The Chief Dog Officer: 7 Surprising Facts About Sailor, Star Of The Seas' Cutest Crew Member

The *Star of the Seas* is one of the world's largest and most anticipated cruise ships, but it’s not the ship’s groundbreaking amenities or massive waterpark that has captured the public's attention—it's a Golden Retriever named Sailor. As of late December 2025, Sailor serves as the vessel's official Chief Dog Officer (CDO), a prestigious and heart-melting role that has become the signature of Royal Caribbean's revolutionary Icon Class. This furry crew member is a living symbol of the ship's family-centric mission, offering guests a unique, wholesome experience that goes far beyond traditional cruising.

The concept of a permanent canine resident at sea is a fresh, unique twist on the cruise experience, following the viral success of Rover on the sister ship, *Icon of the Seas*. Sailor's presence adds a layer of unexpected warmth and charm, ensuring that this colossal vessel feels more like a floating, friendly neighborhood. Her daily life, from puppy cuddles to official greetings, is now a major highlight for passengers booking a vacation on the newest ship from Royal Caribbean International.

Sailor: Chief Dog Officer Biography & Profile

Sailor is not just a pet; she is a high-profile, official member of the Royal Caribbean crew with a specific, though adorable, job description. Her appointment highlights the cruise line's commitment to creating memorable and emotionally resonant experiences for their guests.

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• Name: Sailor
• Official Title: Chief Dog Officer (CDO) of *Star of the Seas*
• Breed: Golden Retriever
• Age (Upon Appointment): Approximately 6 months old
• Ship: *Star of the Seas* (Second vessel in the Icon Class)
• Cruise Line: Royal Caribbean International
• Home Port: Varies, but she officially boarded the vessel in Puerto Rico
• Official Duty: To "live her best life on board" and serve as a symbol of the ship's family-centric nature. Her unofficial duties include providing "puppy cuddles" and "heartwarming greetings" to guests.
• Predecessor/Program Inspiration: Rover, the Chief Dog Officer of *Icon of the Seas*.
• Program Oversight: The Chief Dog Officer program was developed in partnership with the American Humane Society.

The Rise of the Chief Dog Officer (CDO) Program

The decision to appoint a permanent, non-service dog crew member is a groundbreaking move in the cruise industry, and it was a direct result of the Icon Class's design philosophy. Royal Caribbean International President and CEO Michael Bayley confirmed the addition, emphasizing that the dog is a powerful symbol for the fun and family-centric nature the company wants for its new ships.

1. A Continuation of a Viral Tradition

Sailor’s appointment is the second in the cruise line's new tradition. The first was Rover, the beloved Golden Retriever who serves as the Chief Dog Officer aboard the *Icon of the Seas*. The immediate and overwhelmingly positive public reaction to Rover proved that a canine mascot was a massive hit. This success solidified the CDO program as a permanent fixture for the new Icon Class vessels, making Sailor the second "Chief Dog Officer at sea".

2. The Job Description: Living the Best Life

Unlike traditional working dogs, Sailor's role is purely ambassadorial and emotional. Her official responsibility is famously simple: to "live her best life on board *Star of the Seas*". This means her daily schedule is focused on well-being, socialization, and guest interaction. She is there to be seen, to be petted, and to bring unexpected moments of joy and comfort to passengers of all ages. This focus on emotional connection is a key differentiator for the Icon Class experience.

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3. Partnership with American Humane Society

To ensure the ethical and professional care of its canine crew members, Royal Caribbean developed the CDO program in partnership with the American Humane Society. This collaboration guarantees that the dogs receive top-tier care, training, and a living environment that is suited to their needs. This commitment to animal welfare is a critical component of the program's public appeal and integrity, addressing any potential concerns about having a dog permanently residing on a cruise ship.

What Sailor’s Presence Means for Guests and the Ship

The presence of a Chief Dog Officer has a tangible effect on the atmosphere of the *Star of the Seas*. It transforms the cruise ship experience from a large, organized vacation into a more intimate, community-focused journey. This is achieved through several key interactions and symbolic gestures.

4. The Ultimate Emotional Support Animal (for Everyone)

While Sailor is not a certified service animal, her function is to provide emotional support to the entire ship's population. Guests often seek out "puppy cuddles" and feel a connection to home and family when they encounter the friendly Golden Retriever. For families, especially those with young children, meeting Sailor often becomes one of the most memorable and talked-about moments of their cruise vacation.

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5. A Contrast to the Strict Pet Policy

It is crucial for passengers to understand that Sailor is a unique, official crew member and does not signal a change in Royal Caribbean's general pet policy. The cruise line maintains a strict policy that prohibits pets and emotional support animals from sailing. Only qualified service animals—dogs trained to perform specific tasks for a person with a disability—are permitted on board. Sailor’s presence is an exception, not a rule, reinforcing her status as a high-profile ambassador.

6. Sailor’s Life at Sea: A Golden Retirement Plan

Sailor is a permanent resident, meaning she lives on the ship full-time, even when the vessel is between sailings. This unique lifestyle requires a dedicated crew member to act as her handler and primary caregiver, ensuring she has a routine, exercise, and all the comforts of a land-based home. Her presence in areas like the crew quarters and the ship’s various neighborhoods makes her a true part of the *Star of the Seas* community, adding to the ship’s overall positive morale.

7. The Future of Canine Cruising Mascots

The success of Rover and Sailor on the Icon Class ships suggests that the Chief Dog Officer role will likely continue across future vessels in the class. As Royal Caribbean continues to expand its fleet with new, innovative ships, it is highly probable that each new Icon Class ship will introduce its own canine crew member. This trend establishes the CDO not as a one-off gimmick, but as an integral part of the brand's identity and a key marketing entity, ensuring the legacy of the "Star of the Seas dog" continues for years to come.