Star of the Seas: The cruise ship where 'Back to the Future' travels through time on the sea

He was just another spectator, sitting in the crowd, wearing a floral shirt that made him look like a tourist. Suddenly, the host mentioned a name and the audience erupted in applause. The man stood up and timidly waved: it was Bob Gale, the mastermind behind Back to the Future.

“Today we have Mr. Gale with us to witness, for the second time in the history of this show, the musical Back to the Future. It's an honor,” the presenter emphasized, in anticipation of what is—unquestionably—one of the best musicals and, by far, the most outstanding entertainment show aboard one of the largest cruise ships in the world: Royal Caribbean International's Star of the Seas.

The use of cell phones was prohibited for attendees. “In 1955, smartphones didn't exist,” read several signs displayed by the musical's production, alluding to the year Marty McFly traveled to from 1985 in the film. The show is faithful to the original film and surprises with an unprecedented technological display aboard a ship, where the iconic DeLorean travels back in time while more than 3,000 people cross the Atlantic Ocean on the first voyage of the Star of the Seas.

Attendees at the ship's theater applaud each scene, which recreates the first part of the film and is presented with 16 live musicians and a cast of 29 performers. Alex Marchand, senior director of Productions and Creative Development, explained to a group of journalists that it took more than three years of work to bring Back to the Future to sea. To sustain the magic of the show, the stage had to be reinforced with more than 50 tons of steel, a structure that, like a stage within a stage, allows for the complex choreography and illusionary effects that recreate time travel.

The Star of the Seas resembles a floating building: as tall as an entire neighborhood and as long as several soccer fields lined up. To understand its magnitude, a few facts suffice: it has 20 decks— 18 dedicated to passengers—2,805 cabins with capacity for 5,610 guests (double occupancy), and is 364 meters long, more than three times the length of the El Campín stadium field (105 meters).

This is the first voyage for Star of the Seas, sister ship to Icon of the Seas. For cruise lovers, it was a unique experience, departing from Port Canaveral, the cruise terminal in Orlando, Florida, and departing for CocoCay, Royal Caribbean's private island, on a three-day tour.

The prelude to boarding the ship felt like a concert: music, raised hands, and smiles from those about to embark on a luxurious experience. Luggage was checked, and just before boarding, the staff invited tourists to take a souvenir photo next to a picture of the ship. At the entrance, more crew members greeted the travelers with an enthusiastic, "Welcome to this unique experience!"

The first impression is the ship's main lounge: spacious, surrounded by restaurants, cafes, and bars. It resembles a shopping mall, but with dim lights that invite relaxation. It was here that, hours later, the ship was officially inaugurated with a shower of colored bombs, while a rock band played live.

Finding our cabin is a feat in itself, but also a curious experience that allows us to grasp the magnitude of this vessel. After navigating 19 floors and long corridors, room 222, on the 11th floor, awaited us. This sea-view cabin is equipped with a bathroom, desk, sofa, bed, and a small balcony. Unlike other cruise ships, which usually have an open balcony, here the window can be lowered electronically, allowing you to enjoy the sea, its sounds, and the sunsets during the voyage.

How do I get to know the ship, find my way around on board, and plan my activities? All these questions are answered with a mobile app that travelers must download before boarding. It allows them to reserve dinners at restaurants—some of which are not included in the initial price—and attend various shows. In addition to the Back to the Future musical, the show also includes Torque, a professional diving show, and Sol, an ice skating show.

“It represents the culmination of 50 years of development, design, creativity, and innovation for the brand. It all began when Ed Stephens founded Royal Caribbean and introduced the first modern cruise ship to the Caribbean. Today, this is a next-level vacation experience, designed specifically for our core market: families. And we understand “family” broadly: there are all kinds of families, and what we’ve sought to do is create unique spaces and experiences that work for every generation and every group ,” reflects Michael Bayley, President and CEO of Royal Caribbean, during a conversation with journalists from around the world.

