We’re again from 10 days onboard the latest mega-ship on this planet, Royal Caribbean’s Star of the Seas. From the eating to leisure, pool deck, and extra, we share the place the ship shines and the place it falls brief in our Star of the Seas cruise ship evaluation.
Star of the Seas Cruise Ship Evaluation
Star of the Seas is the second ship in Royal Caribbean’s new Icon class. At 248,663 GT, Star of the Seas has 20 whole decks, 2805 staterooms, 7 swimming pools, 10 whirlpools, 6 record-breaking waterslides, 8 neighborhoods, and over 40 eating places, bars, and lounges. At double occupancy, the ship accommodates 5,610 visitors.
Royal Caribbean takes the decor, structure, and design to the subsequent degree with the Icon class of ships. Whereas Star of the Seas shares many similarities along with her older sister, Icon of the Seas, there are a number of variations. So, what did we take into consideration this newest addition to the Royal Caribbean fleet? Discover out in our full Star of the Seas evaluation.
Pool Deck
Not like most Royal Caribbean cruise ships that supply one pool deck, Star of the Seas has swimming pools positioned on 5 decks! Many of the most important swimming pools are on Decks 15 to 17. By dispersing the crowds, nobody space turns into overly busy. So, although that is the biggest ship on this planet, you could find pool area in any respect hours of the day. Simply remember that some swimming pools are extra standard than others.
When you’ve sailed on Icon of the Seas, then the swimming pools are primarily the identical on Star of the Seas. Though, Royal Caribbean did make some modifications to the Surfside neighborhood.
To assist draw households with barely older children, Splashaway Bay and the close by pool have been redesigned. On Icon of the Seas, Royal Caribbean initially created the Water’s Edge pool for fogeys which was separate from the close by splashpad for teenagers. Nevertheless, the cruise line realized that this pool merely grew to become an extension of the household space. Thus, the Water’s Edge pool now blends with Splashaway Bay so households can benefit from the areas collectively.
Splashaway Bay consists of fountains, water cannons, and smaller slides, that are good for youthful youngsters. There’s even Child Bay, a separate space designed particularly for the youngest cruisers.
Up on Deck 17, there’s Cloud 17 with its infinity edge pool, loads of comfortable padded loungers, and delightful ocean backdrops. Whereas the pool is small, it tends to be a bit quieter right here than the principle pool deck under. It additionally has a Lime and Coconut bar only a few ft from the water.
On Deck 16, there’s the Swim & Tonic, Royal Caribbean’s first swim-up bar at sea. Proper now, Swim & Tonic is adults-only on Star of the Seas, however it will probably get fairly crowded particularly on sea days. So, if you wish to spend your day lounging on this pool, we suggest getting there early. Or, you’ll be able to hire one of many close by casitas for assured seats and shade.
Solely accessible from Deck 16, the Hideaway is the unique adults-only pool space on Icon class ships. Tucked away on Deck 15, the Hideaway options the primary suspended infinity pool at sea. Cantilevered 135 ft above the ocean, this adults-only pool gives superb 180-degree ocean views.
This utterly aft-located area additionally options loads of terraced seating, day beds you’ll be able to hire for an additional price, whirlpools, and a devoted bar. The entire space has an actual seaside membership vibe with a classy environment that feels such as you’re at an upscale resort relatively than on a cruise ship. Although, it does lack shade.
The Royal Bay Pool on Deck 15 is essentially the most expansive pool at sea and has loads of surrounding and in-pool seating choices. That is what comes closest to the standard “most important pool” on most cruise ships. Surprisingly, with all the opposite pool choices on Star of the Seas, this pool by no means appeared all that crowded.
Additionally on Deck 15 is the Cove Pool. This pool is essentially the most secluded, with a lot of the loungers within the shade. Although, much like the Cloud 17 pool, the Cove Pool is relatively small as effectively.
All of those above talked about swimming pools are complimentary for guests!
Lastly, visitors staying in sure suite classes have entry to an extra non-public pool and whirlpool on Deck 18. This Grove sundeck is a two-story area with a wide range of loungers and seating choices. To not point out, there’s additionally a personal bar and poolside tapas.
