I've sailed on Royal Caribbean's Star of the Seas four times, and compared what it was like to try a balcony cabin after a week in an Infinite Grand Suite.

The two cruises were just a few months apart, but the room itself wasn't nearly the biggest difference as what you got with the room.

No matter if it's a tiny inside room or a sprawling suite, I find I adjust to my stateroom and take advantage of what it happens to offer. There are pros and cons to any room, so I can usually rationalize the benefits of picking one cabin or another.

In just four months, I sailed twice on Star of the Seas in different staterooms, but what really changed the experience was what came with the suite.

Why I ended up trying both cabin types

The first cruise I took with my family was over Thanksgiving, and I wanted to do something special since it was their first time on the new cruise ship.

I booked an Infinite Grand Suite because it had so much space and came with extra suite class benefits. 

Many of our readers know I'm a Pinnacle Club member and can get access to some suite areas of the ship, but if there are too many other Pinnacles that have a higher point total than me, I could be turned away from it. I wanted to make sure I had access.

On the second cruise over spring break, I decided to save money and book an oceanview balcony instead.

I would be risking the suite benefits access, but I'd be saving a heck of a lot of money.  The cost difference was significant, and I wanted to go with a budget-friendly option.

I think my decision to book one cabin over the other is something a lot of cruisers do. Prioritizing budget or a special occasion and choosing a stateroom based on that.

What my balcony cabin experience was really like

A balcony cabin is one of my default go-to choices on almost any cruise because it's so versatile and an efficient space.

There's more living room than in an inside room, and that private balcony still feels like a big upgrade.

Usually, it doesn't "break the bank" either with the combination of value versus what you get.

What's interesting to me is how I usually look for a balcony cabin first, but I rarely spend much out there.  Between everything happening onboard the ship and the weather factors outside, I don't actually go out there a lot.

I recognize others relish spending time on their balcony.  I certainly don't think they're wrong. 

I probably get more value from the balcony because it has plenty of natural light, and I can easily step outside to gauge the temperature or check out what's nearby.

Infinite Grand Suite was better, but that's not the whole story

Moving up to an Infinite Grand Suite, this is far from one of the largest or most impressive suites on Star of the Seas. But I think Royal Caribbean really offers one of its best uses of living space.

Walking into the Infinite Grand Suite, it felt palatial with how much more living space there was, especially if it's just two people.

You have three main sections: the bedroom, the living room, and the convertible balcony area.

Each section is massive, and because the room is so wide and so long, it really feels like you have lots of room to spread out.

The game-changer here is the infinite balcony.  I used to hate them, but I changed my mind and I think it's a really smart idea.  We keep our window closed the entire cruise and take back the balcony space to make it a secondary living room. It's great for getting work done, reading a book, or lounging somewhere when someone else is sprawling elsewhere.

It's a very nice room, but the real upgrade starts outside the cabin.

The special access that actually made the suite worth it

I think Royal Caribbean has outdone itself with the suite-only amenities on its Icon Class ships.  While suite areas are lovely on other ships, it's been taken to a different level on Star.

I find having access to suite-only areas changes my daily routine.

I'll head up in the morning to the Suite Sun Deck because there is always space, no chair stress.  Plus, having The Grove means I not only have convenient food choices, but it's a darn good selection of food too!

I love to have a pre-dinner cocktail in the Suite Lounge. While I don't think the layout of the Suite Lounge is the best in the fleet, I love when there's an actual bar to sit at and have a conversation with the bartenders or other guests.

Suite guests get complimentary beer, wine, or soft drinks from 11am to 11pm, and a happy hour in the evening.  This is another added reason to book a suite instead of relying on my Pinnacle status.

And of course, having access to the Coastal Kitchen restaurant will spoil you.

I think this might be the biggest differentiator because it offers a fantastic alternative to the Main Dining Room. It's so nice having the choice between the two complimentary venues.

Another great benefit of being in a suite is how much less stress there is with crowd and lines.

On embarkation day, there's a dedicated entrance for suite guests. There is a special line for security and check-in, which means less waiting and getting onboard faster.

At each of the shows, there is reserved seating for suite guests. You still need to make a reservation, but it's great there is a special area to rely on if you're running behind schedule.

Who will feel a suite is absolutely worth it

Suites aren't inexpensive, and there's a notable difference between that and a balcony room.  So to help justify the costs, I'd say certain guests might find more reason to try it.

Certainly repeat cruisers who know the "pain points" of a Royal Caribbean cruise will have a greater appreciation for having suite benefits. A newbie would enjoy it, but a repeat cruiser would find more value.

Of course, anyone that hates crowds or waiting is likely to see reason to try a suite.  Suites have always been the "easy button" for cruisers that prefer to pay for an elevated experience.

And if you'll seek out these special suite-only areas, I think it will maximize the value of a suite.

Royal Caribbean offers the most suite perks on its Icon Class ships. Granted, the cost is the highest for these rooms too, but you do have more to show for it.

I expected a bigger room. What I got instead was a better cruise

A cruise is what you make of it, and I think the added perks of staying in a suite greatly enhanced my experience.

A balcony will give you a great cruise, but a suite will change how you experience it.

I'll continue to book all kinds of staterooms in the future, but I think anytime I sail on an Icon Class ship, I'll want to give a suite a strong second look.

Royal Caribbean's newest ships have some of the most opulent suites at sea. 

Wallet-friendly cruisers will appreciate the affordable, albeit windowless, inside cabins. However, those with a larger vacation budget will appreciate splurging on a stateroom within Star of the Seas' Royal Suite Class.

From the somewhat-justifiable Sky Junior Suites to the multi-deck Ultimate Family Townhouse, guests staying within the Royal Suite Class will be treated to an elevated cruise experience, complete with access to a suite-only sun deck and dining room, upgraded bathrooms, spacious accommodations, and more. 

Beci Mahnken, the founder and CEO of MEI-Travel, shared photos of the Owner's Suite on Star of the Seas, Royal Caribbean's newest Icon Class ship. Mahnken has over 25 years of experience and specializes in Disney vacations, Universal trips, and the major cruise lines.

"Love the color palette of this one-bedroom onboard Star of the Seas—calming, polished, and effortlessly relaxing. It’s the kind of space that makes it easy to unwind… or convince yourself a nap is absolutely necessary before dinner," she said on Facebook.

