What benefits come with Star Class?

Luxury travel has evolved dramatically in recent years, and cruise lines are competing to offer elite experiences for travelers seeking exclusivity, comfort, and personalized service. One of the most prestigious offerings in the cruise industry is Star Class, the highest tier within Royal Caribbean’s Royal Suite Class program.

Designed for travelers who want the ultimate luxury cruise experience, Star Class combines private concierge services, exclusive dining privileges, premium accommodations, and VIP access across the ship.

This in-depth guide explains what Star Class is, what benefits it includes, and whether it’s worth the premium price, based on publicly available information from cruise industry sources and official cruise operator materials.

What Is Star Class?

Star Class is the top-tier category of suites in Royal Caribbean’s Royal Suite Class program, available on select ships in the Oasis, Quantum, and Icon classes. Guests who book these suites receive a collection of luxury perks and personalized services designed to transform a standard cruise vacation into a VIP experience.

These suites are typically the largest and most luxurious rooms on the ship, including:

• Royal Loft Suites

• Ultimate Family Suites

• Ultimate Family Townhouses

• Spacious multi-room penthouses

Star Class goes beyond accommodation—it offers all-inclusive amenities, priority access, and personalized services normally associated with luxury resorts.

Key Benefits of Star Class

Below are the most important perks travelers receive when booking a Star Class suite.

1. Royal Genie Personal Concierge

The Royal Genie is arguably the most distinctive benefit of Star Class.

A Royal Genie functions as a personal concierge and vacation planner who helps design your entire cruise experience.

Responsibilities include:

• Booking dining reservations

• Scheduling shore excursions

• Arranging VIP seating at shows

• Planning in-suite parties

• Stocking your suite with preferred snacks and drinks

Essentially, the Royal Genie removes the need to plan anything yourself, allowing guests to fully relax during the cruise.

2. Priority Boarding and Departure

Star Class guests receive priority embarkation and disembarkation, meaning:

• Dedicated check-in lines

• VIP boarding access

• Faster departure at the end of the cruise

This perk eliminates long lines and reduces travel stress—especially at busy cruise terminals.

3. Complimentary Specialty Dining

One of the most valuable benefits is unlimited access to specialty restaurants across the ship.

Instead of paying extra for premium dining venues, Star Class guests can dine freely at restaurants such as:

• Chops Grille

• Izumi Sushi

• Giovanni’s Italian Kitchen

• Hooked Seafood

This effectively provides a premium dining package included in the cruise fare.

4. Deluxe Beverage Package

Star Class includes the Deluxe Beverage Package, which typically covers:

• Cocktails

• Wine and beer

• Soft drinks

• Specialty coffees

• Fresh juices

For younger guests below drinking age, a refreshment package is usually included instead. 

5. Complimentary High-Speed Internet

Guests receive access to VOOM high-speed internet, widely promoted as one of the fastest internet services available at sea.

Benefits include:

• Streaming capabilities

• Video calls

• Social media access

• Work connectivity

Each guest can typically connect one device per person during the cruise.

6. Exclusive Suite Amenities

Star Class suites are equipped with luxury amenities that rival five-star hotels.

Typical in-suite features include:

• Premium mattresses and luxury linens

• Lavazza espresso machines

• L’Occitane bath products

• Plush bathrobes

• Large private balconies

• Multi-room living spaces

These suites are designed to provide maximum privacy and comfort during the voyage. 

7. Access to Exclusive Areas on the Ship

Star Class guests receive access to several private areas reserved for suite guests, including:

• Suite Lounge

• Suite Sun Deck

• Priority seating in entertainment venues

These areas provide quieter, less crowded spaces to relax and enjoy ocean views.

8. Complimentary Gratuities

In many cases, Star Class bookings include gratuities for onboard staff, meaning guests don’t have to pay additional tips during the cruise.

This simplifies budgeting and contributes to the all-inclusive luxury experience.

9. Complimentary Laundry and Pressing

Packing becomes easier thanks to included laundry and pressing services.

Benefits include:

• Clean clothes during long voyages

• Fewer outfits needed in luggage

• Fresh garments for formal dinners

10. Personalized Shore Excursions

Star Class travelers often enjoy priority access to shore excursions and may even arrange private experiences through their Royal Genie.

