Agents praise innovation of new Royal Caribbean ship Star of the Seas

Senior UK travel agents have praised the level of innovation on new Royal Caribbean ship Star of the Seas and the range of options on board for families and adults. 

 

The agents were among those on the shakedown of the vessel, which is the largest in the world, as it sailed from Port Canaveral to Royal Caribbean’s private island, Perfect Day at Coco Cay.

 

They highlighted the amount on offer to appeal to all ages across the different neighbourhoods, from kids’ entertainment in Surfside to the adult-only Hideaway, along with an “elevated” approach to design and entertainment.

 

More: Royal Caribbean EMEA chief aims to do ‘a lot more’ with UK trade

 

Lindsay Haslehurst, head of product and commercial at World Travel Holidays UK, was impressed by the range of family experiences on offer which she enjoyed with her 16-year-old son.

 

She said: “The highlight for me is definitely the water park – the level of slides is amazing and my son has done all of them at least three times over.”

 

Haslehurst added the neighbourhood concept on Star “caters very well” to families both with younger and older kids, adding she also has a seven-year-old who would “love the Surfside area of the ship”.

 

Barrhead Travel president Jacqueline Dobson highlighted the Royal Promenade as a standout feature of the ship.

 

She said: “There is something on here for everybody. It caters for every type of holidaymaker or cruiser, from multigeneration families to singles and adults.”

 

Maxine Bracewell, owner of Travelmax.co.uk, said the ship’s design, furnishings and amenities made it feel like a “luxury experience at a more affordable price”.

 

She added the ship offered huge value for customers looking for a quality experience, with lots of space and choices of dining and activities on board.

 

Bracewell said: “I loved discovering the area around the Hideaway which has a suspended infinity pool because it is adult-only and has a lovely beach club ambience with brilliant tunes, lovely staff and amazing views.”

 

Jonny Peat, senior commercial manager for cruise at The Advantage Travel Partnership, said his highlight from the voyage was the day spent at Perfect Day at Coco Cay.

 

He added: “It was a complete sensory overload and the walk-up to see all the different areas was incredible.”

 

Peat also said the Back to the Future musical, which is only on Star and has previously had a run on Broadway, was a big draw as entertainment is included in the fare.

 

“You would pay a fortune to see that show in London and that’s what makes it brilliant value for families,” he added.

 

Star’s naming ceremony will take place on August 20 with astronaut Kellie Gerardi acting as godmother, after which the ship will operate seven-day Caribbean itineraries.