Star of the Seas Sea Trials Delayed Due to Wind Conditions

Royal Caribbean's highly anticipated Star of the Seas has encountered a slight delay in her maiden sea trials. Originally scheduled to depart the Meyer Turku shipyard in Finland at 18:00 on Sunday, 18 May, the ship is now expected to set sail at 06:00 on Monday, 19 May—a 12-hour shift in schedule.

According to data from Finnish Pilot Services, the ship is planned to reach open waters by 16:00 on Monday, slightly later than the previously projected 04:00. The change comes as shipbuilders and maritime authorities opt for caution over speed, prioritizing safety during this critical phase of development.

Why the Delay?

While a 12-hour delay might seem minor, it’s a calculated decision made with precision. Sea trials are a pivotal moment in a ship’s life—essentially its first real test outside the controlled environment of the shipyard. Hundreds of variables must align for these trials to proceed smoothly, but one of the most influential factors is weather.

On Sunday, the Turku archipelago faced winds sustained at 24 knots, with gusts reaching up to 36 knots. Though these conditions wouldn't pose a significant threat to a fully operational cruise ship under normal circumstances, this is no ordinary sailing.

Sea trials require ideal conditions, especially during the initial departure from the shipyard. The Star of the Seas, still a ship under construction and testing, must navigate narrow channels with equipment and propulsion systems undergoing their first real-world evaluations. High wind gusts can compromise maneuverability and increase the risk of incidents, making it prudent to wait until conditions calm.

By delaying departure until Monday morning, the team anticipates a drop in wind speed to a far more manageable 10 knots—offering a safer and more stable environment for the ship’s first test run.

What Happens Next?

The current plan outlines a 10-day sea trial period, during which Star of the Seas will undergo a comprehensive series of evaluations, including propulsion, navigation, safety systems, and more. The slight delay is unlikely to affect the overall schedule significantly. In fact, if these trials go anything like those of her sister ship Icon of the Seas, which completed early thanks to smooth performance, this could be a promising sign.

As Star of the Seas gears up to join the fleet as one of Royal Caribbean’s most advanced vessels to date, maritime enthusiasts and cruise fans alike are watching closely. We’ll be tracking her progress through trials and beyond—stay tuned to Everything Icon for the latest updates.