Sports activities Deck
Thrill Island, the sports activities deck on Star of the Seas, is nearly the identical as Icon of the Seas. Not that we’re complaining, as this is without doubt one of the most intense and activity-filled sports activities decks at sea.
There’s the 9-hole Misplaced Dunes mini-golf course. This nautically-themed mini golf is open a lot of the day, and even hosts some nighttime glow-in-the-dark classes.
The Adrenaline Peak mountaineering wall gives totally different issue ranges for climbers of all talents.
After all, it wouldn’t be a Royal Caribbean ship with out the FlowRider surf simulator. Not like many Oasis class ships, there is just one Flowrider on Star of the Seas. Test the day by day schedule for varied classes, together with boogie boarding and browsing.
Seemingly floating above Deck 16 is the sports activities court docket. It’s dwelling to open play and arranged video games, together with soccer, basketball, and sure, even pickleball.
The massive draw to this sports activities deck is the Category 6 waterpark. At 17,000 sq. ft, it’s the largest waterpark at sea. Comprised of 5 distinctive sights and 6 slides, this waterpark is designed for tweens and adults. Most slides have a minimal top requirement of no less than 48 inches, even the household slides. If in case you have youthful children who don’t meet the peak necessities, they could be upset, so you’ll want to handle expectations forward of time.
The Stress Drop and Horrifying Bolt are the physique slides. These are essentially the most intense, so be ready. You should be no less than 52 inches tall for these slides. (Of word: Horrifying Bolt is briefly closed.)
Storm Chasers are the twin mat-racing slides, the place you’ll be able to race towards household and buddies; that you must be 48 inches tall for these. Hurricane Hunter and Storm Surge are the household raft slides that match a number of folks. Nevertheless, everybody must be no less than 48 inches tall.
For a cruise ship, all of those slides pack some severe velocity and are loads of enjoyable. Even if you happen to don’t have children, you’ll most likely wish to take a look at out this waterpark. To attenuate ready, think about staying onboard one day at port. I used to be in a position to journey all of the slides, some a number of occasions, in about an hour. Or, head to the park proper when it opens or later within the day for decrease wait occasions.
Whereas a lot of the actions in Thrill Island are complimentary, the Crown’s Edge is an upcharge. This ropes course features a thrilling zip line over the sting of the ship. However, at $35 an individual, we advise you skip it because it’s not as thrilling as some ropes programs on competitor cruise traces.
Complimentary Eating
With over 40 eating and consuming choices, Star of the Seas delivers loads of selection. We spent our time testing every part from fast bites to sit-down meals. For essentially the most half, the eating venues met our expectations.
For the Icon class, Royal Caribbean launched a number of new eateries. Whereas the informal eating nonetheless doesn’t match the standard of Carnival, the brand new venues provide extra flexibility if you happen to’re trying to keep away from the principle eating room.
Regardless of some new choices, you’ll additionally discover many Royal Caribbean staples on Star of the Seas. El Loco Contemporary gives Tex-Mex choices steps from the pool deck with nachos, burritos, and tacos accessible till about 5:30 PM.
Over in Central Park, Park Café contains a extra trendy and stylish vibe. Within the morning, Park Café options breakfast sandwiches, contemporary bagels, and grab-and-go choices like contemporary fruit and yogurt. Within the afternoon, there are sandwiches, paninis, salads, and the well-known Royal Kummelweck sandwich.
The Pearl Café is open 24 hours a day, providing upgraded menu objects. The sandwiches, pastries, and grab-and-go choices are an enormous enchancment over the standard Cafe Promenade picks on different Royal Caribbean ships. The area is vibrant and ethereal with ocean views. Plus, the Pearl Café has loads of retailers, good for charging your units whereas having fun with a espresso or snack.
And naturally, you’ll additionally discover Sorrento’s pizza close by within the Royal Promenade. Whereas I don’t love the pizza right here, many can’t resist this late night time snack choice.
Basecamp in Thrill Island retains issues easy with free objects like rooster tenders, pretzel bites, and burgers. It’s handy while you’re hanging out on the waterpark and also you don’t really feel like trekking into the buffet. We respect that Royal Caribbean has up to date this venue. Now, all menu objects are complimentary, together with the smash burger. The smash burger is by far the most effective burger on the ship.