Onboard Star of the Seas, there are eight Owner's Suites — all located within the Suite Neighborhood on Decks 16 and 17. Mahnken stayed in cabin #17012, which is one deck below the Grove suite-only sun deck. 

Like the other Sky Class suites, the Owner's Suite aboard Star of the Seas isn't the cheapest cabin on board. According to Royal Caribbean's website, an ocean-view balcony aboard Star's June 27, 2027, sailing starts at $2,592 per person. Comparatively, Owner's Suite comes in at around $14,908 per passenger, or $29,814 for a 7-night cruise for two people.

Here's a photo tour of an Owner's Suite on Star of the Seas, Royal Caribbean's newest Icon Class ship, sailing from Port Canaveral, Florida, to the Eastern and Western Caribbean.

Read more: 7 things I wish I knew before my first cruise on Star of the Seas

Indoor and outdoor living areas

With over 650 square feet of interior living space, the Owner's Suite on Star of the Seas isn't your standard cruise cabin. Rather, the spacious suite offers plenty of room to entertain and relax. 

In addition to a comfy sectional, the living area has a small dining table, making it easy to enjoy meals in your suite. For example, if the weather is inclement, you can opt for room service breakfast inside and not have to worry about cramming around the small coffee table. 

Moving on, the traditional living space also serves as an extra sleeping area, with the sectional converting into a double sofa bed when needed. Along with the Royal King (which can be split into two twin-sized beds), the Owner's Suite can sleep up to four guests.

The 190-square-foot balcony isn't as jaw-dropping as the verandahs found in some of the larger Star Class suites — think the Royal Loft Suite or the Ultimate Family Townhouse. 

Still, the plush seating and al fresco dining table ensure that the private retreat is versatile. Whether you want to catch up on your to-be-read (TBR) list or host an evening cocktail hour, the balcony's space is easily adaptable. 

Owner's Suite bedroom

The Owner's Suite aboard Star of the Seas has a separate bedroom, giving the primary passengers more privacy. The sleeping area is thoughtfully designed, too, with the bed positioned toward the floor-to-ceiling windows so guests can enjoy uninterrupted ocean views.

Storage space is also plentiful in the room. There's a large closet, built-in drawers, hooks, and more, which allows passengers to unpack and keep everything organized during their vacation. 

Star of the Seas' Owner's Suite has an upgraded vanity area, too. Tucked just off the closet area, the vanity features a well-lit mirror, generous counter space, and multiple outlet sockets. 

Perhaps one of the most impressive spaces in the suite is the expansive bathroom, which forgoes the traditional capsule showers and cramped counters.

Instead, the bathroom has a nice soaking tub, a separate shower, and a massive vanity with dual sinks. The blue tile immediately catches your eye and adds a vibrant pop of color that blends with the stateroom's color palette. 

Read more: Royal Caribbean suites guide & review

Royal Caribbean Owner's Suite perks

Royal Caribbean's Royal Suite Class is comprised of three different tiers: Sea, Sky, and Star. The Owner's Suite falls within the Sky Class tier. While it does not include some of the perks reserved for Star Class guests, it comes with a slew of benefits that definitely enhance the overall onboard experience. 

Perks for the Sky Class Owner's Suite on Star of the Seas include:

• Concierge Service
• All-Day Access to Coastal Kitchen*
• Specialty Bottled Water (upon arrival)
• VOOM, The Fastest Internet at Sea
• Flexible Arrival Boarding & Priority Departure
• Priority Dining Reservations
• Reserved seating section in select entertainment venues (reservations required)
• Suite Lounge Access
• Access to The Grove Suite Sun Deck:
• Royal Caribbean Plush Bathrobes for use onboard
• Luxury Pillow Top Mattress and Linen
• Luxury Bathroom Amenities
• Lavazza Espresso Coffee Machine 

I ate so much good food on my Royal Caribbean cruise aboard Star of the Seas. In fact, a few were really fantastic.

Every cruise has a wide variety of food, and I'll admit I often go on cruises purely for the food.  The destinations it visits are great, the shows are wonderful, but all the food brings me back each and every time.  

If there's one area you'll notice an improvement with a new vs old cruise ship, it's the food. Royal Caribbean has steadily upped its food game over the years, and each new ship represents a step forward with new options.

After 7 nights on Star of the Seas for a spring break cruise, here are the seven dishes I ordered that I couldn't get enough of during my voyage.

I ordered the chicken parmigiana at Giovanni's Italian twice, because it was so good

My staple for any Italian restaurant is chicken parmigiana, because it's reliably good and can be used as a barometer for the restaurant as a whole.

We ate at Giovanni's Italian Kitchen twice during our cruise (because we had a dining package), and I ordered this dish twice.

The chicken parm here was huge, had a good mix of sauce and cheese, and the chicken wasn't rubbery, too flat, or tough. 

I ordered a side of spaghetti to go with it, but it came with spaghetti and it was just the right amount to compliment the chicken.

All the food at Giovanni's is freshly prepared, and this is one of many dishes I love with the new menu offered.  Shout out to the margherita pizza, giant meatball, and house salad as being really good too.

I always order the sushi platter at Izumi as one of my dishes

I'm no stranger to Izumi sushi on any ship, but I'd be lying if I said I didn't love the sushi on Star of the Seas too.

When you eat at Izumi, you have the choice of a few different small dishes, entrees, and dessert. Regardless of how many times I eat here, I think I always order at least one sushi platter.

There are two choices: Chef's Sushi Selection and Assorted Sashimi. The difference is nigiri vs sashimi rolls, and depending on my mood, I might pick one over the other.

On this occasion, I went with the Chef's Sushi Selection because the rice seemed like a good idea.

Not only is this a tasty option, but it's also an excellent value for how many rolls you get for the price.

I started ordering a chocolate croissant at Pearl Cafe with my morning coffee

I'm not a breakfast guy. I need have an iced coffee everyday and that's usually it until lunch.

But if we have shore plans, I'll grab something to eat so I'm not hangry at 10:30.  The chocolate croissant from Pearl Cafe looked nice, so I ordered it.  And then I ordered it again every single day the offered it.

Pearl Cafe seems to alternate between two breakfast menus each day, so I could only have the chocolate croissant every other day.

