The Royal Caribbean Star of the Seas is one of the most exciting new cruise ships in 2026 — a massive Icon-class vessel with 20 decks, thousands of passengers onboard, and features that make it more than just a ship; it’s a floating resort.
This guide breaks down the deck plans and the best hidden spots and secrets you’ll want to know before your adventure at sea.
➤ Star of the Seas — Overall Ship Layout
Star of the Seas has 20 decks with a mix of cabins, entertainment venues, dining, waterslides, pools, and indoor neighborhoods.
Here’s a high-level deck structure:
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Deck 2–6: Guest services, specialty dining venues, lounges, shops, and entertainment spaces
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Deck 7–14: Most staterooms and suites — including balconies, ocean views, and family cabins
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Deck 15–19: Pools, waterpark, entertainment zones, adult retreats, and outdoor bars
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Deck 20: Category 6 Waterpark — largest waterpark at sea with record-breaking slides and family pools
Royal Caribbean’s official deck plan shows all stairs, elevators, venues, and location blocks for restaurants and bars.
➤ Best Zones on the Deck Plans (Quick Guide)
Here are the must-know deck zones to help you plan your flow onboard:
🌊 Category 6 Waterpark — Top Deck (Deck 20)
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Massive slide complex with multiple record-breaking waterslides
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Large family pool areas and splash zones
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Perfect for kids, teens, and thrill seekers
🎢 Thrill & Family Zones — Upper Decks
Look for the rooftop thrill rides and activity areas typically placed high on the ship:
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Crown’s Edge — a skywalk-style thrill feature with daring views
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Rock wall and mini-golf areas
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Surf simulator / FlowRider zone
🍽️ Dining & Lounges — Midship Decks
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Diverse dining spots (buffets, specialty restaurants, lounges)
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Bars and nightlife venues are spread across several mid decks — check the deck plan legend to match your preferences
🛏️ Cabins & Suites — Core Deck Bands
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Deck 7–14: Standard and balcony rooms
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Sister ship trends: Expect Infinite Balcony rooms and panoramic suites with better ocean views — ideal for stateroom insights when choosing cabins.
Star of the Seas also carries a huge cabins inventory (up to ~2,800 rooms) with multiple categories.
🧠 Hidden Spots & Secrets You’ll Love
Beyond the obvious attractions, there are less obvious places and experiences that seasoned cruisers will tell you:
🌅 1) Quiet Ocean-View Lounges (Back of Upper Decks)
On some upper decks — especially toward the stern — you’ll find quiet loungers and padded chairs overlooking the ship’s wake, perfect for peaceful reading or sunset views.
Secret Tip: Visit early in the morning or during peak pool hours to snag a good quiet seat.
🌙 2) Back-Deck Sunsets
The aft sections of upper decks often offer unobstructed ocean sunsets. These aren’t always marked on official deck plans but are beloved by sunset chasers.
Best Time: 30 minutes before official sunset — find a bench with sea views.
🍹 3) Hidden Bars & Nooks
Large ships like Star of the Seas often hide small, boutique bars off the main promenade or tucked behind bigger venues — perfect for a quiet drink or a date night away from crowds.
Deck Map Tip: Look for lounges on decks above public dining zones.
🎭 4) Entertainment Overflow Spots
If the main theater fills up, look for secondary lounges with live music or shows — often on mid decks near specialty dining zones.
Secret Insight: These spots aren’t always listed prominently but are great for spontaneous fun.
🧒 5) Kid & Teen Nooks
While Social020 and family areas are well-known, there are small lounge corners near those zones ideal for older teens or adults who still want to be near the action without being in it.
🍴 Dining & Bar Secrets
Star of the Seas — like other Icon-class ships — features a huge mix of dining options, from casual buffet spots to specialty restaurants.
💡 Hidden Hack: Check later dining times at venue entrances — some specialty spots release last-minute tables if you walk in close to opening time.
💡 Local Favorites: Smaller bars on the side decks often have shorter lines than the main pool deck bars.
📍 Best Suites & Views (Deck Plan Insight)
Many cruisers agree the best cabins combine location and view:
⭐ Infinite Balcony & Ocean View Balcony Rooms
These offer expansive views and are usually found on mid- to upper-deck bands — perfect for morning sea watching.
🏙️ Panoramic Suites
Larger cabins with wide views over the bow and aft. Great for honeymooners or first-time cruisers wanting an experience upgrade.
🧭 How to Use the Deck Plans Before You Sail
Here’s how to maximize your deck plan knowledge before boarding:
✔ Mark your cabin location and nearest elevators/stairs
✔ Pin pool, waterpark, and dining decks for quick navigation
✔ Find quiet nooks, sunset views, and lounges on upper decks
✔ Note entertainment and theater zones for scheduling shows
Official Royal Caribbean deck plans show all venues, elevators, and stair locations — use them in print or on your phone.
Final Thought
The Star of the Seas in 2026 isn’t just big — it’s designed to surprise. Grab your deck plan before you go, then explore — especially the hidden nooks and quiet lounges on upper decks. Between the world-class waterpark, specialty dining, and secret ocean-view perches, this ship delivers something fun for every kind of cruiser.
