mexico) → Roatán (Honduras) → Cozumel (Mexico) → Return to Port Canaveral
- Port Canaveral → Perfect Day at CocoCay (Bahamas) → Costa Maya (Mexico) → Roatán (Honduras) → Cozumel (Mexico) → Return to Port Canaveral
- 7-Night Eastern Caribbean & Perfect Day
- Port Canaveral → Perfect Day at CocoCay → San Juan (Puerto Rico) → St. Thomas (U.S. Virgin Islands) → Philipsburg (St. Maarten) → Return to Port Canaveral
- Port Canaveral → Perfect Day at CocoCay → San Juan (Puerto Rico) → St. Thomas (U.S. Virgin Islands) → Philipsburg (St. Maarten) → Return to Port Canaveral
Each sailing includes a stop at Perfect Day at CocoCay, Royal Caribbean’s private island destination in the Bahamas, featuring waterslides, a helium balloon ride, beach clubs, and family-friendly lagoon pools.
With weekly departures, travelers have plenty of opportunities to plan a vacation that fits their schedule.
Why Port Canaveral Is the Perfect Homeport
Port Canaveral is not only one of the busiest cruise ports in the world, but also one of the most convenient. Located just about 45 minutes from Orlando International Airport (MCO) and Orlando’s world-famous theme parks, it’s easy to pair a Caribbean cruise with a land vacation.
For those flying in, we always recommend arriving a day early to ensure smooth travel and peace of mind before boarding your cruise.
Travel Tips for Cruising Star of the Seas
- Book early: With the buzz around the world’s largest cruise ship, cabins are selling quickly. Booking early ensures the best stateroom selection and pricing.
- Plan your excursions: Popular shore excursions at ports like Roatán and St. Thomas fill up fast. Reserve your must-do activities ahead of time.
- Budget for extras: While so much is included onboard, things like specialty dining, beverage packages, and spa treatments can add up. Plan ahead for the best value.
- Consider transportation: Whether you’re traveling from Orlando or the surrounding area, arranging private car service to Port Canaveral makes the trip seamless. Avoid parking hassles and start your cruise in comfort.
The launch of Star of the Seas marks an exciting moment in cruise travel. As the world’s largest cruise ship, it offers more choices, more thrills, and more comfort than ever before. With weekly sailings out of Port Canaveral, travelers from Orlando and beyond have easy access to this once-in-a-lifetime vacation experience.
Whether you’re planning a family getaway, a romantic escape, or a group trip with friends, Star of the Seas delivers unforgettable memories on every deck. And with Port Canaveral just a short drive from Orlando, your adventure couldn’t start in a more convenient place.
Start Your Cruise in Comfort
Getting to Port Canaveral is simple with Ultimate Town Car. Our private, luxury car service ensures you arrive relaxed and on time for your Star of the Seas adventure. Skip the stress of parking and shuttles. Let us handle the ride so your vacation starts the moment you leave home or the airport.