I love the combination of a buttery croissant with the richness of chocolate. 

I've had similar pastries on other European cruises, and Royal Caribbean's version is pretty darn good. Tasty, quick, and the perfect compliment to my coffee.

The internet said the smash burger at Basecamp is the best, but I didn't believe them. They were so right

Last year we asked our readers for the best snacks on Royal Caribbean, and so many people said the smash burger was it.

I was skeptical that it was that good, or that it could be better than the burger at the Windjammer.  

I was so wrong.

Basecamp has quickly become one of the best restaurant ideas to come out of the Icon Class, and I think the smash burger is a great example.

Smash burgers are regular burgers, but pressed into a super hot griddle until it gets a deeply caramelized crispy crust. Add onions, lettuce, pickles, and a tomato, and you get a winner.

I grabbed one for a late-afternoon snack and I was really impressed how good it tasted.  Not only was it better than the Windjammer burgers, but after wolfing one down, I wanted another.

The best steak on Star of the Seas is the filet mignon at Hooked

I recently came around to liking Hooked Seafood again after years of hating on it, and the filet mignon is a top reason why.

You can make arguments for the filet mignon from Chops, Coastal Kitchen, or Giovanni's being the best steak on the ship. But I really think Hooked was the best I had.

It's simple, but it's a generous sized cut of meat and cooked well.

I think I like the seasoning they use primarily as the difference maker. I'm not a "sauce on my steak" guy.

Ultimately, I think this steak doesn't try to do too much, and because it's a decent sized cut, is something I'd order any day.

Shout out for the blackened salmon, which is also quite good!

The Playmakers chicken tenders became my ultimate comfort food

Our cruise went over the NCAA Basketball March Madness tournament, so I found myself spending a lot of time in Playmakers Sports Bar.

The chicken tenders are giant hunks of breaded chicken, and I think it pairs so well with the BBQ sauce you can get to go with them.

Every time I went to Playmakers, I'd order them. Even when I was just there for a drink. It's a solid meal in and of itself, as well as being the kind of snack you can pick at.

Plus, it's served with french fries that are equally addictive to snack on while watching a game and drinking a beer.

While the nachos, burger, and crunch rolls at Playmakers are all quite tasty, I found it was the tenders I wanted to have first, every time.

I had at least 3 or 4 falafel bowls from Aquadome Market, because it was both good and didn't make me feel guilty

It's easier to snack if you can tell yourself it's "healthy", and that's exactly what I did at Aquadome Market.

Royal Caribbean's food hall is my favorite included restaurant, and I think I must have gone up there at least 3 or 4 times during my cruise. It might have been more.

The Feta hall has the option of falafel, chicken, or pork to be used in a pita or bowl.

I used to order the pita bread, but it's nearly impossible to eat without making a giant mess all over yourself.  I switched to the bowl to make it more manageable and then justified having more because there were less carbs.

I'm all for dishes made fresh and customized the way I want it. All veggies, no feta, extra hummus.

I wish they'd make the falafel fresh rather than in batches, but it's still so darn satisfying.

Royal Caribbean's new cabin design solves the noise problem in connecting rooms.

In March, I went on Star of the Seas for a 7-night cruise to Mexico and Honduras and I paid $2597.34 for each category CB stateroom.

I booked two connecting balcony rooms so that we had separation from my kids and we had two bathrooms, which has become a must-have when cruising with teenagers.

We stayed in cabins 12696 and 12698, which is on deck 12 and a short walk from the aft elevators.

After a few days, I regretted not booking our rooms on a lower deck.  I like to rely on the stairs to quickly get down to the Royal Promenade, but I wish I had a cabin on deck 8 or 9 instead because the walk would have been shorter.

Regardless of deck, I prefer to pick a cabin near the elevators to reduce the walking distance and increase convenience.

I've stayed in connecting rooms before, but there's a major difference with them on Star of the Seas. Instead of a connecting door inside the room, there's now a new feature that I think is pure genius.

Royal Caribbean added a pair of outside doors to solve a problem connecting cabins traditionally had of the interior common door being flimsy and not very soundproof.

The idea with these rooms is you can close off the outside doors and then keep your primary cabin door open or unlocked so you can easily go between each.

The advantage of this approach is if you don't know someone in the other connecting cabin, you don't have an interior door to contend with.  It's a wonderful little fix.

This seemingly solves the reason why connecting rooms were on our list of cabins to avoid on a cruise ship.

Access to the outside door still requires a tap of the RFID Seapass card (or Wow Band), and you can open or close the outer doors anytime you want.

The flexibility to deploy the outside doors or not meant we could keep it simple during the day, but close them at night in case us or the kids needed to pass through the rooms quickly.

Walking into the cabin, it's far from a giant cabin.  This is a standard balcony room with enough room for two passengers to comfortably enjoy it.

The king size bed is found immediately as we pass into the room. Like most Royal Caribbean beds, it can be split apart upon request.

On both sides of the bed is a reading light switch, along with a USB-A outlet.

There is a large closet near the bed, which is where most of the storage space is located.

Royal Caribbean provides hangers for your use, so you don't need to bring any extras with you.

The most controversial thing about this cabin are the wire baskets at the bottom.

Instead of drawers there are these heavy black baskets that screech every time you pull or push them in because they rub against the wood below it.

Frankly, I hate this and don't understand why the baskets were ever approved given how loud they are to slide in and out. Plus, I don't love the idea of my garments being visible from within the basket.

Some of our readers suggested removing the baskets and hiding them under the bed, which is a pretty good idea.

Next to the closet is a full-length mirror, which if you pull it open, reveals the safe.

Kind of a neat idea to hide the safe behind the mirror.

There is a large television across from the bed, which has a few channels to watch.  My favorite is the non-stop Back to the Future movies channel loop. 

Next to the TV are a set of shelves, with an extra USB outlet here. I'm not certain why there's a USB outlet, but it's there.

There is a vanity as you move deeper into the cabin, which also has additional drawers.

The vanity has a mirror and many power outlets. There is a universal AC outlet, along with one USB-A and one USB-C outlet.

Opposite the vanity is a sofa, which ends up being the "place all our junk gets put on".  But theoretically, you could sit or lay on it.

The balcony is accessible via a sliding door, where you'll find two chairs and a table.

