Ship Comparison
Harmony of the Seas vs Star of the Seas
Harmony of the Seas offers a bustling, amenity-rich adventure, while Star of the Seas elevates the family resort experience with cutting-edge attractions and enhanced suite luxury.
The verdict
Choosing between Harmony of the Seas and Star of the Seas truly comes down to whether you prefer a well-established, recently refurbished mega-ship with a proven track record of diverse family fun, or the absolute latest in cruise innovation. Harmony, an Oasis-class marvel, is a vibrant floating theme park, packed with an astounding array of activities and entertainment that has delighted countless guests since its 2016 launch and 2021 refurbishment. It’s a fantastic choice for those who love a lively, energetic atmosphere and a huge selection of experiences. Star of the Seas, as Royal Caribbean's second Icon-class vessel launching in 2025, represents the pinnacle of modern cruising. It expands on the successful 'resort at sea' concept, offering an even more refined and extensive array of dining, activities, and cabin options, all while promising a focus on seamless family vacations with every sailing including a stop at Perfect Day at CocoCay. If you're seeking the newest, most innovative, and most comprehensive family-centric experience with a touch more luxury and dedicated neighborhoods for various moods, Star of the Seas will be a compelling choice.
Choose Harmony of the Seas if…
Families and groups who thrive on constant activity, diverse entertainment, and a lively, energetic onboard atmosphere, appreciating a ship that feels like a floating theme park.
Best for
- Families and groups seeking a high-energy, activity-packed vacation.
- Guests who enjoy a wide variety of entertainment, from Broadway shows to thrill rides.
- Cruisers who appreciate diverse dining options, including specialty restaurants.
- Those looking for a bustling, social atmosphere with plenty of nightlife.
Avoid if
- You prefer a quiet, intimate cruise experience with fewer crowds.
- You dislike large ships and a busy, theme-park-like environment.
- You are sensitive to noise, especially in public areas and certain cabin locations.
- You prioritize a very high crew-to-passenger ratio for individualized service.
Choose Star of the Seas if…
Families and first-time cruisers seeking the absolute latest in cruise ship innovation, with a focus on groundbreaking thrills, extensive dining variety, and a dedicated resort-like experience, especially those keen on frequent visits to Perfect Day at CocoCay.
Best for
- Families seeking the newest, most innovative, and comprehensive resort-at-sea experience.
- Thrill-seekers eager to try record-breaking attractions like the Category 6 Waterpark and Crown's Edge.
- Guests who value diverse dining, including unique new food hall concepts and refined specialty restaurants.
- Cruisers who want consistent access to Perfect Day at CocoCay on every sailing.
Avoid if
- You prefer a smaller, more traditional cruise ship experience.
- You are on a strict budget, as many of the best dining and some activities incur extra costs.
- You dislike being around many children or a high-energy family environment.
- You prefer a ship that offers a wider range of international itineraries beyond the Caribbean.
Overall Vibe
Harmony of the Seas
Harmony of the Seas, a grand Oasis-class vessel launched in 2016 and refurbished in 2021, truly embodies the spirit of a massive floating theme park. Spanning 16 decks and boasting an incredible array of activities, it's designed for guests who thrive on non-stop action and a lively atmosphere. The ship offers a vibrant, energetic setting, perfect for those seeking a dynamic family vacation where every corner holds a new adventure, from thrilling dry slides to Broadway-style shows. It's a place where excitement is always just around the corner, promising a vacation filled with memorable, high-energy moments for all.
Star of the Seas
Star of the Seas, debuting in 2025 as a new Icon-class ship, is poised to redefine the "resort at sea" experience. With 20 decks and a focus on innovative design, this vessel is crafted to offer a comprehensive, whimsically tropical, and family-friendly vacation. It expands upon the beloved Royal Caribbean concept with extensive new dining, activities, and distinct neighborhoods, promising record-breaking thrills and Caribbean chill for everyone. Star of the Seas aims to be Orlando's biggest adventure, an unmatched journey where every moment is a favorite family memory waiting to be made.
