RCI-Royal Caribbean has designated musical legend Diana Ross as the official godmother of Star of the Seas, the fleet’s second ICON‑class vessel scheduled to debut in August 2025.
Ms. Ross will preside over the christening ceremony, to be held in the AquaTheater—a central feature of the new AquaDome neighbourhood—when the vessel sets sail from Port Canaveral, Florida, en route to its inaugural 7-night voyages to both the Eastern and Western Caribbean, including stops at CocoCay Bahamas.
By accepting the role, she upholds a time‑honoured maritime custom in which a godmother bestows her safeguard and symbolic protection upon a vessel, its crew, and its future passengers.
Michael Bayley (RCI’s President and CEO) expressed that Diana Ross is an ideal choice for this honour, describing her as “a true icon known for creating music that transcends generations while celebrating life and bringing people together”.
Star of the Seas blends beach resort indulgence, theme‑park thrills, and family escape across eight themed neighbourhoods. The ship will offer experiences such as the Category 6 waterpark, seven swimming pools, Broadway‑style entertainment—including Back to the Future: The Musical—and more than 40 dining opportunities. With this setting, Royal Caribbean aims to redefine the family vacation experience at sea.
Ms. Ross accepted the invitation to join the Royal Caribbean family, stating that after a lifelong career devoted to crafting memories and uniting global audiences through her music, this appointment feels like a natural extension of her journey.
Star of the Seas is slated to enter service on August 31, 2025, homeported at Port Canaveral, and will deliver 7‑night Caribbean itineraries, solidifying its role within Royal Caribbean’s expanding Icon class—designed to redefine large‑scale cruise travel.