Nevertheless, one of many largest enhancements on Star of the Seas when in comparison with Icon is the AquaDome Market. Whereas there are nonetheless 5 totally different meals stalls, three of them have been modified on Star of the Seas. This meals corridor idea gives households a wider vary of worldwide flavors with portion sizes which are good for sharing or attempting a number of choices.
Now, there’s Mai Thai with some nice Thai meals, together with the spiciest Pad Thai I’ve ever had on a cruise ship. Pig Out BBQ gives pulled pork sandwiches and mac and cheese bowls with all of the toppings. Heidi’s favourite addition was the Latin American handhelds, like rooster empanadas, at La Concinita.
Returning favorites embody contemporary gyros and Mediterranean bowls at Feta Mediterranean and candy and savory crepes made to order at Creme de la Crepe.
The Surfside neighborhood caters particularly to households with two complimentary eating choices. The Surfside Eatery focuses on kid-friendly fundamentals with some grownup choices like steak and salmon. Nevertheless, we advise you skip the Surfside Eatery and seize meals from the takeout window, Surfside Bites, as an alternative. The popcorn rooster and pizza toasties are strong decisions. Then, deal with your self to churros and tender serve from Sprinkles – belief us on this combo.
Like all Royal Caribbean ship, the Windjammer buffet stays the dependable fallback for conventional cruise eating. This buffet gives a wide range of worldwide delicacies for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. With so many different eating choices, we by no means ate at this Deck 15 buffet.
Principal Eating Room on Star of the Seas
Star of the Seas gives expansive informal eating in comparison with the road’s different ships. Nevertheless, loyal to Royal cruisers will really feel proper at dwelling in the principle eating room. This ship options the identical menus discovered throughout the Royal Caribbean fleet.
Relying in your itinerary, the menu rotation could be barely totally different. However, you’ll be able to nonetheless anticipate the Welcome Aboard and Bon Voyage menus, and the Style of Caribbean, France, and Italy, amongst others. Together with the themed picks every night time, the menus additionally function Royal Classics. These embody picks like Caesar salad or grilled rooster.
Given the huge number of informal and specialty eating on Star of the Seas, we solely ate in the principle eating room a number of occasions throughout our ten days on the ship. Nonetheless, the meals high quality was on par with our earlier experiences.
On Royal Caribbean ships, you’ll be able to order as many starters, entrees, and desserts as you want. The one restriction is on Gala Night time. You possibly can solely order one lobster tail, with further orders costing $18.99 every. So, be happy to attempt one thing totally different, and if you happen to don’t prefer it, you’ll be able to all the time order one thing else.
As the biggest ship on this planet, Star of the Seas gives extra flexibility than typical cruise ships in relation to eating occasions. As a substitute of simply two conventional eating occasions, there have been 4 totally different time slots. The primary eating room provided early seatings at 5 PM and 6:45 PM and late seatings at 7:30 PM and eight:30 PM.
For final flexibility, My Time Eating runs from 6:45 PM to 9 PM day by day within the Deck 3 eating room. Company could make reservations for occasions inside that window pre-cruise or as soon as onboard. Alternatively, you’ll be able to stroll as much as the check-in desk every time you might be hungry to request a desk.
A more recent addition, and certainly one of Heidi’s favorites, is the ocean day brunch. This brunch occurs on the primary sea day of your cruise. Operating from 8:30 AM to 12 PM, this combo of breakfast and lunch is an effective way to begin your trip. Sleep in after which take pleasure in savory and filling choices like omelets, French Toast, rooster and waffles, and extra.
On the remaining sea days, the principle eating room gives a sit-down lunch. There’s additionally a sit-down breakfast accessible most days of the cruise.
We did discover that the principle eating room appeared much less busy than anticipated throughout our sailings. Probably, the empty tables have been as a result of passengers have so many different interesting choices accessible.
Specialty Eating on Star of the Seas
The lineup of upcharge eating venues on Star of the Seas is equivalent to that of Icon of the Seas.
Pre-cruise, we have been in a position to reap the benefits of a number of offers on specialty eating for as much as 40% off. At these discounted costs, it was a no brainer to pattern among the specialty eating on the ship.