Examples include:

• Private guided city tours

• VIP access to attractions

• Customized adventure excursions

This allows guests to explore destinations without dealing with large tour groups.

Star Class vs Other Royal Suite Class Levels

Royal Caribbean offers three suite tiers: Sea Class, Sky Class, and Star Class.

FeatureSea ClassSky ClassStar Class

Suite accommodationsYesYesYes

Concierge serviceNoYesYes

Royal Genie personal assistantNoNoYes

Complimentary specialty diningNoLimitedYes

Deluxe beverage packageNoNoYes

Priority boardingLimitedYesYes

Complimentary WiFiNoPartialYes

Access to exclusive suite areasLimitedYesYes

Star Class clearly delivers the most comprehensive set of perks.

Ships That Offer Star Class

Star Class is available on select Royal Caribbean ships, including:

• Oasis of the Seas

• Harmony of the Seas

• Symphony of the Seas

• Wonder of the Seas

• Quantum of the Seas

• Anthem of the Seas

• Icon of the Seas

Availability may vary by ship and itinerary.

How to Book Star Class: Step-by-Step

If you're considering this premium cruise experience, follow these steps.

Step 1: Choose a Ship

Look for Royal Caribbean ships offering Royal Suite Class accommodations.

Step 2: Select a Star Class Suite

Examples include:

• Royal Loft Suite

• Ultimate Family Suite

• Owner’s Suite (select ships)

Step 3: Book Through an Authorized Cruise Agent

Luxury travel specialists often help secure:

• Discounts

• Upgrades

• Exclusive onboard credits

Step 4: Connect with Your Royal Genie

Before departure, your Royal Genie may contact you to discuss:

• Dining preferences

• Activities

• Special celebrations

Step 5: Customize Your Cruise Experience

Work with your concierge to plan:

• Excursions

• Entertainment reservations

• Special experiences

Real-World Example of a Star Class Experience

Imagine a family staying in the Ultimate Family Suite on Symphony of the Seas.

Their experience might include:

• Private check-in and escort to their suite

• A Royal Genie arranging daily activities

• Unlimited specialty dining throughout the cruise

• Reserved front-row seats at shows

• A stocked minibar and luxury suite amenities

• Private shore excursions at Caribbean destinations

The result is a fully curated vacation where nearly every detail is handled for the guest.

Is Star Class Worth It?

Star Class is expensive, but it can provide excellent value for travelers who would otherwise pay separately for:

• Specialty dining packages

• Beverage packages

• WiFi

• Laundry services

• Concierge experiences

For travelers seeking true luxury cruising, it can be a worthwhile upgrade.

However, for budget-conscious travelers, the cost may outweigh the benefits.

Frequently Asked Questions?

1. What is the Royal Genie in Star Class?

The Royal Genie is a dedicated personal concierge who plans and manages your cruise experience—from dining reservations to excursions.

2. Are drinks included in Star Class?

Yes. Star Class typically includes a Deluxe Beverage Package covering alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks.

3. Does Star Class include WiFi?

Yes. Guests receive complimentary high-speed internet access for at least one device per guest.

4. Is specialty dining free with Star Class?

Yes. Star Class includes unlimited access to specialty restaurants on the ship.

5. Can Star Class guests skip lines?

Yes. Guests receive priority boarding, expedited departure, and VIP seating at entertainment venues.

6. Do Star Class suites include butler service?

While not called a butler, the Royal Genie performs many similar functions, including concierge services and personalized assistance.

7. Which Royal Caribbean ships have Star Class?

Star Class is available on select ships such as Oasis of the Seas, Symphony of the Seas, Quantum of the Seas, and Icon of the Seas.

8. Does Star Class include gratuities?

Many Star Class bookings include complimentary gratuities, though policies may vary by itinerary.

9. Are Star Class suites family-friendly?

Yes. Some suites, such as the Ultimate Family Suite, are specifically designed for families with kids.

10. How much does Star Class cost?

Prices vary widely depending on ship, itinerary, and suite type. Luxury suites can range from several thousand to tens of thousands of dollars per cruise.