Royal Caribbean unveils expanded Australia season and new private island destination - Get updated on what's happening in tourism!

Royal Caribbean has announced its most ambitious Australian summer programme to date, featuring new itineraries and the debut of Royal Beach Club Lelepa, the company’s first exclusive cruise destination in the South Pacific. From October 2027 to April 2028, travellers can choose from a wider range of short breaks, weekend sailings and longer holidays across Australia, New Zealand and the South Pacific.

The new programme will be operated by Anthem of the Seas from Sydney and Voyager of the Seas from Brisbane, offering cruises ranging from two to twelve nights. The itineraries are now open for booking.

New private island experience in the South Pacific

A central highlight of the programme is the opening of Royal Beach Club Lelepa in 2027. Located in Vanuatu, the destination will be included on all South Pacific itineraries departing from Sydney and Brisbane.

Guests can expect a full-day beach experience with two distinct areas, including an adults-only retreat and a family beach with organised activities. The island will also feature nature trails, snorkelling and kayaking, as well as a wide selection of dining and beverage options across ten bars, all within an all-inclusive concept.

Expanded itineraries from Sydney and Brisbane

From Sydney, Anthem of the Seas will offer 24 itineraries ranging from three to 17 nights. These include short South Pacific escapes, extended New Zealand cruises visiting destinations such as Wellington, Christchurch, Dunedin and Milford Sound, as well as seasonal voyages for Christmas and New Year.

A 17-night transpacific crossing from Honolulu to Australia will also be part of the programme, providing an alternative to long-haul flights.

From Brisbane, Voyager of the Seas will operate 29 itineraries between two and 25 nights. The programme includes seven-night South Pacific cruises with stops such as Noumea, Lifou, Mystery Island and Port Vila, as well as shorter getaways to destinations like the Whitsundays.

Longer voyages include a 25-night transpacific journey from Seattle via French Polynesia and Hawaii to Brisbane.

Broad range of onboard experiences

Both ships will offer a wide selection of onboard activities and entertainment. Highlights include the RipCord by iFly skydiving simulator, the FlowRider surf simulator and the North Star observation capsule, which rises more than 300 feet above the ocean.

Culinary options range from Japanese cuisine at Izumi to premium steaks at Chops Grille and Italian dishes at Giovanni’s Table. Entertainment programmes include productions such as “We Will Rock You” on Anthem of the Seas and the ice-skating show “Ice Odyssey” on Voyager of the Seas.

Focus on family travel and regional demand

“As the most trusted holiday partner in Australia, Royal Caribbean continues to raise the bar on the ultimate family holiday with Royal Beach Club Lelepa – a first-of-its-kind destination in the Southern Hemisphere inspired by the natural beauty and spirit of the South Pacific region,” said Gavin Smith, Vice President and Managing Director Australia and New Zealand at Royal Caribbean. “We know Australian families love holidaying in the South Pacific, and Lelepa takes that to an entirely new level with an experience they won’t find anywhere else in the world.”

With the expanded programme, Royal Caribbean aims to further strengthen its position in the Australian market while offering travellers greater flexibility and a broader range of holiday options across the region.

Image Credit: © Royal Caribbean