Star of the Seas: Managing Complexity Through Design

Cruising is now one of the most dynamic sectors in global hospitality, shaped by shifting traveller expectations, new audiences, and an increasingly diverse range of experiences.

Royal Caribbean Star of the Seas

Industry insight from Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA), alongside recent travel industry reports, points to sustained growth, driven by both first-time cruisers and strong repeat demand. Multi-generational travel continues to rise, while younger audiences are increasingly engaged, drawn by the breadth of experiences available on board. Operators are already seeing this shift in real terms, with Royal Caribbean reporting a notable increase in Gen Z guests year on year.

Royal Caribbean Star of the Seas, The Overlook

This evolution is not just changing who cruises, but how ships are designed.

Today’s ships are more akin to a resort, incorporating distinct spaces. Within one vessel, designers are asked to create a wide range of experiences, from lively, family-led areas to quieter, more refined settings. The challenge lies in delivering that variety while maintaining a sense of cohesion.

Royal Caribbean Star of the Seas, Lou’s in Central Park 

Royal Caribbean International’s Star of the Seas reflects this scale. Spanning 20 decks and accommodating more than 5,600 guests, it brings together multiple neighbourhoods, each with its own identity. The result is not one design story, but many, carefully balanced within a single ship.

Within this environment, flooring plays a critical role. It supports wayfinding, defines spaces and contributes to how each area is experienced, both visually and practically.

Royal Caribbean Star of the Seas, Adventure Ocean

 

Ulster Carpets’ approach to Star of the Seas responds directly to this complexity. A series of bespoke Axminster carpets were developed to reflect the character of individual spaces, from the energy of family zones such as Adventure Ocean to the quiet sophistication of the Lincoln Park Supper Club.

Royal Caribbean Star of the Seas, Lincoln Park Supper Club.

Each interior scheme is tailored to create a sense of place. The creative expertise lies in how these individual designs work together, to create a coherent experience across the ship without losing their distinct identity.

Royal Caribbean Star of the Seas, Icon Loft

Delivering this level of design variation at scale requires a deep understanding of Axminster design. Working alongside Royal Caribbean International and Meyer Turku shipyard, Ulster coordinated the design development and planning of each area. By sequencing deliveries to the dry dock in Finland, Ulster’s team ensured the complex fit-out remained on schedule.

Looking ahead, continued investment in new ships and evolving guest expectations will only increase this level of complexity. As cruise operators continue to redefine what a ship can offer, the role of considered, well-planned design becomes even more important.

For Ulster, it is more than designing Axminster carpets, it’s about supporting spaces that endure and instil a sense of place.

Royal Caribbean’s Chief Dog Officer Sailor 

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