The informal Pier 7 stays a hidden gem on Star of the Seas. Open for brunch and dinner, we loved an off-the-cuff dinner right here. With choices like lettuce cups, shrimp tostadas, and Korean Fried rooster, this restaurant packs loads of taste. You possibly can pay à la carte or go for the $25 deal for a three-course meal. Households will probably be joyful to know that youngsters 12 and below can dine totally free at Pier 7.
On certainly one of our sea days, we dined at one other certainly one of our favorites, Giovanni’s Italian Kitchen. We scored an ideal deal, paying solely $14.99 for lunch. The calamari and caprese salad are strong choices. My steak muffuletta was a crispy and tender Italian-American traditional paying homage to certainly one of my mom’s dishes. After all, you’ll be able to’t go flawed with the rooster parmigiana both. Fortunately, we have been eating with others, so we didn’t really feel bashful ordering the Go Bananas. This dessert calzone with Nutella and bananas is a decadent dessert greatest shared with buddies.
Moreover, we met buddies for some pizza and apps on the close by Giovanni’s Wine Bar on one other event. This is a wonderful choice for a low-key meal or if you end up within the temper for one thing lighter.
When you’re in search of a energetic dinner expertise, Izumi Hibachi in Central Park could be an ideal choice. This Japanese-style steakhouse is each dinner and a present. Our chef made certain to tug out the entire tips and jokes on this 90-minute eating expertise. The expertly ready rice, greens, meats, and seafood made this dinner one of the crucial gratifying evenings onboard. We additionally dined at Izumi Sushi on one other night. Sampling some sushi, udon noodles, and apps, this was one other satisfying meal. Right here, visitors will pay a la carte or a flat-fee for 4 menu objects.
Throughout our time on Star of the Seas, we dined at Chops Grille as effectively. This signature steakhouse positioned in Central Park didn’t disappoint. My crab cake had a crispy crust with a moist stuffing stuffed with crab meat. For an entree, I opted for the filet mignon. It was a wonderfully seared medium-rare steak. With completely portioned aspect dishes, together with the crowd-pleasing tater tots, you’ll want to verify to save lots of room for dessert. The important thing lime pie and crimson velvet cake are among the many greatest desserts on the ship.
We even determined to provide Hooked Seafood one other likelihood, this time for lunch. As a New Englander, I’m usually skeptical of cruise ship seafood eating places. However the baked oysters and lobster rolls proved me flawed this time round. With an identical menu to dinner, lunch at Hooked is a superb worth.
One other extra informal upcharge venue is Playmakers Sports activities Bar and Arcade. This pub gives recreation day favorites, with an in depth beer menu and objects like burgers, wings, nachos, and extra.
Additional, dessert followers gained’t wish to miss the bubble cones at Izumi within the Park. These handheld treats function soft-serve ice cream in heat waffle cones. Simply eat shortly, as they soften quick within the Caribbean warmth. Or, you’ll be able to go for one of many outrageous milkshakes at Desserted in Thrill Island. Although, we personally assume the milkshakes are over-priced.
The one change in specialty eating on Star of the Seas is the supper membership. On Star of the Seas, Lincoln Park Supper Membership replaces the Empire Supper Membership. This upscale expertise gives an identical vibe, however as an alternative of New York, the main target is on Chicago’s golden age. Situated off Central Park, the elegant night combines delicacies, cocktails, and reside music in an intimate area. With Heidi’s choosy palette and the $200 price ticket per particular person, that is the one venue on Star of the Seas we didn’t attempt.
Leisure on Star of the Seas
One of the crucial important variations between Star and Icon is the leisure. Whereas the entire leisure venues are the identical, every has its personal new signature present. Royal Caribbean nonetheless gives the best entertainment at sea. If you’re a fan of cruise manufacturing reveals like us, then Star of the Seas positively delivers. From the Royal Theater to the AquaDome and Absolute Zero, these reveals are stuffed with loads of wow moments.
The AquaDome, relocated to the highest of the ship on Icon class vessels, options Torque (changing Icon’s Aqua Motion). This intense manufacturing combines high-divers, synchronized swimmers, dancers, and aerial artists below a digitally enhanced dome for a one-of-a-kind spectacle.