Having a balcony room is such a nice plus. It's a wonderful space to enjoy and just large enough for two people to comfortably be out there. 

Back inside the room, the bathroom is small, but the space is used effectively.

The best thing about a bathroom on Star of the Seas is the shower. 

Instead of a tubular shape, Royal Caribbean has a much wider option with sliding door and even a bench. 

Overall, connecting balcony rooms are my favorite option for families that want to cruise together, but not share the same room.

Suites are so much more expensive than connecting rooms. Plus, this new connecting outside door idea is a really smart upgrade for families, or a lovely workaround if you happen to end up in a connecting balcony room and don't know the people in the other room.

Late-night food on a cruise doesn't seem important in the months before your vacation, but when it's 12:37 a.m., the shows are over, the casino’s still buzzing, and suddenly you’re starving.

Royal Caribbean has evolved its food game. Traditionally, it might have been a slice of pizza or waiting for room service. But on the new ships, there are way more late-night food options than you might expect, and some of them are really good.

So instead of guessing, I stayed up late and tried them all while sailing. For the purposes of this test, I considered any time after 10 p.m. "late night".

From grab-and-go snacks to surprisingly good hot food, I ranked every late-night option on Star of the Seas to figure out what’s actually worth your time.

Sorrento's

There's a reason that you can get pizza by the slice on every single Royal Caribbean cruise ship late at night. It's not the best pizza in the world, but darn if a greasy slice doesn't hit the spot.

Sorrento's is open all day, but stays open very late. On Star of the Seas, the ship's pizza joint is open until 3 a.m.

There's always cheese and pepperoni slices available, and usually one or two other variations that change daily. 

Located on the Royal Promenade, it's convenient and also incredibly popular. 

When I asked Royal Caribbean International President and CEO Michael Bayley his favorite food on Icon of the Seas, he said it was a slice of pepperoni pizza. For him, it was tradition to enjoy pizza on a cruise.

As a pizza snob myself, I would never gloat over the quality of it. But it has a thin bottom and a pretty good crust.  The slices are small, but load up with 2 or 3, and you're ready to soak up the next round of drinks.

Aquadome Market

Royal Caribbean's food hall is as impressive as a snack stop as it is for a full meal.

Aquadome Market is open until midnight, offering not just a quick bite to eat late at night, but you can also go for a second dinner, too.

When I went up for a visit at 11 p.m., there was a giant line for the crepes. It might have had a longer line than even Sorrento's.  And I can't say I blame anyone who waited in that line.

The crepes are made on the spot just the way you like them: Nutella, banana, chocolate, caramel, or strawberry. 

Around the corner, there are 4 other options with barely any line. 

My favorite late-night snack has to be a good falafel wrap. Ever since I started cruising to Europe, I have fallen in love with falafel or shawarma wraps.  

Call me crazy, but I think these are also healthier than a few slices of pizza. If I'm wrong, please don't tell me so I can continue indulging.

You could opt for a brisket sandwich, Thai bowl, or arepas. All of it included!

Playmakers Sports Bar

If you don't mind spending a few dollars, Playmakers Sports Bar has the bar food to go along with those beers and cocktails.

Bar food just hits right, especially nachos, onion rings, or a buffalo crunch wrap.

My family loves to have dessert here because Playmakers has the best dessert ever: the Campfire Cookie.

It's warm, gooey, sweet, and the kind of dessert that there is no way you're going to leave anything behind.  

Plus, if you're used to having bar food with your late-night drinks, this is your best bet.

The real problem with Playmakers is that the kitchen is only open until 11 p.m., so you've gotta plan ahead if you want late-night nachos.

Pearl Cafe

The only true option that's available any hour of the night, Pearl Cafe is open 24 hours and is the last refuge for the weary-eyed party animal.

There are desserts, sandwiches, and even fruits or vegetables. Heck, you could grab a coffee to power through the next marathon Blackjack session.

I tried the Oreo cheesecake, which was about as indulgent as you can get without paying for the Campfire Cookie. It may be small, but it was a solid serving of cheesecake.

I saw something called a Coconut Cheese Custard, which looked as strange as the name sounded. I decided to try it out in the name of research.

It wasn't as bad as I expected, but it also wasn't good either.  It had a gelatinous consistency to it. Maybe with enough drinks, this will be your must-eat choice.

It's hard to deny the variety of food choices available at Pearl Cafe. It's a major upgrade from Cafe Promenade, and I think an impressive array of choices.

Honorable mentions for not-so-late-night snacks

There are two other venues that close at 10 p.m., but could work for a snack if you're taking a break before the shenanigans really start.

There are two Sprinkles locations on Icon Class ships: the pool deck and Surfside.  The location on the pool deck stays open until 10 p.m.

Soft-serve froyo is great, but I think it's usually an opportunistic snack you would get as you walk past it and think, "Oh! Ice cream sounds great."

The other good idea is Sugar Beach for even more flavors of ice cream (or candy).

Also closing at 10 p.m., Sugar Beach is probably where your kids would want to stop for food while you're between sips of your drink.

I think Aquadome Market has the overall best food, but it's not open as late as other spots

If we're judging this competition purely on the food offered, Aquadome Market wins in a landslide.

They have so much variety and good quality.  You can have a couple of bites or a full meal. And it's all included in your cruise fare.

Sorrento's is a close second because it's open much later, and it seems the later at night it gets, the better their pizza tastes.

Plus, Sorrento's is on the Royal Promenade, making it a very convenient option if you're at the Schooner Bar, Dueling Pianos, or Pub.

Members of the U.S. Coast Guard (USCG) jumped into action last week to rescue a sick passenger on the Star of the Seas cruise ship. 

Members of the USCG Sector San Juan were called regarding a cruise guest who needed to be medically evacuated from one of the world's largest ships. 

In response, an MH-60T Jayhawk aircrew was deployed from Air Station Borinquen to reach and rescue the 64-year-old passenger while the cruise ship was 200 nautical miles northwest of Aguadilla, Puerto Rico. 

(Credit: U.S. Coast Guard Sector San Juan/Facebook)

Footage shared by the USCG shows the ill passenger being carefully hoisted from the ship’s helipad in a rescue basket, followed by a USCG crew member who returned last to the helicopter.

