Royal Caribbean’s Star of the Seas inaugural voyage canceled, citing shipyard delays

The planned launch of the upcoming Royal Caribbean mega cruise ship Star of the Seas has been pushed back due to delays at the shipyard. The following Eastern Caribbean sailing has also been canceled.

Guests booked on the inaugural August 17, 2025, sailing from Port Canaveral, have received disappointing news that the voyage has been canceled.

Maiden Voyage Pushed Back Two Weeks

“After a review of the work that remains to be done, we’re unfortunately forced to delay the ship’s delivery date,” the line said in a letter to booked guests. “As a result, we must cancel our inaugural 7-Night Eastern Caribbean & Perfect Day sailing.”

The new inaugural sailing will now take place on August 31, 2025. “We’re truly sorry for the impact that this delay has had on your vacation plans.”

Royal Caribbean hasn’t disclosed the specific issue with the work. Since the pandemic, it has not been uncommon for new ship construction to be impacted by delays, such as supply chain issues.

Rebooking Options Announced

Customers booked on the canceled sailing have been offered several rebooking options. They can opt for a same-category stateroom on Star of the Seas for the later August 31 cruise.

They can instead choose to sail on the Icon of the Seas, departing on August 16, or Wonder of the Seas, which departs the following day. Other alternatives include rebooking to any other Royal Caribbean cruise, paying any difference in pricing, or requesting a full refund.

The 7,600-guest Star of the Seas will be powered by liquefied natural gas. It features three-story suites, an indoor AquaTheatre, and a first-of-its-kind swim-up bar. The Category 6 waterpark will feature six waterslides, while guests can choose more than 40 drinking and dining venues.