Royal Caribbean’s Highest Selling Travel Advisors Weigh In on Star of the Seas

Royal Caribbean’s newest Icon Class ship, Star of the Seas, will be named by astronaut Kellie Gerardi later this week, after having operated a series of invite-only sailings that kicked off on Aug. 6 with a three-day preview primarily for social media influencers. Among the hundreds of content creators, however, were also five of Royal Caribbean’s top-selling travel advisor partners.

TMR reached out to three of them to hear their first impressions of the ship, and what advice they’d give clients going on an Icon Class ship for the first time.

We heard back from two. Here’s what they had to say.

TMR: What were your first thoughts of Star of the Seas?

Danny Genung, owner, Harr Travel: WOW!  She is absolutely spectacular.  There is something to do for everyone, and it is one of the most beautiful ships I have ever seen.  Especially at night.  The food, service, and entertainment will make a lot of people happy for a very long time.

Beci Mahnken, CTC, MCC, president & CEO, MEI Travel: The moment I stepped onboard Star of the Seas, I was struck by how fresh and innovative the design feels. Royal Caribbean has taken everything guests love about their ships and elevated it — from expansive, light-filled public spaces to entertainment venues that feel like Broadway went to sea.

One of the standout innovations for me was the destination elevators, which are so intuitive and guest-friendly — a small change that makes a big difference in the flow of the ship. Add in jaw-dropping neighborhoods like the AquaDome with its incredible shows, and you’ve got a ship that feels modern, exciting, and ready to create unforgettable vacations.

TMR: Have you been on Icon of the Seas before? If so, is there anything on Star of the Seas that stands out to you as different an notable?

Genung: I was lucky enough to sail on Icon on her first revenue sailing.  AMAZING!  Lots of little things that have changed, but Icon was a massive hit. The Ultimate Family Townhouse is a major improvement with sleeping areas and flow. The larger and improved Splashaway Bay is a major win for families, and there is more to do in surfside. I also LOVED the Ice Show.  I think it is the best and most fun in the fleet.

Mahnken: Yes, I’ve been on Icon of the Seas, and honestly, there aren’t many differences — the design was so strong it didn’t need much tweaking. Star of the Seas shares that same groundbreaking layout and intuitive “people-eater” zones, so even with thousands onboard, it never feels overly crowded.

The refinements are in the details, like the new AquaDome Market stalls offering BBQ, Southeast Asian, and Latin American street food, and an entertainment lineup that feels bigger and bolder. Highlights include Back to the Future: The Musical, the high-energy AquaTheater show Torque, and the stunning ice spectacular Sol.

TMR: Did you see the preview of Back to the Future? Will your clients love it?

Genung: I loved it.  I think for older kiddos and adults it will be a hit.  If you love theater, it will be a massive win, and if you love the movies, it will be as well.  I believe there will be an audience that needs to be convinced, but I will try to do that!

TMR: You’re sending clients on Star of the Seas. What one or two pieces of advice do you give them to help them make the most of their time onboard?

Genung: Pre-reserve everything you want from dining and entertainment, so when you get onboard you can enjoy.  Take advantage of the boarding day discounts on specialties and do them at a lower price for lunch and dinner on boarding day.  Also, do everything, nothing, or in between. Enjoy. You will never be bored.

Mahnken: First, download the Royal Caribbean app before you sail and use it to plan your must-do shows and activities — the entertainment on Star of the Seas is incredible, and you’ll want to secure reservations early. Second, don’t just stick to one area of the ship — it’s designed so that every neighborhood has its own vibe and surprises. From the AquaDome to Surfside to Central Park, take time to explore each space, discover hidden gems, find quiet spots to relax, and enjoy activities that are fun and memorable.