In addition to the passenger, the crew rescued his next of kin and the cruise ship nurse. They were then safely transported to Centro Médico Hospital for further medical treatment.

(Credit: U.S. Coast Guard Sector San Juan/Facebook)

"This was a great example of the professionalism of all of the Coast Guard units, medical professionals, and the crew of Star of the Seas to execute an early morning hoist of the patient," said Lt. Nicholas Forsythe, Coast Guard Air Station Borinquen copilot for the case. 

"The coordinated efforts ensured the individual was able to safely reach the higher level of care he required."

(Credit: U.S. Coast Guard Sector San Juan/Facebook)

Star of the Seas was on a 7-night Eastern Caribbean cruise from Port Canaveral (Orlando), Florida, when the dramatic rescue unfolded. 

According to the USCG's Facebook post, USCG Sector San Juan was notified on Monday, March 9, 2026, about the ill passenger. As such, the medical evacuation happened early on during the cruise while en route to St. Thomas. 

(Credit: U.S. Coast Guard Sector San Juan/Facebook)

Other ports of call on the weeklong voyage included Perfect Day at CocoCay and Phillipsburg, St. Maarten. Star of the Seas returned to Florida as planned on Sunday, March 15. 

Medical evacuations are tricky. Rough seas and strong winds can make rescue missions difficult. It's not uncommon for cruise ships to adjust their course or speed, possibly making an unscheduled stop to safely evacuate passengers. 

(Credit: U.S. Coast Guard Sector San Juan/Facebook)

In November 2025, for example, Star of the Seas suddenly diverted to Nassau, Bahamas, after a fun-filled day at Perfect Day at CocoCay to disembark an ailing cruise guest. 

Also in November, Allure of the Seas returned to her homeport of Fort Lauderdale, Florida, due to a medical emergency. Supposedly, it was too windy to deploy a helicopter, so the massive Oasis Class ship temporarily docked to allow the ill passenger to safely disembark. 

(Credit: U.S. Coast Guard Sector San Juan/Facebook)

These stories are a reminder of how important travel insurance is, as medical evacuations can cost upward of $250,000, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). 

In these unfortunate cases, the initial medical evacuation is only one piece of the financial burden. Payment will be required for treatment at the hospital ashore, too. These expenses can add up quickly, especially if you're at an international hospital where your regular health insurance policy isn't accepted. 

(Credit: U.S. Coast Guard Sector San Juan/Facebook)

For instance, one cruiser racked up over $13,000 in medical bills after she fell ill on her first-ever Royal Caribbean cruise. After being transported to a hospital in Costa Maya, local doctors wouldn't even treat Khiali Baxter until they received a $2,500 payment upfront. 

In total, she incurred more than $9,000 in medical expenses at the hospital, including several different procedures to help stabilize her condition. Before being evacuated from the cruise ship, she had been vomiting blood and had lost consciousness. 

(Credit: U.S. Coast Guard Sector San Juan/Facebook)

Launching in August 2025, Star of the Seas is Royal Caribbean's newest Icon Class ship. She measures a whopping 248,663 gross tons and is 1,196 feet long. At double occupancy, Star can accommodate 5,610 passengers and 2,350 international crew members. 

Highlights include the family-friendly Surfside Neighborhood, record-breaking Category 6 Waterpark, Lincoln Park Supper Club, Back to the Future: The Musical, and more. 

Taking a Royal Caribbean cruise vacation is always a good idea, but it can be especially memorable over a holiday, such as St. Patrick's Day. 

The cruise line's newest vessel, Star of the Seas, is currently celebrating her first St. Patrick's Day at sea. Royal Caribbean Blog's Head Honcho, Matt Hochberg, reports that the ship is decked out in green, with themed decorations, festive activities, and unique, limited-time partnerships. 

The Royal Promenade is filled with inflatables, ranging from larger-than-life leprechauns to four-leaf clovers and horseshoes. 

There's even an inflatable rainbow near the 1400 Lobby Bar — though, unfortunately, there’s no pot of gold at the end (the closest thing is the Pot of Gold slot tournament in the casino at 11:00 p.m.)

And what's a holiday without a balloon drop? The crew aboard Star of the Seas has already prepared for the celebration, with green and white balloons hanging from the ceiling. 

The Pearl, the Royal Promenade's moody centerpiece, is illuminated in green and gold for the occasion. This helps cast a festive glow on the central thoroughfare, where you'll find everything from the Guest Services desk to the 24-hour Pearl Café and Royal Caribbean-branded shops. 

The Bell & Barley Pub is also getting into the St. Patrick’s Day spirit with a selection of themed drinks that are available all week. 

"We are commemorating this occasion on board with a pub takeover featuring Jameson's Irish Whiskey. Our team has collaborated with our partners at Pernod Ricard to create three signature drinks," said Ed Eiswirth, Senior Director of Beverage Operations at Royal Caribbean. 

"These cocktails will be available throughout the week, as one day of celebration is simply not enough."

The three "Lucky Sips" include the Golden Clover, Pot 'O Gold, and Charmed Apple. The Golden Clover ($14) is made with Jameson Irish Whiskey, mango, lime juice, mint, and Angostura bitters. Pot 'O Gold ($14) is also crafted with Jameson Irish Whiskey, though it leans into a sweeter vibe with amaro, peach, lemon juice, and a peach ring garnish.

Finally, the Charmed Apple ($14) is the only beverage on the limited-edition menu that doesn't use Jameson Irish Whiskey. Instead, it features an Espolòn Silver Tequila base, blended with Cointreau, passion fruit, Granny Smith apple, and lime juice.  

In addition to decorations, the daily planner is filled with St. Patrick's Day-themed activities, such as trivia, a balloon drop with the cruise director staff, and family arts & crafts at Adventure Ocean. 

Star of the Seas is currently on a 7-night Western Caribbean cruise from Port Canaveral (Orlando), Florida. She departed on March 15 and is scheduled to call at CocoCay, Cozumel, Roatán, and Costa Maya before returning to Florida on the 22nd. 

Royal Caribbean's Star of the Seas has windowless cabins for budget-conscious travelers and lavish suites for high-end cruisers. However, you'll also find plenty of mid-range options for those who prioritize comfort without breaking the bank. 

