Latest news with #CocoCay
Yahoo
05-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Yahoo
INTRODUCING THE STAR OF STAR OF THE SEAS: ROYAL CARIBBEAN NAMES DIANA ROSS GODMOTHER
Diana Ross will take center stage as the godmother of the ultimate family vacation coming August 2025 MIAMI, June 5, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- The ultimate family vacation is getting ready to set sail, and a star-studded godmother is leading the way. Royal Caribbean has announced musical icon Diana Ross as the official godmother of Star of the Seas when the revolutionary Icon Class ship debuts August 2025. With her music inspiring generations of families, Ms. Ross will take the stage to welcome the newest family vacation sailing from Port Canaveral (Orlando), Florida, and visiting the top-rated Perfect Day at CocoCay in The Bahamas. As godmother, Ms. Ross will join a longstanding maritime tradition of bestowing safekeeping onto the ship, its crew and the millions who will make memories on the ultimate family vacation for years to come. To celebrate the unveiling of Star, Ms. Ross will take part in an iconic naming ceremony in the ship's AquaTheater, located in the transformational AquaDome neighborhood surrounded by wraparound ocean views. Fans can stay tuned to learn more on how they can join the celebration on Royal Caribbean's Instagram page. "I am truly honored to join the Royal Caribbean family," said Diana Ross. "Having spent years of creating beautiful music and memories and bringing people together from all over the world, this feels like a perfect continuation of my journey as godmother of Star of the Seas." The celebration will set the tone for what's in store on Star, welcoming families and vacationers of all ages to experience the record-setting Icon Class lineup. Star combines the best of beach retreats, resort escapes and theme park adventures across eight neighborhoods that are destinations in themselves to deliver the world's best family vacation. With adrenaline-pumping thrills at Category 6 waterpark, unrivaled ways to chill at seven pools, jaw-dropping entertainment – including the cult-classic movie turned instant-hit musical "Back to the Future: The Musical" – and more than 40 ways to dine and drink including Lincoln Park Supper Club and so much more, Star is where every type of family and vacationer can make memories together and on their own without compromise. "We are thrilled to have Diana Ross join us for the debut of Star of the Seas, the next bold vacation in our revolutionary Icon Class designed to encompass the best a vacation experience can offer," said Michael Bayley, president and CEO, Royal Caribbean. "We couldn't imagine a more fitting godmother for Star than Diana Ross, who is a true icon known for creating music that transcends generations while celebrating life and bringing people together. We can't wait to welcome Ms. Ross, our guests and crew to celebrate the arrival of Star this August." As the next world's best family vacation from Orlando, Star will deliver 7-night vacations to the most sought-after destinations in the Eastern and Western Caribbean, including the vacation brand's top-rated Perfect Day at CocoCay in The Bahamas. Royal Caribbean has more standout experiences in store across its expanding lineup of destinations from the ultimate beach day at Royal Beach Club Paradise Island in December 2025 to incredible destinations in Mexico at Royal Beach Club Cozumel in 2026 and Perfect Day Mexico in fall 2027. Media can find assets and more information on About Royal Caribbean Royal Caribbean, part of Royal Caribbean Group (NYSE: RCL), has delivered memorable vacations for more than 50 years. The cruise line's game-changing ships and exclusive destinations revolutionize vacations with innovations and an all-encompassing combination of experiences, from thrills to dining and entertainment, for every type of family and vacationer. Voted "Best Cruise Line Overall" for 22 consecutive years in the Travel Weekly Readers Choice Awards, Royal Caribbean makes memories with adventurers across more than 300 destinations in 80 countries on all seven continents, including the line's top-rated private destination, Perfect Day at CocoCay in The Bahamas. Media can stay up to date by following @RoyalCaribPR on X and visit For additional information or to book, vacationers can visit call (800) ROYAL-CARIBBEAN or contact their travel advisor. SOURCE Royal Caribbean International Sign in to access your portfolio
