At 76,800 gt, the 858 by 101 foot vessel carries 1,960 passengers and 1,125 crew and was designed for both the Asian and US-based cruise markets. She began her trials on 10 August 1998 and was delivered that September. Following a positioning voyage to the Far East, she commenced cruise service out of Hong Kong on varying South China Sea itineraries ranging from two to seven days.

The SUPERSTAR LEO and VIRGO (which was delivered in August of 1999 and is permanently based in Singapore) have four MAN B&W type diesel generators that deliver 40,000 kW/56,000 bhp to twin screws for a service speed of 24 knots. Among the fastest cruise ships in the world, they are able to visit more ports and have a longer cruising range than most other ships on a regularly scheduled seven day itinerary.

In late 2000, it was announced that the LEO would be diverted to a Honolulu-based service for Star Cruises' U.S. subsidiary Norwegian Cruise Lines and be renamed NORWEGIAN LEO for weekly cruises to Fanning Island and the Hawaiian Islands. In order to comply with Hawaii's "no gaming" restrictions, the massive Maharajah's Casino was to be replaced with another facility. However, in a surprise move, Star opted to transfer its newbuilding 91,000 gt SUPERSTAR LIBRA to NCL instead, and will deploy this ship on the LEO's previously announced route as the NORWEGIAN STAR (II). The SUPERSTAR LEO will thus remain in her successful Hong Kong hub for the foreseeable future.

Unlike so many new ships, the SUPERSTAR LEO affords an excellent forward observation area on its uppermost passenger level, Deck 13. Arrivals and departures are not confined to glassed in lounges, but, if so desired, equally spectacular views can be had from the protection of the Galaxy Of The Stars Lounge, just below.

A sunning area follows just aft of the observatory deck, encompassing the uppermost interior space, the 128-capacity Celebrity Disco.

Glass windbreaks and a deck house work in tandem with a tarpaulin marquee to shelter the Bier Garten. This informal al fresco buffet area overlooks the midships pool area just below and aft. The bar is made of oak and the seating and tables are of enduring teak wood. The Bier Garten features a selection of German beers and is an alternate, yet informal dining venue. During my cruise, it was open from 12:00 noon to 10:00 PM for dining, but drinks and snacks were served from 10:00 AM until 1:00 AM. Hours are listed in the ship's Star Navigator schedule.

In a design element that P&O's 1961-built CANBERRA originated, the Star Track walkway surrounding the midships pool is divided by glass screens that provide inboard protection or outboard exposure to the elements. The decking is rubber-based, offering insulation for joggers. The port side leads aft to a golf driving range while the starboard side has an area dedicated to basketball, volleyball, and tennis.

Just aft of the funnel housing, Deck 13 concludes with the expansive Star Deck. Extending over the terraced aft superstructure, there is a designated space for helicopter landings. The LEO's rigging is brought down for those rare occasions when a chopper does alight.

From aft Deck 13, there is a spectacular view over the SUPERSTAR LEO's stern. The family pool area of Buccaneer's Wet and Wild looms three decks below. Aft Decks 12 and 11 are terraced in such a way that performances and special events can be viewed in an amphitheater-like setting overlooking the fantail.

Deck 12 contains the previously seen midships Tivoli Pool area which rivals those of any U.S.-based ships. Sheltered by the forward portion of Deck 12 (which houses the Galaxy Of The Stars Lounge, various card rooms, and the Roman Spa) and glass screens to either side of the adjacent lido, the pool itself is nearly 50 feet long and there are four Jacuzzis. Raffles Buffet is just aft of here, flanking the funnel casing, its adjoining al fresco terrace concluding the aft portion of Deck 12.

Aft Decks 11 and 10 are adjacent to the Starlight Video Arcade, Teen Disco and Cinema, and Charlie's Child Care Center. Buccaneer's Wet and Wild occupies the fantail on Deck 10 and is easily accessed via the teen and children's areas.

Deck 7 features a full wraparound teak Promenade Deck. Easy access is provided via the expanse of public rooms on this level, which is also where passengers embark. The midships portion is especially wide, enough for deck chairs and strolling. Towards either end of the ship, the passageway narrows somewhat.