Historically, suites on Royal Caribbean's newest ships aren't cheap. The Ultimate Family Townhouse, for example, costs well over $15,000 per person on a weeklong cruise. Although Star Class suites come with the most perks, entry-level suites still offer plenty of value and shouldn’t be overlooked.

Paul Cranston shared images of his Junior Suite on Star of the Seas in the Star of the Seas 2025/2026 Facebook group, showing a spacious cruise cabin, modern décor, and a larger-than-usual balcony. 

Junior Suites are typically the most abundant suite category available. On Star of the Seas, for example, there are over 60 Junior Suites on Decks 9, 10, and 11. 

The price of Junior Suites on Star of the Seas varies. At the time of publication, a Junior Suite for two on the October 18, 2026, voyage starts at $9,417.84. However, the price increases to nearly $12,230 on a weeklong cruise on Star in July 2027. 

Here's a photo tour of a Junior Suite on Star of the Seas, Royal Caribbean's newest Icon Class ship, sailing from Port Canaveral, Florida, to the Eastern and Western Caribbean.

Inside Junior Suite #10130 on Star of the Seas

During Cranston's cruise, he stayed in room #10130, a forward Junior Suite located over 10 cabins away from the elevator bank.

With 322 sq. ft. of interior living space, it's larger than standard oceanview balconies, which come in at around 204 sq. ft. The Junior Suite's balcony is bigger, too. Where standard balconies measure 50 sq. ft, the Junior Suite's personal verandah is 80 sq. ft. 

As the mega-ship's entry-level suite, the living and sleeping area is combined, rather than having a separate bedroom. Still, the layout feels open and airy. 

On older ships, the Junior Suite's bed is positioned against one of the cabin's walls, which can make the space feel slightly more enclosed. On Star of the Seas, however, the bed faces the balcony, allowing guests to wake up to natural light and enjoy the passing scenery. 

According to the ship's deck plan, the Junior Suites can accommodate up to four guests: two in the Royal King (or two twin) beds and two on the double sofa bed. Someone else in the comments added that when they stayed in room #10554, there was plenty of extra space for a portable crib. 

Moving on, Cranston's photos show that his Junior Suite on Star of the Seas had ample storage, a well-appointed bathroom, a small seating area, and a vanity area. 

As such, it's a versatile choice for couples or families who want more space but don't necessarily want to pay for a larger suite. 

The bathroom is designed with a large vanity and tub-shower combination. Conversely, standard cabins have a small sink area and a standalone shower. 

Still, the highlight of the Junior Suite is the 80 sq. ft. balcony. The private verandah has upgraded seating, an outdoor dining table, and a plush chair with a footrest. 

What perks come with a Junior Suite on Star of the Seas?

Royal Caribbean's Royal Suite Class is comprised of three different tiers: Sea, Sky, and Star. The Junior Suite falls within the entry-level Sea tier. As such, it comes with fewer benefits than Sky and Star Class suites.

Perks for the Sea Class Junior Suite include: 

• Dedicated Check-In Line
• Priority Boarding
• Dinner At Coastal Kitchen, Based On Availability (Reservations Required)
• Royal Caribbean Plush Bathrobes
• Luxury Pillow Top Mattress and Linen
• Luxury Bathroom Amenities
• Lavazza Espresso Coffee Machine

Read more: Photos show what suites on Royal Caribbean's Icon of the Seas look like

A certain number of Junior Suites are classified as Sky Junior Suites. The rooms themselves are the same, but they come with upgraded Sky Class benefits. 

The perks, however, come with a greater price tag. For example, a standard Junior Suite on Star of the Seas' Feb. 14, 2027, sailing starts at $3,767 per person, while a Sky Junior Suite comes in at $4,796 per person. As such, the Sky Junior Suite is nearly $2,000 more for the weeklong Caribbean voyage. 

Sky Class benefits on Royal Caribbean ships include: 

• Concierge Service All-Day
• All-Day Access To Coastal Kitchen (Reservations Required For Dinner)
• Specialty Bottled Water
• VOOM, The Fastest Internet At Sea (Until May 2026)
• Flexible Arrival Boarding & Priority Departure
• Priority Dining Reservations
• Reserved Entertainment Seating
• Suite Lounge Access
• Access To Suite Sun Deck (The Grove)
• Royal Caribbean Plush Bathrobes
• Luxury Pillow Top Mattress and Linen
• Luxury Bathroom Amenities
• Lavazza Espresso Coffee Machine

Choosing between Wonder of the Seas and Star of the Seas isn't as simple as picking the newer ship.

Royal Caribbean keeps raising the bar with its newest ships, so choosing the right one seems harder than ever. While both are among the largest cruise ships in the world and packed with activities, dining, and entertainment, each has a very different ship design and itinerary.

Wonder of the Seas is one of the last ships in the popular Oasis Class, and is the product of refined updates. Star of the Seas is just the second Icon Class ship that introduced so many innovative experiences and redesigned neighborhoods that have set a new standard for the cruise industry.

Depending on what you're looking for in a cruise, each ship has a different approach to what you can expect on your vacation.

If you’re trying to decide which ship is better for your next cruise, here are the key differences you should know.

Quick Comparison

Before we dig into the nuances and aspects of what makes Wonder and Star different, here is a glance at key metrics.

Ship Basics

Wonder of the Seas was at one time the biggest cruise ship in the world. While it lost that title a few times over, it remains in the top 10 biggest ships in the world and certainly won't leave you bored.

Star of the Seas doubles as Royal Caribbean's newest cruise ship and biggest cruise ship in the world. Star is 14,000 gross tons heavier and a bit longer than Wonder.

Another key difference between each ship is Star of the Seas is about 24% more efficient than a ship like Wonder. That's largely due to the fact it runs on Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG) as its primary fuel, as well as a streamlined hull design, and significant improvements made in waste heat recovery.

Star of the Seas currently sails 7-night Eastern and Western Caribbean cruises from its homeport in Port Canaveral, Florida. Every sailing includes a stop at Perfect Day at CocoCay.

Wonder of the Seas only sails short cruises that are 3- or 4-nights long and is based in Miami, Florida.

Design & Neighborhoods

Royal Caribbean introduced the concept of neighborhoods on a cruise ship with the launch of the Oasis Class, and it further enhanced it with the Icon Class.

