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Royal Caribbean’s Icon of the Seas vs. Star of the Seas: Similarities and Differences Royal Caribbean has always been known for breaking records in the cruise industry, and their new Icon-class ships are no exception. First came the groundbreaking Icon of the Seas in 2024, followed by her sister ship, Star of the Seas, debuting…

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Kiley Smith

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Icon Compared to Star: Cruise Ship Showdown

Royal Caribbean’s Icon of the Seas vs. Star of the Seas:
Similarities and Differences

Royal Caribbean has always been known for breaking records in the cruise industry, and their new Icon-class ships are no exception. First came the groundbreaking Icon of the Seas in 2024, followed by her sister ship, Star of the Seas, debuting in 2025. Both are massive, innovative floating resorts designed to push the limits of family cruising, but each offers its own unique touches.

Here’s a deep dive into what makes them similar and where they stand apart.

🚢 The Big Picture: Ship Design and Specs

  • Class & Build: Both ships are part of the Icon-class, built at the Meyer Turku shipyard in Finland.
  • Size: At 248,663 gross tons, they are currently the largest cruise ships in the world.
  • Capacity: Each can carry 5,610 guests (double occupancy) and up to 7,600 guests at maximum with over 2,300 crew.
  • Sustainability: Both are LNG-powered, feature fuel cell technology, shore power plug-in, and a parabolic bow that improves efficiency and reduces drag.

Takeaway: From a design perspective, Icon and Star are almost identical, both representing Royal Caribbean’s push toward greener and more futuristic ships.

🌍 Homeports and Itineraries

  • Icon of the Seas: Sails year-round from PortMiami’s Terminal A, the cruise line’s crown jewel facility.
  • Star of the Seas: Calls Port Canaveral (Orlando) home, making it especially convenient for families pairing a cruise with Walt Disney World or Universal Orlando.

Both ships offer 7-night Caribbean itineraries, always including a stop at Perfect Day at CocoCay, Royal Caribbean’s award-winning private island. However, subtle itinerary differences pop up depending on sailing date, with variations between Eastern and Western Caribbean routes.

🏝 Neighborhoods & Layout

Both ships feature 8 distinct neighborhoods, each designed for unique vibes and experiences:

  1. Thrill Island – Record-breaking Category 6 waterpark and Crown’s Edge skywalk.
  2. Surfside – The first neighborhood designed entirely for young families.
  3. AquaDome – Stunning dome with panoramic ocean views and nightly aqua shows.
  4. The Hideaway – First suspended infinity pool at sea with DJ parties.
  5. Royal Promenade – The social hub with shopping, bars, and the dramatic “Pearl.”
  6. Central Park – Real greenery, dining, and live music under the stars.
  7. Chill Island – Pool deck with Lime & Coconut bars.
  8. Suite Neighborhood – Private enclave for suite guests with dining, pools, and concierge access.

Key Difference: On Star of the Seas, Surfside has been upgraded with more activities for older kids (up to roughly 10 years old), while Icon caters a bit more to toddlers and preschoolers.

🍴 Dining Experiences

Royal Caribbean has elevated dining on both ships, blending included eateries, themed markets, and specialty restaurants.

Shared Highlights (both ships):

  • Windjammer Marketplace (classic buffet)
  • AquaDome Market (food hall concept)
  • Surfside Eatery (family dining)
  • Hooked Seafood
  • Izumi Hibachi & Sushi
  • Chops Grille
  • Giovanni’s Italian Kitchen & Wine Bar

Exclusive or Differentiated Dining:

  • Icon of the Seas: Empire Supper Club (1920s New York vibe), Mac’s (burgers), Toast & Garden (brunch café).
  • Star of the Seas: Lincoln Park Supper Club (1930s Chicago theme), Pig Out BBQ, Mai Thai (Asian flavors), and La Cocinita (Mexican street food).

🎭 Entertainment and Shows

Entertainment is where these sisters begin to look more like fraternal twins.

  • Icon of the Seas:
    • Broadway-style “The Wizard of Oz”
    • AquaDome’s “Aqua Action!”
    • Ice show “Starburst”
    • Live concert “Showband! Live. Music. Now.”
  • Star of the Seas:
    • Broadway-style “Back to the Future: The Musical” featuring a flying DeLorean
    • AquaDome’s “Torque” (high-energy stunt show) and “Create” (robot-themed story)
    • Ice show “SOL” with innovative ice rompers

Takeaway: Both ships deliver jaw-dropping shows, but Star leans heavier on futuristic, pop-culture, and technology-driven themes, while Icon goes more for Broadway classics and family familiarity.

🎨 Art, Design, and Quirky Touches

Royal Caribbean loves playful art pieces that double as Instagram moments.

  • Icon of the Seas:
    • “The Pearl” atrium centerpiece with kinetic lighting.
    • Dog mascot Rover “relieving himself” on a lamppost.
    • Diver-themed statues around the ship.
  • Star of the Seas:
    • Upgraded “Pearl” with brighter multicolor effects.
    • Dog mascot Sailor skateboarding.
    • Surfer-themed statues and kaleidoscopic interactive art installations.

🏊 Pools and Relaxation

  • Both ships feature 7 pools and 9 whirlpools, but Star adds one more hot tub that Icon sacrificed for weight balance.
  • The Hideaway infinity pool is a favorite on both, but Star’s version includes enhanced party vibes and DJ setups.

🐾 Mascots at Sea

  • Icon of the Seas: Chief Dog Officer is Rover, a golden retriever.
  • Star of the Seas: Chief Dog Officer is Sailor, a Labrador mix.

⚖️ Which Ship Should You Choose?

  • Choose Icon of the Seas if…
    You want toddler-focused family fun, Broadway familiarity, and Miami departures.
  • Choose Star of the Seas if…
    You prefer Orlando’s convenience, newer dining venues, edgier entertainment, and subtle upgrades to family areas and art design.

Bottom line: Both ships are nearly identical in design, so you really can’t go wrong.

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