Star of the Seas has become the hottest topic in cruising this week, with the ship making headlines after key appearances and events just days before its debut. Docked recently in Puerto Rico, Royal Caribbean’s second Icon-class vessel continues to draw attention—here’s what has happened as of August 9, 2025.
Royal Caribbean’s newest behemoth, delivered from Finland in July, has dropped anchor in Puerto Rico ahead of its official maiden voyage on August 31, 2025. On August 8, the ship’s halls welcomed a charming new crew member: Sailor, a Golden Retriever designated as the vessel’s “chief dog officer,” who joined aboard at the port of Ponce.
Meanwhile, preview cruises are about to begin. The ship’s first paying guests are set to come aboard on August 16, embarking on short “Star Showcase” voyages before the grand christening, scheduled for August 20 by music legend Diana Ross herself.
Royal Caribbean has positioned star of the seas as a leap forward in maritime innovation. Powered by liquefied natural gas, it brings eco-friendly travel to the forefront without sacrificing wow factor. The ship boasts 20 decks, over 20 dining outlets, and a lush Central Park with more than 30,000 real plants. Its headline attractions include the AquaDome—an awe-inspiring waterside theater—six record-breaking waterslides, and Broadway-style entertainment featuring Back to the Future: The Musical.
What’s new and noteworthy:
- Chief Dog Officer on board: Sailor brings warmth and joy to both crew and passengers, offering a friendly presence on every sailing.
- Preview cruises underway: Beginning August 16, these short sailings give guests an early taste of the ship’s offerings.
- Christening by Diana Ross: Scheduled for August 20, adding star-power to this milestone launch.
- Eco-friendly and entertainment-packed: LNG-powered, with vast amenities including waterslides, diverse restaurants, the AquaDome, and immersive Broadway theater.
Quick Overview at a Glance:
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Delivery | July 2025 (Meyer Turku, Finland) |
| Location | Docked in Puerto Rico; preview cruises starting Aug 16 |
| Maiden Voyage & Christening | Begins Aug 31; christened by Diana Ross Aug 20 |
| Key Highlights | Chief Dog Officer Sailor; AquaDome; record waterslides; LNG power |
The star of the seas is setting new standards across the cruise industry—from canine crew members to sustainable energy solutions and world-class entertainment. This unique combination of features ensures that the vessel will not just be remembered for its size, but also for its innovation and charm.
Whether you’re captivated by the idea of a four-legged officer roaming the decks, eager to try the latest in shipboard entertainment, or intrigued by the move toward greener cruising, there’s no denying this ship has something for everyone.
So, what excites you most—Sailor the dog, the stunning AquaDome, or the record-breaking slides? Share your thoughts and keep an eye out for the next chapter in this remarkable journey.