Anthem of the Seas Alaska Debut and Transpacific Expansion

Royal Caribbean is gearing up for a major series of deployments in 2025 and 2026, featuring new itineraries across Alaska, Australia, and the South Pacific. From the first-ever Alaskan season for Anthem of the Seas to expanded transpacific sailings that connect to Australia and the South Pacific, the cruise line aims to meet growing global demand with diverse travel experiences.

Debut of Anthem of the Seas in Alaska

In May 2025, Royal Caribbean’s Quantum-class vessel Anthem of the Seas will embark on its inaugural Alaska season after completing a winter schedule in Singapore and Southeast Asia. Following a 15‐night repositioning voyage from Yokohama, Japan to Seattle, the 158,000‐gross‐ton ship will offer seven‐night roundtrip itineraries every Friday through early October.

These cruises include port calls at Victoria, British Columbia, as well as Juneau, Skagway, Sitka, and, on select sailings, Icy Strait Point. “We’re thrilled to introduce Anthem of the Seas to our Alaska lineup,” said Michael Bayley, President and CEO of Royal Caribbean International. “This deployment underscores our commitment to offering innovative, destination‐rich experiences for our guests.”

Trans-Pacific Repositioning and Beyond

Once the Alaska season concludes in early October, Anthem of the Seas will set out on a two-leg trans-Pacific journey. The voyage begins with a nine-night sailing from Vancouver to Honolulu, followed by a 17-night itinerary from Honolulu to Sydney via French Polynesia and New Zealand.

Expanded Australia and South Pacific Deployments

For the 2026-27 season, Royal Caribbean is significantly expanding its Australian offerings with nearly 50 departures. Anthem of the Seas will be based in Sydney with itineraries ranging from 3 to 11 nights, including escapes to Tasmania and extended journeys to New Zealand. Meanwhile, Quantum of the Seas will sail from Brisbane, featuring 28 cruises of 3 to 8 nights with scenic stops in Airlie Beach, Cairns, Noumea, Port Vila, and Mystery Island.

Pricing for Anthem of the Seas starts at AUD $779 for a three‐night sampler cruise; nine‐night South Pacific voyages are available from AUD $1,659. Fares for Quantum of the Seas begin at AUD $559 for a three‐night sailing, and seven‐night South Pacific itineraries are offered starting at AUD $1,299.

Gavin Smith, Royal Caribbean International’s Vice President for Australia and New Zealand, underscored the company’s flexible approach: “This season, we’re continuing to raise the bar with more short getaways, weekend departures, and more ways to maximize island time across the top destinations of the South Pacific.”

Other Royal Caribbean Ships in Alaska

In addition to Anthem of the Seas, Royal Caribbean’s 2025 Alaska program will also feature Quantum of the Seas, Serenade of the Seas, and Radiance of the Seas. Departures from Seattle, Vancouver, and Seward will offer guests a broad selection of voyages to explore Alaska’s Inside Passage between May and September.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What makes Anthem of the Seas unique in Alaska?

As a Quantum-class ship, Anthem of the Seas offers advanced features such as the North Star observation capsule, versatile dining options through Dynamic Dining concepts, and high-tech entertainment. Its 2025 Alaska season marks the vessel’s inaugural deployment in the region.

Which destinations are included in the trans-Pacific voyages?

The trans-Pacific repositioning begins with a nine-night cruise from Vancouver to Honolulu, followed by a 17-night voyage from Honolulu to Sydney. The longer leg features stops in French Polynesia and New Zealand, with select itineraries visiting Papeete, Raiatea, and Tauranga.

How long are the itineraries for Royal Caribbean’s 2026 Australian season?

Cruises vary from short three-night escapades to extended 25-night repositioning voyages, with most itineraries lasting between 7 and 11 nights to offer a balanced mix of short breaks and longer adventures.

What are the pricing options for cruises in the South Pacific and Australia?

Fares depend on the cruise length and departure location. For instance, Anthem of the Seas offers a three-night sampler starting at AUD $779 and a nine-night South Pacific voyage at AUD $1,659, while Quantum of the Seas provides a three-night sailing from AUD $559 and seven-night South Pacific itineraries starting at AUD $1,299.

When will Anthem of the Seas return for the 2026 Alaska season?

After finishing its winter deployment in Australia, Anthem of the Seas is scheduled to return to Seattle in May 2026, where it will resume a series of seven-night Alaska and Canada cruises through the fall before repositioning to Australia for further South Pacific voyages.