Onboard Royal Caribbean Cruises
If there’s one thing Royal Caribbean knows how to do, it’s go big. As someone who’s spent more nights on the ocean than on land lately, I’ve watched this cruise line push boundaries year after year—bigger ships, crazier thrills, smarter tech, and itineraries that make even seasoned travelers like me double-check their bucket lists.
So if you’re wondering what’s on the horizon, here’s a look ahead at the ships and sailings that are going to shake up the cruise world over the next couple of years.
Star of the Seas: The Newest Icon
You’ve probably heard the buzz about Star of the Seas, the next in Royal Caribbean’s bold Icon Class, set to launch in summer 2025. If you’ve been on Icon of the Seas, you already know this class isn’t just a step up—it’s an entirely different league.
Star of the Seas will be slightly refined, with lessons learned from Icon’s debut. Think smoother crowd flow, even more tech-driven convenience, and new dining and entertainment options rumored to be in the works. The ship will launch out of Port Canaveral, which is fast becoming Royal Caribbean’s go-to for mega-ship operations.
What to Expect Onboard
While details are still trickling out, expect the full Icon experience:
- AquaDome 2.0 with revamped high-dive shows
- Thrill Island roller coaster tweaks (yes, that’s a coaster on a cruise ship)
- Expanded Surfside for families
- New specialty dining that might include a Southeast Asian fusion venue (fingers crossed)
If Star of the Seas follows the trajectory of her sister ship, she’ll redefine what a vacation at sea looks like. Again.
Bolder, Longer Itineraries
Royal Caribbean is leaning into demand for deeper, more immersive travel. Yes, the 3- and 4-night Bahamas runs still exist (and they serve their purpose), but what’s catching my attention are the new, longer itineraries being tested and expanded.
Ultimate World Cruise: Part 2?
The Ultimate World Cruise aboard Serenade of the Seas has been a phenomenon—four segments, 274 nights, and more port days than sea days. I’ve talked to people on it, and they’re already asking if a sequel is in the cards.
Rumors suggest Royal Caribbean may announce a similar global voyage by late 2025, potentially out of Europe this time, with different ships covering new continents like Africa and more of Southeast Asia. Stay tuned—if that’s your vibe, you’ll need to book early or not at all.
New Arctic and Antarctic Explorations
Yes, you read that right. Royal Caribbean is dipping its toes into cold water cruising. Small-ship partnerships and charter-style expeditions are in the planning stages. Don’t expect a mega-ship up there—this is about tapping into the premium exploration market. Think smaller, more intimate vessels (possibly under the Silversea umbrella, which is part of the Royal Caribbean Group).
It’s still early, but this would open doors to a very different type of Royal Caribbean experience: rugged, remote, and Instagram gold.
Utopia of the Seas: Short and Sweet, But Packed
Launching in mid-2024 but still relevant going into 2025, Utopia of the Seas is something different: a brand-new Oasis-class ship built specifically for short 3- and 4-night cruises to Perfect Day at CocoCay and Nassau. It’s the first time Royal Caribbean has ever placed an Oasis-class ship into the short cruise market, and it’s a power move.
If you’re short on time but want max impact—a 3-night weekend with waterslides, ice skating, Broadway shows, and beach clubs—Utopia might be your new go-to. It’ll sail from Port Canaveral, giving Star a sister in arms at the same home port.
Private Destinations: The Next Level
CocoCay changed the game. Now Royal Caribbean is planning more private destination development—some public, some hush-hush.
Lelepa, Vanuatu (South Pacific)
Delayed by the pandemic but back on track, the Perfect Day at Lelepa private destination is designed to bring the CocoCay concept to the South Pacific. This will be a big draw for Asia-Pacific sailings and longer repositioning cruises. Expect beach clubs, local culture elements, and a more “eco-conscious” setup than CocoCay.
Mediterranean Concepts
There’s also buzz about a Mediterranean private beach club project—possibly in Greece or Southern Italy—aimed at elevating the Med cruise experience. It won’t be a full-on waterpark like CocoCay but more of a luxe beach club with high-end dining, snorkeling, and relaxed vibes. If Royal pulls this off, it’ll be a game-changer for Euro itineraries.
Tech and Sustainability: Not Just Buzzwords
New ships will be smarter. From facial recognition boarding to cabin automation via app, Royal is investing heavily in tech that cuts friction. No more long waits at guest services or hunting down paper menus.
Also—finally—we’re seeing major shifts in sustainability. LNG-powered ships like Icon and Star are just the beginning. Shore power, better wastewater treatment, and food waste reduction tech are all scaling up fleetwide. About time, right?
Final Thoughts
As someone who lives part-time on the water, I’m stoked about where Royal Caribbean is headed. These future ships and itineraries don’t just cater to the masses—they’re branching out. Whether you’re into the biggest ship on the block, far-flung destinations, or 3-night bangers that feel like a week away, there’s something coming for you.
The key? Book early. The demand is insane, especially for anything new or unusual. I’ve missed a few dream sailings by waiting too long. Learn from my mistakes.
Got questions about specific ships or want help choosing the right sailing? Drop a comment or hit me up—always happy to chat cruise.