Atmosphere & Crowd
Harmony of the Seas
Step aboard Harmony of the Seas, and you'll immediately sense a bustling, high-energy environment. Carrying up to 6,779 passengers with a dedicated crew of 2,193, the ship maintains a lively, active vibe that appeals to families and groups seeking constant engagement. While its sheer size and numerous activities mean it's often busy, clever design elements, like the distinct "neighborhoods," help distribute guests, preventing it from feeling overwhelmingly crowded. The atmosphere is undeniably family-friendly, loud, and geared towards maximizing fun and social interaction.
Star of the Seas
Star of the Seas is set to deliver a family-friendly, resort-like atmosphere, built to accommodate up to 7,600 passengers across its 20 decks. Its design focuses on creating a vibrant, yet organized, tropical escape. The ship's eight distinct neighborhoods are crafted to offer diverse experiences, allowing guests to find their preferred pace, whether it's the lively Surfside for families or the serene Chill Island for adults. This thoughtful layout helps manage the large capacity, aiming for a dynamic environment that still offers pockets of relaxation amidst the excitement.
Dining
Harmony of the Seas
Harmony of the Seas offers a truly expansive culinary journey with 24 restaurants. Complimentary options range from the globally-inspired Main Dining Room and the bustling Windjammer buffet to casual bites at Sorrento's, Cafe Promenade, Boardwalk Dog House, and the fresh offerings at Park Cafe and Solarium Bistro. For an elevated experience, specialty venues abound, including the Japanese delights of Izumi Hibachi & Sushi, the vibrant Mexican flavors at Sabor, traditional American fare at Johnny Rockets and Chops Grille, and the imaginative molecular gastronomy of Wonderland. Suite guests enjoy exclusive access to Coastal Kitchen.
Star of the Seas
Star of the Seas ups the ante with 23 diverse dining options, emphasizing innovation and variety across its neighborhoods. Complimentary highlights include the new Surfside Eatery, quick bites at Surfside Bites, the 24/7 Pearl Cafe, and the significantly upgraded AquaDome Market, which is the fleet's first food hall featuring five unique stalls. Specialty dining boasts new experiences like the decadent Empire Supper Club, alongside returning favorites such as Chops Grille, Hooked Seafood, and Giovanni’s Italian Kitchen & Wine Bar. Suite guests benefit from exclusive access to Coastal Kitchen and The Grove.
Entertainment & Nightlife
Harmony of the Seas
Harmony of the Seas is a playground of entertainment, offering non-stop thrills and captivating shows. Adrenaline junkies can brave the 10-story Ultimate Abyss dry slide, soar on the Zipline, conquer The Perfect Storm waterslides, or test their skills on the FlowRiders and Rock Climbing Walls. Evenings come alive with Broadway productions like "Grease" in the Royal Theatre, mesmerizing AquaTheater and Ice Shows, and laughs at The Attic Comedy Club. Nightlife buzzes at venues like Boleros, Boot & Bonnet Pub, the unique Rising Tide Bar, Bionic Bar, and the lively Dazzles.
Star of the Seas
Star of the Seas promises record-breaking thrills and sensational entertainment with its groundbreaking features. The Category 6 Waterpark boasts six slides, including the Frightening Bolt and Hurricane Hunter. Guests can challenge themselves on Crown's Edge, Adrenaline Peak rock climbing, or the FlowRider. Evening entertainment is equally impressive, featuring "Back to the Future: The Musical" in the Royal Theater, ice spectaculars in Absolute Zero, and AquaTheater shows. Nightlife options range from the interactive Dueling Pianos and live jazz at Lou’s Jazz n’ Blues to the vibrant Music Hall and Casino Royale.
Cabins & Suites
Harmony of the Seas
Harmony of the Seas offers 2,747 cabins, from cozy interiors to expansive suites. Standard cabins, including Interior, Ocean View, and Balcony options, are thoughtfully designed with practical storage. Unique choices like Central Park or Boardwalk View Balconies offer vibrant "neighborhood" vistas, though privacy can be less. The ship excels in its suite offerings, with nine distinct types across Sea, Sky, and Star classes. Highlights include spacious Junior Suites, multi-bedroom Royal Family Suites, two-level Crown Loft Suites, and the opulent Royal Loft Suite, all offering escalating levels of perks and Personalized services.
