Royal Caribbean named its newest ship, Star of the Seas, at a spectacular ceremony in Port Canaveral, Florida, on 21 August 2025 with research astronaut and payload specialist Kellie Gerardi doing the honours as godmother.
The newest Icon Class ship will now set sail with the first holidaymakers on board, bound for the Bahamas, with what the cruise line calls the “ultimate family vacation”.
Homeported in Port Canaveral (Orlando), Star of the Seas will embark on seven-night itineraries to the Eastern and Western Caribbean, including RCI’s private island, Perfect Day at CocoCay.

There’s just so much to experience on board, too. To whet your appetite, Star of the Seas features eight neighbourhoods with day-to-night experiences, such as the Category 6 waterpark and Crown’s Edge above the ocean.

There’s also seven pools, including an infinity pool suspended above the sea, a family-friendly Surfside neighbourhood for young kids, amazing entertainment and more than 40 ways to dine and drink, such as the new ’30s Chicago-themed Lincoln Park Supper Club.

Gerardi said: “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.”
“A vacation on Star is the perfect combination of two of my biggest passions in life, a spirit of exploration and quality time with family, and I can’t wait for this journey to begin.”

Royal Caribbean Group President & CEO Jason Liberty said: “Star of the Seas represents the next bold step in our journey to reimagine vacations.”
“It brings together the best of our innovation, signature experiences, and the most sought-after destinations into one unforgettable vacation. 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.”
For more info, head to royalcaribbean.com