Cision Canada
05-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Cision Canada
INTRODUCING THE STAR OF STAR OF THE SEAS: ROYAL CARIBBEAN NAMES DIANA ROSS GODMOTHER
will take center stage as the godmother of the ultimate family vacation coming August 2025 MIAMI, June 5, 2025 /CNW/ -- The ultimate family vacation is getting ready to set sail, and a star-studded godmother is leading the way. Royal Caribbean has announced musical icon Diana Ross as the official godmother of Star of the Seas when the revolutionary Icon Class ship debuts August 2025. With her music inspiring generations of families, Ms. Ross will take the stage to welcome the newest family vacation sailing from Port Canaveral (Orlando), Florida, and visiting the top-rated Perfect Day at CocoCay in The Bahamas. As godmother, Ms. Ross will join a longstanding maritime tradition of bestowing safekeeping onto the ship, its crew and the millions who will make memories on the ultimate family vacation for years to come. To celebrate the unveiling of Star, Ms. Ross will take part in an iconic naming ceremony in the ship's AquaTheater, located in the transformational AquaDome neighborhood surrounded by wraparound ocean views. Fans can stay tuned to learn more on how they can join the celebration on Royal Caribbean's Instagram page. "I am truly honored to join the Royal Caribbean family," said Diana Ross. "Having spent years of creating beautiful music and memories and bringing people together from all over the world, this feels like a perfect continuation of my journey as godmother of Star of the Seas." The celebration will set the tone for what's in store on Star, welcoming families and vacationers of all ages to experience the record-setting Icon Class lineup. Star combines the best of beach retreats, resort escapes and theme park adventures across eight neighborhoods that are destinations in themselves to deliver the world's best family vacation. With adrenaline-pumping thrills at Category 6 waterpark, unrivaled ways to chill at seven pools, jaw-dropping entertainment – including the cult-classic movie turned instant-hit musical "Back to the Future: The Musical" – and more than 40 ways to dine and drink including Lincoln Park Supper Club and so much more, Star is where every type of family and vacationer can make memories together and on their own without compromise. "We are thrilled to have Diana Ross join us for the debut of Star of the Seas, the next bold vacation in our revolutionary Icon Class designed to encompass the best a vacation experience can offer," said Michael Bayley, president and CEO, Royal Caribbean. "We couldn't imagine a more fitting godmother for Star than Diana Ross, who is a true icon known for creating music that transcends generations while celebrating life and bringing people together. We can't wait to welcome Ms. Ross, our guests and crew to celebrate the arrival of Star this August." As the next world's best family vacation from Orlando, Star will deliver 7-night vacations to the most sought-after destinations in the Eastern and Western Caribbean, including the vacation brand's top-rated Perfect Day at CocoCay in The Bahamas. Royal Caribbean has more standout experiences in store across its expanding lineup of destinations from the ultimate beach day at Royal Beach Club Paradise Island in December 2025 to incredible destinations in Mexico at Royal Beach Club Cozumel in 2026 and Perfect Day Mexico in fall 2027. Media can find assets and more information on About Royal Caribbean Royal Caribbean, part of Royal Caribbean Group (NYSE: RCL), has delivered memorable vacations for more than 50 years. The cruise line's game-changing ships and exclusive destinations revolutionize vacations with innovations and an all-encompassing combination of experiences, from thrills to dining and entertainment, for every type of family and vacationer. Voted "Best Cruise Line Overall" for 22 consecutive years in the Travel Weekly Readers Choice Awards, Royal Caribbean makes memories with adventurers across more than 300 destinations in 80 countries on all seven continents, including the line's top-rated private destination, Perfect Day at CocoCay in The Bahamas. Media can stay up to date by following @RoyalCaribPR on X and visit call (800) ROYAL-CARIBBEAN or contact their travel advisor.
