Stateroom Review: What Works and What Doesn’t 

We found some major differences worth noting:

• Pullout Sofa Beds: Families beware! The new pullout couches in 3- and 4-person cabins are uncomfortable, with no mattress pad.
  
• Family Infinite Balcony Staterooms: Huge win for families with kids. The separate bunk-bed space is a selling point (though bunks are best for children, not adults).
  
• Infinite Balcony Cabins: Great for space and safety, but note that AC shuts off when the window is down, and the ship can lock balcony access during fueling or weather.
  
• Noise Considerations: Surfside-facing and Central Park-view cabins can get noisy if windows are open, but closed doors block almost all sound. Deck 12 forward is an ideal location; avoid Deck 14 due to overhead noise.

Dining on Star of the Seas 

Foodies will not be disappointed! Highlights include:

• Main Dining Room: Consistently positive reviews from our team that this is better than experiences on other ships.
  
• Izumi Sushi: A must-try, especially with the Deluxe Dining Plan. Fresh fish, creative rolls, and a quality that rivals land-based restaurants.
  
• AquaDome Marketplace (Mediterranean & BBQ): Delicious options, but seating can be scarce. Pro tip: take your food to the AquaDome for extra seating.

Drink Packages & Coffee

Both the Refreshment Package and Deluxe Beverage Package cover specialty coffees, but not Starbucks. Be prepared for long morning lines at Pearl Café. Rye & Bean (opens at 9 a.m.) is a quieter alternative, and the spa juice bar also serves specialty coffee.

Entertainment Review 

Royal Caribbean really raises the bar here:

• Skating Show: The best ice show at sea, with world-class choreography and talent.
  
• AquaDome’s “Torque”: A must-see, featuring divers, synchronized swimmers, slackliners, and even motorcycles in a globe. Hands down, the best show at sea!
  
• Back to the Future Show: Kept even young children entertained for two hours.
  
• Karaoke & Dueling Pianos: Always a hit, and just as lively as on Icon of the Seas.

The only disappointment? The magic show, which didn’t resonate with our group.

Family Fun & Kids’ Programs 

Star of the Seas is truly designed with families in mind:

• Surfside Limitations: Great for small children, but older kids may get bored quickly. And remember, the 48” height requirement for slides is strictly enforced (measured without shoes).
  
• Adventure Ocean Kids Club: Interactive, engaging programming with sports, crafts, and competitions. Many kids reported it was their favorite at sea.
  
• New “Find My Kids” Bracelet: Lets parents track children around the ship. Currently for ages 3-12, but could expand in the future.

Quiet Spaces & Wellness 

For those craving relaxation, we found several peaceful escapes:

• AquaDome: Calm between shows, though it fills quickly when events are scheduled.
• Thermal Suite: Saunas, steam rooms, and heated loungers, absolutely worth the all-cruise pass.
• Central Park (early mornings): Serene and beautiful.

Should You Sail Star of the Seas? 

If you loved the Icon, you’ll love the Star. From dazzling entertainment to thoughtful family features, she lives up to the hype. Yes, there are quirks (pullout couches and the noisy Hideaway pool, we’re looking at you), but the positives far outweigh the drawbacks.

And the best part? There are still last-minute cruise deals available, so it’s not too late to book your spot onboard.