Radiance joins Rhapsody in Australian duet
SYDNEY – Royal Caribbean International will double the number of ships it sails from Australia next year.
The company will homeport two superliners in Sydney from October 2011: Rhapsody of the Seas, currently in its third Australian summer season, will be joined by Radiance of the Seas, the first 21st Century cruise ship to be based in Australia.
Cruises in Australia, New Zealand and the South Pacific will be offered during the summer months from October to April.
At 293 metres in length, Radiance of the Seas is a big sister to Rhapsody of the Seas. Carrying 2,100 passengers, 55 per cent of guest cabins have a balcony.
Gavin Smith, managing director, Royal Caribbean Cruises Australia said, “The move is a demonstration of the strength of the local cruise market, and is in response to demand from American, European and Asian visitors to experience Australia and the region onboard our cruise ships.
“The move will double the number of tourists the company brings to Australia each year to more than 30,000.â€
Radiance of the Seas offers a wide range of features including a half basketball court, mini golf, dedicated cinema, kids’ swimming area with waterslide, a nine-deck atrium and five restaurants including two signature fine dining experiences – Portofino Italian and Chops Grille Steakhouse.
The ship also offers a rock-climbing wall like that on Rhapsody of the Seas, along with similar features including an adults-only solarium, spa and fitness centre.
The company will release itineraries for the two-ship 2011-12 cruise calendar in late March 2010.
Ian Jarrett
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