The dome expertise provides layers of immersion that you simply don’t discover within the AquaTheater on the Oasis class ships. Rain is now not a priority both for the reason that total theater is enclosed. Whereas this present was nonetheless in preview, we have been in a position to watch Torque a pair occasions throughout our cruises and it lived as much as our expectations. Even if in case you have seen diving reveals on different ships, Torque will go away you shocked.
Likewise, Sol, the brand new ice skating present in Absolute Zero, takes issues to the subsequent degree. This round venue, with improved sightlines, provides each seat an ideal view of the motion.
Sol traces the solar’s path by way of the sky with an intricate mixture of ice dancing, skating, and particular results. The set items are impressed by among the hottest locales on this planet. That includes the biggest ice skating solid within the fleet, admittedly, Sol begins off a bit gradual. However that you must stick round till the top as a result of the ice skating trick performers pull off some excessive stunts that you simply gained’t see in another Royal Caribbean ice present.
Whereas Icon of the Seas wows audiences with The Wizard of Oz, Star of the Seas brings Again to the Future: The Musical to the seas within the Royal Theater. This Broadway adaptation faucets into severe 80’s nostalgia and delivers all of the film magic you keep in mind. Followers of the film, like me, will definitely not wish to miss this high-energy manufacturing.
Marty McFly and Doc Brown come to life on this brand-new Royal Caribbean present that includes the biggest orchestra at sea. The variation captures the unique movie’s coronary heart, full with particular results that solely Royal Caribbean may pull off. Count on immersive results that make you’re feeling a part of the story, full with a DeLorean flying by way of the air!
Now positioned on Deck 6 within the coronary heart of the Royal Promenade, Royal Caribbean’s comedy membership, The Attic, feels extra spacious and accessible than earlier iterations. Comedy reveals run a number of occasions all through the cruise with featured comedians rotating by way of totally different time slots. These reveals require reservations, however standby traces can be found in case you are unable to safe spots for a specific showtime.
You may also rock out at signature concert events within the Music Corridor. From Journey tribute bands to the Star of the Seas showband, that is the place for many who like energy chords and rock ballads.
Onboard Actions
Sure, there’s a lot to do each day and night time on Star of the Seas. Despite the fact that we have been on the ship for a complete of ten days, we nonetheless weren’t in a position to get to every part.
The actions workers hosts a wide range of typical cruise occasions. There are a number of trivia classes, starting from common classes to themed classes for specialists on subjects reminiscent of music, films, and sports activities. There have been additionally different video games and cruiser competitions. From Title that Tune to 60 Seconds or Much less, cruisers may go head-to-head with one another in enjoyable challenges to win prizes and earn bragging rights. There have been common karaoke classes as effectively held in Highlight Karaoke.
Moreover, you’ll be able to attempt your luck at bingo, or make the most of the slot machines and desk video games within the on line casino. Be sure to examine the open occasions because the on line casino is closed when docked in most ports of name.
Sports activities challenges and baggo tournaments additionally occurred all through the day. Cruisers may be taught some new dance strikes and even be a part of a operating membership for some companionship whereas jogging across the observe.
The health middle is open from 6 AM to 9 PM day by day. Right here, you’ll discover a wide range of cardio machines, free weights, weight machines, and different gear for every type of exercises. There are additionally group health lessons. From yoga to spin, there are a number of how to work up a sweat. For an additional price, you’ll be able to even benefit from the Vitality Spa’s thermal suite or e-book a wide range of remedies like massages or salon companies.
On most nights, you will discover a Royal Caribbean celebration someplace on the ship too. There’s the Hush Silent Occasion within the Royal Promenade. Or, you’ll be able to exhibit your dance strikes on the ReZolution Occasion in Absolute Zero. New to Star of the Seas is Millennium Mania, specializing in all issues Y2K. Say goodbye to the 70’s celebration and hiya to a brand new excuse to play a wide range of music from the late 90’s and early 2000’s. There’s additionally the brand new Let’s Dance Occasion that includes songs just like the Macarena and YMCA.
