On the weekend, the Royal Caribbean Quantum of the Seas made its maiden voyage to Airlie Beach.

The arrival of Quantum heralded the beginning of the summer season for Royal Caribbean in Far North Queensland, which was a big deal for the Whitsunday Islands and the rest of the area. Businesses in the area should expect a $5 million economic boost from the ship’s stop at the port.

This port stop officially kicks off Royal Caribbean’s voyage to the Whitsundays, where passengers will be able to experience the spectacular scenery and distinctive attractions of the Queensland coast.

Julie Hall, mayor of the Whitsunday Regional Council, said that the opportunity presented by Royal Caribbean’s first call to Airlie Beach is something to be celebrated. To quote the mayor of Airlie Beach, “This is a great moment for cruise tourism in Airlie Beach; we are delighted to welcome one of the most exciting and innovative ships to Shute Harbour, and we are looking forwards to introducing more of Royal Caribbean’s guests to the beauty of the Whitsundays.” Regional Director of Sales for the cruise company, Dave Humphreys, stated that the trips to Airlie Beach have proven to be quite popular with both Australian and international passengers. He added that guests of Royal Caribbean and the people of Queensland could look forward to a really exciting period.

“Cruises that explore the spectacular Queensland coast have always been extremely popular with our guests due to the combination of bucket list shore excursions on offer,” said Dave Humphreys, “including exploring the Great Barrier Reef or the spectacular national parks where the rainforest meets the ocean.”

On Tuesday, Royal Caribbean also celebrated welcoming Quantum to Cairns. Quantum will make five stops in Cairns throughout its five summer cruises, bringing an estimated $5 million into the city’s economy.

The celebrated Ovation of the Seas docked in Sydney on 28 October, while the Quantum of the Seas docked in Brisbane on 1 November.

Visitors can cruise around Australia, New Zealand, and the South Pacific islands during the Australian summer season. The 2023 to 2024 Australia Summer Season on three award-winning ships will be jam-packed with returning favourites and new itineraries. Along with the return of Ovation and Quantum of the Seas to Sydney and Brisbane, Brilliance of the Seas will make its debut in Australia, showcasing new destinations and itineraries from Sydney.