Star of the Seas vs Icon of the Seas: Which Royal Ship Wins for Families in 2025?
Royal Caribbean is known for its jaw-dropping mega ships, but in 2025, families are asking one big question: Should you book the brand-new Star of the Seas or stick with the current superstar, Icon of the Seas?
We’ve compared both ships side-by-side to help you decide which one offers the ultimate experience for your family vacation.
🚢 Quick Overview
| Feature | Star of the Seas (2025) | Icon of the Seas (2024) |
|---|---|---|
| Launch Date | August 2025 | January 2024 |
| Ship Class | Icon Class | Icon Class |
| Max Guest Capacity | ~7,600 guests | ~7,600 guests |
| Length | 1,198 feet | 1,198 feet |
| Key Audience | Families, multigenerational groups | Families, young couples |
🏨 Family Suites & Staterooms
Star of the Seas:
Newly designed Ultimate Family Townhouse (3 levels!)
More suite inventory geared toward larger families
Private suite enclave and upgraded service options
Icon of the Seas:
First to debut the Ultimate Family Townhouse
Spacious Family Infinite Oceanview Balconies
Cozy Surfside Suites located in the family-focused Surfside neighborhood
✅ Verdict: Star of the Seas has the edge with refinements to layouts and more suite options.
Learn more about Icon of the Seas
🌊 Water Attractions & Pools
Star of the Seas:
Category 6 waterpark with new slides expected
Adult-only infinity pool at the aft
Massive Splashaway Bay for toddlers and kids
Icon of the Seas:
First to introduce Category 6 waterpark
Surfside neighborhood for kids under 6
Chill Island and Cloud 17 pools
🔁 Tie: Both are packed with family-friendly water features.
🍽️ Dining & Family Meals
Star of the Seas:
New dining venues expected (rumored: Latin fusion and kids-only buffet)
Expanded room service options
Icon of the Seas:
20+ dining venues, including family-friendly spots like Surfside Bites and Aquadome Market
Specialty dining includes Izumi in the Park and Empire Supper Club
📈 Edge: Icon has proven variety, but Star may introduce exciting new concepts.
🧒 Kid & Teen Activities
Star of the Seas:
Adventure Ocean reimagined (expected upgrades)
Teen-only lounges and expanded programming
Icon of the Seas:
Extensive kid and teen areas
Thrill Island, Surfside, and Social 020 zones
🎯 Both ships are ideal for young cruisers, but Star’s newness may bring surprises.
🎤 Shows & Entertainment
Star of the Seas:
Likely to debut new Broadway-style shows
AquaTheater and ice-skating arena onboard
Icon of the Seas:
Features "Wizard of Oz" and AquaTheater performances
Absolute Zero ice arena
🎭 Edge: Icon has known hits, Star offers the excitement of new experiences.
🌍 Itineraries
Explore Star of the Seas on Royal Caribbean’s official site
Star of the Seas:
Launching from Port Canaveral (Orlando), Florida
7-night Caribbean cruises
Includes stops at Perfect Day at CocoCay and Cozumel
Explore Icon of the Seas on Royal Caribbean’s official site
Icon of the Seas:
Departs from Miami, Florida
Also offers 7-night Eastern and Western Caribbean sailings
Visits CocoCay, St. Maarten, Roatán, and more
🗺️ Edge: Slightly more itinerary variety with Icon.
✨ Final Verdict: Which Should You Book?
| Best For... | Our Pick |
|---|---|
| Larger Family Groups | Star of the Seas |
| Proven Onboard Experience | Icon of the Seas |
| New Ship Enthusiasts | Star of the Seas |
| Best Waterpark Fun | Tie |
| All-Ages Dining Variety | Icon of the Seas |
💬 “We cruised on Icon in 2024 and just booked Star for summer 2025 — our kids are obsessed with the Surfside area, and we’re pumped to try the new waterpark updates!” — Emily M., Toronto
👉 Our Advice: If you want to be among the first to experience Royal Caribbean’s newest family upgrades and don’t mind a little mystery, go with Star of the Seas. If you prefer a ship with proven reviews and endless activities already loved by families, Icon of the Seas is a safe (and still epic) choice.
✅ Planning Your Family Cruise?
If you're still exploring Royal Caribbean's newest ship, be sure to check out our full breakdown: 👉 Read: Star of the Seas – The Ultimate 2025 Family Cruise Guide
Let Sun Chaser Travel Co help you plan the perfect vacation! From choosing your suite to scoring early-bird rates, we’ll take care of it all.
Contact us here or message us on Instagram at @sun.chaser.travel
🛳️ Let’s get your 2025 cruise booked before the best cabins are gone!