Bars and Lounges on Star of the Seas
Whereas the leisure is new, you will discover the entire similar bars and lounges on Star as you do on Icon. These embody all of the Royal Caribbean favorites plus ten utterly new ideas that Royal Caribbean launched with the Icon class. The very best half? Drink prices are consistent with the rest of the fleet, and most specialty cocktails are included in the Deluxe beverage package.
The redesigned two-story Royal Promenade hosts a number of standout venues that capitalize on the extra open and ethereal design. Our favourite is the 1400 Foyer Bar. This bar serves as the delicate anchor with signature cocktails impressed by totally different Royal Caribbean ship lessons. The trendy area and elevated drink menu make it good for pre-dinner cocktails or grownup dialog away from the household chaos.
One other fan-favorite, Dueling Pianos is persistently the most well-liked nighttime spot. Two proficient performers take requests and maintain the power excessive with sing-along classics. Arrive early for seats, or benefit from the present from the promenade for the reason that venue opens to the walkway.
The Schooner Bar overlooks the promenade from Deck 6 with reside piano music and an up to date cocktail menu. My new favourite is the toasted marshmallow old style. Fortunately, they nonetheless have Heidi’s favourite, the Lavender Daiquiri. Boleros retains the Latin music and dancing alive throughout the best way, and the Thorn & Thistle pub delivers a traditional English environment with ales, lagers, and acoustic guitar music. You may also take pleasure in a brew alongside your favourite sports activities recreation at Playmakers.
Out on Chill Island, there are 4 Lime & Coconut bars, together with a devoted frozen drinks-only station on Deck 16. The signature Lime & Coconut cocktail stays a poolside favourite, whereas the frozen bar churns out Miami Vices and different blended classics just like the Ache Chiller.
Swim & Tonic marks Royal Caribbean’s first swim-up bar at sea. The distinctive tonic variations pair completely with floating on this adults-only pool. Additional, Cantina Fresca shakes up signature margaritas close to El Loco Contemporary, whereas the Basecamp Bar in Thrill Island serves rum-based cocktails, good if you happen to want some liquid braveness.
The Hideaway Bar gives a classy seaside membership expertise with signature cocktails like Bae on the Seashore. The elevated out of doors furnishings and wake views create the right escape from the remainder of the out of doors decks.
Again inside, The Overlook gives 220-degree forward-facing views with the bar serving a signature Overlook Spritz. This indoor area boasts snug seating and is the right spot to calm down on sea days. Close by, Rye & Bean combines a espresso bar with espresso-infused cocktails. Making an attempt the espresso martinis right here is crucial!
In Central Park, Lou’s Jazz ‘n Blues delivers New Orleans-inspired cocktails like a hurricane and jazzy saz in a sultry environment. You possibly can take pleasure in reside music on this venue or sip your drinks amongst the plush environment. On our crusing, Lou’s was extra standard than after we sailed on Icon final yr. So, the phrase is out about this “hidden gem”. Close by, Bubbles Champagne Bar gives takeout-style service for some bubbly, and the Trellis Bar is an extra area nestled within the serene Central Park neighborhood.
Dad and mom spending time with their little ones within the Surfside neighborhood can seize a candy drink on the Lemon Put up. Truly, this bar crafts drinks for everybody with lemonade-based cocktails for adults and zero-proof variations for teenagers.
Lastly, if you happen to’re in search of espresso, Pear Cafe is your go-to for espresso-based drinks which are included within the Royal Caribbean drink packages and the Cafe Choose espresso card. There’s additionally a Starbucks kiosk within the Royal Promenade however these drinks aren’t included in any packages.
Lodging
We stayed in two totally different stateroom classes throughout our three separate cruises on Star of the Seas. The extra typical choice for us was an ocean view balcony stateroom. This room was equivalent to the accommodations we stayed in on Icon of the Seas last year by way of structure, measurement, and decor.
Measuring 204 sq. ft, with an approximate 50-foot balcony, these cabins provide loads of options for contemporary cruisers. We beloved the additional energy retailers and USB connections all through the room. Not solely on the desk and close to the mattress, but additionally close to the tv.
The ocean view balcony room on Star of the Seas gives enough storage as effectively. The smaller part of the closet features a full-length garments bar making it straightforward for Heidi to hold her attire. The opposite part contains a garments bar on prime with storage cubes under. We appreciated having the cubes to maintain our footwear organized, however we may have executed with out the screeching sound the wire baskets make when sliding them.