The Sun
26-05-2025
- Business
- The Sun
The Caribbean private islands you can enjoy on a cruise from Cayman Islands to Bahamas
SPLASH OUT We look at existing private islands you can cruise to IT doesn't get more exciting than sailing in style to a paradise Caribbean private island. And even more cruise lines are now going all out to host passengers on their own islands. 4 Royal Caribbean last week announced its second Perfect Day destination off Mexico, opening in 2027, which will include a waterpark with 30 slides, the longest lazy river in the world, adults-only beach clubs and a host of bars and restaurants. Lisa Minot looks at existing private islands you can cruise to. ROYAL CARIBBEAN IT was Royal who upped the ante with the launch of its revamped Perfect Day at Coco Cay in 2019. The £185million transformation of its Bahamas island included a new pier, thrill rides and chill zones. There are seven beaches to laze beside the warm waters and six pools, including Oasis Lagoon, the largest freshwater pool in the Caribbean with swim-up bar and in-water loungers. The Thrill Waterpark has 14 slides including the tallest in North America while Splashaway Bay and Captain Jill's Galleon are perfect places for the kids to play. There's complimentary food at four restaurants as well as a host of bars and shops. The adult-only Hideaway Beach opened in January last year and, for an extra charge, over-18s can enjoy a private beach, two pools, seven bars and two restaurants. Also available to book for an extra charge are overwater cabanas, a zipline and tethered hot air balloon as well as kayak tours and snorkelling excursions. GO: A week full-board on Royal Caribbean's Icon of the Seas is from £1,064pp, sailing from Miami on November 8 and calling at St Maarten, St Thomas and Perfect Day at Coco Cay. See MSC CRUISES WITH its signature stripey lighthouse and two miles of white sand beaches, Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve in the Bahamas is a regular port of call for MSC cruise ships. They sail from their new private terminal in Miami as well as Port Canaveral in Florida and New York, including MSC World America, which made its debut in April. 4 The Italian cruise line has transformed a former sand excavation site in the last ten years, planting more than 75,000 trees and bringing back marine life and birds. A newly-opened conservation centre on the island allows guests to discover their achievements and includes a land-based coral nursery and fully-equipped bio-lab. But cruise guests will also appreciate the island's laid-back vibe with food trucks and restaurants offering Bahamian specialities, barbecue classics, snacks and oodles of ice cream and beach bars serving tropical cocktails. There's a chance to explore the underwater wonders with snorkelling, kayak, paddle board and windsurfing excursions. For a bit of luxury, you can relax in a cabana or take a sunset champagne cruise. GO: Seven nights' full-board on MSC World America is from £649pp. Sailing from Miami on September 13, the cruise calls at Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve, the Dominican Republic and Puerto Rico. See HOLLAND AMERICA/CARNIVAL ONE of the original private island pioneers, the Holland America line first started calling at RelaxAway at Half Moon Cay in the Bahamas in 1997 and it has been expanding its presence there ever since. In summer next year, a major upgrade will see a new beach club and lunch venue on its original facilities on the south of the island's stunning two-mile crescent of powder-soft white sand as well as a new pier at the north end of the beach that will be used by both Holland America and its sister cruise line Carnival. 4 Thrill-seekers can enjoy horseback riding along the shore, snorkelling, jet skiing, and stingray encounters. Families will love the Half Moon Lagoon Aqua Park, while nature enthusiasts can explore eco-tours and birdwatching. Unique experiences include glass-bottom boat tours and a pirate ship-themed bar. With beach sports, shopping and complimentary barbecue lunches, this is a high-end island escape for cruisers. GO: A 14-night full-board Western & Eastern Caribbean cruise on Holland America's Zuiderdam is from £1,379pp, departs Miami on November 8 and calls at Half Moon Cay, Jamaica, Cayman Islands, Cozumel, Mexico, Miami, Bahamas, Amber Cove, Dominican Republic, Turks & Caicos. See MICKEY Mouse and pals now have two private islands to enjoy in the Bahamas. Their original, Castaway Cay, opened in 1998 as part of the launch of the new cruise line. 4 And last year, they opened Lookout Cay. As you would expect, there is a huge amount of fun activities for kids including kids' clubs for three to 17-year-olds. The family beach features plenty of umbrellas, chairs and hammocks plus tube and float rentals and an all-you-can-eat lunch buffet. Water babies will love Pelican Plunge, a huge floating platform featuring water slides and cannons. Spring-a-Leak is a water play area with freshwater jets. Adults get their own Serenity Bay stretch of pristine sands as well as a restaurant and bar. The island features a 12-acre snorkel trail dotted with sunken treasures including the submarine from the classic Disney attraction 20,000 Leagues Under The Sea and there are miles of paths to explore on foot or bicycle. Over at Lookout Cay, there's more of a focus on nature and celebrating the island's Bahamian location with a cultural centre where you can learn about traditions and crafts. GO: A four-night full-board cruise on Disney Wish to the Bahamas, including calls at both Castaway Cay and Lookout Cay is from £920pp, based on two adults and two children sharing. The cruise departs August 17.
