Sailor the Golden Retriever Joins Star of the Seas as Chief Dog Officer

Royal Caribbean International has introduced a groundbreaking addition to its cruise experience: a Chief Dog Officer (CDO). Sailor, a golden retriever, has officially joined the crew of the new Star of the Seas, bringing joy and comfort to passengers and crew members alike. Sailor holds a similar role to Rover, another golden retriever serving as CDO aboard Royal Caribbean’s Icon of the Seas since 2024. The two canine officers even had the opportunity to meet during a playful encounter when their ships docked at the same port.

Meet Sailor: The Chief Dog Officer of the Star of the Seas

Sailor was officially welcomed aboard the Star of the Seas earlier this week at the port of Ponce, Puerto Rico. According to Michael Bayley, Royal Caribbean International’s CEO, Sailor was greeted warmly by the ship’s crew, marking her debut as the newest ambassador of Royal Caribbean’s innovative approach to family-friendly travel. “Happy days! Joined the Star of the Seas today in Ponce with Sailor, who was greeted by fellow crew as the official Chief Dog Officer,” Bayley shared on social media.

Sailor’s role includes engaging with passengers, boosting morale among the crew, and bringing a touch of companionship onboard. This initiative expands upon Royal Caribbean’s efforts to redefine the cruise experience by catering to families and pet lovers alike. Bayley revealed that the concept originated during developmental discussions of the Ultimate Family Townhouse suite. “We thought, why not have a family dog for the entire ship?” Bayley explained, noting how the idea evolved from being suite-specific to shipwide.

The Chief Dog Officer Initiative

The CDO program was developed in partnership with the American Humane Society, ensuring top-tier care and training for the onboard dogs. Jay Rosser, Senior Manager of Product Development at Royal Caribbean, emphasized the importance of the program: “When guests go on vacation, one of the key things they miss is their pets back home. Similarly, our crew often miss their pets during their contracts. We really wanted to make sure we brought a fluffy addition to our crew family.”

The canine officers, such as Sailor and Rover, are more than just charming mascots. They are specially trained to serve as emotional companions and contribute to the overall cruise experience in controlled settings. According to Royal Caribbean, their appearances are carefully planned to ensure guest interaction aligns with animal welfare standards while enhancing passenger enjoyment.

A Unique Offer in the Cruise Industry

The introduction of the Chief Dog Officer program is a first among major cruise operators, setting Royal Caribbean apart in a highly competitive industry. While the initiative adds a playful touch, it also highlights broader trends in hospitality focused on personal and emotional connections.

Sailor’s new home, the Star of the Seas, is part of Royal Caribbean’s sustainable Icon-class ships. Delivered by the Meyer Turku shipyard in early July 2025, the LNG-powered vessel aligns with the company’s push for eco-friendly cruising. The ship will initially offer preview cruises before transitioning to regular seven-night Caribbean itineraries, beginning August 15, 2025. Destinations will include Royal Caribbean’s private island, Perfect Day at CocoCay, in the Bahamas.

As the ship prepares for passenger service, Sailor stands as a symbol of Royal Caribbean’s commitment to innovation and enriching the family travel experience.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is the role of a Chief Dog Officer on Royal Caribbean ships?

The Chief Dog Officer greets guests, engages in meet-and-greets, and boosts crew morale under supervised conditions. The onboard dogs are trained in partnership with the American Humane Society to serve as emotional companions.

How did Royal Caribbean come up with the idea for onboard dogs?

The concept originated during developmental discussions for the Ultimate Family Townhouse suite. Initially planned as a suite-specific addition, the idea expanded into a shipwide program to ensure all guests could interact with the animals.

What cruises will the Star of the Seas offer after launch?

The Star of the Seas will host preview cruises before beginning regular seven-night Caribbean itineraries on August 15, 2025. Stops will include Perfect Day at CocoCay, Royal Caribbean’s private island in the Bahamas.

How does Royal Caribbean ensure the welfare of onboard dogs?

The program, developed with the American Humane Society, prioritizes top-tier care and training. Guest interactions with the dogs are carefully planned and supervised to ensure safety and animal well-being.

Is Sailor the first Chief Dog Officer in Royal Caribbean’s fleet?

No. Rover, another golden retriever, has served as Chief Dog Officer aboard the Icon of the Seas since 2024.