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Introduction
Royal Caribbean International has confirmed that its Quantum-class cruise ship Anthem of the Seas arrived at Eden, New South Wales, on January 29, 2026, to undergo propulsion system repairs. The call follows a technical issue identified during a South Pacific itinerary that required the vessel to return to Australia at reduced speed.
Details of the Propulsion Issue
Incident and Return to Port:
- The 4,900-passenger vessel departed Sydney on January 19, bound for New Caledonia and Vanuatu.
- A propulsion-related fault emerged while the ship was underway, prompting a precautionary return toward Australia at reduced speed.
- Royal Caribbean determined that full rectification required in-port maintenance rather than continued operation under constraint.
Operational Impact:
- The scheduled 10-night New Zealand cruise departing Sydney on January 27 was canceled to allow sufficient time for repairs.
- The ship diverted to Eden, NSW, where technical teams could safely conduct the necessary work.
Guest Compensation:
- Royal Caribbean implemented a compensation plan for guests booked on the canceled sailing, including:
- Full refunds of cruise fares and all prepaid onboard purchases
- A future cruise credit equal to 25% of the original fare
- Reimbursement of certain consequential travel costs (e.g., flights and hotel accommodations) not otherwise recoverable
Repair Timeline and Resumption of Service:
- Following completion of propulsion repairs, Anthem of the Seas is expected to depart Eden for Sydney on February 4, 2026.
- The vessel is scheduled to resume revenue operations shortly thereafter with a 7-night Queensland cruise departing on February 6, 2026.
Context:
- Propulsion issues, while uncommon, typically necessitate conservative operational decisions to ensure safety and reliability.
- Royal Caribbean stated that the decision to pause service reflects standard maritime practice when key propulsion components require extended maintenance.