Welcome aboard the family adventure of a lifetime! If you’re planning to sail on Royal Caribbean’s newest Icon-class ship, the Star of the Seas, this guide is your all-in-one family-friendly roadmap. Whether you’re first-time cruisers or seasoned Royal fans, this ship has some never-before-seen experiences your family won’t want to miss. Let’s dive into everything you need to know before setting sail!
Why Star of the Seas Is a Game-Changer for Families
Launched in 2025, Star of the Seas is Royal Caribbean’s second Icon-class cruise ship. It’s packed with brand-new entertainment zones, dining concepts, and family-first experiences across eight neighborhoods—including the Surfside neighborhood created just for families with young kids.
Highlights:
- First suspended infinity pool at sea
- Largest waterpark on any cruise ship
- Dedicated kids’ and teen areas
- Adventure-themed dining experiences
🎥 Watch this ship overview:
Booking Tips: Best Cabins for Families of 4
Choosing the right cabin makes all the difference in your cruise experience. Here are top options for families:
🛏️ Family Infinite Balcony Rooms
- Sleeps 4–6
- Extra storage space and split bathrooms
- Great for ocean views and fresh air
🛏️ Surfside Family Suites
- Located in the Surfside neighborhood
- Kid sleeping area separated by curtains
- Step out directly into the family splash zone
🛏️ Interior Plus or Central Park View Rooms (budget-friendly)
- Smart layout for family of 4
- Access to natural light or serene garden views
📦 Amazon Must-Have for Cabins:
- Magnetic hooks for walls/ceiling – keep swimsuits and lanyards off the floor
- Over-the-door organizer – for toiletries, toys, and shoes
Embarkation Day Checklist
The first day can be hectic, so prepare ahead:
- ✅ Download the Royal Caribbean App and complete online check-in
- ✅ Pack swimsuits and sunscreen in your carry-on for pool fun while waiting for rooms
- ✅ Label all luggage clearly with printed tags
- ✅ Bring snacks or juice boxes for kids
- ✅ Take the kids on a self-guided ship scavenger hunt!
🎥 Watch: How to Breeze Through Embarkation
Explore the Family Neighborhood: Surfside
This one-of-a-kind neighborhood is made just for families. Expect non-stop smiles and wet clothes!
🚿 What’s Inside Surfside:
- Splashaway Bay waterpark
- Baby and toddler splash zones
- Carousel rides
- Adventure arcade
- Lemon Post bar (for mocktails and cocktails)
📸 Pro tip: Plan a half-day here on embarkation to get great photos without crowds.
📦 Amazon Must-Have:
- Waterproof phone pouch – perfect for wet play zones
- Quick-dry water shoes – for the whole family
Must-See Shows & Activities for Kids and Teens
There’s something for every age group onboard:
👶 Ages 3–5
- Adventure Ocean Junior Program
- Mini obstacle courses in Surfside
🧒 Ages 6–12
- Laser tag & bumper cars
- Ice-skating rink
- Game shows and family trivia
👧👦 Teens 13–17
- The Social 020 teen hangout
- VR gaming zones
- Silent discos
🎥 Family Activities on Star of the Seas
Dining with Kids: What to Try (and What to Skip)
Feeding a family on a cruise can be surprisingly fun!
Family-Approved Options:
- The Lemon Post: colorful drinks and snacks for everyone
- Pier 7: elevated beach-themed bites
- Windjammer Café: buffet classics, kid-friendly layout
📦 Amazon Must-Have:
- Reusable silicone snack bags – pack dry snacks on excursions
- Kids’ bendy reusable straws – eco-friendly sipping onboard
Royal Caribbean App Tips for Busy Parents
The app helps you do everything:
- Book shows and dinner
- Track onboard spending
- Find lost teens via message feature
- Daily schedules and deck maps
🎥 How to Use the Royal Caribbean App Efficiently
Tip: Preload the app on all family devices and link them before you board.
What to Pack for Star of the Seas
Packing smart helps you avoid overpriced gift shop runs!
Must-Haves:
- Cruise lanyards with card holders
- Collapsible laundry bag
- Nightlight (cabins can be dark!)
- Theme night outfits (e.g., tropical, formal)
- Waterproof Waist Bag/Fanny Pack
📦 Cruise Must-Have Packing Bundle
Budget Tips: How to Save Without Missing Out
Cruising doesn’t have to break the bank!
Top Tips:
- 🚩 Book early with refundable deposit
- 🚩 Bring refillable water bottles
- 🚩 Avoid upcharge dining on shorter trips
- 🚩 Use onboard credits for excursions
📦 Refillable Filter Water Bottles
Final Thoughts: Is Star of the Seas Worth It for Families?
Absolutely. If your family loves variety, entertainment, and adventure all in one place, this ship delivers big. Surfside, record-breaking slides, splash zones, and live shows create moments your kids will talk about for years.
Take it from the AB Family—we’ve cruised dozens of times, and Star of the Seas is shaping up to be the most family-focused cruise ship yet.
Start planning. Adventure awaits!
