SYDNEY — Royal Caribbean is expanding its Australia offering for 2027-28, introducing more short getaways, longer itineraries and a brand-new private island experience in the South Pacific.

The cruise line’s Australian summer season will run from October 2027 through April 2028, featuring sailings on Anthem of the Seas from Sydney and Voyager of the Seas from Brisbane. The season also marks the debut of Royal Beach Club Lelepa, a new exclusive destination in Vanuatu that will be included on all South Pacific itineraries from both homeports.

“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,” said Gavin Smith, vice president and managing director, Australia and New Zealand, Royal Caribbean. “With an expanded lineup of weekend sailings, short escapes and longer ways to holiday, we’re giving travellers even more reasons to explore fan-favourite destinations across Australia, New Zealand and the South Pacific.”

NEW PRIVATE ISLAND EXPERIENCE

A key highlight of the season is Royal Beach Club Lelepa, described as the first Royal Caribbean-exclusive cruise destination in the Southern Hemisphere. Located in Vanuatu, the beach club is designed to deliver a full-day island experience with both relaxation and activity-driven options.

The destination will feature two distinct beach areas, including an adults-only space and a family-friendly zone with games and activities. Guests will also have access to hiking trails, snorkelling opportunities and a range of food and beverage options, with amenities such as loungers, umbrellas and towels included.

EXPANDED ITINERARIES

Royal Caribbean’s 2027-28 programme places a strong emphasis on flexibility, with a mix of short sailings, weekend departures and longer voyages designed to appeal to a wide range of travellers.

Anthem of the Seas will operate a series of 24 sailings from Sydney, ranging from three to 17 nights. These include short South Pacific getaways, longer New Zealand itineraries and holiday sailings over Christmas and New Year. A 17-night transpacific voyage from Honolulu to Australia is also part of the lineup.

Voyager of the Seas will offer 29 itineraries from Brisbane, ranging from two to 25 nights. Options include week-long South Pacific cruises visiting destinations such as Noumea, Lifou, Mystery Island, Port Vila and Luganville, along with shorter escapes and Whitsundays sailings closer to home. A longer 25-night transpacific sailing from Seattle to Brisbane is also planned.

ONBOARD EXPERIENCES

Both ships will feature a wide range of onboard attractions aimed at families and active travellers. Highlights include the RipCord by iFly skydiving simulator, FlowRider surf simulator and North Star observation capsule, along with laser tag and other interactive experiences.

Dining options will span multiple cuisines, from Japanese fare at Izumi to steakhouse offerings at Chops Grille and Italian dishes at Giovanni’s Table. Entertainment will also be a key focus, with Anthem featuring the musical We Will Rock You and Voyager showcasing the ice-skating production Ice Odyssey.

Bookings for the 2027-28 Australia season are now open.

Lead image caption: Royal Beach Club Lelepa will open in 2027 as Royal Caribbean’s first exclusive cruise destination in the South Pacific