AUSTRALIA’S BIGGEST TWINS MEET FOR FIRST TIME ON SYDNEY HARBOUR

Over 10,000 people celebrated, surfed and partied in style tonight as Royal Caribbean International’s newest Australian cruise ship welcomed by twin sister.

History was made this evening as the two biggest cruise ships based in the southern hemisphere met in Sydney Harbour for the first time. Royal Caribbean International’s newest Australian cruise ship, Explorer of the Seas, was welcomed to her new Aussie home by twin sister Voyager of the Seas, with the two ships bringing almost 10,400 passengers and crew and almost $1.6 million into the Sydney economy in passenger spend on this one day alone.

With over 10,000 people on board the two ships, it’s the equivalent of having the entire population of Byron Bay out on the harbour at one time,” said Adam Armstrong, commercial director, Royal Caribbean International.

Explorer of the Seas arrived in Sydney, concluding a 16-night epic Australia and New Zealand voyage from Fremantle, with guests from more than 30 countries onboard eager to witness the new ship’s maiden Sydney arrival. While Voyager of the Seas departs Sydney on a seven-night Tasmania sailing bound for her first port, Melbourne, on Monday.

“It really was double the fun on the harbour with guests on both ships surfing Sydney Harbour as the ships passed Fort Denison thanks to our unique FlowRider surf simulators on the top deck of each ship,” Adam continued.

“We’ve invested US$160 million in makeovers on both ships in recent years and the result is two spectacular cruise ships offering the biggest choice of incredible Australian-first features including ice skating rinks, exceptional dining options, Broadway-style shows, 3D cinemas, completely refreshed public spaces and staterooms, rock climbing walls, full size sports courts and the Royal Promenade - an indoor street running the length of the ship with shops, a cafe and bars.”

At a whopping 138,194 gross tons, 311 metres long and 38 metres wide, Explorer of the Seas takes the crown of Australia’s largest cruise ship from twin sister ship Voyager of the Seas.

During her five month season Explorer of the Seas will inject almost $44 million into the Australian economy including almost $41 million in Sydney in passenger spend alone.

Explorer of the Seas joins already revitalised sister ships Voyager of the Seas, Radiance of the Seas and Legend of the Seas making the Royal Caribbean fleet the newest and most feature packed ships sailing in the region – a total investment of more than US$280 million.

For further information or to follow Explorer of the Seas’ maiden Australian voyage, visit www.exploreroftheseas.com.au.

Information supplied by: Royal Caribbean International.

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