Yahoo
25-05-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
I've been to Royal Caribbean's private islands 3 times. It's no surprise the cruise line is taking nearly all its Caribbean sailings there.
I've been to Royal Caribbean's Perfect Day at CocoCay private resort three times over the years. Cruise lines are all in on these private island resorts: Passengers love them, and they're insanely profitable. Royal Caribbean is set to debut three new resorts through 2027. Royal Caribbean's land-based portfolio is growing alongside its famous fleet of cruise ships. Three new private ports in Mexico and the Bahamas are set to debut in the coming years alongside three new Icon Class ships At first glance, it may seem ironic for a vacation-at-sea company to invest millions into land-based destinations. But after visiting Royal Caribbean's land-based attraction for myself — three times — I can see exactly why they fit perfectly into the cruise giant's plans. To understand Royal Caribbean's real estate conquest, look at the accomplishments of its first private island, Perfect Day at CocoCay. Jason Liberty, president and CEO of Royal Caribbean Group, told analysts in October 2024 that its continued success can be partly attributed to its highest-rated port, Perfect Day at CocoCay. I've visited the in-demand destination three times since 2022. It's no surprise the 5½-year-old Bahamian retreat has become the inspiration for the company's quickly growing private port-folio. I love the thrill of ultra-planned, stress-inducing travel — but I also love indulging and relaxing at the beach. This wasn't a physically exhausting or emotionally taxing trip. Visiting here is a mushy-brained break where I get to rot on the beach and indulge in frivolous luxuries like guiltless naps and sugary beverages. That about sums up why cruisers love Royal Caribbean's private island. Some travelers criticize CocoCay for being an inauthentic Bahamian experience. That may be true in some cases, but was also never its promise. The island was designed as an extension of Royal Caribbean's ships — a beach resort on steroids. CocoCay is for people who crave the conveniences of an all-inclusive resort: secure confinement, glittery beaches, and plenty of snacks The island has options for every type of traveler. And much like going on a cruise, there's no need for planning as part of your visit (save for excursions like entry to its beach clubs). It's all set out for you. For kids, CocoCay has a waterpark, a zipline, a water playground, and easygoing activities like ping-pong tables. For adults, the island has two pool clubs: a boozy Vegas-style party at Hideaway Beach and a pricier high-end retreat at Coco Beach Club. For traditionalists seeking a no-frills beach day, CocoCay's sandy waterfront is lined with innumerable lounge chairs and slow-sloping banks. The island feels relatively safe. Several popular cruise ports are in destinations where the US Department of State has issued travel advisories, such as Mexico's Ensenada, Baja (Level 3 — "reconsider travel" ) and Manzanillo, Colima (Level 4 — "do not travel"). The agency also suggests travelers "exercise increased caution" when visiting the Bahamas, home of CocoCay. The island felt like one of the safest places I've recently visited. CocoCay is only accessible by Royal Caribbean Group's ships. As such, the only people there are its staff and the ship's crew and guests. My biggest fear there? Getting a sunburn. That's great news for concerned parents traveling with children or folks who may have read one too many cruise-related horror stories. That means it's a proverbial goldmine for Royal Caribbean. Travelers love splurging during their daylong visit. The island doesn't require third-party excursion operators, allowing Royal Caribbean to maximize profits from activities. Sections like the waterpark and beach clubs cost money to enter, from about $100 per person for the former to upward of $300 for Coco Beach Club. Free parts of the island also have