The cruise ship crashes through the Atlantic waves. It's summer in the United States, and the temperature reaches 32 degrees Celsius. We approach CocoCay, the ship's destination, where passengers will later disembark for a day at the beach. Meanwhile, the view from the deck is breathtaking: three slides attract attention and quickly fill with lines. The zip line, which runs along one side of the ship, invites you to explore the ship from above while walking along a steel cable . A mini-golf course attracts enthusiasts, and a tennis court that also serves as a basketball court.

At the stern (the rear of the boat), the most attractive feature for tourists is the infinity pool, which offers a full view of the landscape and is part of a complex of seven pools. These come in different sizes and for different activities, so each traveler can choose according to their preferences.

It's no exaggeration to compare the ship to a walking neighborhood. In fact, it has its own park, Central Park, surrounded by natural vegetation and artificial bird sounds that recreate a realistic environment. There, you can visit shops and restaurants, or simply relax with a cocktail while away from the water activities. There are also bars located throughout the ship where passengers can access all kinds of drinks. Therefore, throughout the tour, it's essential to be clear about each passenger's plan, both in terms of food and drinks.

It's time to descend to dry land. The Star of the Seas is anchored at CocoCay, Royal Caribbean's private island, now in the Caribbean Sea. Two options are on the table: explore the island or tour the ship, taking advantage of the fact that the vast majority of travelers decided to disembark and spend the day in this paradise. The best answer: do both.

Touring the ship alone, we discovered a running track surrounding it, an excellent option for those who enjoy exercising in the mornings or at nightfall, when the temperature is more pleasant. Additionally, small jacuzzis are hidden in some corners of the ship, ideal for relaxing. This is also a perfect time to enjoy the water park without lines and, above all, to test your surfing skills. The Star of the Seas, like its sister ship, offers a wave zone specially designed for this sport.

Passengers can disembark the ship for the island starting at 10:00 a.m. and return by 4:30 p.m. For example, you could disembark at 12 p.m. and start your day at CocoCay. To give you an idea, the island functions as an extension of the cruise: you'll find food courts, snacks, and drinks included in the package you chose when booking.

On the island, you can also enjoy a waterslide complex or, if you prefer, spend the day relaxing on the beach by the sea.

Star of the Seas has more than 40 restaurants, so the dining options are endless. Our most practical recommendation is to visit the buffet. They offer all kinds of dishes, ranging from meat and seafood to vegetarian and vegan options. It's a quick and delicious option.

Another suggestion is Sorrento's, the most Italian corner of the ship. The aroma of freshly baked dough invites you to take a break. Guests linger in front of the display cases to choose from pizzas generously topped with ingredients, served instantly and perfect for sharing. The place also offers an unexpected touch at sea: the option to pair each slice with an ice-cold draft beer, a rare luxury on cruise ships.

Among the restaurants included in the reservation is the dining room, an à la carte space that becomes a must-visit for those who enjoy fine dining. There, the menus range from juicy cuts of meat, French-inspired dishes, and soups that comfort after a day at sea. More than just a simple meal service, the dining room invites you to slow down, indulge in the elegant atmosphere, and enjoy a dinner that, although included in the package, has the flavor of a true banquet.

Tip: Take a leisurely stroll through Central Park. In addition to its shops, Asian cuisine is a highlight. A small restaurant offers fresh sushi, and if you're a sushi lover, this stop is a must-see.

Please note that a valid U.S. visa is required to board the Star of the Seas from the port of Orlando. Prices vary widely depending on the services you choose, but the experience can start at $1,000 per person.

Is it worth the investment? This is a luxury trip that, if you have the opportunity, any tourism lover should experience at least once in their life. Your identification on the ship will be a card you receive at check-in; this serves as your cabin key and must also be presented in restaurants, bars, and other areas of the cruise. It is also essential to present it upon entering and exiting the ship, for example, when disembarking at CocoCay.

Yes, there is high-speed internet on board, although access depends on the plan you choose. Therefore, if you decide to embark on this adventure, it's important to carefully read the terms and conditions of each package.

CAMILO ANDRÉS PEÑA CASTAÑEDA - TRAVEL EDITOR

WITH INVITATION FROM ROYAL CARIBBEAN