Star of the Seas cruise experience: Why this world’s largest cruise ship redefined vacation expectations

We recently sailed aboard the remarkable Star of the Seas and couldn’t wait to share our experience and favorite features from the world’s largest cruise ship. Towering over Port Canaveral, this record-breaking vessel stretches 1,198 feet and accommodates over 7,600 guests. The sheer scale is awe-inspiring—more like a floating city than a typical ship, reshaping ideas of what travel by sea can be.

Every aspect of Star of the Seas has been meticulously designed to surprise and delight. Guests can expect an immersive experience where world-class dining, entertainment, and relaxation come together in one extraordinary voyage. Read on to learn more about what we loved most aboard the world’s largest cruise ship!

Aquadome Market: A culinary crossroads at sea

Aquadome Market stands out as the go-to dining destination on Star of the Seas, offering guests five unique counter-service eateries beneath a dramatic glass dome. Each venue brings something special: Crème de la Crêpe serves up delicate sweet and savory crêpes, while Mai Thai delights with vibrant Thai flavors. Pig Out BBQ dishes out smoky, satisfying classics, Feta Mediterranean delivers fresh Mediterranean fare, and La Cocina features flavorful empanadas and arepas.

This variety made Aquadome Market our favorite place on board to gather and sample new cuisines. With flavors from around the world and a laid-back, inviting atmosphere, every meal felt like a culinary adventure—perfect for guests eager to try something new each day.

Aquatheater’s “Torque” on Star of the Seas: Entertainment taken to new heights

“Torque” in the Aquatheater redefines at-sea entertainment. The innovative show combines high-diving, synchronized swimming, and daring stunts with roaring motorcycles on floating platforms—all against the stunning ocean backdrop. The custom-built amphitheater’s close-up views and dynamic set create an electrifying and intimate experience for every guest.

But “Torque” is more than acrobatics—its storytelling, music, and visual effects evoke deep emotion and connect to universal themes of freedom and community. Multiple performances ensure everyone has a chance to be mesmerized, adding a touch of Las Vegas spectacle right at sea.

Surfside: The ultimate family playground on Star of the Seas

Families onboard are drawn to Surfside, a vibrant three-deck zone designed specifically for multigenerational fun. The Water’s Edge pool area allows toddlers and older children to play safely while parents relax nearby. Splashaway Bay, the interactive water playground, brings all ages together—creating shared memories as generations join in the playful chaos under the signature tipping bucket.

Surfside also features Baby Bay, a thoughtfully designed splash zone where babies in swim diapers can safely enjoy the water with dedicated features just for them. This area ensures that even the youngest guests are included in the family fun, complete with gentle water play and easy access for parents.

Dining and comfort are thoughtfully integrated into Surfside, with casual food options like Surfside Bites offering something for even the pickiest eaters, including popcorn chicken, which we loved. Whether it’s lively daytime fun or a softly lit evening wind-down with bedtime stories, Surfside is a haven where families can truly connect.

The Lemon Post Bar: A playful twist on poolside refreshment

Overlooking the energetic family zone of Surfside, The Lemon Post Bar invites everyone to cool down in style. This open-air hangout boasts two distinct menus—one with creative cocktails for adults and another packed with kid-approved sips. Standout offerings include color-changing drinks, whimsical souvenir cups, and dramatic pour presentations, making every refreshment a memorable part of the day.

At The Lemon Post, favorites are easy to find but hard to beat. Among the signature drinks, The Escape Raft stands out—a perfectly balanced blend featuring Tito’s vodka, coconut water, lemon juice, coconut syrup, orgeat, fresh pineapples, and house-made lemonade. Designed for poolside relaxation and family-friendly fun, this is far from your ordinary lemonade stand.

Star of the Seas’ Central Park: A lush and vibrant oasis at sea

Central Park on Star of the Seas is a tropical oasis teeming with life, home to over 34,000 live plants—including towering trees, vibrant flowers, and trailing green walls. This serene “neighborhood” offers a unique escape right in the heart of the world’s largest cruise ship, making strolls along its winding paths a daily pleasure. With inviting benches, leafy landscapes, and tranquil corners, Central Park quickly became a favorite spot for relaxation and quiet reflection.

Dining and entertainment blend seamlessly into the setting. Mornings are best enjoyed at Park Café, where we loved starting the day with a fresh breakfast surrounded by greenery. Central Park features a diverse collection of restaurants, bars, and live music venues, including the easy-to-love Izumi in the Park—perfect for a quick bite of grab-and-go sushi rolls, fresh nigiri, and Japanese sweets. Outdoor jazz bands often fill the air with a soothing soundtrack, and the area’s multi-deck-high foliage and peaceful ambiance ensure Central Park is much more than a garden—it’s a signature experience that truly sets Star of the Seas apart.

Category 6 Waterpark: Thrills and Splashes for All Ages

Just steps from Surfside, the Category 6 Waterpark delivers heart-pounding excitement for thrill seekers of all ages. This expansive aqua park features daring water slides, including drop slides and boomerang-style attractions that send riders soaring and swirling above the deck. Families can race each other down multi-lane slides or catch a splash together in the giant wave pool—the perfect spot to cool off and have fun under the sun. With various height-friendly options and interactive play areas, Category 6 ensures that every family member finds the right level of adventure, making it a can’t-miss highlight on Star of the Seas.

Star of the Seas stands as a true marvel—offering thrilling entertainment, culinary innovation, family bonding spaces, tranquil gardens, and a vibrant art scene, all aboard the world’s largest cruise ship. This is not just a voyage, but a reimagined way to experience the world by sea. Book your next cruise aboard Star of the Seas with Cruises.com.