Star of the Seas Vs Icon: Here's What’s Different

When Icon of the Seas launched in January 2024, it claimed the title of the largest cruise ship in the world. Now, in 2025, she’s being joined by her sister ship, Star of the Seas.

Both of these enormous ships are packed with jaw-dropping features, but how do you choose between them?

Spoiler: They’re not quite identical twins. Let’s dive into the details.

Size

The final size of Star of the Seas hasn’t been officially confirmed, but it is listed at around 250,800 gross tons and will carry 5,610 passengers at double occupancy, plus 2,350 crew members. At maximum capacity, she’ll host up to 7,600 guests.

Meanwhile, Icon of the Seas launched with an official gross tonnage of 248,663, although she was initially advertised at 250,800 GT. So, we’ll have to wait and see whether Star actually ends up being slightly bigger.

Either way, both ships are colossal, with 20 decks (18 accessible to guests) and stretching 1,196 feet (364 metres) in length. Royal Caribbean loves to squeeze out a few extra inches to keep that “world’s biggest” crown, but they’ve said size isn’t the focus this time. We’ll see!

Neighborhoods

Star of the Seas decked out with colorful water slides, pools, and lounging areas is docked at a lush tropical island. A winding pier connects the ship to the island labeled "Perfect Day at CocoCay," featuring palm trees, beach cabanas, and a red-and-yellow water tower in the distance, with a tethered helium balloon floating above. — Credit: Royal Caribbean

Both Icon and Star are split into themed Neighborhoods, designed to cater to every mood. The AquaDome is a laid-back space during the day that transforms into a buzzing entertainment hub at night. Chill Island lives up to its name with pools perfect for lounging, while Thrill Island is packed with adrenaline-pumping activities like waterslides, a surf simulator, and a ropes course.

For a more peaceful escape, The Hideaway offers an adults-only infinity pool. Families will love Surfside, a vibrant area with splash zones, dining, and family-sized cabins. The Royal Promenade is the lively heart of the ship, packed with shops, restaurants, and even an ice rink, while Central Park brings a breath of fresh air with thousands of real plants. Finally, the Suite Neighbourhood offers an exclusive retreat for suite guests.

Surfside is getting a minor update for Star. While on Icon, it was aimed mainly at children aged 0–6 years old, on Star, it’s being adapted to suit children up to age 10. Expect bigger splash areas and a more inclusive family feel. Plus, there will be small upgrades elsewhere, like enhanced lighting effects around The Pearl in the Royal Promenade.

Staterooms and Suites

Spacious and modern cruise ship suite featuring a king-sized bed with a navy runner, a cozy sitting area by large ocean-facing windows, and a light wood vanity with a round illuminated mirror. The room’s decor blends soft blue carpeting with natural wood tones and sleek furnishings, creating a luxurious oceanfront retreat. — Grand Suite

When it comes to where you’ll be sleeping, Icon and Star offer similar options. You can opt for a cosy Interior Stateroom, a scenic Ocean View, or one of the many Balcony Staterooms — some facing the ocean, Surfside, or Central Park. The Infinite Ocean View Balconies offer a fresh twist, giving you a window that transforms into an open-air balcony.

For those looking to treat themselves, the suites range from Junior Suites to the ultra-luxurious Royal Loft Suites.

There’s exciting news for Star too. Royal Caribbean is trialling facial recognition technology for stateroom doors. Only a few cabins will have it at first, but it’s an intriguing glimpse into the future.

And the fabulous Ultimate Family Townhouse — the three-storey suite with its own slide and private backyard — is getting a refresh based on feedback from Icon guests. Expect an even more stunning update!

Restaurants

When it comes to dining, most venues are staying the same across both ships, but there are a few tasty changes to note.

The Empire Supper Club on Icon is being replaced by the Lincoln Park Supper Club on Star. This new venue swaps New York glamour for a Chicago-inspired fine dining experience, complete with themed menus and live music.

The AquaDome Market will see some refinements too — nothing drastic, just tweaks to an already popular spot.

Meanwhile, Pier 7 in Surfside is being reimagined. Details are still under wraps, but Royal Caribbean promises something fresh and exciting.

Whether you’re after a quick casual bite or a more formal meal, you’ll be spoilt for choice on both ships.

Bars, Lounges, Activities & Entertainment

Lively cruise ship pool scene at the Swim & Tonic bar, featuring a swim-up bar, submerged loungers, shaded hot tub area, and colorful cabanas. Guests relax in the pool and along the sun deck under a clear blue sky, surrounded by vibrant green and orange accents and a modern, tropical design.

If you’re after a drink, you’ll find all your favourites back onboard: The Lime and Coconut, Swim & Tonic, Schooner Bar, and Playmakers Sports Bar & Arcade. Whether it’s a cocktail by the pool, live piano music, or cheering on your team with a pint, there’s a perfect spot for every vibe.

Activities are equally impressive. Ride the surf simulator, go ice skating, conquer the rock climbing wall, or play mini golf with the family. Plus, Star is adding an extra hot tub near the AquaDome Market — a small but very welcome addition on busy sea days.

Families will be happy to hear that kids’ clubs are shifting towards “analogue play,” with more hands-on fun like crafts and board games instead of heavy screen use. Teen spaces are getting a revamp too, offering cooler hangout spots and more freedom to explore.

Entertainment is getting a refresh as well. While Icon offers a dazzling production of The Wizard of Oz, Star will feature Back to the Future: The Musical. If you’ve ever dreamt of hopping into a DeLorean, this is the show for you. Great Scott!

igital dashboard-style promotional graphic for Back to the Future: The Musical, presented by Star of the Seas. The image mimics the time-travel display from the DeLorean, showing three dates: "Star of the Seas Arrival Date – Oct 21, 2024," "Present Date – Oct 26, 1985," and "Last Date Departed – Aug 31, 2025." Blue lightning and colorful cables enhance the sci-fi vibe in the background. — Credit: Royal Caribbean

Itineraries

Both ships are offering 7-night cruises around the Eastern and Western Caribbean, with stops at Royal Caribbean favourites Perfect Day at CocoCay and Labadee.

The big difference lies in the departure ports. Icon of the Seas will sail from Miami, while Star of the Seas will depart from Port Canaveral — a perfect choice if you’re planning to combine your cruise with a visit to Florida’s famous theme parks.

Whichever ship you choose, expect sunshine, sandy beaches, and plenty of adventure.

This image captures the vibrant and exciting atmosphere of Perfect Day at CocoCay, a private island resort. The scene showcases colorful beach cabanas over turquoise waters, lush greenery, and a sandy beach filled with rows of lounge chairs. In the background, a water park with towering slides and a large cruise ship docked at the island are visible. A bright orange and pink hot air balloon adds a playful touch as it floats in the clear blue sky, completing the perfect tropical vacation setting.

So, Which Ship Should You Choose?

There’s no definitive “winner” here. Icon of the Seas and Star of the Seas are about 95% the same.

If you’re travelling with younger kids (0–6 years), Surfside on Icon might be a better fit. Families with slightly older kids (7–10 years) will likely love the updated Surfside on Star.

Otherwise, choose based on your preferred entertainment, departure port, or simply which dates work best for you.

Either way, you’re guaranteed an unforgettable adventure.

(And honestly? You might just have to book both to really settle the debate!)