Royal Caribbean International has confirmed it will open a new exclusive destination on the island of Lelepa, Vanuatu, in time for the 2027 Australian cruise season. 

The development will mark the company’s first private cruise destination in the Southern Hemisphere and will cater primarily to ships sailing from Australia and the broader South Pacific region.

Located east of Australia in the South Pacific archipelago, Lelepa will be the first purpose-built beach destination of its kind for Royal Caribbean guests in the region. The project was confirmed alongside updates on the cruise line’s other destination plans, including the announcement of Perfect Day Mexico, due to open in late 2027.

“Royal Caribbean is bringing a bold beach experience to the shores of Lelepa, a Vanuatuan island in the South Pacific Archipelago east of Australia,” the company said in a statement.

“The first exclusive island cruise destination in the Southern Hemisphere will offer a locally inspired experience for guests in Australia and beyond, complete with serene beaches, nature trails, water activities and delicious dining.”

The destination is expected to feature beach access, nature-based excursions, local food and drink, and activities designed to reflect the cultural and natural environment of Vanuatu. Specific details about the infrastructure, facilities, or integration with Royal Caribbean itineraries have not yet been released.

The project is in line with Royal Caribbean Group’s broader strategy to expand its portfolio of private destinations and beach clubs, following the rollout of Perfect Day at CocoCay in The Bahamas and new developments in Mexico and Cozumel. 

The company has stated that the Lelepa site will be designed in collaboration with the local community and authorities, with a focus on long-term sustainability and regional economic benefit.

Once operational, Lelepa will join Royal Caribbean’s other private beach destinations at CocoCay, Labadee (Haiti), and the upcoming Royal Beach Clubs in Nassau and Cozumel. The announcement also reinforces the company’s commitment to the Australian and South Pacific cruise markets, where demand has been steadily recovering post-pandemic.

Further details, including ship deployments, itineraries featuring Lelepa, and construction timelines, are expected closer to the destination’s launch date.