rentals, such as snorkeling equipment and costly cabanas. Expect more opportunities to spend big at Royal Caribbean's coming properties. Liberty told analysts in 2024 that the cruise giant is "very mindful of having sizable significant returns" as it relates to its private properties. (It recently acquired the land for Perfect Day Mexico for $292 million.) The company is using what it learned from CocoCay to design the Mexico location, which would also have free and paid amenities. The same can't be said for the coming Royal Beach Club Collection. The inaugural Paradise Island resort will accommodate about 4,000 guests a day. All would have to pay to enter, which would it a strong revenue driver. For travelers, CocoCay is convenient, safe, amenity-rich, and beloved. For Royal Caribbean, the island is a source of demand and increased revenue. These private ports are a win-win all around, although competition could soon be stiff. Carnival Corp is also racing to expand its private port portfolio. The competing cruise giant plans to debut its $600 million private resort, Celebration Key, in 2025 and expand its existing private island, RelaxAway, Half Moon Cay, in 2026. It's already selling 2026 itineraries that include both destinations, starting at about $350 per person for a four-day sailing. Norwegian Cruise Line's Great Stirrup Cay, in the Bahamas, is currently in the middle of an upgrade. The company is building a new pool and pier to keep up with all the competition for private resorts. Read the original article on Business Insider Error in retrieving data Sign in to access your portfolio Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data
The Independent
21-05-2025
- Entertainment
- The Independent
First look: Royal Caribbean's Star of the Seas begins sea trials – here's everything we know so far
Royal Caribbean's latest Icon class cruise ship has begun sea trials as it prepares to launch this summer. The brand's newest vessel, Star of the Seas, is due to start hosting passengers from August 2025 on Caribbean sailings. The 5,610-capacity ship has touched water for the first time after it entered the sea trials phase of its construction in Turku, Finland. Over 11 days, more than 2,000 experts are testing everything from how the ship moves through the open water to engine performance and how it copes under pressure. The Royal Caribbean ship is being tested at speeds of up to 25 knots before entering the final phase of construction at the Meyer Turku shipyard in Turku. Star of the Seas' maiden voyage is scheduled for 31 August around the western Caribbean for a week, departing from Port Canaveral, Florida. Cruise fares start at £1,289 per person. There are also shorter showcase sailings beforehand, including a three-night round-trip from Port Canaveral on 20 August that visits Royal Caribbean's private island, CocoCay, in the Bahamas, with fares starting from £796 per person. The vessel is the sister ship to Icon of the Seas, currently the world's largest cruise ship. With a gross tonnage of 248,633, Star of the Seas will be the same size as Icon. Passengers will find similar features to Icon of the Seas, such as an ice-rink, rock climbing wall, giant waterparks and slides on board, as well as 40 bars and restaurants to choose from. These include the Surfside neighbourhood, which features pools and arcades for the kids and bars for the adults. The ship is welcoming three new foodstands to its AquaDome Market, serving smoky pulled pork and beef brisket, Southeast Asian regional favourites such as pad thai and panang curry and South American staples including empanadas and arepas. There will also be a refreshed speciality Lincoln Park Supper Club on board, serving intimate meals with live entertainment on a 1930s Chicago-inspired theme. In the evening, passengers can enjoy the acrobatic Torque show in the AquaDome and watch the Back to the Future Musical in the Royal Theatre. You may even meet Star's on-board chief dog officer (CDO), Sailor, who lives on the ship.
