TURKU, FINLAND – Royal Caribbean International’s newest marvel, the Star of the Seas, has successfully completed its initial round of sea trials, marking a critical step toward its highly anticipated August 2025 debut. The colossal vessel, set to become the world’s largest cruise ship, underwent rigorous testing in the Baltic Sea to ensure all systems are in prime condition.

Key Facts:

• Sea Trials Concluded: The Star of the Seas completed its first set of sea trials in late May 2025, spending eight to eleven days at sea.
• Extensive Testing: Over 2,000 specialists from various fields participated, rigorously testing the ship’s navigation, propulsion, engine performance, and emergency systems.
• August 2025 Debut: Following the successful trials and final outfitting, the ship is slated to begin its inaugural sailings from Port Canaveral, Florida, in August 2025.

The successful conclusion of these initial sea trials brings the Star of the Seas one step closer to welcoming its first passengers and solidifies its place as the next groundbreaking vessel in the cruise industry.

What Happens During Sea Trials?

Sea trials are a comprehensive examination of a newly constructed ship’s operational capabilities. For a vessel of the Star of the Seas‘ immense size (estimated at 250,800 gross tons), these tests are crucial. Engineers and specialists meticulously evaluate everything from the responsiveness of its steering and braking systems to the efficiency of its Wärtsilä multi-fuel engines, which are designed to run on liquefied natural gas (LNG) as part of Royal Caribbean’s commitment to reducing emissions. The objective is to verify that the ship performs as designed under various conditions, ensuring both safety and optimal performance.

A New Era of Onboard Experiences

Beyond its technical prowess, the Star of the Seas is designed to push the boundaries of onboard experiences. While similar to its sister ship, the Icon of the Seas, it is expected to be slightly larger and incorporate new features. The vessel will boast eight distinct “neighborhoods,” including new and returning dining options and the largest waterpark at sea, “Category 6.” It will also feature seven pools, a wide array of entertainment venues, and innovative stateroom designs, including the multi-level Ultimate Family Townhouse.

Journey to Port Canaveral

With these sea trials successfully completed, the Star of the Seas will return to the Meyer Turku shipyard in Finland for its final phase of construction and outfitting. Once completed, it will embark on its transatlantic journey to its new homeport in Port Canaveral, Florida. The ship is expected to offer seven-night Eastern and Western Caribbean itineraries, including visits to Royal Caribbean’s private island destination, Perfect Day at CocoCay, beginning in late August 2025. This launch represents another significant addition to Royal Caribbean’s fleet, further expanding its offerings for multi-generational family vacations.