Star of the Seas
Star of the Seas features 2,805 cabins across 28 categories, with approximately 70% boasting a balcony. All cabins accommodate at least three guests, reflecting its family-centric design. Innovative options include the Family Infinite Ocean View Balcony, which transforms the living space into an ocean-front balcony at the touch of a button, and the Surfside Family View Interior overlooking the family neighborhood. The suite experience is elevated with 10 categories, from Sunset Junior Suites to the three-story Ultimate Family Townhouse, offering exclusive access to The Grove Sun Deck and dedicated Royal Genies for Star Tier guests.
Service & Onboard Style
Harmony of the Seas
On Harmony of the Seas, the service is generally attentive, aiming to provide a seamless experience despite the ship's bustling atmosphere. The onboard style is vibrant and energetic, reflecting its focus on family fun and active adventures. Guests in Sky Class and above receive concierge service, while Star Class guests benefit from a dedicated Royal Genie, offering highly Personalized assistance throughout their voyage. This tiered service ensures that while all guests receive good care, those in higher suite categories enjoy a distinctly elevated and tailored experience.
Star of the Seas
Star of the Seas embraces a sophisticated yet fun resort-like style, with service tailored to its diverse clientele. While specific crew numbers are not provided, the emphasis on distinct "neighborhoods" and specialized venues suggests a well-distributed and attentive staff. Suite guests, particularly those in Sky and Star Tiers, enjoy enhanced services, including concierge support and the highly Personalized Royal Genie assistance, which ensures a bespoke cruising experience. The overall approach is to blend high-energy activities with refined comforts, making every guest feel cared for amidst the ship's expansive offerings.
Best Itineraries
Harmony of the Seas
Harmony of the Seas offers a variety of compelling itineraries, primarily focusing on the warm waters of the Caribbean and the cultural richness of the Mediterranean. Guests can enjoy 7-night Eastern and Western Caribbean cruises, often including a stop at the popular Perfect Day at CocoCay. For those seeking European charm, there are 7-night Western Mediterranean cruises from Barcelona, alongside shorter 3-night Spain & France getaways. Additionally, longer 13-night Spain Transatlantic and 16-night Spain & Bahamas Transatlantic voyages are available, offering extended sea days and diverse port calls.
Star of the Seas
Star of the Seas is set to offer immersive Caribbean experiences, with all its sailings featuring a stop at the highly-rated Perfect Day at CocoCay. Guests can choose from 7-night Eastern Caribbean & Perfect Day cruises or 7-night Western Caribbean & Perfect Day voyages. These itineraries are designed to maximize time in sunny destinations, blending the ship's extensive onboard activities with the unique island adventures available at Royal Caribbean's private destination. The focus is squarely on delivering the "world's best family vacation" with consistent access to this premier private island experience.
What reviewers say
Harmony of the Seas
4.5/5Harmony of the Seas is a massive floating theme park offering an astounding number of activities and entertainment options. It's an excellent choice for families and those seeking a high-energy, fun-filled cruise experience at sea.
Star of the Seas
Star of the Seas, Royal Caribbean's second Icon-class vessel, debuts in August 2025 as one of the world's largest cruise ships, offering a comprehensive, family-friendly resort-like experience. It expands on the Oasis Class concept with extensive dining, activities, and cabin options, featuring notable upgrades and variations from its sister ship, Icon of the Seas.
Itineraries to compare
Pick an itinerary on either ship to see all available departure dates.
Harmony of the Seas
Star of the Seas
Read our guides
In-depth guides on the ships and cruise lines in this comparison.
Ship Guide
Harmony of the Seas: An Oasis of Family Adventures
Discover a floating theme park with endless activities, from thrilling slides to award-winning kids' clubs, perfect for all ages.
Ship Guide
Star of the Seas: Royal Caribbean's New Family Adventure
Set sail August 2025 on a comprehensive, resort-like cruise designed for all ages.
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