Star of The Seas

Everything You Need to Know About the Royal Caribbean Star of The Seas

The Royal Caribbean Star of The Seas is one of the most magnificent and technologically advanced vessels sailing the oceans today. Making its highly anticipated debut in August 2025, this incredible Icon-class ship is packed with record-breaking thrills, expansive family neighborhoods, and top-tier dining. Whether you are an adrenaline seeker or someone who wants a luxurious poolside retreat, this ship truly acts as a destination within itself.

Homeport and Departure: The star of the seas port

If you are planning your next getaway, you need to know exactly where to embark. The official star of the seas port is Port Canaveral, located near Orlando, Florida.

• Ultimate Convenience: Port Canaveral offers incredibly easy access from Orlando International Airport, making it an ideal hub for out-of-state and international travelers.
• Florida Cruising: While the Royal Caribbean fleet of ships in Cruise Port Miami commands significant global attention with sister vessels like Icon of the Seas, Port Canaveral serves as the perfect Central Florida home for Star of the Seas.

Flights from South Florida: MIA and FLL to Port Canaveral

If you are traveling from South Florida to meet the ship, it’s important to note that Port Canaveral does not have its own commercial airport. The two most convenient destination airports are Orlando International Airport (MCO) (about 45 miles west of the port) and Melbourne Orlando International Airport (MLB) (about 27 miles south).

Flying from Miami or Fort Lauderdale to Orlando (MCO) is quick and incredibly convenient, with flights averaging just over an hour:

• From Miami International Airport (MIA): Direct, non-stop flights to Orlando (MCO) are available daily, primarily operated by American Airlines and Southwest Airlines. The flight time is roughly 1 hour and 15 minutes to 1 hour and 25 minutes.
• From Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport (FLL): You can catch daily non-stop flights to MCO operated by airlines like Southwest Airlines, JetBlue, and Spirit Airlines. The flight time is exceptionally fast, averaging around 1 hour and 10 minutes.

For the best fares and to compare schedules from both South Florida airports, check current availability here: Search Google Flights to Orlando (MCO) from MIA & FLL.

Getting from Orlando Airport (MCO) to Port Canaveral

Traveling from Orlando International Airport (MCO) to Port Canaveral is extremely straightforward. The port is located exactly 45 miles east of the airport, and the drive is essentially a straight shot down the FL-528 East (Beachline Expressway). Under normal traffic conditions, the trip takes just 45 to 60 minutes.

Because Port Canaveral is one of the busiest cruise hubs in the world, you have several convenient options to get from the baggage claim to your ship:

• Shared Shuttles: Companies like Go Port offer highly reliable and budget-friendly shuttle services, typically costing around $30 per person each way. This is often cheaper than the cruise line’s official transfers.
• Rideshare (Uber & Lyft): Plentiful at MCO, a standard rideshare to the port usually costs between $60 and $90. This is a highly flexible option for couples or parties of up to four.
• Private Car & Van Services: For larger families or groups traveling together, booking a private Sprinter van or SUV in advance is highly efficient. Many providers even include free child car seats and optional grocery stops.
• Cruise Line Transfers: Royal Caribbean offers official motorcoach transfers directly from the airport terminal to the ship. While slightly more expensive, they provide ultimate peace of mind.
• One-Way Car Rentals: If you are arriving a day or two early, you can rent a car at MCO, drive to the coast, and drop it off at a Cocoa Beach or Cape Canaveral rental office. Most local rental agencies provide complimentary shuttles to the cruise terminal after you return the car.

Spectacular Itineraries: star of the seas ports

Cruising on this colossal ship is as much about the tropical destinations as it is about the onboard experience. Sailing primarily on 7-day and 8-day Eastern and Western Caribbean itineraries, the typical star of the seas ports of call are nothing short of breathtaking.

Standard itineraries include stops at:

• Perfect Day at CocoCay, Bahamas: Royal Caribbean’s exclusive private island resort featuring massive water slides, beautiful beaches, and a vibrant, relaxing atmosphere.
• Costa Maya and Cozumel, Mexico: World-famous for their beautiful reefs, ancient Mayan ruins, and excellent local cuisine.
• Roatan, Honduras: A top-tier destination for snorkeling, diving, and jungle zip-lining.

Eight Epic Neighborhoods to Explore

Rather than a traditional cruise ship layout, the ship is divided into eight distinct “neighborhoods,” designed to intuitively cater to every mood, age group, and vacation style.

• Surfside: Built exclusively for young families, featuring the Splashaway Bay and Baby Bay water areas, an arcade, and a whimsical carousel.
• Thrill Island: For adrenaline junkies, this zone features Category 6—the largest waterpark at sea—and the daring Crown’s Edge ropes course.
• Chill Island: Spanning three decks, this area houses four of the ship’s seven pools (including the sprawling Royal Bay) and the cruise line’s first-ever swim-up bar at sea.
• The Hideaway: An adults-only, beach-club-style sanctuary featuring a spectacular suspended infinity pool 15 stories above the ocean, complete with a resident DJ and craft cocktails.
• AquaDome: A breathtaking, futuristic venue that houses the impressive AquaTheater for high-diving aquatic shows, along with the AquaDome Market food hall.
• Central Park: An open-air garden setting featuring real plants, upscale specialty dining like Chops Grille, and the exclusive Lincoln Park Supper Club.
• Royal Promenade: The beating indoor heart of the ship featuring cafes, bars, shopping, and the awe-inspiring Pearl architectural structure.

Unmatched Specifications and Cabins

With a gross tonnage of over 250,000 and a length of nearly 1,200 feet, the ship is a marvel of modern maritime engineering. It comfortably accommodates up to 7,600 passengers, looked after by a dedicated, world-class crew of 2,350.

When it comes to accommodations, the vessel offers unparalleled variety for every budget and group size:

• Interior and Ocean View Cabins: Budget-friendly options ranging from 160 to 278 square feet that do not skimp on modern comforts.
• Balcony Staterooms: Ranging from standard to extra-large, providing private outdoor seating for fresh ocean breezes.
• Surfside Family Suites: Located perfectly for quick and easy access to the ship’s dedicated family neighborhood.
• Infinite Grand Suites: Spacious rooms offering a push-button living area that instantly converts into an oceanfront balcony.
• Ultimate Family Townhouse: A staggering multi-level suite complete with an in-room slide, a private backyard, and unmatched VIP perks.

For travelers looking to maximize their vacation time, this ship merges theme-park thrills, upscale dining, world-class entertainment, and tropical relaxation into one seamless experience.