When you want further storage, there are cabinets hidden behind the full-length mirror and a few drawers on the desk. There are even some small cabinets close to the tv for storing issues like electronics or water bottles. Discuss utilizing each sq. inch of area within the room!
The remainder of the room’s options are fairly normal. The love seat was giant sufficient for the 2 of us to work on our laptops concurrently, and the desk is average-sized full with a chair as an alternative of a stool. Our Royal king mattress was positioned nearer to the balcony on the ahead wall, going through aft. We by no means had any points falling asleep every night time after a protracted day of exploring every part on Star of the Seas.
Whereas nonetheless the standard cruise ship-sized rest room, we appreciated the fashionable finishes and bathe design. The bathe contains a small seat on one finish with cabinets for storing towels above, much like the design discovered in lots of inns.
Despite the fact that we have been touring with three weeks price of garments and equipment, we have been in a position to unpack and set up every part with some cabin hacks. Amongst our go-to objects is an over-the-door shoe organizer. Right here, we retailer smaller equipment, toiletries, and the like so we don’t muddle our precious counter area.
Now, throughout our first look cruise on Star of the Seas, Royal Caribbean hosted us in an Infinite Ocean View Balcony stateroom. Measuring about 250 sq. ft, this stateroom consists of what the cruise line refers to as an “expanded dwelling space”.
Much like the design on Superstar’s Edge class, as an alternative of getting a devoted out of doors area, these cabins function further indoor area with seating and a window that opens. These cabins should not have the standard sliding door to exit the room totally onto a devoted out of doors balcony. As a substitute, these rooms transition with the push a button, primarily turing your entire area right into a balcony.
Whereas we will see the professionals of this cabin choice, like more room and extra seating choices, we personally favor a conventional balcony. I like the flexibility to take a seat exterior on the balcony within the afternoon whereas Heidi stays within the air conditioned cabin. Sadly, with this stateroom class, the air con shuts off while you open the infinite balcony.
General Star of the Seas Cruise Ship Evaluation
After spending 10 days aboard Star of the Seas, we will confidently say Royal Caribbean has delivered one other extraordinary mega-ship expertise. And we wouldn’t hesitate to sail on the ship once more!
The leisure variations and strategic refinements make Star really feel acquainted but enhanced. Royal Caribbean has taken visitor suggestions and utilized these classes to create a ship price testing out, even if in case you have already sailed on Icon of the Seas.
We completely loved the upgraded meals stalls within the AquaDome Market, together with the entire different informal choices accessible on the Icon class. For households in search of extra flexibility with their eating, Star of the Seas gives essentially the most decisions of any Royal Caribbean cruise ship. There’s additionally a plethora of specialty eating for these in search of a chic night time out.
The brand-new leisure within the signature venues shouldn’t be missed both. Again to the Future: The Musical delivers one other crowd-pleasing most important theater present. Torque places the fuel pedal to the ground in an explosive and high-energy present. Likewise, Sol is essentially the most intense skating present but.
Even crusing at primarily double occupancy, the ship by no means felt overwhelming (besides with some crowding on the Swim & Tonic and The Hideaway swimming pools). The neighborhood design continues to work brilliantly at dispersing crowds, with every space offering sufficient facilities to maintain visitors engaged all day. Whether or not you wish to chill on the varied swimming pools, search thrills on the Class 6 waterpark, or take pleasure in subtle eating, bars, and leisure, there’s one thing for each member of the household.
Despite the fact that the Icon class ships are the biggest afloat, we personally assume they really feel extra spacious than the Oasis class or different mega-ships from competitor cruise traces like Carnival or MSC.
Nonetheless, like several mega-ship, slightly pre-planning goes a great distance. We made certain to pre-book all our reveals earlier than boarding the ship. We additionally took benefit of pre-cruise offers to safe eating reservations at a number of specialty eating places at discounted costs. Thus, we advise that you simply usually examine your cruise planner to make sure you don’t miss a factor.
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The publish We Spent 10 Days on Star of the Seas: Here’s What It’s Really Like! appeared first on EatSleepCruise.com.
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