Both Wonder and Star rely on neighborhoods to make it easy to navigate these megaships, even if you've never been on one before.

You will find some of the same neighborhoods on both ships, with a few differences. Here are the neighborhoods on Wonder of the Seas:

• The Boardwalk, a nostalgic, family-fun area featuring a carousel, Playmakers, and the AquaTheater.
• Pool & Sports Zone, which features a Caribbean-style pool deck and thrilling water slides.
• Central Park, a lush, open-air garden with thousands of live plants.
• The Royal Promenade, the main thoroughfare, complete with shops and entertainment venues.
• Entertainment Place, the center of entertainment, featuring the comedy club, casino, Royal Theatre, and Studio B.
• Youth Zone, home to Adventure Ocean programming, an arcade, and a teen club.
• Vitality Spa & Fitness, Royal Caribbean's spa and fitness center.
• Suite Neighborhood, reserved area for suite guests and has its own restaurant, bar, and sun deck.

Here's how Star of the Seas is different with its neighborhood lineup:

• Thrill Island, home to a six slide waterpark, surf simulator, rock wall, and more.
• Chill Island, the pools and hot tubs on the top deck of the ship designed for relaxing.
• Surfside, area designed with young families in mind with restaurants, activities, and Splashaway Bay.
• AquaDome, home to the AquaTheater, it also features restaurants and bars with sweeping views from the front of the ship.
• The Hideaway, the adults-only Vegas pool party with infinity pool off the back of the ship.
• Suite Neighborhood, even bigger area for suite guests.
• Royal Promenade, two deck bustling center of the ship with shopping, dining, and bars.
• Central Park, open-air garden in the center of the ship.

Dining

You will find lots of dining options on both ships with a mix of included and extra cost restaurants.

It can be argued Star of the Seas offers more included restaurants that are worth dining at, compared to Wonder. It's an impressive array of included restaurants that had me questioning buying a dining package.

Both ships have a Main Dining Room and Windjammer buffet, that offer meals every day.  The Main Dining Room is open every day for breakfast and dinner (lunch on sea days). The Windjammer is open every day for all meals.

Wonder of the Seas has the Mason Jar, which is a Southern American restaurant. It's a country restaurant and bar, with many staples of comfort food from the South.

Star of the Seas has the Lincoln Park Supper Club, which is six-course meal that pairs music, cocktails, and food to create a fancy night out. This jazz club dining experience is unparalleled with the level of sophistication and service provided.

Perhaps the best included restaurant on any Royal Caribbean ship is the AquaDome Market. This is a food hall concept where there are different stalls for different types of cuisine. Thai, BBQ, Mediterranean and more are available.  

Plus, Star has specially designed restaurants for kids in the Surfside area. These lean heavy towards pizza, chicken fingers, hot dogs, and the typical foods kids love.

Here's a look at what venues are on each ship: 

Staterooms

Each of these Royal Caribbean ships have the same basic four cabin categories: inside, oceanview, balcony, and suite.

Star of the Seas actually has less cabins at 2,805, while Wonder of the Seas has 2,867 cabins.

Both ships have balcony rooms that face inwards instead of out to the ocean. You'll find Boardwalk and Central Park view balcony rooms on Wonder, while Star has Surfside and Central park view balcony rooms.

Star of the Seas has a number of room categories that you won't find on Wonder, and that's because Royal Caribbean came up with new ones for this ship class. Over half of the staterooms on Star of the Seas are unique to the Icon Class, including 8 new Suite categories and rooms designed specifically with families in mind. 

The Surfside Family Suite is one such room that offers space for kids and their parents to share.

It's divided into three areas and can handle up to 4 passengers.

The beauty of this room is the kids nook, which has a pullout sofa that converts to a bed. There's a TV just for the kids, along with USB plugs too.

Both Star and Wonder each have an impressive Ultimate Family Suite.  

The Ultimate Family Townhouse on Star of the Seas is an over-the-top jaw-dropping stateroom that easily costs over $100,000.

It has its own slide, movie room, bunk beds, and private patio with a fenced-in backyard.

The suite’s total indoor space measures 1,772 square feet, but when you add in the multiple balconies and backyard, the outdoor space totals more than 700 additional square feet.

Entertainment and activities

You won't be bored on either of these two ships, because Royal Caribbean has a well-deserved reputation for offering more to do onboard than anyone else.

Both ships offer trivia, rock wall climbing, surfing, mini golf, water slides, and laser tag.

One notable difference is Wonder of the Seas has the Ultimate Abyss, a 10 story high dry slide that looks quite intimidating. While not as scary as it seems, it's a thrill attraction families love.

Star of the Seas has significantly more water slides than Wonder. In fact, Star has double with 6 slides.

Both ships have Royal Caribbean comedians, live performances, ice skating shows, and AquaTheater shows. However, Star stands out because it has a full Broadway show.

Back to the Future: The Musical is performed on Star of the Seas and it's included in your cruise fare.  This is the same musical you'd see touring in theaters and it's a fantastic production.

The exact bars and lounges vary slightly, so here's a breakdown of which are available:

Who each ship is best for

In deciding to sail on Wonder of the Seas or Star of the Seas, the length of the cruise will be a major factor.

Wonder of the Seas offers 3- and 4-night cruises, and these are usually the kind of cruises first time cruisers gravitate towards because they offer a sampling.

Another advantage of going on Wonder is it will likely cost less because they are shorter sailings.  This allow someone on a budget or anyone wanting to squeeze in an extra cruise an attractive option.

You'd want to pick Star of the Seas for a traditional weeklong cruise vacation. Star visits many more places outside of The Bahamas, and there's a good mix of sea days and port days.

Plus, Star of the Seas is brand new and has the latest and greatest options. 

Certainly families will love either ship, but if you have kids under the age of 8, I'd recommend Star of the Seas because of how much more there is for them to do onboard.

You can argue adults sailing without kids might find Wonder more appealing because it has an indoor adults-only Solarium, the Mason Jar bar, and more of a party vibe because of the short sailings that include more parties.

Star of the Seas offers over two dozen stateroom categories, from wallet-friendly inside cabins to multi-story suites. However, not all cruise rooms are created equal, with some offering less convenience or privacy than others. 

