Australia Joins USA, New Caledonia, France, and Vanuatu in Royal Caribbean’s Spectacular 2025-2026 Voyager of the Seas Cruises – Explore Iconic Destinations with Luxurious Comfort

Published on December 24, 2025

By: Paramita Sarkar

Royal Caribbean’s Voyager of the Seas made its historic debut as a homeported vessel at the Brisbane International Cruise Terminal (BICT) on December 11, 2025. This significant event marks the official start of the 2025–2026 Australian summer cruise season, which coincides with the Northern Hemisphere’s winter. The Voyager of the Seas will bring travelers from Australia, the USA, France, and beyond to some of the world’s most iconic destinations, including the Great Barrier Reef, Airlie Beach, Cairns, Vanuatu, New Caledonia, and more.

Royal Caribbean has confirmed that this is the first time that the Voyager of the Seas has been homeported in Brisbane. The ship will offer a range of exciting cruise itineraries, embarking on 4- to 9-night voyages to the Great Barrier Reef and tropical islands in the South Pacific. This marks a new chapter in the region’s tourism industry, as Brisbane rises as a key homeport in the global cruise network, catering to both Australian and international travelers.

What’s New for Royal Caribbean in 2025-2026?

For the 2025–2026 season, the Voyager of the Seas will operate cruises from Brisbane, a major milestone in Royal Caribbean’s expansion in the Australian cruise market. Passengers will have the opportunity to sail on itineraries that range from 4 to 9 nights, with stops at some of the most coveted destinations, including the Great Barrier Reef in Australia, as well as Vanuatu and New Caledonia in the South Pacific.

These destinations are known for their pristine natural beauty and rich culture, with the Great Barrier Reef offering a world-renowned underwater ecosystem, while Vanuatu and New Caledonia provide travelers with an idyllic island getaway. The addition of Brisbane as a homeport is expected to boost tourism and provide an exciting new option for those wishing to explore these areas.

Where is the Ship Homeported?

Brisbane is now a key homeport for Royal Caribbean’s Voyager of the Seas, which will depart from the Brisbane International Cruise Terminal (BICT). The terminal is well-positioned to handle large international vessels and has become a critical hub for cruising in Australia. As part of Royal Caribbean’s wider global strategy, this new deployment helps elevate Brisbane’s status as a premier departure point for international cruises. The Voyager of the Seas is the first Royal Caribbean ship to be homeported in Brisbane, marking an exciting new chapter for the city’s cruise industry.

Why This Matters for Travelers

The homeporting of Voyager of the Seas in Brisbane brings several advantages to both local and international travelers. For Australian cruisers, it makes it easier to embark on international voyages without needing to travel far to board a large cruise ship. Passengers from the USA, France, and other global markets will now be able to sail from Brisbane with ease, enjoying direct access to Australia’s famous natural wonders and the tropical beauty of the South Pacific.

With Australia, Vanuatu, New Caledonia, and more on the itinerary, Brisbane is becoming an essential hub for cruising in the region. This move by Royal Caribbean ensures that travelers from around the world can explore some of the most iconic destinations, all while embarking from the heart of Queensland.

What Destinations Are Available to Passengers?

The Voyager of the Seas will offer a variety of itineraries in the 2025–2026 season, some of the most popular being:

1. Great Barrier Reef, Australia – Sail to Airlie Beach and Cairns, two of the top gateways to the Great Barrier Reef. Explore the vibrant marine life, crystal-clear waters, and coral ecosystems that make this a world-famous destination.
2. Vanuatu – Known for its lush landscapes, pristine beaches, and welcoming culture, Vanuatu offers a tropical escape where travelers can immerse themselves in nature and heritage.
3. New Caledonia – With its French influence, stunning beaches, and vibrant coral reefs, New Caledonia offers travelers a unique blend of European elegance and island charm.

These exciting itineraries are perfect for those seeking a mix of adventure, luxury, and cultural exploration. With itineraries ranging from 4 to 9 nights, travelers can enjoy both relaxation at sea and immersion in these stunning port destinations.

How Does This Fit into Royal Caribbean’s Global Strategy?

Royal Caribbean’s decision to homeport Voyager of the Seas in Brisbane fits within the company’s broader strategy of expanding its operations in Australia and the South Pacific. This new deployment builds on Royal Caribbean’s strong presence in North America, Europe, and Asia, offering new itineraries in these established markets while expanding to emerging cruise regions such as Australia.

By positioning Brisbane as a homeport, Royal Caribbean is tapping into the growing demand for cruises in the South Pacific, while also making it easier for international guests to experience Australia’s famous destinations. Royal Caribbean’s global fleet will continue to operate in other major hubs, including Florida, the Caribbean, the Mediterranean, and Asia, with ships like Anthem of the Seas and Ovation of the Seas continuing to sail from Miami, Singapore, and Hong Kong.

Key Ports for the Royal Caribbean Fleet

1. Australia & South Pacific:
   • Sydney, Adelaide, Hobart, Darwin, and Perth – Royal Caribbean ships also make port calls at these key Australian locations.
   • Vanuatu and New Caledonia – Tropical islands that offer cruises to travelers from Australia, the USA, France, and other international markets.
2. Asia:
   • Singapore, Shanghai, Hong Kong, and Yokohama – Major cruise hubs for Royal Caribbean’s fleet in Asia.
3. North America & The Caribbean:
   • Florida, with ports in Miami, Port Canaveral, and Fort Lauderdale, serves as the primary departure point for many Royal Caribbean ships, including Anthem of the Seas.
   • Caribbean – Destinations like San Juan, Nassau, and Cozumel are also served by Royal Caribbean vessels.
4. Europe & Mediterranean:
   • Rome, Barcelona, and Athens serve as homeports for Royal Caribbean’s Mediterranean sailings.
   • Southampton and Lisbon are major European departure points for the fleet’s Northern European itineraries.

Conclusion: Brisbane’s New Role in Global Cruising

The debut of Voyager of the Seas at Brisbane International Cruise Terminal is a game-changer for the city’s tourism and cruise industries. As Royal Caribbean’s newest homeport in Australia, Brisbane is poised to become a key departure point for cruises to some of the most sought-after destinations in the world. This development aligns with Royal Caribbean’s global strategy to expand its reach and bring more travelers to the natural wonders of the Great Barrier Reef, Vanuatu, New Caledonia, and beyond.

Whether you’re looking to embark on an adventure to Australia, sail to the tropical islands of Vanuatu and New Caledonia, or explore a mix of world-class destinations, Brisbane is now the gateway to some of the best cruising experiences the Southern Hemisphere has to offer.