RCI-Royal Caribbean International’s Anthem of the Seas arrived at Eden on the Sapphire Coast of New South Wales on Thursday, January 29th, to address a propulsion system issue identified during a South Pacific itinerary. The vessel, which carries approximately 4,905 passengers, had been sailing from Sydney on January 19th toward New Caledonia and Vanuatu when the technical problem emerged, prompting a return to Australia at reduced speed.
As a result of the situation, the ship’s scheduled 10-night voyage to New Zealand, due to depart Sydney on January 27th, was withdrawn from service. The interruption marked a temporary halt to the vessel’s regional deployment while repairs were arranged.
Royal Caribbean International implemented a compensation plan for affected guests that included full reimbursement of cruise fares and all prepaid onboard purchases. Additional measures included the issuance of a future cruise credit equivalent to a quarter of the original fare, along with reimbursement for consequential travel costs such as flights and hotel accommodations incurred due to the cancellation.
Following completion of the necessary technical work, Anthem of the Seas is expected to depart Eden for Sydney on February 4th. The vessel is scheduled to resume commercial operations shortly thereafter, beginning with a 7-night cruise to Queensland departing on February 6th.