Mechanical failure Pacific Open waters near Sydney, NSW · 24 January 2026
Royal Caribbean’s Anthem of the Seas Returns to Sydney After Propulsion Fault – 24 January 2026
4,905
What happened
On 24 January 2026, Royal Caribbean International's Quantum-class cruise ship Anthem of the Seas returned to Sydney, NSW, after experiencing a technical fault affecting the vessel's propulsion system during its current voyage. The ship experienced a period of reduced propulsion power, temporarily slowing significantly and briefly coming to a halt in open waters before proceeding back to port at reduced speed. The fault has resulted in the cancellation of the vessel's scheduled 27 January 2026 departure.
Royal Caribbean determined that the required maintenance could not be completed within the turnaround window and that continuing to operate the ship under propulsion constraints was not appropriate. The company has confirmed that safety and vessel reliability remain its top priorities.
Details of the propulsion issue
Passengers on the current voyage reported a period of reduced propulsion power, during which Anthem of the Seas temporarily slowed significantly and briefly came to a halt in open waters. The fault involved the ship's propulsion system, understood to include the electrically driven azipod units. Following the incident, the vessel proceeded back toward Sydney at reduced speed.
Passengers and crew
Passengers
- Approximately 4,905 maximum capacity onboard at time of incident.
Crew
- Crew complement not specified in incident report.
Casualties
Fatalities
- None reported.
Injuries
- None reported.
Rescued
- All passengers and crew safely returned to Sydney.
Return to port and maintenance
The vessel returned to its homeport in Sydney to allow for full inspection and repair of the propulsion system. Royal Caribbean determined that the required maintenance could not be completed within the standard turnaround window, necessitating the cancellation of the next scheduled sailing.
Guest impact and compensation
Guests booked on the cancelled 27 January 2026 voyage were notified directly by Royal Caribbean. All impacted guests will receive: full refund of cruise fare, taxes, and fees; refund of pre-purchased packages, gratuities, and shore excursions; a future cruise credit; and reimbursement for certain non-refundable travel expenses not otherwise recoverable.
Current status
The vessel remains in Sydney undergoing full inspection and repair of its propulsion system. Royal Caribbean will advise guests once Anthem of the Seas is cleared to resume service.