Royal Caribbean's newest cruise ship is the second-ever Icon Class ship and shares many features with Icon of the Seas, including the record-breaking Category 6 Waterpark, cutting-edge entertainment, and modern stateroom designs.

Star of the Seas has 2,805 cabins comprised of 28 different categories, ranging from standard interior staterooms to infinite balconies, family-friendly suites, and more. With so many choices, it's easy to spend thousands of dollars on a room you aren't happy with.

For example, some cabins inherently experience more noise, while others have obstructed views. These factors may not bother some passengers. However, they're important to consider when booking your cruise. 

Here's a rundown of the worst cabins on Star of the Seas that should be avoided. 

Below Chill Island

Chill Island is Star of the Seas' upgraded pool deck. Boasting seven pools, ten hot tubs, and more, it’s the perfect spot to unwind with a poolside cocktail while enjoying your sea day. 

Initially, it may seem like a smart idea to be located steps from the pool deck. It would make snagging a coveted lounge chair easier in the morning, right? 

While that might be true, Chill Island isn't the quietest spot on board. Crew members begin shuffling chairs early in the morning. 

Balconies on Deck 14 are also subject to a lot of noise bleed from the bustling neighborhood. Everything from live music to screaming children and poolside competitions can turn your peaceful veranda into a spot you'd prefer to avoid. 

Cabins to avoid: 

• 14172 - 14276
• 14572 - 14676

Below the buffet and adults-only pool deck

Deck 15 is also home to Star of the Seas' buffet. The Windjammer Marketplace is a Royal Caribbean staple that's open every day for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. 

As one of the ship’s main included restaurants, it is undeniably popular. Whether you're trying to feed a group of particular children or want a quick breakfast before heading ashore, the Windjammer sees a steady flow of guests throughout the day. 

While lunch and dinner patrons are less likely to be bothersome, morning breakfast traffic might be an earlier-than-anticipated wake-up call. 

Additionally, The Hideaway, Star of the Seas' adults-only pool deck, is located next to the Windjammer on Deck 15. It replaced the Solarium that's on other ships in the fleet. 

This hangout spot features plush daybeds, an aft-facing bar, an infinity pool, and a DJ who frequently plays upbeat music to foster a party-like atmosphere. 

As such, cabins underneath The Hideaway can hear more noise throughout the day, from the thumping of the live music to scraping deck chairs. 

Cabins to avoid: 

• 14278 - 14362
• 14678 - 14752

Near the AquaDome

At night, the AquaDome transforms into a theater for high-diving spectacles. However, the bustling, multi-use space also hosts various events during the day. As such, rehearsals and other activities can generate unexpected noise.

The AquaDome also houses more than just the ship’s AquaTheater. Hooked, the seafood specialty restaurant; the Rye & Bean coffee bar; and the AquaDome Market are all located in the same area. The additional foot traffic can result in extra noise. 

Cabins to avoid: 

• 14138 - 14170
• 14538 - 14570

Balconies near the Surfside neighborhood

The Surfside neighborhood effectively replaced the Boardwalk, which debuted on Oasis of the Seas in 2009. Although the bones are similar, Surfside was designed to be a stay-all-day area for families with children. There's everything from a splash pad to a pool, a family buffet, a specialty brunch restaurant, a bar, and more. 

Just like Oasis Class ships, there are inward-facing balconies on Star of the Seas. While these staterooms can be fun for families with younger children, they're less-than-ideal for cruisers sans kids. 

Regardless of where your cabin is located, you will hear the constant buzz of activity from Surfside, including children playing, music, arcade games, the carousel, and more. 

Moreover, some ocean-view balconies near Surfside are more prone to experiencing higher noise levels from the family-focused neighborhood throughout the day

Cabins to avoid: 

• 7280 - 7346
• 7680 - 7746
• 8321 - 8347
• 8721 - 8747
• 9289 - 9347
• 9689 - 9747
• 10289 - 10347
• 10689 - 10747
• 11289 - 11347
• 11687 - 11747
• 12289 - 12347
• 12689 - 12747 

Obstructed Central Park balconies

Central Park quickly became a guest favorite on Oasis Class ships, earning its place on the new Icon Class ships for its real greenery, open-air concept, and al fresco dining. 

Balconies facing the Central Park neighborhood are generally quieter than Surfside balcony rooms. However, cabins located above The Pearl are partially obstructed. 

The top of the structure means that it's hard to people-watch from your balcony or admire the lush plants.

Cabins to avoid: 

• 10219 - 10235

Outside Music Hall

While it's true that the lower decks are better for those who suffer from motion sickness, there are some spots to avoid if you're a light sleeper. 

One reason that cruise ships are popular vacation choices is the endless entertainment, from daytime belly flop competitions to late-night dance parties. 

The Music Hall is one venue on Star of the Seas that comes alive later at night. As such, guests who are sensitive to noise and prefer to retire earlier will want to steer clear of staterooms near the two-story Music Hall. 

Cabins to avoid: 

• 3180 - 3200
• 4180 - 4200
• 4577 - 4591

By the casino

Deck 4 is home to one of the largest casinos at sea. While a stateroom near Casino Royale could be convenient for avid gamblers, it's more likely to be a nuisance to those who would rather not bet their hard-earned money. 

Like the Music Hall, Casino Royale comes alive at night, and the noise from the slot machines, the spinning of roulette wheels, and excited cheers of jackpot winners can be disruptive.

Cabins to avoid: 

• 4202 - 4270
• 4602- 4670

The front of the ship

Cruise rooms in the front of the ship are more susceptible to the rocking of the vessel. As such, if you're someone who gets easily motion sick, it's important to select a cabin that's centrally located. 

Seasickness affects everyone differently. Some cruisers could stay in a forward stateroom and feel fine, while others may find small swells uncomfortable. 

While a mid-ship cabin can’t completely prevent motion sickness, it’s a smart precaution for those particularly sensitive to movement. 

Guarantee staterooms

If you have a specific area you do NOT want to be by (for example, Casino Royale or Surfside), don't let Royal Caribbean assign your stateroom for you — even if you think it's worth the cost savings. 

Guarantee cabins are cheaper fares that Royal Caribbean offers in exchange for allowing them the right to randomly select your room closer to your cruise's sail date. In other words, you forego the option to select your stateroom for a cheaper fare.