Royal Caribbean Names Dolly Chief Dog Officer for Hero of the Seas

Royal Caribbean has named its next onboard golden retriever Dolly, after country singer-songwriter Dolly Parton. The dog will serve as chief dog officer aboard Hero of the Seas, the fourth Icon-class vessel, scheduled to debut from PortMiami in August 2027.

The name came out of a public vote organized through Royal Caribbean Chief Executive Officer Michael Bayley’s social media account. Bayley initially asked followers to help name the dog, and after the first round of voting the shortlist included Marina, Pearl, Coral, Hero, Scout, Sandy and Coco. Dolly was not among them. Strong demand from social media users got the name added to the ballot.

“The Hero of the Seas' new Chief Dog Officer's name will be 'Dolly,'” Bayley wrote when announcing the result. He said a panel had ratified the name receiving the most votes.

Royal Caribbean introduced the chief dog officer role in 2024 aboard Icon of the Seas, where Rover is the resident golden retriever. Sailor holds the role aboard Star of the Seas, while Skipper is assigned to Legend of the Seas.

The dogs live aboard their respective ships full-time. Their routines include daily walks and opportunities to greet guests.

Parton’s philanthropic work has included donating books to children. Commenters on Bayley’s announcement suggested adding a small children’s library aboard the new ship and proposed Miley Cyrus, Parton’s goddaughter, as its godmother. Neither idea was part of the cruise line’s announcement.

See current Hero of the Seas fares and itineraries on Cruise Lookup.